Cleaning system for aerosol generating devices

Abstract

A cleaning system (10) for an aerosol generating device (12). The cleaning system (10) comprises a cleaning tool (14) receivable within a heating section (16) of the aerosol generating device (12). The cleaning system (10) further comprises a drive mechanism (18). The drive mechanism (18) is configured to operate to cause movement of the cleaning tool (14) received within the heating section (16) to mechanically clean the heating section (16). The cleaning system (10) further comprises a closure member (20) for closing the heating section (16). The drive mechanism (18) is configured to operate based on the cleaning tool (14) being received within the heating section (16) and the heating section (16) being closed by the closure member (20).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to cleaning systems, and more particularly to cleaning systems for aerosol-generating devices for heating an aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the popularity and use of risk reduction or risk modification devices (also known as vaporizers) has grown rapidly as an alternative to the use of traditional tobacco products. A variety of devices and systems are available that heat or warm an aerosol-generating substrate, rather than burning it, to generate an aerosol for inhalation by the user.

[0003] Commonly available risk reduction or modification devices are aerosol generating devices, i.e. so-called heat-not-burn devices. This type of device generates an aerosol or vapor by heating an aerosol-generating substrate, contained in an aerosol-generating article, such as a heat-not-burn tobacco stick, in a heating chamber, typically to a temperature in the range of 150° C. to 300° C. Heating the aerosol-generating substrate to a temperature in this range, without burning or combusting, generates a vapor that typically cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user of the device.

[0004] The heating section should be cleaned periodically, for example to remove accumulated debris, to maintain an optimal sensory experience during use of the aerosol generating device. Typically, a user performs a manual cleaning action to clean the heating section using a cleaning tool such as a brush. This can be an unpleasant experience for the user and therefore can be undesirable. Furthermore, the heating section may not be manually cleaned by the user consistently to the standard required to maintain an optimal sensory experience during use of the aerosol generating device. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Therefore, there is a need to provide a cleaning system that mitigates these shortcomings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a cleaning system for an aerosol generating device, the cleaning system comprising: a cleaning tool receivable within a heating compartment of the aerosol generating device; a drive mechanism configured to operate to cause movement of a cleaning tool received within the heating compartment to mechanically clean the heating compartment; a closure member for closing the heating compartment, the drive mechanism being configured to operate based on the cleaning tool being received in the heating compartment and the heating compartment being closed by the closure member; Equipped with.

[0007] The cleaning system allows cleaning of the heating section, for example to remove accumulated dirt, without undesirable manual cleaning actions by the user. Thus, the cleaning action is simplified. Furthermore, the cleaning system consistently cleans the heating section to the required standard to maintain an optimal sensory experience during use of the aerosol generating device. Thus, the cleaning action is improved.

[0008] The drive mechanism may be configured to mechanically clean the heating section according to a predefined cleaning cycle, thus providing a more consistent and improved cleaning operation since the cleaning operation is controlled and performed by the drive mechanism and not by a user.

[0009] In some examples, the drive mechanism may be configured to operate automatically, such that a user command is not required to initiate a cleaning operation, while in other examples, the drive mechanism may be configured to operate based on a user command.

[0010] Optionally, in use, actuation of the drive mechanism causes reciprocating linear movement of the cleaning tool within the heating section and / or rotational movement of the cleaning tool within the heating section.

[0011] In some cases, the drive mechanism comprises a coil arranged around the heating section, and in use, the drive mechanism is actuated by energizing the coil to create a magnetic field that induces linear movement of the cleaning tool within the heating section. In such an example, the cleaning tool may comprise a permanent magnet. The coil may be provided by an induction coil of an induction heating assembly of the aerosol generating device. This configuration simplifies the arrangement.

[0012] Alternatively, the drive mechanism optionally comprises an electric motor, and in use the drive mechanism is actuated by providing power to the electric motor which causes rotational movement of the cleaning tool within the heating compartment. Optionally, the electric motor carries a first permanent magnet and the cleaning tool comprises a second permanent magnet, the first and second permanent magnets being spaced apart and arranged to magnetically attract each other when the cleaning tool is received within the heating compartment, and in use actuating the drive mechanism by providing power to the electric motor causes the first permanent magnet to rotate, thereby causing rotational movement of the cleaning tool within the heating compartment based on the magnetic attraction between the first and second permanent magnets. In such an example, the first permanent magnet may be located outside the heating compartment.

[0013] The cleaning tool may have a central shaft with bristles extending from the central shaft.

[0014] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure there is provided an aerosol generating device usable with a cleaning system according to any of the above paragraphs, the aerosol generating device comprising: A heating section; a drive mechanism configured to operate to cause movement of a cleaning tool received within the heating compartment to mechanically clean the heating compartment; a closure member for closing the heating compartment, the drive mechanism being configured to operate based on the cleaning tool being received in the heating compartment and the heating compartment being closed by the closure member; Equipped with.

[0015] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a cleaning tool usable with a cleaning system according to any of the above paragraphs.

[0016] The cleaning tool may include a permanent magnet. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first example of a cleaning system for an aerosol generating device in a first state in which the heating compartment is open. [Figure 2a] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an enlarged view of the cleaning system of FIG. 1 in a first state. [Figure 2b] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an enlarged view of the cleaning system of FIG. 1 in a second state in which the heating section is closed; [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second example of a cleaning system for an aerosol generating device in a first state in which the heating compartment is open. [Figure 4a] 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an enlarged view of the cleaning system of FIG. 3 in a first state. [Figure 4b] 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an enlarged view of the cleaning system of FIG. 3 in a second state in which the heating section is closed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0019] 1, 2a and 2b, there is illustrated a first example of a cleaning system 10 for an aerosol-generating device 12. The aerosol-generating device 12 is configured for use with an aerosol-generating article (not shown), such that the aerosol-generating device 12 and the aerosol-generating article together form an aerosol-generating system.

[0020] The aerosol-generating device 12 may equally be referred to as a "heated tobacco device," a "heated non-combustion tobacco device," a "device for vaporizing tobacco products," etc., and is to be construed as any device suitable for achieving these effects. The features disclosed herein are equally applicable to devices designed to vaporize any aerosol-generating substrate.

[0021] The aerosol generating device 12 is a handheld, portable device, meaning that a user can hold and support the device in one hand without assistance. The aerosol generating device 12 has a first (or proximal) end 36 and a second (or distal) end 38, and includes a device housing 40.

[0022] In some examples, the aerosol generation device 12 includes a controller (not shown). The aerosol generation device 12 may include a user interface for controlling operation of the aerosol generation device 12 via the controller.

[0023] The controller is configured to detect the initiation of use of the aerosol generation device 12 in response to a user input, such as pressing a button to activate the aerosol generation device 12, or in response to detected airflow through the aerosol generation device 12. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, airflow through the aerosol generation device 12 indicates an inhalation or "puff" by a user. The aerosol generation device 12 may include a puff detector, such as, for example, an airflow sensor (not shown), to detect airflow through the aerosol generation device 12.

[0024] The controller includes electronic circuitry. The aerosol generator 12 includes a power source 44, such as a battery. The power source 44 and electronic circuitry may be configured to operate at high frequencies, in the case of the inductively heated steam generator 12. The power source 44 and electronic circuitry may be configured to operate at frequencies of about 80 kHz to 500 kHz, optionally about 150 kHz to 250 kHz, and optionally about 200 kHz. The power source 44 and electronic circuitry may also be configured to operate at higher frequencies, such as in the MHz range, if desired.

[0025] The aerosol generating device 12 includes a heating assembly 46. In the illustrated embodiment, the heating assembly 46 is an inductive heating assembly 48.

[0026] The heating assembly 46 further comprises a heating section 16. The heating section 16 is positioned to receive an aerosol-generating article. In some examples, the heating section 16 has a substantially cylindrical cross-section. The heating section 16 defines a cavity.

[0027] The heating section 16 has a first end 50 and a second end 52. The heating section 16 includes an opening 54 at the first end 50 for receiving an aerosol-generating article. In the illustrated example, the heating section 16 includes a substantially cylindrical sidewall 56, i.e., a sidewall 56 having a substantially circular cross-section.

[0028] The aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating substrate can be any type of solid or semi-solid material. Exemplary types of aerosol-generating solids include powders, granules, pellets, shreds, strands, particles, gels, strips, loose-leaf, cut-leaf, cut-filler, porous materials, foamed materials, or sheets. The aerosol-generating substrate can comprise a plant-derived material, in particular tobacco. The aerosol-generating substrate can advantageously comprise reconstituted tobacco.

[0029] The aerosol-generating substrate may include an aerosol-forming agent. Examples of aerosol-forming agents include polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerin or propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof. Typically, the aerosol-generating substrate may include an aerosol-forming agent content of about 5% to about 50% on a dry weight basis. In some examples, the aerosol-generating substrate may include an aerosol-forming agent content of about 10% to about 20% on a dry weight basis, and in some cases about 15% on a dry weight basis.

[0030] Upon heating, the aerosol-generating substrate may release volatile compounds, which may include flavor compounds such as nicotine or tobacco flavorings.

[0031] The shape of the aerosol-generating article corresponds to the shape of the heating section 16. The aerosol-generating article may be substantially cylindrical or rod-shaped. The aerosol-generating article may be substantially stick-shaped and may generally resemble a cigarette having a tubular region in which the aerosol-generating substrate is arranged in a suitable configuration. The aerosol-generating article may be a disposable and replaceable article that may, for example, contain tobacco as the aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating article may be a heated tobacco stick.

[0032] The aerosol-generating article has a first end (or mouth end) and a second end, and includes a filter at the first end, which functions as a mouthpiece and may include, for example, a breathable plug comprising cellulose acetate fibers.

[0033] The aerosol-generating substrate and filter may be surrounded by a paper wrapper and thus embodied as an aerosol-generating article. Some designs may also include one or more vapor collection areas, cooling areas, and other structures.

[0034] To use the aerosol generating device 12, a user inserts an aerosol-generating article into the heating section 16 through the opening 54 so that the second end of the aerosol-generating article is located at the second end 52 of the heating section 16 and the filter at the first end of the aerosol-generating article protrudes from the first end 50 of the heating section 16 so that the user can hold it between their lips.

[0035] The illustrated induction heating assembly 48 further includes an induction coil 64. The induction coil 64 is arranged to be energized to generate an alternating electromagnetic field for inductively heating one or more inductively heatable susceptors (not shown).

[0036] The inductively heatable susceptor may be disposed around the periphery of the heating section 16. Alternatively, the inductively heatable susceptor may be disposed to protrude into the heating section 16 from the second end 52 (e.g., as a heating blade or pin) and penetrate the aerosol-generating substrate. In other examples, the inductively heatable susceptor may instead be provided within the aerosol-generating substrate during manufacture of the aerosol-generating article. In such examples, the aerosol-generating article includes an inductively heatable susceptor.

[0037] In use, i.e., during a vaping session, heat from the inductively heatable susceptor is transferred, for example by conduction, radiation, and convection, to the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article located within the heating section 16 to heat the aerosol-generating substrate (without burning the aerosol-generating substrate) and generate vapor which cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user of the aerosol-generating device 12, for example through a filter 62. Vaporization of the aerosol-generating substrate is aided by adding air from the surrounding environment, for example through an air inlet (not shown). Typically, the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article 16 is heated to a temperature in excess of 150° C., in the range of 150° C. to 300° C., to generate vapor.

[0038] Generally speaking, a vapor is a substance that is in the gas phase below its critical temperature, meaning that it can be condensed into a liquid by increasing the pressure without decreasing the temperature, whereas an aerosol is fine solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in air or another gas. However, it should be noted that the terms "aerosol" and "vapor" may be used interchangeably herein, particularly with respect to the form of inhalable medium that is generated for a user to inhale.

[0039] The induction coil 64 may be energized by the power supply 44 and the controller. The induction coil 64 may comprise Litz wire or Litz cable, however, it should be understood that other materials may be used.

[0040] In the illustrated example, the induction coil 64 extends around the heating section 16. As such, the induction coil 64 is annular. In the illustrated example, the induction coil 64 is substantially helical in shape. In some examples, the circular cross-section of the helical induction coil 64 can facilitate insertion of the aerosol-generating article and, optionally, one or more inductively heatable susceptors into the heating section 16 and ensure uniform heating of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0041] The inductively heatable susceptor comprises an electrically conductive material. The inductively heatable susceptor may comprise, but is not limited to, one or more of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, aluminum, iron, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium, mild steel, stainless steel, low carbon steel, and alloys thereof, such as nickel chromium or nickel copper, and composites of metallic materials. In some examples, the inductively heatable susceptor comprises a metal selected from the group consisting of mild steel, stainless steel, and low carbon stainless steel.

[0042] In use, when an electromagnetic field is applied in the vicinity of the inductively heatable susceptor, the inductively heatable susceptor generates heat due to eddy currents and magnetic hysteresis losses, resulting in electromagnetic to thermal energy conversion.

[0043] The induction coil 64 may be configured, in use, to operate with a varying electromagnetic field having a magnetic flux density of about 20 mT to about 2.0 T (at its highest density point).

[0044] The cleaning system 10 includes a cleaning tool 14 that is receivable within the heating section 16 of the aerosol generating device 12. In the illustrated example, the cleaning tool 14 includes a central shaft 30 having bristles 32 extending therefrom. At least a portion of the bristles 32 extend radially from the central shaft 30. In this example, the cleaning tool 14 is a brush.

[0045] The cleaning system 10 further comprises a drive mechanism 18. The drive mechanism 18 is configured to operate to cause movement of the cleaning tool 14 received within the heating section 16 for mechanically cleaning the heating section 16. In use, operation of the drive mechanism 18 can cause reciprocating linear movement of the cleaning tool 14 within the heating section 16 and / or rotational movement of the cleaning tool 14 within the heating section 16. Thus, in use, the cleaning tool 14 moves within and around the heating section 16 to perform a cleaning operation.

[0046] The cleaning system 10 further comprises a closure member 20 for closing the heating compartment 16. The closure member 20 is configured to be movable by a user to open and close the heating compartment 16. In the illustrated example, the closure member 20 is slidably movable by a user to open and close the heating compartment 16. The closure member 20 provides a lid for the heating compartment 16.

[0047] In a first state, illustrated in Figures 1 and 2a, the closure member 20 has been moved by a user to open the heating compartment 16. In a second state, illustrated in Figure 2b, the closure member 20 has been moved by a user to close the heating compartment 16.

[0048] In the examples of the present disclosure, the drive mechanism 18 is configured to operate based on the cleaning tool 14 being received within the heating compartment 16 and the heating compartment 16 being closed by the closure member 20. The drive mechanism 18 may be configured to operate only when the heating compartment 16 is closed by the closure member 20.

[0049] The cleaning system 10 allows cleaning of the heating section 16, for example to remove accumulated debris, without undesirable manual cleaning actions by the user. Thus, the cleaning action is simplified. Furthermore, the cleaning system 10 consistently cleans the heating section 16 to a standard required to maintain an optimal sensory experience during use of the aerosol generating device 12. Thus, the cleaning action is improved.

[0050] In some examples, the controller of the aerosol generating device 12 is configured to control operation of the drive mechanism 18. The controller is configured to control operation of the drive mechanism 18 based on detecting that the cleaning tool 14 is received within the heating compartment 16 and that the heating compartment 16 is closed by the closure member 20.

[0051] In some examples, the drive mechanism 18 is configured to mechanically clean the heating section 16 according to a predetermined cleaning cycle. The cleaning cycle may be programmable. The cleaning cycle may be performed for a specified amount of time and / or according to a series of defined movements of the cleaning tool 14. Thus, the cleaning operation is controlled and performed by the drive mechanism 18 rather than by a user, providing a more consistent and improved cleaning operation. The drive mechanism 18 may be configured to operate automatically or, alternatively, may be configured to operate based on a user command.

[0052] In a first example of the cleaning system 10, the drive mechanism 18 comprises a coil 22 disposed about the heating section 16. In use, the drive mechanism 18 is actuated by energizing the coil 22 to create a magnetic field that induces linear motion of the cleaning tool 14 within the heating section 16. In the illustrated example, the coil 22 is provided by an induction coil 64 of the induction heating assembly 48 of the aerosol generating device 12. In such an example, the cleaning tool 14 may comprise a permanent magnet. The permanent magnet may be contained within or may define a central axis 30 of the cleaning tool 14. Thus, the cleaning tool 14 may comprise a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material.

[0053] In some examples, in use, the cleaning tool 14 is moved in one direction by the magnetic field against the force of a spring (not shown) and returned to a starting position by spring action when the coil 22 is de-energized. Thus, repeatedly energizing and de-energizing the coil 22 causes a reciprocating linear motion.

[0054] Alternatively, in use, the cleaning tool 14 may be moved in one direction by the magnetic field and returned to the starting position by gravity when the coil 22 is de-energized. Thus, repeatedly energizing and de-energizing the coil 22 causes a reciprocating linear motion.

[0055] In another example, in use, the cleaning tool 14 is moved in one direction by a magnetic field and returned to the starting position by reversing the magnetic field. Thus, reciprocating linear motion is induced by repeatedly reversing the current passing through the coil 22.

[0056] Alternatively, in use, the cleaning tool 14 may be driven by a magnetic field to bounce off the top and bottom of the heating section 16, thus causing a reciprocating linear motion. In such an example, the cleaning tool 14 may comprise a resilient element (not shown), e.g., the top and bottom portions of which are hemispherical.

[0057] 3, 4a and 4b, a second example of a cleaning system 100 for another aerosol generating device 12 is illustrated. The cleaning system 100 is similar to the cleaning system 10 described above, and corresponding elements are designated using the same reference numbers. In a first state, illustrated in Fig. 3 and 4a, the closure member 20 has been moved by a user to open the heating compartment 16. In a second state, illustrated in Fig. 4b, the closure member 20 has been moved by a user to close the heating compartment 16.

[0058] In a second example of the cleaning system 100, the drive mechanism 18 includes an electric motor 24. In use, the drive mechanism 18 is operated by providing power to the electric motor 24, which causes rotational movement of the cleaning tool 14 within the heating section 16. The electric motor 24 may be an electric rotary motor.

[0059] In the illustrated example, the electric motor 24 carries a first permanent magnet 26 and the cleaning tool 14 includes a second permanent magnet 28. Thus, the cleaning tool 14 may include a ferromagnetic or ferrimagnetic material. A tip portion 68 of the cleaning tool 14 includes the second permanent magnet 28. The first and second permanent magnets 26, 28 are spaced apart and positioned to magnetically attract each other when the cleaning tool 14 is received within the heating section 16. Opposite poles of the first and second permanent magnets 26, 28 are aligned. In the illustrated example, a north pole of the first permanent magnet 26 is aligned with a south pole of the second permanent magnet 28 and a south pole of the first permanent magnet 26 is aligned with a north pole of the second permanent magnet 28.

[0060] In use, actuating the drive mechanism 18 by supplying power to the electric motor 24 causes the first permanent magnet 26 to rotate, which in turn causes rotational movement of the cleaning tool 14 within the heating section 16 based on the magnetic attraction between the first and second permanent magnets 26, 28. Hence, in use, the second permanent magnet 28 follows the movement of the first permanent magnet 26, thus causing the cleaning tool 14 to rotate or spin. The first permanent magnet 26 is positioned outside the heating section 16.

[0061] The heating assembly 46 may be an inductive heating assembly 48 as described above in connection with Figures 1, 2a and 2b, or alternatively, may be a resistive heating assembly (not shown) that includes a resistive heater having a resistive heating element.

[0062] Examples of the present disclosure also provide an aerosol generating device 12 and a cleaning tool 14 that can be used with the cleaning system 10,100.

[0063] The figures also illustrate methods of providing cleaning systems 10, 100 according to examples of the present disclosure. The figures also illustrate methods of manufacturing aerosol generating devices 12 according to examples of the present disclosure.

[0064] Although exemplary embodiments have been described in the preceding paragraphs, it should be understood that various modifications can be made to those embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Thus, the breadth and scope of the claims should not be limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments.

[0065] Any combination of the above-described features in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the present disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context.

[0066] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, throughout this specification and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, i.e., "including but not limited to", rather than in an exclusive or exhaustive sense.

Claims

1. A cleaning system (10, 100) for an aerosol generator (12), wherein the cleaning system (10, 100) is A cleaning tool (14) that can be received in the heating section (16) of the aerosol generator (12), A drive mechanism (18) is configured to act to cause the movement of a cleaning tool (14) received within the heating compartment (16) in order to mechanically clean the heating compartment (16), A closing member (20) for closing the heating compartment (16), wherein the drive mechanism (18) is configured to operate based on the fact that a cleaning tool (14) is received into the heating compartment (16) and the heating compartment (16) is closed by the closing member (20), A cleaning system (10, 100) equipped with the following features.

2. The cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism (18) is configured to mechanically clean the heating section (16) according to a predetermined cleaning cycle.

3. The cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism (18) is configured to operate automatically.

4. The cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism (18) is configured to operate based on a user command.

5. The cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 1, wherein, during use, the operation of the drive mechanism (18) causes the cleaning tool (14) to reciprocate linear motion and / or rotational motion within the heating chamber (16).

6. The cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism (18) comprises a coil (22) arranged around the heating section (16), and in use, the drive mechanism (18) is activated by energizing the coil (22) to create a magnetic field that causes the cleaning tool (14) to move linearly within the heating section (16).

7. The cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 6, wherein the cleaning tool (14) comprises a permanent magnet.

8. The cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 6, wherein the coil (22) is provided by an induction coil of the induction heating assembly (48) of the aerosol generator (12).

9. The cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 1, wherein the drive mechanism (18) comprises an electric motor (24), and in use, the drive mechanism (18) operates by supplying power to the electric motor (24) to cause rotational motion of the cleaning tool (14) within the heating compartment (16).

10. The cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 9, wherein the electric motor (24) is equipped with a first permanent magnet (26), the cleaning tool (14) is equipped with a second permanent magnet (28), the first and second permanent magnets (26, 28) are spaced apart and arranged to magnetically attract each other when the cleaning tool (14) is received into the heating compartment (16), and in use, the first permanent magnet (26) is rotated by operating the drive mechanism (18) by supplying power to the electric motor (24), thereby causing the cleaning tool (14) to rotate within the heating compartment (16) based on the magnetic attraction between the first and second permanent magnets (26, 28).

11. The cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 10, wherein the first permanent magnet (26) is located outside the heating section (16).

12. The cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning tool (14) comprises a central shaft (30) and bristles (32) extend from the central shaft (30).

13. An aerosol generator (12) usable with a cleaning system (10, 100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the aerosol generator (12) is Heating section (16) and A drive mechanism (18) is configured to act to cause the movement of a cleaning tool (14) received within the heating compartment (16) in order to mechanically clean the heating compartment (16), A closing member (20) for closing the heating compartment (16), wherein the drive mechanism (18) is configured to operate based on the fact that a cleaning tool (14) is received into the heating compartment (16) and the heating compartment (16) is closed by the closing member (20), an aerosol generator (12) equipped with the following:

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