Tool and method for removing an aerosol-generating article

Abstract

This invention relates to a removal tool for an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus, configured to remove a broken aerosol-generated article from the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus. The removal tool includes a removal element configured to be at least partially inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus. The removal element is made of a non-ferromagnetic material. This invention also relates to an aerosol generating system including the removal tool. Furthermore, this invention relates to a method for removing a broken aerosol-generated article from the heating chamber of an aerosol generating apparatus, wherein the removal tool is used.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a tool and method for removing aerosol-generated articles from an aerosol generating apparatus.

[0002] Aerosol generating articles in which an aerosol-forming matrix is ​​heated rather than burned to generate inhalable aerosols are known in the art. Typically, in such heated aerosol generating articles, aerosols are generated by transferring heat from a heat source to a physically separated aerosol-forming matrix. The aerosol-forming matrix can be located within, around, or downstream of the heat source. During use, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming matrix via heat transfer from the heat source and entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol.

[0003] Induction heating is known to be used, whereby the alternating current in the inductor coil induces an alternating magnetic field. This alternating magnetic field is called the induced field because if the inductor is conductive, the alternating magnetic field induces alternating loop currents (eddy currents) in the inductor. If the inductor is magnetic, hysteresis losses will occur in the inductor. In an inductor that is both conductive and magnetic, both effects (eddy currents and hysteresis losses) will cause the inductor to heat up.

[0004] There may be situations where the user must remove a broken aerosol-generated article or a portion of an aerosol-generated article from the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device. Currently, there are no specific accessories or manuals available to allow users to handle such situations. Therefore, the user may want to remove the stuck portion of the aerosol-generated article using sharp tools or tweezers. Using such tools increases the risk of damaging the interior of the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device.

[0005] Therefore, it is desirable to have a tool that allows removal of a portion of the aerosol-generated article stuck in the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating apparatus. In particular, it is desirable to have a tool that allows safe and reliable removal of the aerosol-generated article from the heating chamber.

[0006] Tools and methods are desired that allow the removal of aerosol-generated articles from the heating chamber of an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus. These tools can particularly help prevent physical damage to the heating chamber. They can also help reduce malfunctions or unintended triggering of safety measures in the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a removal tool for an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus is provided. The removal tool is configured to remove a broken aerosol-generated article from the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus. The removal tool includes a removal element configured to be at least partially inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus. The removal element is made of a non-ferromagnetic material.

[0008] Removal tools are useful accessories for handling unexpected situations on behalf of users. They are particularly useful for removing stuck or broken aerosol-generated articles from the heating chamber of an aerosol generating device. The heating chamber of an aerosol generating device may include multiple electronic and mechanical components. Therefore, there is a certain risk of damaging the interior of the heating chamber when a user removes a broken article. The specific construction of the removal tool can help reduce the risk of damaging the interior of the heating chamber when removing a broken article.

[0009] Specifically, if the heating mechanism of the aerosol generating device is an induction heating mechanism, the introduction of a tool made of an unsuitable material may trigger safety measures or damage the battery. When the induction heating mechanism is in operation, a tool made of a ferromagnetic material inserted into the heating chamber can interact with the heating mechanism. The insertion of a ferromagnetic tool can generate a large, instantaneous current. This large current may trigger the device's safety lockout or may cause long-term damage to the battery. Removal tools made of non-ferromagnetic materials prevent tool interference with the induction heating mechanism of the aerosol generating device.

[0010] The removal element can be made of a heat-resistant material. The removal element can be made of a material with a melting point of at least 150 degrees Celsius. The removal element can be made of a material with a melting point of at least 200 degrees Celsius. The removal element can be made of a material with a melting point of at least 250 degrees Celsius. The removal element can be made of a material with a melting point of at least 300 degrees Celsius. The heating chamber may still be at a high temperature. By forming the removal element from a heat-resistant material, the removal element can withstand the high temperature of the heating chamber.

[0011] The removal element may be made of a material with a heat distortion temperature (HDT) of at least 145 degrees Celsius. The removal element may be made of a material with a heat distortion temperature (HDT) of at least 185 degrees Celsius. The removal element may be made of a material with a heat distortion temperature (HDT) of at least 200 degrees Celsius. The heat distortion temperature (HDT) can be determined by standard tests ASTM D648 and ISO 75.

[0012] The removal element can be formed into a specific shape that facilitates the removal of the broken article from the heating chamber. The removal element can also be made of a material with sufficient rigidity to withstand the forces acting on the tool during removal of the broken article. The removal element can be made of a material with a permanent deformation force (PDF) to maximum pre-yield force (MFY) ratio of at least 10. The removal element can be made of a material with a permanent deformation force (PDF) to maximum pre-yield force (MFY) ratio of at least 15. The removal element can be made of a material with a permanent deformation force (PDF) to maximum pre-yield force (MFY) ratio of at least 18.

[0013] The removal element can be made of a material that does not release harmful compounds at high temperatures. Since the removal element is held directly by the user and may be exposed to high temperatures during use, the material of the removal element can be made of a suitable material that does not release harmful components. Manufacturing the removal tool with such a material reduces or prevents any health risks to the user.

[0014] The removal element can be made of one or more materials selected from: aluminum alloys; polymers such as polyamide, polyamide with glass fiber, polyetheretherketone (PEEK); aramid fibers; carbon fibers; aluminosilicate fibers; aluminum; copper; lead; nickel; tin; titanium; and zinc. The removal element can also be made of a composite material comprising polyamide and glass fiber. In such a material, the amount of glass fiber can range from 10% to 60%. Alternatively, the amount of glass fiber can range from 30% to 40%.

[0015] The removal element can be made of metal wire.

[0016] The removal tool may include a key component and a cap. The key component of the removal tool may include a key component head and a key component body. The key component body may form the removal element of the removal tool. The key component head may be formed as a handle that can be gripped by a user's hand. The user can grip the key component head during use of the key component.

[0017] The key body can be an elongated component with a specific design. The key body can have a top end with a specific angle design. This specific angle design at the top end of the key body can help hook the front bar of a broken aerosol-generated article to be removed from the heating chamber of the aerosol generation apparatus. The hook-shaped end of the key body can be formed to facilitate article removal while simultaneously reducing the risk of damaging the interior of the heating chamber.

[0018] The hook-shaped end of the key body can be angled up to approximately 90 degrees. The hook-shaped end of the key body can be angled from 30 degrees to 80 degrees. The hook-shaped end of the key body can be angled from 40 degrees to 70 degrees. The hook-shaped end of the key body can be angled approximately 60 degrees.

[0019] The heating chamber of the aerosol generating device can have a length between 28 mm and 67 mm. The heating chamber can have a diameter between 8 mm and 12 mm.

[0020] The length of the key component body can be adapted to the length of the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device to be used with the removal tool. The length of the key component body can correspond to the length of the heating chamber. The length of the key component body can correspond to between 80% and 100% of the length of the heating chamber. The length of the key component body can correspond to between 90% and 100% of the length of the heating chamber. The length of the key component body can correspond to between 95% and 100% of the length of the heating chamber. The length of the key component body can correspond to between 98% and 100% of the length of the heating chamber.

[0021] As defined in more detail below, an aerosol-generating article may include multiple components. To increase the likelihood of complete removal of a broken aerosol-generating article from the heating chamber, the hook-shaped end of the key piece should engage with the front bar of the aerosol-generating article. The front bar is typically the most distal element of the aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, the front bar portion is sufficiently robust and should not break when the broken article is removed using a removal tool.

[0022] The key component can be configured to prevent the key component body from being inserted too far into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device. The key component may include a protruding element that restricts movement of the key component body into the heating chamber. The protruding element may be positioned between the key component head and the key component body. The protruding element may be formed to have a cross-section larger than the internal cross-section of the heating chamber. By configuring the key component to include the protruding element, the insertion depth of the key component into the heating chamber is effectively limited. Therefore, even when the key component is fully inserted, the tip of the removal element cannot collide with the bottom of the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device, and the bottom of the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device cannot be potentially damaged.

[0023] Aerosol generating devices may require simple tools to open portions of the housing for maintenance or replacement of replaceable parts. Removal tools can be configured to include such additional tools. These additional tools may include protruding opening elements of a specific shape that allow a user to open and / or close decorative end caps or covers to the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device. The specific shape of such protruding opening elements may, for example, be flower-shaped. In this way, the removal tool can represent a multi-functional tool for realizing a variety of applications.

[0024] When not in use, the key piece can be securely stored and protected within the cap of the removal tool. The key piece and cap of the removal tool engage with each other via a snap-fit ​​locking mechanism. The removal tool may include a loop. The loop allows the user to carry the tool on their person (e.g., on a strap around the user's neck or on a key ring).

[0025] Because the removal tool is specifically designed for use with an aerosol generating device, the key can also be configured to be held within the housing of the aerosol generating device. The housing of the aerosol generating device may include a recess or groove into which the removal tool can be inserted. This configuration has the advantage that the removal tool is always available when a stuck aerosol-generated article needs to be removed. Alternatively, the removal tool can also be held in any other component of the aerosol generating system. For example, the removal tool can be held in a portable charger for the aerosol generating system. Such a portable charger may include a hinged cover. The removal tool can be configured to be held within such a hinged cover. The removal tool can also be held in a recess provided in the housing of the portable charger.

[0026] The present invention also relates to an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation device, a charger, and a removal tool as disclosed herein. The charger may include a housing. The charger housing may be configured to receive the removal tool when it is not in use.

[0027] As used herein, the terms “proximal,” “distal,” “upstream,” and “downstream” are used to describe the relative position of a component or part of a component of an aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article relative to the direction in which it is drawn by a user during use of the aerosol generating device or aerosol generating article.

[0028] As used herein, an "aerosol generating device" relates to an apparatus that interacts with an aerosol-forming matrix to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-forming matrix may be part of an aerosol-generating article, such as a smoking article. The aerosol generating device may be a smoking device that interacts with the aerosol-forming matrix of the aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. The aerosol generating device may be a retainer. The device may be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol generating device may include a housing, a circuit system, a power supply, a heating chamber, and a heating element.

[0029] As used herein with reference to the invention, the term "smoking" in relation to apparatus, articles, systems, matrix, or otherwise does not refer to conventional smoking in which the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​completely or at least partially burned. The aerosol-generating apparatus of the present invention is arranged to heat the aerosol-forming matrix to a temperature below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming matrix but at or above the temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming matrix are released to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0030] The aerosol generating device can have a length between 86 mm and 130 mm.

[0031] As used herein, the term "aerosol forming matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds can be released by heating the aerosol forming matrix. The aerosol forming matrix can conveniently be part of an aerosol-generating article.

[0032] The aerosol forming matrix can be a solid aerosol forming matrix. It can include both solid and liquid components. The aerosol forming matrix can include tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the matrix upon heating. The aerosol forming matrix can also include non-tobacco materials. Furthermore, the aerosol forming matrix can include aerosol forming agents that contribute to the formation of dense and stable aerosols. Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0033] The aerosol-generating matrix preferably comprises: homogenized tobacco material, an aerosol forming agent, and water. Providing homogenized tobacco material can improve aerosol generation, nicotine content, and aroma characteristics of aerosols generated during the heating of aerosol-generating articles. Specifically, the process of manufacturing homogenized tobacco involves grinding tobacco leaves, which more effectively releases nicotine and aroma upon heating.

[0034] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols. For example, an aerosol-generating article can be a smoking article that generates aerosols that can be directly inhaled into the lungs of a user through their mouth. Aerosol-generating articles can be disposable.

[0035] Aerosol-generating articles can be substantially cylindrical in shape. Aerosol-generating articles can be substantially elongated. Aerosol-generating articles can have a length and a perimeter substantially perpendicular to that length. Aerosol-generating articles can be substantially strip-shaped. Aerosol-forming matrices can be substantially cylindrical in shape. Aerosol-forming matrices can be substantially elongated. Aerosol-forming matrices can also have a length and a perimeter substantially perpendicular to that length. Aerosol-forming matrices can be substantially strip-shaped.

[0036] The aerosol-generating article may have an overall length between 55 mm and 110 mm, preferably between 60 mm and 90 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have an outer diameter between 4.5 mm and 17 mm, preferably between 6 mm and 9 mm. The aerosol-generating article may include a filter tip section. The filter tip section may be located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The filter tip section may be a cellulose acetate filter tip section. In one embodiment, the length of the filter tip section is approximately 7 mm, but its length may be between approximately 5 mm and approximately 10 mm.

[0037] Aerosol-generating articles may include a separation between the aerosol-forming matrix and the filter tip section. This separation may be approximately 18 mm, but can range from 5 mm to 25 mm.

[0038] Aerosol-generating articles may include multiple components, including one or more of a mouthpiece, spacer, hollow acetate tube, sensory medium rod, and front rod. All components may be connected to each other by an outer packaging. Aerosol-generating articles may have a cylindrical shape.

[0039] The front rod can be used as the end portion of an aerosol-generating article. The front rod can be used to ensure that the sensory medium remains within the aerosol-generating article. The front rod can be made of a material that allows air to be drawn through it. The front rod can be made of a material with sufficient porosity. The front rod can be made of filter material. The front rod can be made of cellulose acetate tow. The front rod can be made of one or more materials selected from ceramics, polymers, biopolymers, metals, zeolites, paper, cardboard, inert materials, and inorganic materials.

[0040] The removal element can be configured to employ a first position in which the aerosol-generating article is received in the heating chamber, and a second position in which the aerosol-generating article is removed from the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating apparatus.

[0041] The removal element can be a flexible element in the form of a filament or rope. This construction of the removal tool can be particularly helpful for connection to an aerosol generating apparatus that includes a heated chamber having an open end for receiving the aerosol-generated article. At its open end, the heated chamber can be configured to include a cover. The cover can be a removable portion that allows access to the internal components of the heated chamber and the battery of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0042] The removal element may include two ends. A first end may be secured to the open end of the heating chamber. A second end may be secured to the cover of the heating chamber. A second end of the removal element may be located outside the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus. The removal element may extend across the cross-section of the heating chamber. When the aerosol generating article is inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus, the removal element engages with the distal end of the aerosol generating article and is pushed towards the bottom of the heating chamber. The removal element is in a first position when the aerosol generating article is fully inserted.

[0043] In the first position, the second end of the removal element remains outside the heating chamber. When the user pulls on the second end of the removal element, the removal element tightens and moves to the second position. This causes the removal element to push the aerosol-generated article out of the heating chamber.

[0044] The second end of the removal element can be guided through a through-hole in the cover. The second end can be configured to slide freely through the through-hole in the cover. The free end at the second end of the removal element may include an element that can be easily grasped and pulled by a user. The free end may include a decorative object. The user can easily grasp this element with two fingers. Simultaneously, this element prevents the second end from sliding through the through-hole in the cover.

[0045] The through-hole of the cover can be located on one side of the cover, opposite to the side of the cover to which the first end of the removal element is fixed. In this way, it can be ensured that the removal element extends across the cross-section of the heating chamber.

[0046] The first end of the removal element can also be fixed at a fixing point located on a portion of the inner wall of the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus. The second end of the removal element can be guided through a through-hole in the housing of the inner wall of the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus. The through-hole in the housing of the inner wall of the heating chamber is advantageously positioned opposite the fixing point of the first end of the removal element.

[0047] The aerosol generating device can be configured such that the second end of the removal element is guided through two through-holes, through a through-hole in the cover, and through a through-hole in the inner wall of the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device. Similarly, the removal element can be brought into the second position by a user pulling on the second end of the removal element.

[0048] In another modification, the cover of the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus can be configured to be rotatably mounted at the open end of the heating chamber. The cover can be further configured such that by rotating the end, the removal element is rolled up and thus brought into a second position. Therefore, in this embodiment, a user can remove broken or stuck aerosol-generated articles from the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus by simply rotating the cover at the open end of the heating chamber. When the end is rotated, the length of the removal element within the heating chamber is reduced, and the broken article is pushed out of the heating chamber.

[0049] The removal tool can also consist essentially of only a removal element. In this embodiment, both ends of the removal element can be fixed to the cover of the heating chamber. The two ends of the removal element can be securely attached to the cover of the heating chamber. In this configuration, the removal element has a fixed length. When the cover is attached to the end of the heating chamber, the removal element is in a first position that allows full insertion of the aerosol-generating article. To move the removal element to a second position, the entire cover needs to be removed. During the removal of the cover and the removal element securely attached to the cover, a broken or stuck aerosol-generating article can be removed from the heating chamber.

[0050] The removal tool may also include multiple removal elements attached to a cover of the heating chamber. By providing two or more removal elements, the pulling force is more evenly distributed across the removal elements and the contact portions between the removal elements and the aerosol-generating article. This allows for safer and more reliable extraction of the aerosol-generating article.

[0051] The removal tool may include a bottom element. When the removal element is in the first position, the bottom element is positioned adjacent to the bottom of the heating chamber. In cases where the aerosol-generating article can normally be removed from the heating chamber, the bottom element helps to hold the removal element within the heating chamber. The bottom element may be configured to form a friction-fit connection with the bottom structure of the heating chamber. Thus, the bottom element ensures that the removal element is tautly mounted along the inner wall of the heating chamber. Therefore, the removal element does not interfere with the handling of the aerosol-generating article during its normal insertion into and removal from the heating chamber.

[0052] The removal element can be formed from a filament. A first end of the filament can be fixed to the cover of the heating chamber. A second end of the filament can be configured to engage with the distal end of the inserted aerosol-generating article. The second end of the removal element can be configured as a hook to facilitate engagement with the distal end of the aerosol-generating article. The removal element can be coiled like a coil to form a resilient spring member. In this way, the length of the removal element can be easily adjusted for different lengths of the heating chamber. Therefore, this removal element can be used in different models of aerosol-generating devices.

[0053] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the removal tool may include a flexible cap configured to be mounted above an unmodified cover of the heating chamber. One or more removal elements are mounted at both ends on opposite sides of the flexible cap. To remove the broken article, the flexible element, including the removal element attached to it, must be detached from the cover. This embodiment of the removal tool requires no modification to the cover of the heating chamber. Therefore, the removal tool according to this embodiment can be readily used with currently available aerosol generating devices.

[0054] The heating chamber of the aerosol generating device may include a sleeve lining the inner wall of the heating chamber. This sleeve may be configured to be removable. The removable sleeve can serve as a support for a removal element. The removal element may be in the form of a wire or rope. A stop element may be provided at each end of the removal element. Each stop element may act as a "pull bar" that can be gripped by a user's hand. The sleeve may have two grooves located on opposite sides of its outer wall. The grooves may extend along the entire length of the outer wall of the sleeve. When fully assembled in the heating chamber, the removal element is guided within the grooves between the outer wall of the sleeve and the inner wall of the heating chamber. The two stop elements are located at the proximal ends of the sleeve and restrict movement of the removal element into the heating chamber. A removable cover may be provided at the proximal end of the heating chamber. The removable cover may be designed to hold the sleeve in place when attached to the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may also be designed such that, in the assembled state, the stop elements are clamped between the proximal ends of the sleeve and the cover.

[0055] To remove the broken aerosol-generated article using the aforementioned removal tool, the user must first remove the cover from the proximal end of the heating chamber. Removing the cover allows the user access to the stop elements. The user can then grasp one of the stop elements and pull it until at least partially removing the broken portion of the aerosol-generated article from the heating chamber. The user can then grasp the outlet portion of the broken article and remove it completely. After removing the broken article, the user can push the stop element of the removal tool back and reattach the cover to the proximal end of the heating chamber. The aerosol-generating device is then ready to receive new aerosol-generated articles.

[0056] The present invention also relates to a method for removing a broken aerosol-generated article from the heating chamber of an aerosol-generating apparatus. The method includes providing a removal tool for an induction-heated aerosol-generating apparatus. The removal tool includes a removal element configured to be at least partially inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating apparatus. The removal element is made of a non-ferromagnetic material.

[0057] The removal element of the removal tool can be configured to engage with the front bar of the aerosol-generated article to be removed from the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device.

[0058] The following is a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0059] Example Ex1: A removal tool for an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus, the removal tool being configured to remove a broken aerosol-generated article from the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0060] The removal tool includes a removal element configured to be at least partially inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device, and the removal element is made of a non-ferromagnetic material.

[0061] Example Ex2: The removal tool according to Example 1, wherein the removal element is made of a heat-resistant material, particularly a material with a melting point of at least 150 degrees Celsius, preferably at least 200 degrees Celsius, preferably at least 250 degrees Celsius, preferably at least 300 degrees Celsius.

[0062] Example Ex3: A removal tool according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the removal element is made of a material having a heat distortion temperature (HDT) of at least 145 degrees Celsius, preferably at least 185 degrees Celsius, more preferably at least 200 degrees Celsius as determined by standard tests ASTM D648 and ISO 75.

[0063] Example Ex4: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the removal element is made of a material having a ratio of permanent deformation force (PDF) to maximum force before yielding (MFY) of at least 10, preferably at least 15, more preferably at least 18.

[0064] Example Ex5: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the removal element is made of a material that does not release toxic compounds at high temperatures.

[0065] Example Ex6: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the removal element is made of one or more materials selected from: aluminum alloy; polymers such as polyamide, polyamide + glass fiber, polyether ether ketone (PEEK); aramid fiber; carbon fiber; silicon aluminum fiber; aluminum; copper; lead; nickel; tin; titanium; and zinc.

[0066] Example Ex7: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the removal tool includes a key and a cap.

[0067] Example Ex8: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the key and the cap are engaged by a snap-fit ​​locking mechanism.

[0068] Example Ex9: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the key component includes a key component head and a key component body, and wherein the key component body forms a removal element of the removal tool.

[0069] Example Ex10: A removal tool according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the key body is an elongated portion with a specific angle design at the top and end, wherein the specific angle design at the top and end of the key body facilitates hooking the front bar of the broken aerosol-generated article to be removed from the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating apparatus.

[0070] Example Ex11: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the length of the key body corresponds to the length of the heating chamber, wherein the length of the key body is between 80% and 100% of the heating chamber, preferably wherein the length of the key body is between 90% and 100% of the heating chamber, wherein the length of the key body is between 95% and 100% of the heating chamber, and wherein the length of the key body is between 98% and 100% of the heating chamber.

[0071] Example Ex12: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the key component includes a protruding element between the key component head and the key component body, wherein the protruding element restricts the movement of the key component body into the heating chamber.

[0072] Example Ex13: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the protruding element has a cross-section larger than the cross-section of the internal volume of the heating chamber.

[0073] Example Ex14: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the key body is made of wire.

[0074] Example Ex15: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the key component includes a protruding opening element (e.g., flower-shaped) of a decorative cover for the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device that allows the user to easily open / close it.

[0075] Example Ex16. An aerosol generation system includes an aerosol generation device and a charger, wherein the charger includes a housing, and wherein the housing of the charger is configured to receive a removal tool according to any one of Examples 1 to 14.

[0076] Example Ex17: A removal tool according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the removal element is configured to receive the aerosol generating article at a first position in the heating chamber and to remove the aerosol generating article from the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus at a second position.

[0077] Example Ex18: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the removal element is a flexible element in the form of a filament or rope.

[0078] Example Ex19: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein at least a first end of the removal element is fixed to the cover of the heating chamber.

[0079] Example Ex20: A removal tool according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the second end of the removal element is guided through a through-hole in the cover and configured to be pulled to remove the aerosol-generated article from the heating chamber.

[0080] Example Ex21: A removal tool according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the through hole is provided on one side of the cover, the side being opposite to the side of the cover to which the first end of the removal element is fixed.

[0081] Example Ex22: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the second end of the removal element includes a (decorative) gripping element that can be easily gripped by the user.

[0082] Example Ex23: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the removal element is configured to take the second position when the user pulls at the second end of the removal element.

[0083] Example Ex24: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the removal element is configured to take the second position when the user pulls at the second end of the removal element.

[0084] Example Ex25: A removal tool according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the first end of the removal element is fixed to the housing of the aerosol generating device.

[0085] Example Ex26: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the cover is rotatably mounted at the heating chamber, and wherein the removal element is configured to take the second position when the user rotates the cover.

[0086] Example Ex27: A removal tool according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the second end of the removal element is fixed to the cover of the heating chamber.

[0087] Example Ex28: A removal tool based on any of the preceding examples, wherein the removal tool includes multiple removal elements.

[0088] Example Ex29: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the removal tool includes a flexible cap configured to be mounted above the cover of the heating chamber, and wherein two ends of the removal element are mounted on opposite sides of the flexible cap.

[0089] Example Ex30: A removal tool according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the removal tool includes a bottom element that helps to support the removal element in the heating chamber.

[0090] Example Ex31: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the removal element is a flexible element in the form of a filament or rope, and each end of the removal element is provided with a stop element.

[0091] Example Ex32: A removal tool according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the removal tool includes a sleeve with a longitudinal groove in which the removal element is guided.

[0092] Example Ex33: A method for removing a broken aerosol-generated article from the heating chamber of an aerosol generating apparatus, the method comprising:

[0093] A removal tool is provided for an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus, the removal tool comprising a removal element configured to be at least partially inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0094] The removal element is not made of ferromagnetic material.

[0095] Example Ex34: According to the method of Example 33, the removal element of the removal tool is configured to engage with the front bar of the aerosol-generated article to be removed from the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating apparatus.

[0096] The features described with respect to one embodiment can also be applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0097] The invention will be further described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0098] Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating apparatus and the aerosol-generated product is shown.

[0099] Figure 2 A cross-sectional view of the aerosol-generated article is shown;

[0100] Figure 3 An example of the removal tool is shown;

[0101] Figure 4 A removal tool inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device is shown;

[0102] Figure 5 Another embodiment of the removal tool is shown;

[0103] Figure 6 A removal tool with additional functionality is shown;

[0104] Figure 7 A solution for storing and removing tools is shown;

[0105] Figure 8An embodiment of a removal tool with a rope-shaped removal element is shown;

[0106] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 A modification to the removal tool;

[0107] Figure 10 Two additional embodiments of the removal tool are shown;

[0108] Figure 11 Another embodiment of the removal tool is shown;

[0109] Figure 12 Another embodiment of the removal tool is shown;

[0110] Figure 1 An aerosol generation system including an aerosol generation apparatus 10 and an aerosol generation article 12 is shown.

[0111] The aerosol generating apparatus 10 includes a heating chamber 14 for inserting an aerosol generating article 12. The heating chamber 14 has a heating chamber bottom 16 and a tubular heating chamber wall 18. A cover 20 is provided at the open end of the heating chamber 14. Figure 1 As depicted in the enlarged view, the cover 20 defines an opening for inserting the aerosol generating article 12 into the heating chamber 14. When the aerosol generating article 12 is inserted into the heating chamber 14, the distal portion of the aerosol generating article 12 is inserted into the heating chamber 14. The proximal portion 18 of the aerosol generating article 12 protrudes from the heating chamber 14, and the user can directly aspirate from the proximal portion of the aerosol generating article 12.

[0112] The aerosol generating apparatus 10 includes a sensing component. The sensing component includes an induction coil 22. The aerosol generating apparatus 10 also includes a controller 24 and a power supply 26. The controller 24 is configured to control the electrical power supply from the power supply to the induction coil 22.

[0113] Figure 2 It shows the to be with Figure 1A detailed view of a typical aerosol generating article 12 used in conjunction with the aerosol generating apparatus 10. The aerosol generating article 12 includes an inlet filter 30, a thin hollow acetate tube 32, a hollow acetate tube 34, an aerosol forming matrix portion 36, and a front rod 38. A rod package 40 is used to connect the thin hollow acetate tube 32, the hollow acetate tube 34, the aerosol forming matrix portion 36, and the front rod 38. A splice package 42 connects the inlet filter 30 to the rod package 40. The aerosol forming matrix portion 36 includes a sensor 28 defined by the aerosol forming matrix. When the aerosol generating article 12 is inserted into the heating chamber 14 of the aerosol generating apparatus 10, the aerosol forming matrix portion 36 and the sensor 28 are positioned adjacent to an induction coil 22. When an alternating current is applied to the induction coil 22, an alternating magnetic field is generated, which in turn induces heat in the sensor 28 and heats the aerosol forming matrix portion 36.

[0114] During processing in the aerosol generation system, the inserted aerosol generation article 12 may break, and a portion of the article 12 may remain stuck in the heating chamber 14 of the aerosol generation device 10. To enable the user to remove such broken or stuck articles from the heating chamber of the aerosol generation device 10, a method is provided as described above. Figure 3 The removal tool 50 is depicted in the figure. The removal tool 50 includes a key component 52 and a cap 54. The key component 52 of the removal tool includes a key component head 56 and a key component body 58. The key component body 58 forms the removal element 60 of the removal tool 50.

[0115] The key head 56 is formed as a handle that can be gripped by a user's hand. The key head 56 includes a ring hole 62. The ring hole 62 allows the user to carry the removal tool 50 on a strap or on a bunch of keys.

[0116] The key body 58 is an elongated component to be inserted into the heating chamber 14 of the aerosol generating apparatus 10 to remove the broken aerosol-generated article 12. The key body 58 has a specific angle design at its end. This hook-shaped end 64 of the key body 58 is formed to facilitate the removal of the broken article 12, while reducing the risk of damaging the interior of the heating chamber 14. The hook-shaped end 64 of the key body 58 has an angle α of approximately 60 degrees.

[0117] The key component 52 includes a protruding element 66 that restricts movement of the key component body 58 into the heating chamber 14. The protruding element 66 is an enlarged portion whose cross-section is larger than the cross-section of the interior of the heating chamber 14. When the key component body 58 is fully inserted into the heating chamber 14, the hook-shaped end 64 of the removal element 60 does not contact the bottom 16 of the heating chamber 14 of the aerosol generating device 10.

[0118] exist Figure 4The diagram depicts an aerosol generating apparatus with a fully inserted key component. A protruding element 66 contacts a cover 20 at the open end of a heating chamber 14. The hook-shaped end 64 of the key component body 58 does not contact the structure at the bottom of the heating chamber. In this embodiment, the key component 58 is approximately 25 mm long. The heating chamber is 28 mm long. However, the key component body 58 is configured such that the hook-shaped end 64 contacts the front bar 38 (not shown) of the broken aerosol generating article 12. By engaging the front bar 38, a removal tool 50 can reliably remove the broken or stuck aerosol generating article 12 from the heating chamber 14 of the aerosol generating apparatus 10.

[0119] Figure 5 Another embodiment of the removal tool is shown. The removal element 50 again includes a key piece 52 and a cap 54. The key piece 52 is formed of a wire. One end of the wire is mounted in a polymer element forming the head 56 of the key piece. The polymer element can be gripped by the user's hand and acts as a handle. Figure 5 The lower view indicates that the polymer element can be snapped into place with the cap 54. The key head 56 may or may not have a ring hole 62.

[0120] exist Figure 6 Another embodiment of the removal tool 50 is shown in the diagram. The key body 58 generally has the same shape as shown in the diagram. Figure 3 and Figure 5 A similar structure is depicted in the embodiments. However, in Figure 6 In one embodiment, the key body 58 is provided with additional elements 68, 70 that allow the removal tool 50 to perform additional functions. The pentagonal protruding element 68 can be used to install the cover 20 into or remove the cover from the open end of the heating chamber 14 of the aerosol generating device 10. (As in...) Figure 1 As depicted, the cover 20 may define an opening having a pentagonal or floral cross-section. The additional protruding element 68 has a profile corresponding to the cross-section of the opening in the cover 20, and is therefore usable for tightening the cover 20 or unscrewing the cover from the aerosol generating device 10.

[0121] Alternatively, such as in Figure 6 As depicted in another view, the removal tool 50 may also include cylindrically arranged protruding elements 70. These elements 70 may facilitate twisting of the top portion of the heating chamber 14 so that the entire contents of the aerosol generating device 10 can be pulled out to replace the power source.

[0122] exist Figure 7 The text describes various possibilities for keeping the removal tool within components of the aerosol generation system. Figure 7In diagram a, an aerosol generating apparatus 10 having a heating chamber 14 is schematically depicted. The removal tool 50 can be held in a recess 72 located at either end of the housing of the aerosol generating apparatus 10. Figure 7 a indicates two possible locations for such recesses 72.

[0123] As in Figure 7 In schematic depiction B, the silicone cap of the aerosol generating device 10 can be replaced by a modified silicone cap 74, thereby allowing the removal tool 50 to be held in a recess located below or inside the modified silicone cap 74.

[0124] The aerosol generation system may also include a portable charger 76. (As in...) Figure 7 As depicted in C, the removal tool 50 can be held, for example, within the housing of such a portable charger. In this embodiment, the housing of the charger 76 includes a hinged flap 78 in which the removal tool 50 can be held.

[0125] exist Figure 8 Another embodiment of the removal tool 50 is shown in the figure. Figure 8 In the middle, it is described Figure 1 An enlarged section of the heating chamber 14 of the induction heating aerosol generating apparatus 10. A cover 20 is provided at the open end of the heating chamber 14, defining an opening for inserting the aerosol generating article 12. In this embodiment, the removal element 58 is a flexible element in the form of a rope made of aramid fibers. The removal element 58 includes two ends. A first end 80 of the removal element 58 is fixed to the cover 20. The removal element 58 extends across the cross section of the heating chamber 14. A second end of the removal element 58 extends through an opening 82 in the cover 20. The removal element 58 is freely slidable through the opening 82. A gripping element 86 for a user to grasp is provided at the second end 84 of the removal element 58. In this case, the gripping element 86 is a decorative star-shaped element. When the aerosol generating article 12 (not shown) is inserted into the heating chamber 14 of the aerosol generating apparatus 10, the removal element 58 engages with the distal end of the aerosol generating article 12 and is pushed toward the bottom 16 of the heating chamber 14.

[0126] When the aerosol-generating article 12 is fully inserted, the removal element 58 is in a first position, which substantially corresponds to the position as shown in the image. Figure 8 The structure is depicted in the diagram. In this first position, the second end 84 of the removal element 58 is still outside the heating chamber 14. When the user pulls the gripping element 86 at the second end 84 of the removal element 58, the removal element 58 tightens and moves to the second position. As a result, the removal element 58 pushes the aerosol-generating article 12 out of the heating chamber 14.

[0127] exist Figure 8The lower view shows an image of the unscrewed cap 20 with decorative gripping elements 86.

[0128] Figure 9 Another embodiment is shown, in which the removal element 58 is again a flexible element in the form of a rope made of aramid fibers. A first end 80 of the removal element 58 is fixed to the upper portion of the inner wall of the heating chamber 14. A second end 84 of the removal element 58 again extends through the opening 82 in the cover 20. The second end 84 also extends through the opening 88 in the inner wall of the heating chamber 14. In this embodiment, the cover 20 is rotatably mounted in the heating chamber 14 of the aerosol generating apparatus 10. The cover 20 is also configured such that by rotating the cover 20, the removal element 58 is rolled up between the cover 20 and the housing of the aerosol generating apparatus 10. By rolling up the removal element 58, its length within the heating chamber 14 is reduced, and the removal element 58 is thereby brought to a second position. Therefore, in this embodiment, a user can remove a broken or stuck aerosol generating article 12 from the heating chamber 14 of the aerosol generating apparatus 10 by simply rotating the cover 20 at the open end of the heating chamber 14.

[0129] exist Figure 10 In one embodiment, the removal tool 50 is essentially composed of a cover 20, to which a removal element 58, in the form of a flexible rope, is attached. (As in...) Figure 10 As depicted, the two ends 80, 84 of the removal element 58 are fixedly attached to the cover 20 of the heating chamber 14. In this configuration, the removal element 58 has a fixed length. When the cover 20 is attached to the open end of the heating chamber 14, the removal element 58 is in a first position that allows full insertion of the aerosol generating article 12. To move the removal element 58 to a second position, the entire cover 20 must be removed. When the cover 20 and the removal element 58 fixedly attached to the cover are removed, any broken or stuck aerosol generating article 12 can be removed from the heating chamber 14.

[0130] As in Figure 10 As depicted in the second view, the removal tool may further include a second removal element 59, which is correspondingly shaped but fixed in an orthogonal orientation relative to the first removal element 58. This embodiment allows for a more uniform force distribution between the removal elements 58, 59 and the aerosol-generating article 12.

[0131] exist Figure 10In the lower view, the removal tool may include a bottom element 90. When the removal element 58 is in the first position, the bottom element 90 is positioned adjacent to the bottom 16 of the heating chamber 14. The bottom element 90 helps to hold the removal elements 58, 59 within the heating chamber 14. The bottom element 90 is configured to form a friction-fit connection with the structure at the bottom 16 of the heating chamber 14. The bottom element 90 thereby ensures that the removal elements 58, 59 are tautly mounted along the inner wall of the heating chamber 14. Therefore, during the normal insertion and removal of the aerosol-generating article 12 from the heating chamber 14, the removal elements 58, 59 do not interfere with the handling of the aerosol-generating article 12.

[0132] exist Figure 11 In this embodiment, the removal tool 50 includes a flexible cap 92 configured to be mounted above an unmodified cover 20 of the heating chamber 14. The flexible cap 92 is made of silicone and configured to be applied to the cover 20 of a conventional aerosol generating apparatus 10. Two ends 80, 84 of a removal element 58 are mounted on opposite sides of the flexible cap 92. To remove the broken article 12, the flexible cap 92, which includes the removal element 58 attached to the flexible cap, must be removed from the cover 20. This embodiment of the removal tool 50 requires no modification to the cover 20 of the heating chamber 14. Therefore, the removal tool 50 according to this embodiment can be readily used with currently available aerosol generating apparatus 10.

[0133] Figure 12 Another embodiment of the removal tool 50 is shown. The removal element 58 is again in the form of a flexible rope. A stop element 96 is provided at each end of the removal element. (As shown in...) Figure 12 The heating chamber 14 of the aerosol generating apparatus 10, as depicted, includes a removable sleeve 94. The sleeve 94 has a generally cylindrical shape and is lined with the inner wall of the heating chamber 14. The removable sleeve 94 includes two longitudinally extending grooves 98 on opposite sides of the outer wall of the sleeve 94. The grooves 98 are configured to guide a rope-shaped removal element 58 when the removal tool and the sleeve are installed in the heating chamber. In the assembled state, a stop element engages with the proximal end of the sleeve 94 and restricts movement of the removal element 58 into the heating chamber 14. A removable cover 20 is provided at the proximal end of the heating chamber 14. The removable cover is designed to hold the sleeve 94 in place when the cover 20 is attached to the aerosol generating apparatus 10. The attached cover 20 extends above the proximal end of the heating chamber and clamps the stop element 96 between the proximal end of the sleeve 94 and the cover 20.

[0134] In order to use Figure 12The user removes the broken aerosol-generating article 12 using a removal tool, and then removes the cap 20 from the proximal end of the heating chamber 14. The user can then grasp one of the stop elements 96 and pull it until the broken portion of the aerosol-generating article 12 is at least partially removed from the heating chamber 14. Once the article has been removed far enough from the heating chamber, the user can grasp the extended portion of the broken article 12 by hand and remove it completely. After removing the broken article 12, the user can push the stop element 96 back and reattach the cap 20 to the proximal end of the heating chamber 14. The aerosol generating device 10 is then ready to receive a new aerosol-generating article 12.

Claims

1. A removal tool for an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus, the removal tool being configured to remove a broken aerosol-generated article from the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus. The removal tool includes a removal element configured to be at least partially inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device, and the removal element is made of a non-ferromagnetic material.

2. The removal tool according to claim 1, wherein the removal element is made of a heat-resistant material, particularly a material with a melting point of at least 150 degrees Celsius, preferably at least 200 degrees Celsius, preferably at least 250 degrees Celsius, and preferably at least 300 degrees Celsius.

3. The removal tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal element is made of a material having a heat distortion temperature (HDT) of at least 145 degrees Celsius, preferably at least 185 degrees Celsius, more preferably at least 200 degrees Celsius, as determined by standard tests ASTM D648 and ISO 75.

4. The removal tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal element is made of a material having a ratio of permanent deformation force (PDF) to maximum force before yielding (MFY) of at least 10, preferably at least 15, more preferably at least 18.

5. The removal tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal element is made of one or more materials selected from: aluminum alloy; polymers such as polyamide, polyamide + glass fiber, polyether ether ketone (PEEK); aramid fiber; carbon fiber; silicon aluminum fiber; aluminum; copper; lead; nickel; tin; titanium; and zinc.

6. The removal tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal tool comprises a key and a cap.

7. The removal tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the key component includes a key component head and a key component body, and wherein the key component body forms a removal element of the removal tool.

8. The removal tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the key body is an elongated portion having a specific angle design at the top and end, wherein the specific angle design at the top and end of the key body facilitates hooking the front bar of the broken aerosol-generated article to be removed from the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating apparatus.

9. The removal tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the key component includes a protruding element between the key component head and the key component body, wherein the protruding element restricts movement of the key component body into the heating chamber.

10. The removal tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the protruding element has a cross-section larger than the cross-section of the internal volume of the heating chamber.

11. The removal tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the key body is made of wire.

12. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation device and a charger, wherein the charger includes a housing, and wherein the housing of the charger is configured to receive a removal tool according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. The removal tool according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal element is configured to receive the aerosol generating article in the heating chamber at a first position and to remove the aerosol generating article from the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus at a second position.

14. A method for removing a broken aerosol-generated article from a heating chamber of an aerosol generating apparatus, the method comprising: A removal tool is provided for an induction-heated aerosol generating apparatus, the removal tool comprising a removal element configured to be at least partially inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating apparatus. The removal element is not made of ferromagnetic material.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the removal element of the removal tool is configured to engage with the front rod of the aerosol-generated article to be removed from the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating apparatus.

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