Aerosol Delivery Device

Abstract

An aerosol delivery device is provided that includes a body having an opening, a chamber in the body arranged to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-generating material through the opening, and a cover mechanism (400). The cover mechanism includes a cover member (410) arranged to at least partially cover the opening, and an actuation member (420) arranged to rotate on the body to actuate the cover member. Rotation of the actuation member relative to the body moves the cover member between a relative open position that allows at least a portion of the article to pass through the opening, and a relative closed position that prevents at least a portion of the article from being able to pass through the opening.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol delivery device. The present invention also relates to a cover mechanism for an aerosol delivery device and an aerosol delivery system. [Background technology]

[0002] Smoking articles, such as cigarettes, cigars, etc., generate tobacco smoke by burning tobacco during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these tobacco-burning articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion. Examples of such products are heating devices that release compounds by heating but not burning a material. The material may be, for example, a tobacco product or other non-tobacco product, which may or may not contain nicotine. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol delivery device comprising a body having an opening, a chamber in the body arranged to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-generating material through the opening, and a cover mechanism including a cover member arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening and an actuation member arranged to rotate on the body to actuate the cover member, whereby rotation of the actuation member relative to the body moves the cover member between a relative open position that allows at least a portion of the article to pass through the opening and a relative closed position that prevents at least a portion of the article from being able to pass through the opening.

[0004] The cover member may be arranged for linear movement relative to the body.

[0005] The body may include a guide arranged for slidable engagement with the cover member.

[0006] The guide may comprise a track.

[0007] The track may comprise a channel.

[0008] The guide may comprise at least two parallel channels.

[0009] The cover member may include a guide element arranged to engage a guide on the body.

[0010] The actuation member may comprise a housing portion covering at least a portion of the body.

[0011] At least a portion of the body may extend into the housing portion.

[0012] The actuation member may at least partially surround the cover mechanism.

[0013] The actuation member may include a hole aligned with the aperture positioned to receive at least a portion of the article.

[0014] The cover member may be disposed between the body and the actuation member.

[0015] The cover member may be arranged to move in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the actuation member.

[0016] The axis of rotation of the actuating member may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the chamber.

[0017] The axis of rotation of the actuating member may be coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the chamber.

[0018] The cover mechanism may include a cam formation.

[0019] The cam formation may include an elongated cam surface and a cam element engaged by the elongated cam surface.

[0020] The elongated cam surface may be straight.

[0021] The elongated cam surface may be arcuate.

[0022] The cam formation may include a cam slot defining an elongated cam surface.

[0023] The cam slot may be a blind slot.

[0024] The cam element may be a pin.

[0025] The actuating member may define an elongated cam surface.

[0026] The actuating member may define an outer actuating component defining the exposed surface and an inner actuating component defining the elongated cam surface.

[0027] The outer actuation component may be slidably engaged to the body.

[0028] The inner working component may be attached to the outer working component.

[0029] The inner and outer working components may be formed from different materials.

[0030] The cam element may be located on the cover member.

[0031] The cover mechanism may include a gear arrangement.

[0032] The cover member may be a blade.

[0033] The body may include an actuation member mount.

[0034] The actuation member may be rotatably engaged with the actuation member mount.

[0035] The actuation member mount may provide a constraint on the linear movement of the actuation member relative to the body.

[0036] The actuation member may include a locating feature in engagement with the actuation member mount.

[0037] The actuation member mount may comprise a clip. The clip may be resilient.

[0038] The body may include a recess behind the clip.

[0039] The cover mechanism may include a retention mechanism arranged to releasably retain the actuating member in at least one of the relatively open and relatively closed positions.

[0040] The cover member may be in sliding contact with the body and the actuating member, the sliding contact being arranged to provide a seal against the ingress of debris.

[0041] The actuation member may include a grip formation. The grip formation may be a protrusion. The grip formation may be a friction surface.

[0042] The cover member may completely close the opening in the relatively closed position.

[0043] The cover member may be a first cover member and the cover arrangement may comprise a second cover member arranged to selectively partially close the opening.

[0044] By rotating the actuating member relative to the body, the second cover member may move between a relatively open position that allows at least a portion of the article to pass through the opening and a relatively closed position that prevents at least a portion of the article from passing through the opening.

[0045] In the relatively closed position, the first cover member and the second cover member may abut one another.

[0046] The body may include a second guide arranged for slidable engagement with the second cover member.

[0047] The second guide may comprise a track.

[0048] The track may comprise a channel.

[0049] The second guide may comprise at least two parallel channels.

[0050] The second cover member may include a guide element arranged to engage a second guide on the body.

[0051] The cover mechanism may include a second cam formation.

[0052] The second cam formation may include an elongated cam surface and a second cam element engaged by the elongated cam surface.

[0053] The elongated cam surface may be straight.

[0054] The elongated cam surface may be arcuate.

[0055] The second cam formation may include a cam slot defining an elongated cam surface.

[0056] The cam slot may be a blind slot.

[0057] The second cam element may be a pin.

[0058] The actuating member may define an elongated cam surface.

[0059] The second cam element may be located on the second cover member.

[0060] In the relatively closed position, the first cover member and the second cover member may together completely close the opening.

[0061] According to some embodiments described herein, a cover mechanism for an aerosol delivery device is provided. The cover mechanism comprises a body having an opening arranged to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-generating material, a cover member arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening, and an actuation member arranged to rotate on the body to actuate the cover member, whereby rotating the actuation member relative to the body moves the cover member between a relative open position that allows at least a portion of the article to pass through the opening and a relative closed position that prevents at least a portion of the article from being able to pass through the opening. The term "move" will be understood to mean a movement that changes the position of an object, as opposed to only rotation. Movement will be understood to include only movement or movement and rotation.

[0062] According to some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol delivery device comprising: a body; a chamber in the body arranged to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-generating material, the body having an opening in communication with the chamber; and a cover mechanism comprising a cover member arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening, an actuating member arranged to rotate on the body to actuate the cover member, whereby rotation of the actuating member relative to the body causes the cover member to move between a relative open position that allows at least a portion of the article to pass through the opening and a relative closed position that prevents at least a portion of the article from being able to pass through the opening, and a retention mechanism arranged to releasably retain the actuating member in at least one of the relative open and relative closed positions.

[0063] The retention mechanism may be arranged to automatically engage when the actuation member is moved into one or more of the relatively open and relatively closed positions.

[0064] The retention mechanism may be biased towards the retention condition when the actuation member is moved to at least one of the relatively open and relatively closed positions.

[0065] The retention mechanism may be releasable by a user by moving an actuation mechanism from one or more of the relatively open and relatively closed positions.

[0066] The retention mechanism may be biased to the released condition when the actuation member is moved to at least one of the relatively open and relatively closed positions.

[0067] The retention feature may include a recess and a protruding element arranged to protrude into the recess in at least one of the relatively open and relatively closed positions.

[0068] The actuation member may include an inner surface, the protruding element may be arranged to slide along the inner surface, and the recess may be formed in the inner surface.

[0069] The inner surface may be partially cylindrical.

[0070] The actuation element may comprise a peripheral wall.

[0071] The inner surface may be defined by a peripheral wall.

[0072] The protruding elements may be located on the body.

[0073] The recess may comprise a ramp. The protruding element may be arranged to slide along the ramp when entering or exiting the recess.

[0074] The protruding element may contact the angled side of the recess over less than 20% of the protruding element's range of motion.

[0075] The protruding elements may be elastic.

[0076] The aerosol delivery device may include a stopper for limiting the projection range of the projection element.

[0077] The aerosol delivery device may comprise a protrusion arrangement comprising a protrusion element and a biasing member.

[0078] The biasing member may be a spring.

[0079] The protruding element may comprise a contact surface.

[0080] The contact surface may be curved.

[0081] The contact surface may be formed from a material that has a relatively low coefficient of friction with the portion of the actuating member or body that it contacts.

[0082] The protruding elements may be arranged to move radially.

[0083] The protruding elements may be arranged to be biased radially outwardly.

[0084] The protruding element may be a ball-spring arrangement.

[0085] The retaining mechanism may be a first retaining mechanism, and the aerosol delivery device may further include a second retaining mechanism arranged to releasably retain the actuating member in the other of the relatively open position and the relatively closed position.

[0086] According to some embodiments described herein, there is provided a cover mechanism for an aerosol delivery device, the cover mechanism comprising: a body having an opening arranged to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-generating material, a cover member arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening, an actuation member arranged to rotate on the body to actuate the cover member, whereby rotation of the actuation member relative to the body moves the cover member between a relatively open position that allows at least a portion of the article to pass through the opening and a relatively closed position that prevents at least a portion of the article from being able to pass through the opening, and a retention mechanism arranged to releasably retain the actuation member in at least one of the relatively open and relatively closed positions.

[0087] According to some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol delivery system comprising any of the aerosol delivery devices described above and an article including an aerosol-generating material.

[0088] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0089] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a front view of the aerosol delivery device. [Diagram 2] 2 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 2 is an exploded perspective view of a cover mechanism for the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 1 in a closed position. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portion of the cover mechanism of FIG. 3 in an open position. [Diagram 5] 2 is a perspective view of an alternative cover mechanism for the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 1 in a closed position. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the cover mechanism of FIG. 5 in an open position. [Figure 7]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of the cover mechanism of FIG. 5 in a closed position. [Figure 8] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portion of the cover mechanism of FIG. 5 in an open position. [Figure 9] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an actuating member of the cover mechanism of FIG. 5. [Figure 10] 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a holding mechanism of the cover mechanism of FIG. 5. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0090] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating material" refers to a material capable of generating an aerosol when energized, e.g., by heating, irradiation, or in any other manner. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of, e.g., a solid, liquid, or gel, which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings. The aerosol-generating material may include any plant-based material, e.g., a tobacco-containing material, which may include, e.g., 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, which may or may not contain nicotine depending on the product. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of, e.g., a solid, liquid, gel, wax, etc. The aerosol-generating material may also be, e.g., a combination or mixture of materials, etc. The aerosol-generating material may also be what is known as "smoking material."

[0091] The aerosol-generating material may include a binder and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, an active substance and / or a filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, may also be present, in which one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble. 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.

[0092] The aerosol-generating material may include or be an "amorphous solid." An 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.

[0093] The aerosol-generating material may comprise an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may comprise or be a sheet, which may optionally be chopped to form a chopped sheet. The aerosol-generating sheet or chopped sheet may be substantially free of tobacco.

[0094] According to the present disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol delivery system is one in which the constituent aerosol-generating materials of the aerosol delivery system (or components of the aerosol delivery system) are not burned or combusted to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

[0095] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, such as a powered non-flammable aerosol delivery system.

[0096] 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 required.

[0097] 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.

[0098] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is a hybrid system for generating an aerosol using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which may be heated. Each of these aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not include nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0099] Typically, a non-flammable aerosol delivery system may include a non-flammable aerosol delivery device and a consumable for use with the non-flammable aerosol delivery device.

[0100] In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include aerosol generating materials and are configured for use with non-flammable aerosol delivery devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout this disclosure.

[0101] In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, such as a non-flammable aerosol delivery device of the non-flammable aerosol delivery system, may comprise a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, a power source or a heat generating power source. In some embodiments, the heat generating power source comprises a carbon substrate that can be energized to deliver power in the form of heat to an aerosol generating material or a heat transfer material in proximity to the heat generating power source.

[0102] In some embodiments, the non-flammable 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.

[0103] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol delivery device may include an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transport component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a packaging material, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0104] An aerosol generating device can accept an article that includes an aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, an "article" 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 inserts the article into the aerosol generating device, after which 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 accept the article.

[0105] 1 shows an aerosol delivery device 100 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. Generally, device 100 may be used to heat a replaceable article 300 that includes an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium that is inhaled by a user of device 100. Article 300 and device 100 together form an aerosol delivery system.

[0106] The device 100 comprises a main body 101. The main body 101 comprises a chamber 105 (see FIG. 2). A housing 102 surrounds and contains various components of the main body 101. An opening 103 is formed at one end of the main body 101 and communicates with the chamber 105. An article 300 may be inserted at least partially through the opening 103 into the chamber 105 for heating by the aerosol generator 150 (see FIG. 2). In use, the article 300 may be heated by one or more components of the aerosol generator 150.

[0107] Device 100 further includes a button assembly 200 that, when pressed, operates device 100. For example, a user may turn device 100 on by manipulating button assembly 200.

[0108] The aerosol generator 150 defines a longitudinal axis X.

[0109] 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of device 100. Device 100 includes electrical components such as a connector / port 160 capable of accepting a cable for charging a battery of device 100. For example, connector 160 may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port. In some examples, connector 160 may additionally or alternatively be used to transfer data between device 100 and another device, such as a computing device.

[0110] The device 100 includes a power source 170, e.g., a battery, such as a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, e.g., lithium batteries (e.g., lithium ion batteries), nickel batteries (e.g., nickel cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically coupled to the aerosol generator 150 to provide power to heat the aerosol-generating material when needed and under the control of the controller.

[0111] The device 100 comprises an electronic module 112. The electronic module 112 may comprise, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB may support at least one controller, such as a processor, and a memory. The PCB may further comprise one or more electrical tracks for electrically connecting together various electronic components of the device 100. For example, battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB such that power may be distributed throughout the device 100.

[0112] The main body 101 comprises an end surface of the device 100. The end of the device 100 closest to the opening 103 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) 104 of the device 100, as it is located closest to the user's mouth during use. During use, a user inserts an article 300 into the opening 103, operates the aerosol generator 150 to initiate heating of the aerosol-generating material, and inhales the aerosol generated by the device, which causes the aerosol to flow along a flow path through the device 100 towards the proximal end of the device 100.

[0113] The other end of the device furthest from hole 103 may be known as the distal end 106 of device 100, as it is the end furthest from a user's mouth when in use. When a user inhales the aerosol generated by the device, the aerosol flows in a direction towards the proximal end of device 100. The terms proximal and distal as applied to features of device 100 are described with reference to the relative positions of such features with respect to one another in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis.

[0114] As used herein, the term unitary component refers to a component of device 100 that cannot be separated into two or more components after assembly of device 100. Integrally molded refers to two or more features that are formed into the unitary component during the manufacturing stage of the component.

[0115] An air flow passage 180 extends through the main body 101. The air flow passage 180 extends to an air inlet 190.

[0116] In one example, the aerosol generator 150 comprises an induction type heating system including a magnetic field generator. The magnetic field generator comprises an inductor coil assembly. The aerosol generator 150 comprises a heating element. The heating element is also known as a susceptor.

[0117] A susceptor is a material that can be heated by penetration of a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be a conductive material, in which case penetration of the varying magnetic field into the susceptor results in inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material, in which case penetration of the varying magnetic field into the heating material results in magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both conductive and magnetic, in which case the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. A device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

[0118] The aerosol generator 150 is an induction heating assembly, which comprises various components for heating the aerosol-generating material of the article 300 via an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating an electrically conductive object (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly may comprise an induction element, such as one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a varying current, such as an alternating current, through the induction element. The varying current in the induction element generates a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor appropriately placed relative to the induction element, generating eddy currents inside the susceptor. The susceptor has an electrical resistance to the eddy currents, and thus the eddy currents flow against this resistance, heating the susceptor by Joule heating. If the susceptor comprises a ferromagnetic material, such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, additional heat may be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e., by the varying orientation of the magnetic dipoles of the magnetic material as a result of aligning with the varying magnetic field. Induction heating allows for rapid heating since heat is generated inside the susceptor, as compared to heating by conduction, and further allows for greater freedom in design and application since no physical contact is required between the induction heater and the susceptor.

[0119] The inductor coil assembly includes an inductor coil. In some embodiments, the number of inductor coils varies. In some embodiments, more than one inductor coil is used. The inductor coil assembly further includes a coil support. The coil support is tubular.

[0120] The heating element is part of a heating assembly. The heating element in this example is hollow and thus defines at least a portion of a receptacle in which the aerosol-generating material is received. For example, the article 300 can be inserted into the heating element. The heating element is tubular with a circular cross section. The heating element has a generally constant diameter along the axial length of the heating element.

[0121] In some embodiments, the heating assembly defines a receptacle, and the heating element stands upright in the receptacle.

[0122] The heating element is made from a conductive material suitable for heating by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor in this example is made from carbon steel. It will be appreciated that other suitable materials may be used, such as ferromagnetic materials such as iron, nickel, or cobalt.

[0123] In other embodiments, the features functioning as heating elements may not be limited to being inductively heated. Thus, the features functioning as heating elements may be heatable by electrical resistance. Thus, the aerosol generator 150 may include electrical contacts for electrical connection with a device for electrically activating the heating element by passing a flow of electrical energy through the heating element.

[0124] The receptacle and article 300 are sized so that the article 300 can be received by a heating element. This helps ensure that heating is most efficient. The article 300 in this example comprises an aerosol-forming material. The aerosol-forming material is placed within the receptacle. The article 300 may further comprise other components, such as a filter, a packaging material, and / or a cooling structure.

[0125] An airflow passage 180 extends from the receptacle. The airflow passage 180 is located at the distal end. The airflow passage 180 protrudes from the heating element. The airflow passage 180 extends from the heating element and is defined by a flow path member 182. The heating element 220 and the flow path member 182 form part of an air flow path arrangement 181.

[0126] The flow path member 182 extends between the heating element and the opening 190. The flow path member 182 is tubular. The flow path member 182 defines a bore. The flow path member extends axially along the length of the flow path member.

[0127] 3 and 4 are exploded perspective views of a cover mechanism 400 for an aerosol delivery device in a closed and open position, respectively. The cover mechanism 400 may be used with the aerosol delivery device 100 of Figures 1 and 2 and will be described with reference to the device. In some embodiments, the cover mechanism 400 is used with other device components.

[0128] The cover mechanism 400 comprises a body 402. The body 402 is part of the main body 101 of the aerosol delivery device 100. The body 402 is a rigid member. The body 402 is fixed to the housing 102. The body 402 is fixed to the housing 102 by fasteners 405 such that the body 402 cannot rotate relative to the housing 102 of the aerosol delivery device 100.

[0129] The fastener 405 includes a resilient clip 406 for securing the body to the housing 102. The fastener 405 further includes a position limiting protrusion 446. In other embodiments, the body 402 may be integrally formed with the housing 102. The body 402 includes an opening 404. The opening 404 defines the opening 103 of the device. The opening 404 communicates with the chamber 105. The opening 404 is dimensioned to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-generating material, such as the article 300.

[0130] The body 402 comprises a guide 408. The guide 408 comprises a channel. In this embodiment, the guide 408 comprises three channels 409. The number of channels may vary. The channels 409 are straight. The channels 409 are parallel. The channels 409 are formed in an upper surface 407 of the body 402. The upper surface 407 comprises a recess 407a.

[0131] The cover mechanism 400 includes a cover member 410 disposed to cover the opening 404. The cover member 410 is in slidable contact with the body 402. The cover member 410 is planar. The cover member 410 includes a blade portion 412 disposed to cover the opening. An arm portion 414 extends from the blade portion 410.

[0132] The cover member 410 includes a guide element arrangement 411. The guide element arrangement 411 and the guide 408 define a guide arrangement 413. The guide element arrangement includes three guide elements 415. The guide elements 415 are aligned with and received in the guide channels 409, respectively. The guide elements 415 include a lower pin and a pair of rails (not shown). The lower pin is provided on the arm portion 414. The rails are provided on the blade portion 412. The guide elements 415 are slidably engaged with the guide 408 of the body 402. That is, the lower pin and the rails are each received in the guide channels 409 of the body 402.

[0133] The cover member 410 includes a cam element 418. The cam element 418 is disposed on an opposite side of the cover member 410 from the guide element 415. The cam element 418 includes a pin 419. The pin 419 is disposed on the arm portion 414. The pin 419 upstands from the cover member 410. The pin 419 extends in the longitudinal axial direction.

[0134] The cover mechanism 400 comprises an actuating member 420. The actuating member 420 is arranged to rotate on the body 402 to actuate the cover member 410. The axis of rotation of the actuating member 420 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the chamber 105. The actuating member 420 comprises a bore 422. The bore 422 is aligned with the opening 404. The bore 422 is arranged to receive at least a portion of the article 300 containing an aerosol-generating material. The actuating member 420 comprises an outer actuating component 424 and an inner actuating component 426. The bore 422 is provided in both the outer actuating component 424 and the inner actuating component 426. The actuating member 420 defines a cap.

[0135] The cover member 410 is received in a recess 407a in the body 402. The recess 407a allows the cover member 410 to be easily sandwiched between the body 402 and the actuation member 420.

[0136] The outer actuating component 424 has an exposed surface. The outer actuating component 424 slidably engages the body 402. The outer actuating component 424 comprises a housing portion 428. The housing portion 428 is cylindrical. The housing portion 428 forms a peripheral wall. The housing portion 428 covers a portion of the body 402. That is, a portion of the body 402 extends into the housing portion 428. The housing portion 428 comprises a slot 450. The slot 450 is arranged to accommodate the cover member 410 in the relatively open position. The housing portion 428 surrounds a portion of the cover mechanism 400. The actuating member 420 has an upper wall 429. The hole 422 is in the upper wall 429. The upper wall 429 is annular.

[0137] The inner operating component 426 defines an elongated cam surface 432. The elongated cam surface 432 is linear. The elongated cam surface 432 is defined by a cam slot 434. The inner operating component 426 is attached to the outer operating component 424. The inner operating component 426 is rotationally fixed relative to the outer operating component 424. As will be described below, in some embodiments, the outer operating component 424 and the inner operating component 426 are combined as a single, integral component. The cam slot 434 is a blind slot. That is, the cam slot 434 is closed at each end. In some embodiments, these closed ends function as travel limiters. The cam element 418 of the cover member 410 is received in the cam slot 434. The cam element 418 and the cam slot 434 together define a cam mechanism 435.

[0138] The cam slot 434 is linear. In some embodiments, the cam slot is arcuate such that the cam surface is arcuate.

[0139] The inner working component 426 and the outer working component 424 are formed from different materials. The inner working component 426 is formed from a material that is relatively resistant to wear. The inner working component 426 is formed from a material that is relatively frictionless. The inner working component 426 is resilient. This advantageously reduces wear on the inner working component, reduces friction in the cover mechanism, and allows freedom in choosing the material of the outer working component 424 to provide suitable properties for the exterior surface of the aerosol delivery device.

[0140] The inner working component 426 is an annular disk. The inner working component 426 includes a notch 436. The outer working component 424 includes a protrusion (not shown) that is received in the notch 436 to rotationally secure the inner working component 426 relative to the outer working component 424. In this embodiment, the inner working component 426 includes three notches 436 and the outer working component includes three protrusions that are respectively received in the three notches 436. The number of notches may vary. The inner working component 426 includes a tab 438. The outer working component 424 includes a recess (not shown) that is positioned to receive the tab 438. The tabs 438 and recesses retain the inner working component 426 within the outer working component 424. In this embodiment, the outer working component 424 includes three recesses and the inner working component 426 includes three tabs 438 that are respectively received in the three recesses.

[0141] The inner working component 426 includes a cutout 440. The cutout 440 allows the inner working component 426 to be deformed for insertion into the outer working component 424 during assembly. The cutout 440 extends from an edge of the bore 422 to an outer edge of the inner working component 426. In some embodiments, the inner working component is omitted and the features of the inner working component are formed in the outer working component.

[0142] The body 402 includes an actuation member mount 442. The outer actuation component 424 is rotatably engaged to the actuation member mount 442. The actuation member mount 442 provides a constraint on the linear movement of the actuation member 420 relative to the body. The actuation member 420 includes a locating feature (not shown) in engagement with the actuation member mount 442. The locating feature is a ridge or other suitable feature that extends circumferentially around an inner surface of the actuation member 420.

[0143] The actuating member mount 442 comprises clips. The clips are resilient. In this embodiment, the actuating member mount 442 comprises three clips. The body 402 comprises a recess 444 behind the clips. In this embodiment, the body 402 comprises a recess 444 behind each clip. The recesses 444 provide clearance to accommodate radially inward deflection of the clips, thereby allowing for a more compact construction.

[0144] The cover member 410 is disposed between the body 402 and the actuating member 420. The cover member 410 is in sliding contact with the body 402. The cover member 410 is in sliding contact with the actuating member 420. Such an arrangement helps prevent the ingress of debris.

[0145] By rotating the actuating member 420 relative to the body 402, the cover member 410 moves between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. The cover mechanism is configured to be selectively operated between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position, which positions are relative to one another. In the relatively open position, at least a portion of the article 300 is permitted to pass through the opening 404. In the relatively closed position, at least a portion of the article 300 is prevented from being able to pass through the opening 404.

[0146] The term relatively open position will be understood to mean any position in which at least a portion of the article 300 is allowed to pass through the opening, i.e., any position including a fully open position and intermediate positions in which there is sufficient space left to insert a portion of the article 300. The term relatively closed position will be understood to mean any position in which a portion of the article 300 is prevented from being allowed to pass through the opening 404, i.e., any position including a fully closed position and intermediate positions in which there is not enough space for the article 300 to pass through the opening. In this embodiment, rotating the actuating member 420 relative to the body 402 moves the cover member 410 to or from the fully closed position. The term fully closed position will be understood to mean that the cover member 410 completely closes the opening 404. In this specification, the terms "open" and "closed" as applied to features of the cover mechanism are described in relation to each other.

[0147] The cover member 410 is arranged to move linearly relative to the body 402. The cover member 410 is arranged to move in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the actuating member 420. The axis of rotation of the actuating member 420 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the chamber. The axis of rotation of the actuating member 420 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the chamber. When the actuating member 420 is rotated by a user, the elongated cam surface 432 pushes against the cam element 418, causing the cover member 410 to move. As the cover member 410 moves, the guide element 415 is guided by the guide 408, i.e., the lower pin and rail slide along the channel 409.

[0148] The cover member 410 is held in the channel 409 as it is sandwiched between the body 402 and the actuating member 420. This guides the cover member 410 in a linear path. The cover member 410 is moved between an open position as shown in FIG. 4 and a closed position as shown in FIG. 5. By rotating the actuating member 420 in a clockwise direction, the cover member 410 moves toward the relatively closed position. By rotating the actuating member 420 in a counterclockwise direction, the cover member 410 moves toward the relatively open position. In other embodiments, these directions may be reversed. In the open position, the cover member 410 extends through the slot 450. In some embodiments, the slot 450 is omitted.

[0149] In some embodiments, the cover mechanism 400 comprises a lubricant.

[0150] 5-9 show another cover mechanism 500 for an aerosol delivery device in closed and open positions. Cover mechanism 500 may be used with aerosol delivery device 100 of Figures 1 and 2 and will be described with reference to that device. In some embodiments, cover mechanism 500 is used with other device configurations.

[0151] 5 and 6 show perspective views of the cover mechanism in the closed and open positions, respectively. The cover mechanism 500 comprises a body 502. The body 502 is part of the body 101 of the aerosol delivery device 100. The body 502 is a rigid member. The body 502 is secured to the housing 102 of the aerosol delivery device by fasteners 505.

[0152] The fastener 505 includes a resilient clip 506 for securing the body to the housing 102. The fastener 505 further includes a rotation limiting feature (not shown) for preventing the body 502 from rotating relative to the housing 102. In other embodiments, the body 502 may be formed integrally with the housing 102 of the aerosol delivery device 100. The body 502 includes an opening 504. The opening 504 is dimensioned to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-generating material, such as the article 300.

[0153] The cover mechanism 500 comprises an actuating member 520. The actuating member 520 is arranged to rotate on the body 502. An axis of rotation of the actuating member 520 is coaxial with a longitudinal axis of the chamber 105. The actuating member 520 comprises a bore 522. The bore 522 is aligned with the opening 504. The bore 522 is arranged to receive at least a portion of the article 300. The actuating member 520 defines a cap. The actuating member 520 is slidably engaged with the body 502.

[0154] The actuating member 520 comprises a housing portion 528. The housing portion 528 is cylindrical. The housing portion 528 forms a peripheral wall. The housing portion 528 covers a portion of the body 502. That is, a portion of the body 502 extends into the housing portion 528. The housing portion 528 surrounds a portion of the cover mechanism 500. The actuating member 520 comprises a grip formation 530. The grip formation 530 is a protrusion on the exposed surface of the actuating member 520. The grip formation 530 is notched or ribbed. In some embodiments, the grip formation is a friction surface. The actuating member 520 has an upper wall 529. The hole 522 is in the upper wall 529. The upper wall 529 is annular.

[0155] 7 and 8 show perspective views of the cover mechanism with the actuating member 520 removed, in the closed and open positions, respectively.

[0156] The body 502 comprises a guide 508. The guide 508 comprises a channel 509. In this embodiment, the guide 508 comprises two channels 509. The number of channels may vary. The channels 509 are straight. The channels 509 are parallel. The channels 509 are formed in an upper surface 507 of the body 502. The upper surface 507 includes a recess 507a. The opening 504 is disposed between the channels 509.

[0157] The cover mechanism 500 includes a first cover member 510 and a second cover member 510 disposed over the opening 504. For simplicity, the description will proceed with reference to a single cover member 510, with it being understood that the other cover members 510 are identical. The cover members 510 are actuated by an actuation member 520. The cover members 510 slidably contact the body 502. The cover members 510 are planar. The cover members 510 include a blade portion 512 disposed over the opening. A perimeter portion 514 extends from the blade portion 512 of the cover members 510.

[0158] The cover member 510 includes a guide element arrangement. The guide element arrangement and the guide 508 define a guide arrangement. The guide element arrangement includes two guide elements. The guide elements are aligned with and received in the guide channels 509, respectively. The guide elements include a pair of rails. The rails of the guide elements are provided on a peripheral portion 514 of the cover member 510. The guide elements are slidably engaged with the guide 508 of the body 502. That is, the rails are received in the guide channels 509 of the body 502, respectively.

[0159] The cover member 510 includes a cam element 518. The cam element 518 is disposed on the cover member 510 opposite the guide element. The cam element 518 includes a pin 519. The pin 519 is disposed on the peripheral portion 514. The pin 519 stands upright from the cover member 510. The pin 519 extends in the longitudinal axial direction.

[0160] The cover member 510 is received in a recess 507a in the main body 501. The recess 507a allows the cover member 510 to be easily sandwiched between the main body 502 and the actuating member 520.

[0161] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the actuating member 520 from below.

[0162] The actuating member 520 defines a pair of elongated cam surfaces 532. The elongated cam surfaces 532 are arcuate. Each elongated cam surface 532 is defined by a cam slot 534. The cam slots 534 are blind slots. That is, the cam slots 534 are closed at each end. In some embodiments, these closed ends act as travel limiters. A cam element 518 on each cover member 510 is received in a respective cam slot 534. The cam element 518 and the cam slot 534 together define a cam mechanism.

[0163] The cam slot 534 is arcuate. In some embodiments, the cam slot is arcuate such that the cam surface is arcuate. In some embodiments, the cam slot 534 is straight.

[0164] The body 502 comprises an actuating member mount 542 (see FIG. 6 ). The actuating member 520 is rotatably engaged with the actuating member mount 542. The actuating member mount 542 provides a constraint on the linear movement of the actuating member 520 relative to the body. The actuating member 520 comprises a locating feature 548 in engagement with the actuating member mount 542. The locating feature 548 is a recess in the actuating member 520. The recess is disposed on an inner surface of the housing portion 528. The recess is circumferential. That is, the recess extends substantially the entire circumference of the actuating member 520. The actuating member mount 542 comprises a clip. The clip is resilient. In this embodiment, the actuating member mount 542 comprises three clips. The body 502 comprises a recess 544 behind the clip. In this embodiment, the body 502 comprises a recess 544 behind each clip. Recesses 544 provide clearance to accommodate radially inward deflection of the clips, thereby allowing for a compact construction.

[0165] The cover member 510 is disposed between the body 502 and the actuating member 520. The cover member 510 is in sliding contact with the body 502. The cover member 510 is in sliding contact with the actuating member 520. Such an arrangement helps prevent the ingress of debris.

[0166] By rotating the actuating member 520 relative to the body 502, the cover member 510 moves between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. The relatively open position allows at least a portion of the article 300 to pass through the opening 504. The relatively closed position prevents a portion of the article 300 from being able to pass through the opening 504.

[0167] The term relatively open position will be understood to mean any position in which at least a portion of the article 300 is allowed to pass through the opening, i.e. any position including a fully open position and intermediate positions in which there is enough space left to insert a portion of the article 300. The term relatively closed position will be understood to mean any position in which a portion of the article 300 is prevented from being allowed to pass through the opening 504, i.e. any position including a fully closed position and intermediate positions in which there is not enough space for the article 300 to pass through the opening. In this embodiment, by rotating the actuating member 520 relative to the body 502, the cover member moves to or from the fully closed position. The term fully closed position will be understood to mean that the cover member 510 completely closes the opening 504.

[0168] The cover member 510 is arranged to move linearly relative to the body 502. The cover member 510 is arranged to move in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the actuating member 520. The axis of rotation of the actuating member 520 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the chamber. The axis of rotation of the actuating member 520 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the chamber. When the actuating member 520 is rotated by a user, the elongated cam surface 532 pushes against the cam element 518, causing the cover member 510 to move. As the cover member 510 moves, the guide element is guided by the guide 508, i.e. the rail slides along the channel 509.

[0169] These rails are held in the channel 509 as the cover member 510 is sandwiched between the body 502 and the actuating member 520. This guides the cover member 510 in a linear path. The cover member 510 is moved between an open position as shown in FIG. 4 and a closed position as shown in FIG. 5. Rotating the actuating member 520 in a clockwise direction moves the cover member 510 toward the relatively closed position. Rotating the actuating member 520 in a counterclockwise direction moves the cover member 510 toward the relatively open position. In other embodiments, these directions may be reversed.

[0170] In some embodiments, the cover mechanism 500 comprises a lubricant.

[0171] 10 illustrates a perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of the retention mechanism 550 of the cover mechanism 500. The retention mechanism 550 is arranged to releasably retain the actuation member 520 in each of the open and closed positions. In some embodiments, the retention mechanism 550 is arranged to be actuated in only one of the open and closed positions.

[0172] The actuating member 520 has an inner surface 552. The inner surface is defined by a housing portion 528. The housing portion 528 defines a peripheral wall of the actuating member 520. The inner surface 552 is cylindrical. The retention mechanism 550 has an open position recess 560 and a closed position recess 562. The recesses 560, 562 are defined by the inner surface 552. The open position recess 560 has a first sloped portion 564 and a second sloped portion 566. The first sloped portion 564 and the second sloped portion 566 define sides of the open position recess 560. The closed position recess 562 has a first sloped portion 568 and a second sloped portion 570. The first sloped portion 568 and the second sloped portion 570 define sides of the closed position recess 562.

[0173] In some embodiments, each recess 560, 562 includes only a single ramp, with the other side of the recess being defined, for example, by a vertical stop.

[0174] A cylindrical portion 552 a of the inner surface 552 extends between a first sloped portion of the open position recess 560 and a first sloped portion of the closed position recess 562 .

[0175] The retention mechanism 550 includes a protruding element 556. The protruding element 556 is disposed to protrude into an open position recess 560 in the open position. The protruding element 556 is disposed to protrude into a closed position recess 562 in the closed position.

[0176] The protruding elements 556 are configured for radial displacement. In some embodiments, the protruding elements are arranged for radial deformation. The protruding elements 556 are biased radially outward. Thus, the retention mechanism 550 is biased to the retained state when the actuating member 520 is moved to the open position. Thus, the retention mechanism 550 is biased to the retained state when the actuating member 520 is moved to the closed position.

[0177] The protruding element 556 is joined to the body 502. The protruding element 556 is partially received in a bore in the body 502. The protruding element 556 is disposed to slide along the inner surface 552.

[0178] The protruding element 556 is a ball spring arrangement. That is, the protruding element 556 includes a coil spring, a spherical member, and a stopper for retaining the spherical member. The spherical member is formed from nickel-plated steel. Other suitable materials may be used. In another embodiment, the protruding element 556 is a resilient member. The protruding element 556 includes a contact surface. The contact surface is curved. The contact surface is formed from a material that has a relatively low coefficient of friction with the inner surface 552.

[0179] When the protruding element 556 protrudes into the open position recess 560 or the closed position recess 562, the cover mechanism 500 is held in the open or closed position, respectively. It will be understood that the term held by is intended to mean that a certain level of force must be applied to the cover mechanism 500 to move it away from the open or closed position, such that the cover mechanism 500 is not accidentally moved from the open or closed position. In this embodiment, the ends of the cam slots 534 provide motion limiting stops, thereby preventing the cover mechanism 500 from moving beyond the open or closed position. That is, the cover mechanism 500 is only movable between the open and closed positions.

[0180] Although the operation of the retention mechanism 550 is described with respect to movement from an open position to a closed position, it will be understood that the operation is the same for movement from a closed position to an open position.

[0181] When the cover mechanism 500 is in the open position, the protruding element 556 is received in the open position recess 560. A force applied to the cover mechanism 500 in a counterclockwise direction is resisted by the end of the cam slot 534, which acts as a motion limiting stop. When a small force is applied to the cover mechanism 500 in a clockwise direction, such as may result from unintentional contact with the actuating member 520, the force is resisted by the bias of the protruding element 556 against the first ramp 564. Thus, the cover mechanism 500 is held in the open position.

[0182] When a greater amount of force is applied to the cover mechanism in a clockwise direction, such as by a user intentionally twisting the actuation member 520, the protruding element 556 slides along the first ramp 564 and moves radially inward against the bias. The spring of the ball spring arrangement is compressed. As the actuation member 520 is rotated, the protruding element 556 moves over the first ramp 564 and into contact with the cylindrical portion 552a of the inner surface 552. Thus, the retention mechanism 550 can be released by a user moving the actuation mechanism 500 out of the closed position.

[0183] Thus, the retention mechanism 550 is biased to the open position over a portion of the range of motion of the retention mechanism 550 adjacent the open position. The retention mechanism 550 is biased to the open position over 10% of the range of motion of the retention mechanism 550 adjacent the open position. In some embodiments, the retention mechanism 550 is biased to the open position over less than 20%, such as 15%, 5%, or 1% of the range of motion of the retention mechanism 550 adjacent the open position. Thus, the cover mechanism 500 returns to the open position after a small deflection, reducing the likelihood of the cover mechanism 500 being unintentionally open or partially open.

[0184] When the protruding element 556 moves along the cylindrical portion 552a, the protruding element 556 does not move radially because the radius of the cylindrical portion 552a is constant. Thus, the cover mechanism 500 is not biased over a portion of the range of movement of the cover mechanism 500 between the open position and the closed position. The cover mechanism 500 is not biased over 80% of the range of movement of the cover mechanism 500 between the open position and the closed position. In some embodiments, the cover mechanism 500 is not biased over 95% to 50% of the range of movement of the cover mechanism 500 between the open position and the closed position.

[0185] When the protruding element 556 reaches the first ramp 568 of the closed position recess 562, the protruding element 556 moves radially outward as it passes the first ramp 568, decompressing the spring. Due to the outward biasing force applied to the protruding element 556 by the spring, the protruding element 556 continues to move along the first ramp 568 without further force being applied by the user. Thus, the retention mechanism 550 is arranged to automatically engage when the actuation member 520 is moved to the closed position. Thus, the retention mechanism 550 is biased to the closed position over a portion of the range of motion of the retention mechanism 550 adjacent the closed position. The retention mechanism 550 is biased to the closed position over 10% of the range of motion of the retention mechanism 550 adjacent the closed position. In an embodiment, the retention mechanism 550 is biased to the closed position over less than 20%, for example 15%, 5%, or 1% of the range of motion of the retention mechanism 550 adjacent the closed position.

[0186] The protruding element 556 contacts the ramps 564, 566 of the recesses 560, 562 over 20% of the range of motion of the protruding element 556. In some embodiments, the protruding element contacts these ramps of these recesses over less than 20%, such as 15%, 10%, 5%, or less than 5% of the range of motion of the protruding element.

[0187] The operation of the cover mechanism 500 has been described with respect to one protruding element 556 and two recesses 560 and 562. However, the cover mechanism 500 of FIGS. 5-10 includes two protruding elements 556, two open position recesses 560, and two closed position recesses 562. The operation of the second protruding element 556, the open position recess 560, and the closed position recess 562 is the same as that described above. In some embodiments, a different number of protruding elements, open position recesses, and closed position recesses are used. In some embodiments, a single recess may operate as a closed position recess for one protruding element and as an open position recess for another protruding element. That is, the ratio of recesses to protruding elements may be different than 2 to 1.

[0188] 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 representative samples of embodiments and are not intended to be comprehensive 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 should be understood that other embodiments may be used 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. Furthermore, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. A body having an opening; a chamber of the body arranged to receive at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol generating material through the opening; A cover mechanism comprising: a cover member disposed to selectively at least partially cover the opening; and an actuating member arranged to rotate on said body for actuating said cover member A cover mechanism including: Equipped with by rotating the actuating member relative to the body, the cover member moves between a relative open position that allows the at least a portion of an article to pass through the opening and a relative closed position that prevents the at least a portion of an article from being able to pass through the opening. Aerosol delivery device.

2. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1 , wherein the cover member is arranged for linear movement relative to the body.

3. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the body comprises a guide arranged to slidably engage the cover member.

4. The aerosol delivery device of claim 3 , wherein the cover member comprises a guide element arranged to engage the guide of the body.

5. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the actuation member comprises a hole aligned with the opening arranged to receive at least a portion of an article.

6. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cover member is disposed between the body and the actuation member.

7. An aerosol delivery device according to any preceding claim, wherein the cover member is arranged to move in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the actuation member.

8. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cover mechanism comprises a cam arrangement.

9. The aerosol delivery device of claim 8 , wherein the cam formation comprises an elongated cam surface and a cam element engaged by the elongated cam surface.

10. 10. The aerosol delivery device of claim 9, wherein the actuating member defines an outer actuating component defining an exposed surface and an inner actuating component defining the elongated cam surface.

11. a retention mechanism arranged to releasably retain the actuation member in at least one of the relatively open position and the relatively closed position; The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising:

12. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the cover member is in sliding contact with the body and the actuation member.

13. 13. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the cover member is a first cover member and the cover mechanism comprises a second cover member arranged to partially close the opening.

14. The aerosol delivery device of claim 13 , wherein in the relatively closed position, the first cover member and the second cover member together completely close the opening.

15. 1. A cover mechanism for an aerosol delivery device, comprising: a body having an opening positioned to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-forming material; a cover member disposed to selectively at least partially cover the opening; an actuating member arranged to rotate on the body for actuating the cover member; Including, Rotating the actuating member relative to the body moves the cover member between a relatively open position that allows the at least a portion of an article to pass through the opening and a relatively closed position that prevents the at least a portion of an article from being able to pass through the opening. Cover mechanism.

16. The main body, a chamber in the body arranged to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-forming material, the body having an opening communicating with the chamber; A cover mechanism comprising: a cover member disposed to selectively at least partially cover said opening; an actuating member arranged to rotate on the body for actuating the cover member, wherein rotation of the actuating member relative to the body moves the cover member between a relatively open position that allows the at least a portion of an article to pass through the opening and a relatively closed position that prevents the at least a portion of an article from being able to pass through the opening; and a retention mechanism arranged to releasably retain the actuation member in at least one of the relatively open position and the relatively closed position; A cover mechanism including: An aerosol delivery device comprising:

17. 17. The aerosol delivery device of claim 16, wherein the retention mechanism is biased to a retention state when the actuation member is moved to the at least one of the relatively open position and the relatively closed position.

18. 18. The aerosol delivery device of claim 16 or 17, wherein the retaining mechanism comprises a recess and a protruding element arranged to protrude into the recess in at least one of the relatively open position and the relatively closed position.

19. 20. The aerosol delivery device of claim 18, wherein the recess comprises a ramp, the protruding element being arranged to slide along the ramp when entering or exiting the recess.

20. 20. The aerosol delivery device of claim 19, wherein the protruding element contacts the ramp over less than 20% of the range of movement between the relatively open and relatively closed positions.

21. The aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein the protruding elements are arranged to be biased radially outwardly.

22. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein the protruding element is a ball-spring arrangement.

23. the retention mechanism is a first retention mechanism, the aerosol delivery device further comprising a second retention mechanism arranged to releasably retain the actuation member in the other of the relatively open position and the relatively closed position.

23. The aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 16 to 22.

24. 1. A cover mechanism for an aerosol delivery device, comprising: a body having an opening positioned to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-forming material; a cover member disposed to selectively at least partially cover the opening; an actuating member arranged to rotate on the body for actuating the cover member, wherein rotation of the actuating member relative to the body causes the cover member to move between a relatively open position that allows the at least a portion of an article to pass through the opening and a relatively closed position that prevents the at least a portion of an article from being able to pass through the opening; a retention mechanism arranged to releasably retain the actuation member in at least one of the relatively open position and the relatively closed position; A cover mechanism comprising:

25. An aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and claims 16 to 23; an article comprising an aerosol-forming material; An aerosol delivery system comprising:

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