Aerosol Delivery Device

Abstract

The aerosol delivery device (101) for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material includes a body (107) and a receptacle (109) configured to receive at least a portion of an article (102) including an aerosol-generating material. The body has an opening (108) in communication with the receptacle. The device further includes a cover mechanism (300). The cover mechanism includes a cover member (320) arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening. The cover member is arranged to move relative to the body between a relative open position in which at least a portion of the article may be inserted through the opening and a relative closed position in which at least a portion of the article is prevented from being inserted through the opening. The cover mechanism further includes an actuating member (330) arranged to move relative to the body and a gear mechanism (340) arranged to move the cover member upon movement of the actuating member.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol delivery device.The present invention also relates to an aerosol delivery system. [Background technology]

[0002] Smoking articles, such as cigarettes, cigars, etc., burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these tobacco-burning articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion. An example of such a product is a heating device that releases compounds by heating a material without burning it. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, and may or may not contain nicotine. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol delivery device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, the aerosol delivery device comprising: a body; and a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising the aerosol-generating material, the body having an opening in communication with the receptacle, the aerosol delivery device comprising: a cover member arranged to move relative to the body between a relative open position in which at least a portion of the article is insertable through the opening and a relative closed position in which at least a portion of the article is prevented from being inserted through the opening; an actuating member arranged to move relative to the body; and a gear mechanism arranged to move the cover member upon movement of the actuating member.

[0004] The actuation member may be arranged to rotate relative to the body.

[0005] The cover member may be arranged to pivot relative to the body.

[0006] The cover member and the actuation member may be arranged to rotate about parallel axes.

[0007] The axis of rotation of the cover member may be offset from the axis of rotation of the actuating member.

[0008] The cover member may be arranged to translate relative to the body.

[0009] The translation of the cover member may be a linear translation.

[0010] The translation of the cover member may be an arcuate translation.

[0011] The gear mechanism may comprise actuating teeth on the actuating member.

[0012] The gear mechanism may comprise cover teeth on the cover member.

[0013] Movement of the actuating member relative to the body may cause the cover member to move as motion is transferred between the actuating tines and the cover tines.

[0014] The aerosol delivery device may include a gear arranged to mesh with the actuation tines and the cover tines. Motion may be transferred from the actuation tines through the gear to the cover tines.

[0015] Here, the gear may rotate about an axis of rotation parallel to the axis of rotation of the actuating member.

[0016] The gear may include a first gear segment and a second gear segment.

[0017] The gear may include a first gear segment arranged to mesh with the actuation toothing and a second gear segment arranged to mesh with the cover toothing.

[0018] The first gear piece may drive the second gear piece.

[0019] The first gear piece and the second gear piece may be fixed relative to one another.

[0020] The first gear piece and the second gear piece may be coaxial.

[0021] The first gear piece and the second gear piece may be axially offset.

[0022] The actuation teeth and the cover teeth may be axially offset.

[0023] The first and second gear pieces may differ in at least one characteristic to provide a gear ratio. The first and second gear pieces may differ in at least one of pitch, pitch diameter, and number of teeth.

[0024] The gear mechanism may comprise a rack and pinion arrangement.

[0025] The actuation teeth may directly mesh with the cover teeth of the cover member.

[0026] The actuating member may include a peripheral wall. The actuating teeth may be on an inner side of the peripheral wall.

[0027] The cover mechanism may comprise a guide arranged to guide movement of the at least one cover member.

[0028] The guide may comprise a track. The guide may comprise a groove. The guide may be formed in the body.

[0029] The guide may comprise at least two parallel grooves.

[0030] The actuating member may comprise a housing portion covering at least a portion of the body.

[0031] At least a portion of the body may extend within the housing portion.

[0032] The gear mechanism may extend within the housing portion.

[0033] The housing portion may include a gap, the cover member being arranged to be received at least partially therethrough.

[0034] The gap may be in the peripheral wall.

[0035] The peripheral wall may be a peripheral skirt.

[0036] The gap may be a slot. The gap may circumferentially overlap the actuation tooth. The gap and the actuation tooth may be longitudinally axially offset.

[0037] The gap may be provided in the peripheral wall such that the gap and the actuating tooth are longitudinally adjacently disposed.

[0038] The gap may be elongated. The gap may extend in a circumferential direction.

[0039] The cover member may be arranged to be retracted from the gap in the relative closed position. The cover member may be arranged to extend into the gap in the relative open position.

[0040] The body may have a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the cover member.

[0041] A cavity may be defined in a portion of the body adjacent the actuation member.

[0042] The gap may be hidden by the body throughout the range of motion of the actuating member.

[0043] The actuation member may include an opening arranged to receive at least a portion of the article including the aerosol.

[0044] The aperture is aligned with the opening.

[0045] The cover member may be arranged to completely cover the opening in the relatively closed position.

[0046] The cover member may be arranged to be fully retracted from the opening in the relatively open position.

[0047] The cover members may comprise a first cover member and a second cover member. The actuation toothing may be arranged to transfer motion to the cover toothing of the first cover member and to the cover toothing of the second cover member.

[0048] The actuating toothing may comprise first actuating toothing arranged to transfer motion to the cover toothing of the first cover member, and second actuating toothing arranged to transfer motion to the cover toothing of the second cover member.

[0049] The first and second cover members may be configured to join in the relative closed position.

[0050] According to some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol delivery device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, the aerosol delivery device comprising: a body; and a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of an article comprising the aerosol-generating material, the body having an opening in communication with the receptacle, the aerosol delivery device comprising a cover mechanism arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening and comprising a cover member arranged to move relative to the body between a relative open position in which at least a portion of the article is insertable through the opening and a relative closed position in which at least a portion of the article is prevented from being inserted through the opening.

[0051] According to some embodiments described herein, there is provided a cover mechanism for an aerosol delivery device comprising a body having an opening configured to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-generating material, the cover mechanism comprising: a cover member arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening and arranged to move relative to the body between a relative open position in which at least a portion of the article is insertable through the opening and a relative closed position in which at least a portion of the article is prevented from being inserted through the opening; an actuating member arranged to move relative to the body; and a gear mechanism arranged to move the cover member upon movement of the actuating member.

[0052] According to some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol delivery device as described above and an article including an aerosol-generating material.

[0053] Embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0054] [Figure 1] 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol delivery system including an aerosol delivery device and an article including an aerosol-generating material. [Diagram 2] 1 shows an exploded view of a cover mechanism for use with an aerosol delivery device. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional top view of the cover mechanism of FIG. 2 in a relatively closed position. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional top view of the cover mechanism of FIG. 2 in a relatively open position. [Figure 4A] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional top view of the cover mechanism in a relatively closed position. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional top view of the cover mechanism of FIG. 4A in a relatively open position. [Figure 5A] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional top view of the cover mechanism in a relatively closed position. [Figure 5B]FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional top view of the cover mechanism of FIG. 5A in a relatively open position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0055] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" is a material that can generate an aerosol when, for example, heated, irradiated, or energized in any other manner. The aerosol-generating material may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel that may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings. The aerosol-generating material may include any plant-based material, such as a tobacco-containing material, and may include, for example, one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. The aerosol-generating material may also include other non-tobacco products that may or may not contain nicotine depending on the product. The aerosol-generating material may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, gel, wax, etc. The aerosol-generating material may also be, for example, a combination or mixture of materials. The aerosol-generating material may also be known as a "smokable material."

[0056] The aerosol-generating material may include a binder and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, an active agent and / or a filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, is also present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0057] The aerosol-generating material may include or be an "amorphous solid." The amorphous solid may be a "monolithic solid." In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dry gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material that can hold some fluid, such as a liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may include, for example, about 50%, 60%, or 70% amorphous solid by weight, up to about 90%, 95%, or 100% amorphous solid by weight.

[0058] The aerosol-generating material may include an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may include or be a sheet that may optionally be shredded to form a shredded sheet. The aerosol-generating sheet or shredded sheet may be substantially free of tobacco.

[0059] According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustion" aerosol delivery system is one in which the constituent aerosol-generating materials (or components thereof) of the aerosol delivery system are not combusted or burned to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0060] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustion aerosol delivery system, such as a powered non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0061] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is an e-cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0062] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system. One example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0063] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may, for example, include tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0064] Typically, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system may include a non-combustion aerosol delivery device and a consumable for use with the non-combustion aerosol delivery device.

[0065] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include an aerosol generating material and are configured for use with a non-combustion aerosol delivery device. These consumables may be referred to as articles throughout this disclosure.

[0066] In some embodiments, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system, such as a non-combustion aerosol delivery device, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electrical power source or a heat generating power source. In some embodiments, the power source includes a carbon substrate that can be energized to deliver electrical power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or a heat transfer material in proximity to the heat generating power source.

[0067] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system may include an area for receiving a consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0068] In some embodiments, consumables for use with non-combustion aerosol delivery devices may include aerosol generating materials, aerosol generating material storage regions, aerosol generating material transport components, aerosol generators, aerosol generating regions, housings, packaging materials, filters, mouthpieces, and / or aerosol modifiers.

[0069] The aerosol generating device can accept an article that includes an aerosol-generating material for heating. An "article" in this context is a component that includes or contains the aerosol-generating material in use, which is heated to volatilize the aerosol-generating material, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into the aerosol generating device before the article is heated to generate an aerosol, which the user then inhales. The article may be of a predetermined or specific size, for example, configured to be placed in a heating chamber of the device sized to receive the article.

[0070] 1 illustrates an example of an aerosol delivery system 100. The system 100 includes an aerosol delivery device 101 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, and a replaceable item 102 that includes the aerosol-generating material. The item 102 is a consumable item.

[0071] The device 101 defines a longitudinal axis 103 along which the article 102 may extend when inserted into the device 101. In use, a user inhales aerosol generated within the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through the article 102 along a flow path toward a proximal end 104 of the device 101. During use of the device 101, the proximal end (or mouth end) 104 of the device 101 is closest to the mouth of the user. The other end of the device 101 furthest from the proximal end 104 is known as the distal end 105 of the device 101, as this is the end furthest from the user's mouth when in use. When a user inhales aerosol generated within the device, the aerosol flows in a direction toward the proximal end 104 of the device 101. The terms proximal and distal as applied to features of the device 101 are described by reference to the relative positions of such features with respect to one another in the proximal-distal direction along the axis 103.

[0072] The device 101 includes a button assembly 106 that, when pressed, operates the device 101. For example, a user can turn on the device 101 by operating the button assembly 106.

[0073] The device 101 comprises a body 107. The body 107 comprises a housing that surrounds and contains the various components of the device 101. One end of the body 107 is formed with an opening 108 into which the article 102 can be inserted for heating. In use, the article 102 may be fully or partially inserted into the device 101, where the article 102 may be heated by one or more components of the device 101. FIG. 1 shows the article 102 received in the device 101. The article 102 is sized to be at least partially received by a receptacle 109. The receptacle 109 is formed within the body 107 of the device.

[0074] The device 101 includes an apparatus for heating an aerosol-generating material. The apparatus includes an aerosol generating assembly, a controller (control circuitry), and a power source. The apparatus forms part of the body 107. The receptacle 109 forms part of the apparatus. The apparatus may include a chassis and other components that form part of the device 101. The aerosol generating assembly is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material of an article 102 inserted into the receptacle 109 such that an aerosol is generated from the aerosol-generating material. The power source provides power to the aerosol generating assembly, which converts the provided electrical energy into thermal energy for heating the aerosol-generating material. The power source may be a battery, such as, for example, a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (such as lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries.

[0075] The power source may be electrically coupled to the aerosol generation assembly to provide power and heat the aerosol generating material, optionally under the control of the controller. The control circuitry may be configured to activate and deactivate the aerosol generation assembly based on user input.

[0076] The aerosol generating assembly may include various components for heating the aerosol generating material via an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating an electrically conductive heating element (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly may include an induction element, for example one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a variable current, such as an alternating current, through the induction element. The variable current in the induction element generates a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor (heating element) suitably positioned relative to the induction element, generating eddy currents within the susceptor. The susceptor has an electrical resistance to the eddy currents, so that the susceptor is heated by joule heating due to the eddy currents flowing against this resistance. If the susceptor includes a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e., by the change in orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of alignment with the varying magnetic field. Inductive heating generates heat inside the susceptor, allowing for rapid heating, as compared to, for example, heating by conduction, and furthermore does not require any physical contact between the inductive element and the susceptor, allowing for greater flexibility in construction and application.

[0077] The device 101 includes a cover mechanism 300. The cover mechanism 300 is configured to selectively limit the insertion of the article 102 through the opening 108. In this regard, the cover mechanism 300 is positioned to cover, expose, or partially cover the opening 108 during use of the device 101. In some embodiments, a user may operate the cover mechanism 300 to cover the opening 108 when the device 101 is not in use. This may be done to prevent dust, dirt, or other particles from entering the receptacle 109 of the device 101. In some embodiments, a user may operate the cover mechanism 300 to expose the opening 108 so that the article 102 can be inserted into the device 101 for heating. In some embodiments, a user may operate the cover mechanism 300 to only partially cover the opening 108. This may be done to minimize particle ingress while allowing ventilation of the receptacle 109.

[0078] The cover mechanism 300 is configured to be selectively operated between a relative open position and a relative closed position. In the relative open position, the opening 108 is at least partially exposed. In the relative closed position, the opening 108 is at least partially covered. In the relative closed position, a larger portion of the opening 108 is covered than in the relative open position. In the relative open position, the article 102 can be inserted through the opening 108. In the relative closed position, the article 102 is prevented from being inserted through the opening 108. In some embodiments, the opening 108 may be fully exposed in the relative open position. In some embodiments, the opening 108 may be fully covered in the relative closed position. In some embodiments, the opening 108 may be fully covered such that in the relative closed position, the cover mechanism 300 forms a seal around the opening 108. The terms open and closed as applied to features of the cover mechanism 300 are described herein in conjunction with one another.

[0079] Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the cover mechanism 300. Figures 3A and 3B show cross-sectional views of the cover mechanism 300 in relatively closed and relatively open positions, respectively. The cover mechanism 300 may be used with the aerosol delivery device 101 of Figure 1 and will be described with reference to that device.

[0080] 2, the cover mechanism 300 comprises a chassis 302. The chassis 302 is rigidly secured to the body 107 of the device 101. In this regard, the chassis 302 forms a part of the body 107. The chassis 302 is fixed in place such that it cannot rotate relative to the body 107. This may be accomplished by various fasteners, screw mechanisms and / or clips. For example, a resilient clip 303 and an elongated feature 304 are shown in FIG. 2. In some embodiments, the chassis 302 may be integrally formed with the body 107.

[0081] An opening 307 is formed through the chassis 302. The opening 307 forms a portion of the opening 108 of the device 101 and is in fluid communication with the receptacle 109. An article including an aerosol-generating material, such as the article 102, is inserted into the receptacle 109 of the device 101 through the opening 307. The opening 307 is thus dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the article 102. The opening 307 is axially aligned with the longitudinal axis 103.

[0082] The chassis 302 also includes a guide 305. With reference to Figures 3A and 3B, the guide 305 includes a track 308. The tracks 308 are integrally formed with the chassis 302. The tracks 308 are parallel to one another. The tracks 308 are formed in a proximal face 310 of the chassis 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the track 308 comprises a guide rail. The guide rail protrudes from the proximal face 310. In some embodiments, the guide 305 may include three or more tracks or a single track. In some embodiments, the guide track 308 may instead comprise a groove.

[0083] The cover mechanism 300 comprises a cover member 320. The cover member 320 is generally planar. The cover member 320 comprises vanes 321. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover member is a single component. The cover member 320 is arranged for movement relative to the chassis 302. Thus, the cover member 320 is arranged for movement relative to the body 107. The cover member 320 is movable to selectively cover, expose, or at least partially cover the opening 307. Thus, a cross-section of at least a portion of the cover member 320 is larger than the opening 307.

[0084] The cover member 320 is positioned to slide across the proximal face 310 of the chassis 302. The cover member 320 translates between a first position and a second position. As shown in FIG. 3A, the first position is a relatively closed position in which at least a portion of the article 102 is prevented from being inserted through the opening. As shown in FIG. 3B, the second position is a relatively open position in which at least a portion of the article 102 may be inserted through the opening.

[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, the translation of the cover member 320 is linear. In some embodiments, the translation of the cover member 320 is arcuate. The translation of the cover member 320 is guided by a guide 305 on the body 107.

[0086] The cover member 320 comprises a guide formation 327. The guide 305 and the guide formation 327 define a guide arrangement. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the guide formation 327 includes a guide groove 328. The guide grooves 328 function as guide elements. The guide grooves 328 are parallel to each other. The guide grooves are formed on the distal surface of the cover member 320. The guide groove 328 of the cover member 320 engages with the guide track 308 of the chassis 302 to guide the movement of the cover member 320. In this regard, the movement of the cover member 320 is guided by the guide 305. In some embodiments, the guide formation 327 comprises three or more guide grooves or a single groove. The number of guide grooves provided corresponds to the number of guide tracks comprising the guide 305. In some embodiments, the guide formation comprises a track instead.

[0087] The cover mechanism 300 includes an actuating member 330. The actuating member 330 is disposed for movement relative to the body 107. The actuating member 330 rotates about the body 107. Movement of the actuating member 330 is configured to actuate movement of the cover member 320 between positions.

[0088] The actuating member 330 includes a peripheral wall 331 and an end wall 332. The peripheral wall 331 extends distally from the end wall 332. The peripheral wall 331 forms a peripheral skirt 333 around the end wall 332. The peripheral wall 331 is generally cylindrical. The peripheral wall 331 and the end wall 332 form a housing portion 333 of the actuating member 330. The housing portion 333 covers the chassis 302 and a portion of the body 107. The housing portion 333 houses various components of the cover mechanism 300. At least a portion of the body 107 extends into the housing portion 333. The housing portion 333 includes an opening 337. The opening 337 forms a portion of the opening 108 of the device 101 and is in fluid communication with the receptacle 109. The article 102 is inserted into the receptacle 109 of the device 101 through the opening 337 for heating. Thus, the opening 337 is dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the article 102. The opening 337 is axially aligned with the opening 307 in the chassis 302. The opening 337 is axially aligned with the longitudinal axis 103.

[0089] The housing portion 333 is formed with a gap 338. The gap is dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the cover member 320. The gap 338 is provided in the peripheral wall 331. The gap 338 extends circumferentially along the peripheral wall 331. The gap 338 is elongated. The gap 338 is a slot. In some embodiments, the gap may be omitted.

[0090] The cover mechanism 300 includes a gear mechanism 340. The gear mechanism 340 is arranged to move the cover member 320 when the actuating member 330 moves. That is, motion is transmitted from the actuating member 330 to the cover member 320 via the gear mechanism 340.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the gear mechanism 340 includes actuating toothing 342, cover toothing 344, and a gear 346. Actuating toothing 342 is provided on the actuating member 330. Cover toothing 344 is provided on the cover member 320. Gear 346 is positioned to mesh with actuating toothing 342 and cover toothing 344. Motion is transferred from actuating toothing 342 through gear 346 to cover toothing 344.

[0092] The actuation teeth 342 are provided on the inside of the peripheral wall 331 of the actuation member 330. In this regard, the actuation teeth 342 function as an internal gear. The actuation teeth 342 rotate with the rotation of the actuation member 330. The rotation axis of the actuation teeth 342 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis 103. The actuation teeth 342 extends in a circumferential direction along the peripheral wall 331. The actuation teeth 342 includes a number of teeth 343. The number of teeth is configured to allow the cover member 320 to be actuated between the first position and the second position. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuation teeth 342 extends along a portion of the peripheral wall 331 such that a sufficient range of motion is provided to move the cover member 320 from the first position to the second position. In other words, the actuation teeth 342 are configured such that the cover mechanism 300 can be operated to fully cover and fully expose the opening 108. In some embodiments, one or both of the first and second positions represent a partially open position. In some embodiments, the actuation teeth 342 instead extend along the entire circumference of the peripheral wall 331.

[0093] Gear 346 comprises a first gear piece 347 and a second gear piece 348. First gear piece 347 is positioned to mesh with actuation toothing 342 and second gear piece 348 is positioned to mesh with cover toothing 344. First piece 347 drives second piece 348. In some embodiments, gear 348 comprises a single gear piece. In these embodiments, the single gear piece may be positioned to mesh with at least one or both of actuation toothing 342 and cover toothing 344.

[0094] The first gear piece 347 and the second gear piece 348 are provided on a gear wheel. The rotation axis of the first gear piece 347 is parallel to the rotation axis of the operating teeth 342. The rotation axis of the second gear piece 348 is parallel to the rotation axis of the operating teeth 342. The rotation axes of the first gear piece 347 and the second gear piece 348 are coaxial. In some embodiments, the rotation axes of the first gear piece 347 and the second gear piece 348 are parallel and offset from each other.

[0095] The first gear piece 347 and the second gear piece 348 are fixed relative to one another. In some embodiments, the first gear piece 347 and the second gear piece 348 are integrally formed. The first gear piece 347 and the second gear piece 348 move simultaneously. The rotation of the first gear piece 347 is configured to drive the second gear piece 348 without the teeth of the first gear piece 347 meshing with the teeth of the second gear piece 348.

[0096] The first gear segment 347 has a different pitch diameter and number of teeth than the second gear segment 348. The first gear segment 347 and the second gear segment 348 are configured to provide a gear ratio. In some embodiments, the first gear segment 347 is substantially identical to the second gear segment. The first gear segment 347 and the second gear segment 348 may have the same pitch diameter and number of teeth.

[0097] The second gear piece 348 and the cover teeth 344 form a rack and pinion arrangement. The gear mechanism 340 converts the rotational motion of the actuating teeth 342 into linear motion of the cover teeth 344.

[0098] The actuating member 330 moves between a first circumferential position and a second circumferential position. The cover member 320 moves between a first position and a second position. When the actuating member 330 is in the first circumferential position, the cover member 320 is in the first position. When the actuating member 330 is in the second circumferential position, the cover member 320 is in the second position. The first position of the cover member 320 corresponds to a relative closed position and the second position of the cover member 320 corresponds to a relative open position.

[0099] As shown in FIG. 3B, when the cover member 320 is in the second position, at least a portion of the cover member 320 protrudes through the gap 338. The gap 338 is dimensioned such that at least a portion of the cover member 320 can be received through the gap 338. A cavity (not shown) is defined in a portion of the body 107 adjacent the actuation member 330. When the cover member 320 is in the second position, at least a portion of the cover member 320 is accommodated within the cavity. In other words, at least a portion of the cover member 320 is arranged to retract from the body 107 through the gap 338 when the cover member 320 is moved to the first position, and to extend into the body 107 through the gap 338 when the cover member 320 is moved to the second position. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover member 320 is partially retracted within the body 107 in the second position such that the opening 108 of the device is fully exposed. This arrangement allows for a more compact design of the cover mechanism 300. The gap 338 is hidden by the body 107 throughout the range of motion of the actuating member 330. In this embodiment, the gap 338 circumferentially overlaps the actuating teeth 342. The gap 338 and the actuating teeth 342 are axially offset in the longitudinal direction. The gap 338 is provided in the peripheral wall 331 such that the gap 338 and the actuating teeth 342 are disposed adjacent to each other in the longitudinal direction.

[0100] During use of the device 101, a user may operate the cover mechanism 300 by rotating the actuating member 330 between a first circumferential position and a second circumferential position. It will be appreciated that while the first and second positions are separate positions, the actuating member 330 may instead be rotated to any intermediate position between the first and second positions. The rotational motion of the actuating member 330 is transmitted to a first gear piece 347 via actuating teeth 342. The first gear piece 347 drives a second gear piece 348. The second gear piece 348 engages with the cover teeth 344 such that the rotational motion of the actuating member 330 is converted to linear motion and transmitted to the cover member 320.

[0101] 4A and 4B show schematic diagrams of a cover mechanism 400 in a relatively closed position and a relatively open position, respectively. The cover mechanism 400 may be used with the aerosol delivery device 101 of FIG. 1 and will be described with reference to that device. The cover mechanism 400 is substantially similar to the cover mechanism 300 described above. Therefore, a detailed description is omitted. The cover mechanism 400 differs in that the cover member 420 comprises a first cover member 420a and a second cover member 420b. The first cover member 420a and the second cover member 420b each comprise a vane. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cover member 420a and the second cover member 420b are substantially identical. In some embodiments, the configurations of the first cover member 420a and the second cover member 420b are different.

[0102] Each of the first and second cover members 420a, 420b includes cover teeth 444a, 444b. The actuating member 430 includes a first actuating toothing 442a arranged to transmit motion to the cover toothing 444a of the first cover member 420a. The actuating member 430 includes a second actuating toothing 442b arranged to transmit motion to the cover toothing 444b of the second cover member 420b. In some embodiments, the actuating member 430 instead includes a single actuating toothing configured to simultaneously transmit motion to the cover toothing 444a, 444b of the first and second cover members 420a, 420b. The single actuating toothing may extend along the entire circumference of the actuating member 430.

[0103] The gear mechanism 440 includes a first operating tooth portion 442a, a second operating tooth portion 442b, a first cover tooth portion 444a, a second cover tooth portion 444b, a first gear 446a, and a second gear 446b. The first gear 446a is arranged to mesh with the first operating tooth portion 442a and the first cover tooth portion 444a. The second gear 446b is arranged to mesh with the second operating tooth portion 442b and the second cover tooth portion 444b. The first gear 446a and the second gear 446b are each a gear wheel. Each of the gears 446a, 446b includes a single gear piece.

[0104] In some embodiments, each of the first gear 446a and the second gear 446b includes a first gear piece and a second gear piece. The first gear piece of the first gear and the second gear is arranged to mesh with the first operating toothing 442a and the second operating toothing 442b, respectively. The second gear piece of the first gear 446a and the second gear 446b is arranged to mesh with the first cover toothing 444a and the second cover toothing 444b, respectively. The first gear piece and the second gear piece are provided on separate gear wheels. The rotation axis of the first gear piece of the first gear 446a and the second gear 446b is parallel to the rotation axis of the actuating member 430. The rotation axis of the second gear piece of the first gear 446a and the second gear 446b is parallel to the rotation axis of the actuating member 430. The rotation axis of the first gear segment of the first gear 446a is coaxial with the rotation axis of the second gear segment of the first gear 446a. The rotation axis of the first gear segment of the second gear 446b is coaxial with the rotation axis of the second gear segment of the second gear 446b. In some embodiments, the rotation axes of the first and second gear segments of each of the first and second gears 446a and 446b are parallel and offset from one another.

[0105] In the embodiment of FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, the first cover member 420a and the second cover member 420b are actuated simultaneously by rotation of the actuating member 430. The first cover member 420a and the second cover member 420b move between a first position and a second position. When the actuating member 430 is in a first circumferential position, the first cover member 420a and the second cover member 420b are in a first position. When the actuating member 430 is in a second circumferential position, the first cover member 420a and the second cover member 420b are in a second position. The first position is a relative open position. The second position is a relative closed position. As shown in FIG. 4A, the first member 420a and the second member 420b join in the second position such that the opening 407 is completely covered. In some embodiments, the first member 420a and the second member 420b may partially overlap in the second position. This allows for a more compact design of the cover mechanism 400. In some embodiments, a gap may be provided between the first member 420a and the second member 420b in the second position, which may improve ventilation of the receptacle 109.

[0106] Translation of the first and second cover members 420a, 420b between the first and second positions is guided by a guide 405 formed on a proximal face 410 of the chassis 402. The guide 405 includes a guide track 408 disposed to engage the first and second cover members 420a, 420b.

[0107] 5A and 5B show schematic views of a cover mechanism 500 in a relatively closed position and a relatively open position, respectively. The cover mechanism 500 may be used with the aerosol delivery device 101 of FIG. 1 and will be described with reference to that device. The cover mechanism 500 comprises a cover member 520 arranged to pivot relative to the body 107 of the device 101. The cover mechanism 500 is substantially similar to the cover mechanism 300 described above and will not be described in detail.

[0108] The cover member 520 is arranged to pivot between a first position and a second position. The translation of the cover member 520 is in an arc. As shown in FIG. 5A, the first position is a relatively closed position in which at least a portion of the article 102 is prevented from being inserted through the opening. As shown in FIG. 5B, the second position is a relatively open position in which at least a portion of the article 102 may be inserted through the opening.

[0109] The gear mechanism 540 comprises actuating teeth 542 and a gear 546. The cover member 520 is fixed in position relative to the gear 546 such that the gear 546 and the cover member 520 rotate simultaneously. The cover member 520 is configured to pivot between a first position and a second position. The axis of rotation of the cover member 520 is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the gear 546. The axis of rotation of the cover member 520 is offset from the axis of rotation of the actuating member 530. In this embodiment, the gear comprises a single gear piece arranged to mate with the actuating teeth 542 of the actuating member 530. The translation of the cover member 520 is guided by a guide 505. The guide 505 comprises a track 508. The track 508 is arcuate. The guide 505 engages the cover member 520.

[0110] In some embodiments, the gear 546 is integral with the cover member 520. In some embodiments, the cover member 520 includes cover teeth that function as the gear 546.

[0111] The cover mechanism in some embodiments has different configurations.

[0112] In some embodiments, the gear mechanism comprises a gear train. The gear train comprises a number of gear wheels arranged to transfer motion from the actuation member to the cover member. A first piece of the gear train meshes with actuation teeth of the actuation member. A second piece of the gear train meshes with cover teeth of the cover member.

[0113] In some embodiments, the gear mechanism does not include gears. In this set of embodiments, the actuating toothing of the actuating member directly meshes with the cover toothing of the cover member.

[0114] In some embodiments, the gear mechanism may not include cover teeth. The gear mechanism may transmit the rotational motion of the actuating member to the cover member through any number of support mechanisms, such as, for example, a cam mechanism, a mechanical linkage, etc.

[0115] In the above-described embodiment, the aerosol delivery device comprises a heating device that is an inductive heating device. In some embodiments, other types of heating devices, such as resistive heating, are used. The configuration of the device is generally as described above, and a detailed description is omitted. In such a configuration, the aerosol generation assembly comprises a resistive heating generator that includes components for heating the heating element by a resistive heating process. In this case, an electric current is applied directly to the resistive heating component, and the resulting current flow in the heating component causes the heating component to heat by Joule heating. The resistive heating component comprises a resistive material configured to generate heat when a suitable electric current is passed through the resistive heating component, and the heating assembly comprises electrical contacts for supplying the electric current to the resistive material.

[0116] In some embodiments, the heating element forms the resistive heating component itself, hi some embodiments, the resistive heating component transfers heat to the heating element, for example by conduction.

[0117] The various embodiments described herein are presented only to aid in the understanding and teaching of the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as a representative sample of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on the equivalents of the claims, and it is understood that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the present invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of any suitable combination of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. In addition, the present disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. 1. An aerosol delivery device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material, comprising: The main body, a receptacle configured to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-forming material; A cover mechanism; Equipped with the body having an opening in communication with the receptacle; The cover mechanism is a cover member disposed to selectively at least partially cover the opening and disposed for movement relative to the body between a relative open position in which at least a portion of an article may be inserted through the opening and a relative closed position in which at least a portion of an article is prevented from being inserted through the opening; an actuating member arranged for movement relative to the body; a gear mechanism arranged to move the cover member when the actuating member moves; An aerosol delivery device comprising:

2. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1 , wherein the actuating member is arranged to rotate relative to the body.

3. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover member is arranged to pivot relative to the body.

4. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cover member is arranged to translate relative to the body.

5. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the gear mechanism comprises actuating teeth on the actuating member.

6. The aerosol delivery device of claim 5, wherein the gear mechanism comprises cover teeth on the cover member, and movement of the actuating member relative to the body moves the cover member as motion is transmitted between the actuating teeth and the cover teeth.

7. 7. The aerosol delivery device of claim 6, comprising a gear arranged to mesh with the actuation tines and the cover tines, and motion is transferred from the actuation tines to the cover tines via the gear.

8. 8. The aerosol delivery device of claim 7, wherein the gear comprises a first gear piece and a second gear piece, the first gear piece being positioned to mesh with the operating tooth portion and the second gear piece being positioned to mesh with the cover tooth portion.

9. The aerosol delivery device of claim 8 , wherein the first gear piece drives the second gear piece.

10. 10. The aerosol delivery device of claim 8 or 9, wherein the first gear piece and the second gear piece are fixed relative to each other.

11. 11. The aerosol delivery device of claim 8, wherein the first gear piece and the second gear piece differ in at least one characteristic to provide a gear ratio.

12. The aerosol delivery device of claim 6 , wherein the actuation teeth directly mate with the cover teeth of the cover member.

13. The aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 5 to 12, wherein the actuating member comprises a peripheral wall, the actuating teeth being on the inside of the peripheral wall.

14. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the cover mechanism comprises a guide arranged to guide movement of the cover member.

15. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 5 to 14, wherein the actuating member comprises a housing portion covering at least a portion of the body.

16. The aerosol delivery device of claim 15 , wherein the housing portion includes a gap and the cover member is positioned to be received through the gap.

17. 17. The aerosol delivery device of claim 16, wherein the cover member is arranged to be retracted from the gap in the relatively closed position, and the cover member is arranged to extend into the gap in the relatively open position.

18. 18. The aerosol delivery device of claim 16 or 17, wherein the body has a cavity for receiving the at least a portion of the cover member.

19. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the actuation member comprises an opening arranged to receive at least a portion of the article comprising an aerosol-generating material.

20. An aerosol delivery device according to any preceding claim, wherein the cover member is arranged to completely cover the opening in the relatively closed position.

21. An aerosol delivery device according to any preceding claim, wherein the cover member is arranged to be fully retracted from the opening in the relatively open position.

22. An aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 6 to 12, wherein the cover member comprises a first cover member and a second cover member, and the actuating teeth are arranged to transmit motion to the cover teeth of the first cover member and the cover teeth of the second cover member.

23. 23. The aerosol delivery device of claim 22, wherein the actuating teeth include a first actuating tooth arranged to transmit motion to the cover tooth of the first cover member and a second actuating tooth arranged to transmit motion to the cover tooth of the second cover member.

24. 24. The aerosol delivery device of claim 22 or 23, wherein the first cover member and the second cover member are configured to join in the relative closed position.

25. An aerosol delivery system comprising the aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 24 and an article comprising an aerosol-generating material.

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