Aerosol generating device with a closing member

Abstract

An aerosol generating device (10) is provided that includes a housing (12) having a first housing portion (14) that defines a cavity (32) for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate and an opening (34) at an end of the cavity (32). The housing (12) also includes a second housing portion (16) that is configured for removable attachment to the first housing portion (14). The aerosol generating device (10) also includes a closure member (42) connected to the second housing portion (16). The closure member (42) is movable between a closed position in which the closure member (42) at least partially covers the opening (34) when the second housing portion (16) is attached to the first housing portion (14) and an open position in which the opening (34) is uncovered when the second housing portion (16) is attached to the first housing portion (14).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device comprising a first housing portion, a second housing portion and a closure member. [Background technology]

[0002] One type of aerosol generating system is an electrically operated smoking system. Known handheld electrically operated smoking systems typically include an aerosol generating device that includes a battery, control electronics, and an electric heater for heating an aerosol generating article designed specifically for the aerosol generating device. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article includes an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco rod or tobacco plug, and the heater contained within the aerosol generating device is inserted into or positioned around the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device. In an alternative electrically operated smoking system, the aerosol generating article may include a capsule containing an aerosol-forming substrate, such as loose tobacco.

[0003] In known electrically operated smoking systems, the aerosol generating article may be received within a cavity in the aerosol generating device. Some aerosol generating devices may include a slidable cover or closure member that a user may position over the opening of the cavity when the aerosol generating device is not in use. However, some known devices may include two housing parts that are removable from one another. Such an embodiment presents the problem of providing a closure member that can function as required when the two housing parts are connected to each other, but that does not interfere with the removal of one housing part from the other housing part. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating device with a closure member that facilitates simple and reliable operation of the closure member and that facilitates the first and second housing portions being removable from one another. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising a housing. The housing may comprise a first housing part. The first housing part may define a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. The first housing part may define an opening at an end of the cavity. The housing may comprise a second housing part. The second housing part may be configured for removable attachment to the first housing part. The aerosol generating device may comprise a closure member. The closure member may be connected to the second housing part. The closure member may be movable into a closed position in which the second closure member at least partially covers the opening. The closure member may be movable into the closed position when the second housing part is attached to the first housing part. The closure member may be movable into an open position in which the opening is uncovered. The closure member may be movable into an open position when the second housing part is attached to the first housing part. The closure member may be movable between the open position and the closed position.

[0006] According to the present disclosure, there is also provided an aerosol generating device comprising a housing, the housing comprising a first housing portion defining a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate and an opening at an end of the cavity. The housing also comprises a second housing portion configured for removable attachment to the first housing portion. The aerosol generating device also comprises a closure member connected to the second housing portion. The closure member is movable between a closed position in which the closure member at least partially covers the opening when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion, and an open position in which the opening is uncovered when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

[0007] Advantageously, providing an opening on the first housing portion and a closure member connected to the second housing portion may facilitate removal of the second housing portion from the first housing portion, for example, moving the closure member into an open position in which the opening is uncovered may facilitate removal of the second housing portion from the first housing portion.

[0008] The closure member may comprise a fixed portion connected to the second housing portion and a movable portion connected to the fixed portion, the movable portion being movable relative to the fixed portion between a closed position and an open position.

[0009] Advantageously, providing the closure member with a fixing portion may facilitate connection of the closure member to the second housing part.

[0010] At least a portion of the fixed portion may be connected to the second housing portion by an interference fit.

[0011] At least a portion of the fixed portion may be connected to the second housing portion by an adhesive.

[0012] The housing may include a first end and a second end opposite the first end, with the opening located at the first end of the housing. The first end of the housing may include a first wall when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The opening may extend through a first portion of the first wall. The first portion of the first wall may be formed by the first housing portion. The fixed portion of the closure member may be connected to the second portion of the first wall. The second portion of the first wall may be formed by the second housing portion.

[0013] The movable part may be rotatable relative to the fixed part. Advantageously, a rotatable movable part may facilitate ease of use of the closure member by a user. For example, when a user holds an aerosol generating device in one hand, a rotational movement of the thumb of the same hand may be a more natural movement than, for example, a sliding movement. Thus, advantageously, a rotatable movable part facilitates holding the aerosol generating device in one hand and operating the closure member. Advantageously, holding the aerosol generating device in one hand and operating the closure member facilitates inserting an aerosol-generating article into the cavity. For example, a user may hold an aerosol generating device in one hand and operate the closure member with the same hand, while simultaneously using the remaining hand to hold an aerosol-generating article and insert the aerosol-generating article into the cavity.

[0014] The closure member may include a hinge line between the fixed portion and the moveable portion, the moveable portion being rotatable about the hinge line relative to the fixed portion.

[0015] Advantageously, a closure member with a hinge line between a fixed portion and a moveable portion may be cost effective to manufacture. Advantageously, a closure member with a hinge line between a fixed portion and a moveable portion may facilitate ease of use by a user.

[0016] The closure member may be formed from a substrate material and the hinge line is formed by a line of weakness in the substrate material, which may include at least one of a score line, a crease, and a cut line.

[0017] The closure member may be formed from a flexible material, with the movable portion being contiguous with the fixed portion.

[0018] The closure member may be formed from plastic.

[0019] The closure member may be formed from an elastomer.The closure member may be formed from a silicone elastomer.The closure member may be formed from a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0020] The movable portion may be arranged to overlie the fixed portion when the movable portion is in the open position. Advantageously, arranging the movable portion to overlie the fixed portion in the open position may reduce or prevent interference of the movable portion with use of the aerosol generating device. Advantageously, arranging the movable portion to overlie the fixed portion in the open position may reduce the risk of damage to the movable portion when the second housing portion is removed from the first housing portion. In embodiments in which the movable portion is rotatable relative to the fixed portion, the closure member may be foldable from the open position into the closed position. For example, in embodiments in which the closure member comprises a hinge line, the closure member may be foldable about the hinge line.

[0021] The aerosol generating device may comprise a latching element arranged to hold the closure member in the open position. Advantageously, the latching element may reduce the risk that the closure member is inadvertently moved from the open position.

[0022] The latch element may comprise a portion of the second housing portion arranged to engage a portion of the closure member when the closure member is in the open position.The latch element may comprise a portion of the second housing portion arranged to engage a portion of the closure member with an interference fit when the closure member is in the open position.

[0023] The latch element may be configured to engage the moveable portion of the closure member when the moveable portion is in the open position.

[0024] The latching element may comprise at least one magnetic element. As used herein, the term "magnetic element" is used to refer to magnetizable materials such as magnets and ferromagnetic materials. The at least one magnetic element may include a latching magnetic element positioned on a fixed portion of the closure member and a second magnetic element positioned on a movable portion of the closure member. The latching magnetic element may include a magnet and the second magnetic element may include a magnetizable material. The latching magnetic element may include a magnetizable material and the second magnetic element may include a magnet. The latching magnetic element and the second magnetic element may each include a magnet.

[0025] The closure member may be formed from a substrate material. Each magnetic element may be at least partially contained within the substrate material. Each magnetic element may be completely contained within the substrate material. The substrate material may include a flexible material as described herein.

[0026] The aerosol generating device may comprise a retaining element arranged to retain the closure member in the closed position.

[0027] The retaining element may comprise a portion of the first housing portion arranged to engage a portion of the closure member when the closure member is in the closed position.The retaining element may comprise a portion of the first housing portion arranged to engage a portion of the closure member with an interference fit when the closure member is in the closed position.

[0028] The retaining element may be configured to engage the movable portion of the closure member when the movable portion is in the closed position.

[0029] The retaining element may include at least one magnetic element. The at least one magnetic element may comprise a retaining magnetic element positioned on the first housing portion and a second magnetic element positioned on the movable portion of the closure member. The retaining magnetic element may include a magnet and the second magnetic element may include a magnetizable material. The retaining magnetic element may include a magnetizable material and the second magnetic element may include a magnet. The retaining magnetic element and the second magnetic element may each include a magnet.

[0030] The retaining magnetic element may be at least partially contained within the first housing portion. The retaining magnetic element may be completely contained within the first housing portion.

[0031] The closure member may be formed from a substrate material. The second magnetic element may be at least partially contained within the substrate material. The second element may be completely contained within the substrate material. The substrate material may comprise a flexible material as described herein.

[0032] The retaining element may comprise a protrusion on the closure member arranged to be received in the opening of the first housing portion when the closure member is in the closed position, the protrusion preferably extending from the movable portion of the closure member.

[0033] Advantageously, the protrusion may facilitate a seal between the closure member and the opening in the first housing portion when the closure member is in the closed position. The protrusion is preferably sized to be retained within the opening by an interference fit.

[0034] The protrusion may have an annular shape. Advantageously, the annular shape may facilitate deformation of the protrusion when the protrusion is received within the opening of the first housing portion. Advantageously, deformation of the protrusion may facilitate a seal between the protrusion and the opening of the first housing portion.

[0035] At least one of the first and second housing portions may define a recess, with at least a portion of the closure member positioned within the recess. Advantageously, positioning at least a portion of the closure member within the recess may reduce a risk of damage to the closure member.

[0036] At least a portion of the opening may be positioned within the recess. Advantageously, positioning at least a portion of the opening within the recess may facilitate positioning at least a portion of the closure member within the recess when the closure member is in the closed position.

[0037] The housing may have a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the opening is located in the first end of the housing, the housing has a lip extending at least partially around a periphery of the first end of the housing, and the recess is defined by the lip.

[0038] The first housing portion and the second housing portion may each define a portion of the edge.

[0039] The housing may include a gap at a lip about the first end of the housing. Advantageously, the gap may facilitate a user to grasp a portion of the closure member to move the closure member from the closed position to the open position.

[0040] The gap is preferably located on the first housing portion.

[0041] A portion of the closure member may be disposed to be received within the gap when the closure member is in the closed position.

[0042] Preferably, a portion of the movable portion of the closure member is arranged to be received within the gap when the movable portion is in the closed position.

[0043] The fixed portion of the closure member is preferably positioned within the recess.

[0044] The closure member may be disposed such that when the closure member is in the open position it overlies the second housing portion.

[0045] Advantageously, disposing the closure member over the second housing portion in the open position may reduce or prevent interference of the closure member with use of the aerosol generating device. Advantageously, disposing the closure member over the second housing portion in the open position may reduce the risk of damage to the closure member when the second housing portion is removed from the first housing portion.

[0046] The first housing portion may have a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and at least one sidewall extending between the first end and the second end, the opening being located in the first end of the first housing portion, and the second housing portion being configured for removable attachment to the at least one sidewall.

[0047] Each of the first and second housing portions may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composites containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastics suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyethylene. Preferably, the material is light and not brittle.

[0048] The aerosol generating device preferably comprises an electric heater positioned within the first housing part, a power source positioned within the second housing part, and a controller positioned within the first housing part or the second housing part, the controller being configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the electric heater when the second housing part is attached to the first housing part.

[0049] Advantageously, providing a power source in the second housing portion may facilitate the use of a different power source in the first housing portion. For example, a user may replace a second housing portion containing a discharged power source with a further housing portion containing a fully charged power source. In another embodiment, a user may replace a second housing portion containing a first power source having a first charge storage capacity with a further housing portion containing a second power source having a different second charge storage capacity.

[0050] The electric heater may be positioned outside the cavity.

[0051] An electric heater may be positioned within the cavity.

[0052] The electric heater may be disposed to extend around an outer surface of the aerosol-generating article received within the cavity.

[0053] The electric heater may be in the form of a coil. The electric heater may be configured to heat the fluid transport structure. The aerosol generation device may comprise a fluid transport structure, the electric heater being arranged to heat the fluid transport structure. The fluid transport structure may comprise a wick. The electric heater may be in the form of a coil, the electric heater being wound around the fluid transport structure.

[0054] The electric heater may extend into the cavity. The electric heater may be arranged to be received within the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity. The electric heater may be an elongated electric heater. The electric heater may be blade shaped. The electric heater may be pin shaped. The electric heater may be cone shaped.

[0055] The electric heater may comprise an induction heating element. In use, the induction heating element inductively heats the at least one susceptor material to heat an aerosol-generating article received within the cavity. The at least one susceptor material may form part of the aerosol generating device. The at least one susceptor material may form part of the aerosol-generating article. The induction heating element may comprise at least one inductor coil extending around at least a portion of the cavity such that when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity, at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article is received within the at least one inductor coil.

[0056] The electric heater may comprise a resistive heating element, in use, an electric current is supplied to the resistive heating element to generate heat by resistive heating.

[0057] Suitable materials for forming the resistive heating element include, but are not limited to, semiconductors such as doped ceramics, "conductive" ceramics (such as, for example, molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composites made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composites may include doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-containing, cobalt-containing, chromium-containing, aluminum-containing, titanium-containing, zirconium-containing, hafnium-containing, niobium-containing, molybdenum-containing, tantalum-containing, tungsten-containing, tin-containing, gallium-containing, manganese-containing, and iron-containing alloys, as well as nickel-, iron-, cobalt-, and stainless steel-based superalloys, Timetal®, and iron-manganese-aluminum-based alloys.

[0058] In some embodiments, the resistive heating element comprises one or more stamped sections of an electrically resistive material (such as stainless steel. Alternatively, the resistive heating element may comprise a heating wire or filament (e.g., Ni-Cr (nickel-chromium), platinum, tungsten, or alloy wire).

[0059] The electric heater may comprise an electrically insulating substrate, with the resistive heating element being provided on the electrically insulating substrate. The electrically insulating substrate may be a ceramic material such as zirconia or alumina. The electrically insulating substrate preferably has a thermal conductivity of about 2 watts per metre per kelvin or less.

[0060] The controller is preferably arranged to provide power from the power source to the electric heater in accordance with a predetermined heating cycle when the aerosol generating device is being used to heat an aerosol-generating article received within the cavity.

[0061] In embodiments in which the electric heater comprises a resistive heating element, the controller may be arranged to provide power from the power source to the resistive heating element in accordance with a predetermined pyrolysis cycle to clean the electric heater when there are no aerosol-generating articles received within the cavity. The pyrolysis cycle may clean the electric heater by pyrolysis of residue remaining on the electric heater after use of the aerosol-generating device to heat one or more aerosol-generating articles. Typically, the maximum temperature to which the electric heater is heated during the pyrolysis cycle is higher than the maximum temperature to which the electric heater is heated to heat the aerosol-generating articles during the heating cycle. Typically, the total duration of the pyrolysis cycle is less than the total duration of the heating cycle.

[0062] The power source may be a DC voltage source. In a preferred embodiment, the power source is a battery. For example, the power source may be a nickel metal hydride battery, a nickel cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery (e.g., a lithium cobalt battery, a lithium iron phosphate battery, or a lithium polymer battery). Alternatively, the power source may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power source may require recharging and may have a capacity that allows for the storage of sufficient energy to use the aerosol generating device with one or more aerosol-generating articles.

[0063] The aerosol generating device preferably comprises at least one air inlet, preferably in fluid communication with the cavity.

[0064] The aerosol generating device may include a sensor for detecting airflow indicative of a user taking a puff. The airflow sensor may be an electromechanical device. The airflow sensor may be a mechanical device, an optical device, an opto-mechanical device, or a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) based sensor. The aerosol generating device may include a manually operable switch for a user to initiate a puff.

[0065] The aerosol generating device may include a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may detect the temperature of the electric heater or the temperature of the aerosol-generating article received within the cavity. The temperature sensor may be a thermistor. The temperature sensor may include circuitry configured to measure the resistivity of the electric heater and to derive the temperature of the electric heater by comparing the measured resistivity to a calibration curve of resistivity versus temperature.

[0066] Advantageously, deriving the temperature of the electric heater may facilitate control of the temperature to which the electric heater is heated during use. The controller may be configured to adjust the power supply to the electric heater in response to changes in the measured resistivity of the electric heater.

[0067] Advantageously, deriving the temperature of the electric heater may facilitate detection of a puff, for example a measured decrease in temperature of the electric heater may correspond to a user puffing or inhaling on the aerosol generating device.

[0068] The aerosol generating device preferably includes an indicator to indicate when the electric heater is activated. The indicator may include a light which is activated when the electric heater is activated.

[0069] The aerosol generating device may include at least one external plug or socket and at least one external electrical contact that allows the aerosol generating device to be connected to another electrical device. For example, the aerosol generating device may include a USB plug or socket that allows the aerosol generating device to be connected to another USB-enabled device. The USB plug or socket may allow the aerosol generating device to be connected to a USB charging device to charge a rechargeable power source within the aerosol generating device. The USB plug or socket may accommodate data transfer to and / or from the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may be connectable to a computer to transfer data to the aerosol generating device, such as a new heating profile for a new aerosol-generating article.

[0070] An external plug, socket, or electrical contact is preferably located on the second housing portion.

[0071] In embodiments in which the aerosol generating device comprises a USB plug or socket, the aerosol generating device may further comprise a removable cover for covering the USB plug or socket when not in use. In embodiments in which the USB plug or socket is a USB plug, the USB plug may additionally or alternatively be selectively retractable within the device.

[0072] According to the present disclosure there is also provided an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generating device as described herein and an aerosol-generating article including an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0073] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate that, when heated, releases a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol.

[0074] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco plug. The tobacco plug may comprise one or more of a powder, granules, pellets, pieces, spaghetti, strips, or sheets containing one or more of tobacco leaves, tobacco stem pieces, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, expanded tobacco. Optionally, the tobacco plug may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds that are released upon heating of the tobacco plug. Optionally, the tobacco plug may also include a capsule, for example, containing additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds. Such capsules may melt during heating of the tobacco plug. Alternatively, or in addition, such capsules may be crushed before, during, or after heating of the tobacco plug.

[0075] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a mouthpiece located downstream of the tobacco plug. The mouthpiece may be located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece may comprise a cellulose acetate filter plug.

[0076] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of any other example, embodiment, or aspect described herein. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0077] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to one embodiment of the present invention, with a closure member in a closed position. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 with the closure member in an open position. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a front view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 with the closure member in a closed position. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 with the closure member in an open position. [Diagram 5]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 with the closure member in a closed position. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 with the closure member in an open position and an aerosol-generating article received in the cavity of the first housing portion. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a front view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 with the closure member in an open position and the second housing part moved relative to the first housing part. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 showing the second housing portion sliding relative to the first housing portion. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 showing the second housing portion sliding relative to the first housing portion. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second housing portion of the aerosol generating device of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 showing the charging electrical contacts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0078] Example 1: An aerosol generating device comprising: A housing, a first housing portion defining a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate and an opening at an end of the cavity; a housing comprising a second housing portion, the second housing portion configured for removable attachment to the first housing portion; An aerosol generating device comprising: a closure member connected to the second housing part, the closure member being movable between a closed position in which the closure member at least partially covers the opening when the second housing part is attached to the first housing part, and an open position in which the opening is not covered when the second housing part is attached to the first housing part.

[0079] Example 2: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 1, wherein the closure member comprises a fixed part connected to the second housing part and a movable part connected to the fixed part, the movable part being movable between a closed position and an open position relative to the fixed part.

[0080] Example 3: The aerosol generating device of example 2, wherein the movable part is rotatable relative to the fixed part.

[0081] Example 4: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 3, wherein the closure member comprises a hinge line between the fixed part and the movable part, and the movable part is rotatable about the hinge line relative to the fixed part.

[0082] Example 5: An aerosol generating device as described in example 4, wherein the closure member is formed from a base material and the hinge line is formed by a line of weakness in the base material.

[0083] Example 6: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 2 or Example 3, wherein the closure member is made of a flexible material and the movable portion is continuous with the fixed portion.

[0084] Example 7: An aerosol generating device as described in any of Examples 2 to 6, wherein the movable part is arranged such that when the movable part is in the open position, it is above the fixed part.

[0085] Example 8: An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 7, further comprising a latch element arranged to hold the closure member in an open position.

[0086] Example 9: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 8, comprising a portion of the second housing portion, the latch element being arranged to engage a portion of the closure member when the closure member is in the open position.

[0087] Example 10: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 8 or Example 9 in combination with any of Examples 2 to 6, wherein the latch element is configured to engage the movable portion of the closure member when the movable portion is in the open position.

[0088] Example 11: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 8, wherein the latching element comprises at least one magnetic element.

[0089] Example 12: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 11 in combination with any of Examples 2 to 7, wherein at least one magnetic element includes a latching magnetic element positioned on a fixed portion of the closure member and a second magnetic element positioned on a movable portion of the closure member.

[0090] Example 13: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, further comprising a retaining element arranged to retain the closure member in the closed position.

[0091] Example 14: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 13, wherein the retaining element comprises a portion of the first housing portion arranged to engage a portion of the closure member when the closure member is in the closed position.

[0092] Example 15: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 13 or Example 14 in combination with any of Examples 2 to 7, wherein the retaining element is configured to engage the movable portion of the closure member when the movable portion is in the closed position.

[0093] Example 16: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 15, wherein the holding element comprises at least one magnetic element.

[0094] Example 17: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 16 in combination with any of Examples 2 to 7, wherein at least one magnetic element comprises a retaining magnetic element positioned on the first housing portion and a second magnetic element positioned on a movable portion of the closure member.

[0095] Example 18: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 13, wherein the retaining element has a protrusion on the closure member, and the protrusion is arranged to be received within the opening of the first housing portion when the closure member is in the closed position.

[0096] Example 19: The aerosol generating device of Example 18, wherein the protrusion is sized to be held within the opening by an interference fit.

[0097] Example 20: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 18 or Example 19, wherein the protrusion has an annular shape.

[0098] Example 21: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 18 to 20 in combination with any one of Examples 2 to 7, wherein the protrusion extends from the movable portion of the closure member.

[0099] Example 22: An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 21, wherein at least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion defines a recess, and at least a portion of the closing member is positioned within the recess.

[0100] Example 23: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 22, wherein at least a portion of the opening is positioned within the recess.

[0101] Example 24: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 22 or Example 23, wherein the housing has a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the opening is located at the first end of the housing, the housing has a rim extending at least partially around a periphery of the first end of the housing, and the recess is defined by the rim.

[0102] Example 25: The aerosol generating device of Example 24, wherein the first housing portion and the second housing portion each define a rim portion.

[0103] Example 26: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 24 or Example 25, wherein the housing comprises a gap at a lip around the first end of the housing.

[0104] Example 27: The aerosol generating device of Example 26, wherein the gap is located on the first housing portion.

[0105] Example 28: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 26 or Example 27, wherein a portion of the closure member is arranged to be received within the gap when the closure member is in the closed position.

[0106] Example 29: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 28 in combination with any of Examples 2 to 7, wherein a portion of the movable portion of the closure member is received within the gap when the movable portion is in the closed position.

[0107] Example 30: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 22 to 29 in combination with any one of Examples 2 to 7, wherein the fixing portion of the closure member is positioned within the recess.

[0108] Example 31: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 30, wherein the closing member is made of plastic.

[0109] Example 32: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1 to 30, wherein the closing member is formed from an elastomer.

[0110] Example 33: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 32, wherein the closing member is formed from a silicone elastomer.

[0111] Example 34: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1 to 30, wherein the closing member is formed from a thermoplastic elastomer.

[0112] Example 35: An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 34, wherein the closing member is arranged to be above the second housing portion when the closing member is in the open position.

[0113] Example 36: An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 35, wherein the first housing portion has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and at least one side wall extending between the first end and the second end, an opening is positioned at the first end of the first housing portion, and the second housing portion is configured for removable attachment to the at least one side wall.

[0114] Example 37: an electric heater positioned within the first housing portion; a power source positioned within the second housing portion; An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 36, further comprising a controller positioned within the first housing part or the second housing part, wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the electric heater when the second housing part is attached to the first housing part.

[0115] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0116] 1-11 show an aerosol generation device 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The aerosol generation device 10 comprises a housing 12 comprising a first housing portion 14 and a second housing portion 16. The second housing portion 16 is configured for removable attachment to the first housing portion 14. A first electrical contact 52 is positioned on the first housing portion 14 and a second electrical contact 62 is positioned on the second housing portion 16. The first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62 are arranged to contact each other when the second housing portion 16 is attached to the first housing portion 14.

[0117] The aerosol generating device 10 also comprises a charging circuit 19 and a power source 20 located within the second housing portion 16. The power source 20 is a power supply including a rechargeable battery. A charging electrical contact 49 in the form of a USB-C connector is included at an end of the second housing portion 16 and is configured to receive a power supply from an external device. The charging circuit 19 is configured to control the power supply received from the external device to recharge the power source 20.

[0118] The first housing portion 14 defines a cavity 32 for receiving an aerosol-generating article 80 and an opening 34 located at an end of the cavity 32. When the aerosol-generating article 80 is received within the cavity 32, the aerosol-generating article 80 and the aerosol generating device 10 together form an aerosol generating system.

[0119] The aerosol generating device 10 further comprises an electric heater 22 and a controller 18 positioned within the first housing portion 14. The electric heater 22 comprises an inductor coil wound around the cavity 32. The controller 18 is configured to control the supply of power from the power source 20 to the electric heater 22 via the first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62 when the second housing portion 16 is attached to the first housing portion 14. In use, power supplied to the inductor coil of the electric heater 22 generates a changing magnetic field that inductively heats a susceptor in an aerosol-generating article 80 received within the cavity 32 to generate an aerosol.

[0120] The aerosol generating device 10 also includes a closure member 42 positioned at the first end of the housing. The closure member 42 includes a fixed portion 47 connected to the second housing portion 16 and a movable portion 46 integrally formed with the fixed portion 47. The closure member 42 is formed from a flexible material such that the closure member 42 may be folded on itself. In other words, the movable portion 46 may be rotated relative to the fixed portion 47. The movable portion 46 is rotatable relative to the fixed portion 47 between a closed position in which the movable portion 46 covers the opening 34 and an open position in which the movable portion 46 does not cover the opening 34. When the movable portion 46 is in the open position, an aerosol-generating article 80 can be received in the cavity 32. The closed position is shown in FIG. 1 and the open position is shown in FIG. 2.

[0121] A pair of magnets 70 are contained within the closure member 42, with one magnet positioned within the movable portion 46 and the other magnet positioned within the fixed portion 47. The magnets 70 are arranged to hold the movable portion 46 against the fixed portion 47 when the movable portion 46 is in the open position.

[0122] The closure member 42 also includes a protrusion 43 extending from the movable portion 46. The protrusion 43 is integrally formed with the movable portion 46 and has an annular shape. The protrusion 43 is arranged such that when the movable portion 46 is in the closed position, the protrusion 43 is received within the opening 34 and engages the opening 34 with an interference fit. Advantageously, when the movable portion 46 is in the closed position, the protrusion seals the opening 34 and holds the movable portion 46 in the closed position.

[0123] The housing 12 includes a lip 44 extending around a portion of the periphery of the first end of the housing 12. The lip 44 forms a recess in which the closure member 42 is positioned. Advantageously, the lip 44 protects the fixed portion 47 and protects the moveable portion 46 when the moveable portion 46 is in the closed position. A gap 45 in the lip 44 on the first housing portion allows for gripping of an edge of the moveable portion 46 when moving the moveable portion 46 from the closed position to the open position.

[0124] The second housing portion 16 includes an interface for receiving at least a portion of the first housing portion 14 to hold the second housing portion 16 in removable attachment with the first housing portion 14. The interface includes a slot 90 configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the first housing portion 14. The slot 90 facilitates slidable movement of the second housing portion 16 relative to the first housing portion 14. The second electrical contact 62 on the second housing portion 16 engages with the first electrical contact 52 on the first housing portion 14 when the second housing portion 16 is attached to the first housing portion 14.

[0125] As shown in Figures 7-9, the second housing part 16 is slidably removable from the first housing part 14. To remove the second housing part 16 from the first housing part 14, a release button 51 on the second end of the first housing part 14 is pressed to disengage the latching element from the second housing part 16. Pressing the release button 51 allows the second housing part 16 to slide relative to the first housing part 14 until the second housing part 16 is completely removed from the first housing part 14. To attach the second housing part 16 to the first housing part 14, the sliding action is reversed until the latching element engages the second housing part 16. To facilitate alignment of the second housing part 16 with the first housing part 14, a protrusion 91 on the first housing part 14 is arranged to slide within a guide slot 90 on the second housing part 16.

[0126] As shown in Figure 9, removing the second housing portion 16 from the first housing portion 14 reveals a device reset button 53 provided on the first housing portion 14. As shown in Figure 10, removing the second housing portion 16 from the first housing portion 14 reveals an LED charging indicator 73 provided on the second housing portion 16. The LED charging indicator 73 is configured to provide a user with a visual indication of the amount of charge stored within the power source 20.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: A housing, comprising: A first housing portion defining a cavity for receiving an aerosol forming substrate and an opening at an end of the cavity; and A second housing portion configured for removable attachment to the first housing portion; A closure member connected to the second housing portion, the closure member being movable between a closed position in which the closure member at least partially covers the opening when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion and an open position in which the opening is not covered when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the closure member comprises a fixed portion connected to the second housing portion and a movable portion connected to the fixed portion, the movable portion being movable relative to the fixed portion between the closed position and the open position.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein the movable portion is rotatable relative to the fixed portion.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein when the movable portion is in the open position, the movable portion is disposed above the fixed portion.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a latch element arranged to hold the closure member in the open position, optionally wherein the latch element comprises at least one magnetic element.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a retaining element arranged to hold the closure member in the closed position.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 6, wherein the retaining element comprises a protrusion on the closure member, the protrusion being arranged to be received in the opening of the first housing portion when the closure member is in the closed position.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein the protrusion is sized to be held within the opening by an interference fit.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the protrusion has an annular shape.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first housing portion and the second housing portion defines a recess, and at least a part of the closing member is positioned within the recess.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10, wherein at least a part of the opening is positioned within the recess.

12. The housing comprises a first end and a second end opposite the first end, the opening is positioned at the first end of the housing, the housing comprises a flange that extends at least partially around the periphery of the first end of the housing, the recess is defined by the flange, and optionally each of the first housing portion and the second housing portion defines a part of the flange. The aerosol generating device according to claim 10 or claim 11.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein the housing has a gap in the flange around the first end of the housing, and optionally the gap is positioned on the first housing portion.

14. The first housing portion comprises a first end, a second end opposite the first end, and at least one side wall extending between the first end and the second end, the opening is positioned at the first end of the first housing portion, and the second housing portion is configured for removable attachment to the at least one side wall. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1.

15. An electric heater positioned within the first housing portion; A power source positioned within the second housing portion; A controller positioned within the first housing portion or the second housing portion, the controller being configured to control the power supply from the power source to the electric heater when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a controller.

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