Aerosol Delivery Device

Abstract

An aerosol delivery device is disclosed comprising a body, a chamber in the body arranged to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-generating material, and a cover mechanism (500). The cover mechanism comprises a cover member (510) movable between a relative open position that allows at least a portion of the article to pass into the chamber and a relative closed position that is constrained to not allow at least a portion of the article to pass into the chamber, and a channel (508) arranged to guide movement of the cover member, the channel (508) having an open end.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol delivery device.The present invention further relates to an aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol delivery device and an article including an aerosol-generating material, and further to a cover mechanism for the aerosol delivery device. [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, a chamber in the body arranged to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-generating material, a cover mechanism comprising a cover member movable between a relatively open position that allows at least a portion of the article to pass into the chamber and a relatively closed position that is constrained to not allow at least a portion of the article to pass into the chamber, and a channel arranged to guide movement of the cover member, the channel having an open end.

[0004] The open end of the channel may be in communication with the chamber.

[0005] The open end of the channel may communicate with the outer side of the body.

[0006] The aerosol delivery device may include a stopper at the open end of the channel.

[0007] The stopper may comprise a lip or protrusion which may be arranged to limit the range of movement of the cover member.

[0008] An edge of the stopper may at least partially define the open end.

[0009] The channel may be a groove. The channel may be located in the body. The channel may be located in an end surface of the body.

[0010] The channel may be straight.The cover member may include a guide element received in the channel.

[0011] The guide element may comprise at least one of a rib and a pin.

[0012] The width of the guide element may correspond substantially to the width of the channel.

[0013] The height of the guide element received in the channel may correspond substantially to the depth of the channel.

[0014] The profile of the guide element may correspond to the profile of the channel.

[0015] The guide element may be slidable in the channel.

[0016] The guide element may be movable at least proximally of the open end.

[0017] The channel may have a first open end and a second open end.

[0018] A first open end of the channel may be in communication with the chamber. A second open end of the channel may be in communication with a peripheral edge of the body.

[0019] A lower side of the cover member may be in sliding contact with the body, the sliding contact being arranged to at least partially provide a seal against the ingress of debris between the cover member and the body.

[0020] The channel may be a first channel and the body may include a second channel.

[0021] The guide element may be a first guide element and the cover member may be provided with a second guide element.

[0022] The aerosol delivery device may include an upright portion on the body.

[0023] The uprights may be aligned with the channels.

[0024] The uprights may be parallel to the channel.

[0025] The height of the uprights may correspond substantially to the thickness of the cover member.

[0026] The uprights may be positioned to at least partially confine debris to an area of ​​the housing including the opening.

[0027] The edge of the cover member may move adjacent the upright portion.

[0028] The uprights may be arranged to slidably contact sides of the cover member.

[0029] The cover mechanism may include an actuating member arranged to rotate on the body to actuate the cover member. By rotating the actuating member relative to the body, the cover member may be moved between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

[0030] By rotating the actuation member relative to the body, the cover member may be moved between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

[0031] The cover member may be arranged to move in a direction perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the actuation member.

[0032] The axis of rotation of the actuating member may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the chamber.

[0033] The axis of rotation of the actuating member may be coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the chamber.

[0034] The or each cover member may be arranged for linear movement relative to the body.

[0035] The actuation member may comprise a housing portion covering at least a portion of the body.

[0036] The housing portion may include a peripheral wall.

[0037] The open end of the channel may be spaced from the surrounding wall.

[0038] At least a portion of the body may extend into the housing portion.

[0039] The body may include a recess in a peripheral side of the body.

[0040] The channel may be in communication with the recess.

[0041] The body may include an actuation member mount.

[0042] The actuation member may be rotatably engaged with the actuation member mount.

[0043] The actuation member mount may provide a constraint on the linear movement of the actuation member relative to the body.

[0044] The actuation member may include a locating feature in engagement with the actuation member mount.

[0045] The actuation member mount may comprise a clip.

[0046] The clip may be elastic.

[0047] The actuation member mount may extend at least partially into the recess.

[0048] The actuation member mount may be spaced from the open end.

[0049] The actuation member may at least partially surround the cover mechanism.

[0050] The chamber may include an opening through which at least a portion of the article may be inserted into the chamber.

[0051] The channel may be in communication with the opening.

[0052] The actuation member may include a hole aligned with the aperture positioned to receive at least a portion of the article.

[0053] The or each cover member may be disposed between the body and the actuation member.

[0054] An upper side of the cover member may be in sliding contact with the actuation member.

[0055] The cover mechanism may include a cam formation.

[0056] The cam formation may include an elongated cam surface and a cam element engaged by the elongated cam surface.

[0057] The elongated cam surface may be straight.

[0058] The elongated cam surface may be arcuate.

[0059] The cam formation may include a cam slot defining an elongated cam surface.

[0060] The cam slot may be a blind slot.

[0061] The cam element may be a pin.The actuating member may define an elongated cam surface.

[0062] The cover mechanism may include a gear arrangement.

[0063] The cover member may be a first cover member and the cover mechanism may comprise a second cover member arranged to partially close the opening. By rotating the actuation member relative to the body, the second cover member may move between a relatively open position that may allow at least a portion of an article to pass through the opening and a relatively closed position that may prevent at least a portion of an article from being able to pass through the opening.

[0064] The or each cover member may be a blade.

[0065] In the relatively closed position, the first cover member and the second cover member may together completely close the opening.

[0066] 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.

[0067] 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 movable between a relative open position that allows at least a portion of the article to pass into the chamber and a relative closed position that is constrained to not allow at least a portion of the article to pass into the chamber, and a channel arranged to guide movement of the cover member, the channel having an open end.

[0068] 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, and a cover mechanism comprising a cover member movable between a relatively open position that allows at least a portion of the article to pass into the chamber and a relatively closed position that is constrained to not allow at least a portion of the article to pass into the chamber.

[0069] 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, and a cover member movable between a relative open position that allows at least a portion of the article to pass into the chamber and a relative closed position that is constrained to not allow at least a portion of the article to pass into the chamber.

[0070] 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]

[0071] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic front view of an 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 an actuating member of the cover mechanism of FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] 4 is a plan sectional view of a portion of the holding mechanism of the cover mechanism of FIG. 3. [Figure 6] 2 is a perspective view of a portion of an alternative cover mechanism for the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0072] 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."

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, such as a powered non-flammable aerosol delivery system.

[0078] 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.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] The aerosol generator 150 defines a longitudinal axis X.

[0091] 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] The other end of the device furthest from the opening 103 may be known as the distal end 106 of the 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 the device 100. The terms proximal and distal as applied to features of the 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.

[0096] 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.

[0097] An air flow passage 180 extends through the main body 101. The air flow passage 180 extends to an opening 190. The opening 190 functions as an air inlet.

[0098] 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.

[0099] 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.

[0100] 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.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] In some embodiments, the heating assembly defines a receptacle, and the heating element stands upright in the receptacle.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a cover mechanism 500 for an aerosol delivery device. The cover mechanism 500 may be used with the aerosol delivery device 100 of Figures 1 and 2 and will be described with reference to that device. In some embodiments, the cover mechanism 500 is used with other device components.

[0110] The cover mechanism 500 comprises a body 502, first and second cover members 510, and an actuation member 520. The body 502 is part of the main body 101 of the aerosol delivery device 100. The body 502 is a rigid member. The body is fixed to the housing 102. The body 502 is fixed to the housing 102 by a fastener 505. The fastener 505 includes an elastic clip 506 for fastening the body 502 to the housing 102. The fastener 505 further includes a position limiting protrusion 546 for preventing the body 502 from rotating relative to the housing 102. In other embodiments, the body 502 may be integrally formed with the housing 102. The body 502 includes an opening 504. The opening 504 defines the opening 103 of the device. The opening 504 communicates with the chamber 105. Opening 504 is sized to receive at least a portion of an article that includes an aerosol-forming material, such as article 300.

[0111] The body 502 comprises a guide 508. The guide 508 is arranged to guide the movement of the cover member 510. The guide 508 comprises a channel 509. In this embodiment, the guide comprises two channels 509. The channels 509 are parallel. The channels 509 are identical. In other embodiments, more or fewer channels may be provided. For example, a single channel may be provided. In other embodiments, the channels may be identical or different. The description will proceed with reference to the single channel 509, but it will be understood that the other channels 509 of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 are identical. The features of the channel 509 described may apply to one or more further channels.

[0112] The channels 509 are linear. The channels 509 are formed in an upper surface 507 of the body 502. The upper surface 507 includes a recess 507a. The channels 509 are separated by openings 504. That is, each channel 509 comprises a first channel portion 509a and a second channel portion 509b, and the opening 504 is disposed between the first channel portion 509a and the second channel portion 509b.

[0113] The cover mechanism 500 includes a first cover member 510 and a second cover member 510 disposed to cover the opening 504. Although the cover members are described with reference to one cover member, it will be understood that in this embodiment, the cover members are similar. In other embodiments, the cover members may be different. The cover member 510 is planar. The cover member 510 slidably contacts the body 502.

[0114] A lower side of the cover member 510 is in sliding contact with the body 502 to at least partially seal against the ingress of debris between the cover member 510 and the body. The cover member 510 includes a blade portion 512 disposed over the opening. A perimeter portion 514 extends from the blade portion 512.

[0115] The cover member 510 includes a guide element arrangement 511. The guide element arrangement 511 and the guide 508 define a guide arrangement 513. The guide element arrangement 511 includes two guide elements 515. Each of the guide elements 515 aligns with and is received in a channel 509. The guide elements 515 include a pair of rails. The number of rails may vary. The guide elements 515 may be pins or other protrusions or other features. The guide elements 515 are provided on a lower side of the cover member 510. In some embodiments, the guide elements 515 are provided on the blade portion 512, or both the blade portion 512 and the surrounding portion 514, or only the surrounding portion 514. The guide elements 515 are slidably engaged with the guide 508 of the body 502. The guide elements 515 are each received in a channel 509 of the body 502. A profile of each guide element 515 may correspond to a profile of each channel 509. A width of the rails may substantially correspond to a width of the channels 509. A height of the rails may substantially correspond to a depth of the channels 509. The rails are slidable in the channels 509.

[0116] The channel 509 acts as a track along which the corresponding guide element passes. The channel 509 defines a path.

[0117] The guide element 515 is movable in the channel 509 between a relatively open position that allows at least a portion of the article to enter the chamber and a relatively closed position that constrains at least a portion of the article from entering the chamber.

[0118] During use, residues may accumulate in the channels. The residues may include condensation from the article 300, used or unused aerosol generating material, or debris such as dust or pocket lint from outside the aerosol delivery device. Such residues may impede or even block the movement of the guide elements in the channels. For example, the residues may be pushed and compressed by the guide elements to the end of the channel. This may limit the range of movement of the guide elements and, consequently, the cover members. In some cases, this may prevent the cover members from entering a fully closed position, leaving gaps between the cover members, or may prevent the cover members from entering a fully open position, i.e., it may no longer be possible to insert the article 300 into the chamber 105.

[0119] The channel 508 has a first open end 560 and a second open end 562. In some embodiments, the channel 508 may have a single open end. The first open end 560 communicates with the chamber 105. That is, the first open end 560 opens into the opening 504 of the body 502. The second open end 562 communicates with the peripheral edge of the body 502. The channel extends from the peripheral edge of the body to the opening 504. The peripheral edge of the body is the outer edge of the body. The body can be considered to have a generally annular shape, with an outer edge referred to as the peripheral edge, and an inner edge that defines the opening 104.

[0120] The rail is movable at least proximally to the first open end 560. The rail is movable at least proximally to the second open end 562.

[0121] The open ends 560, 562 allow residue to exit the channel. Residue accumulated in the channel can be pushed out of the open ends 560, 562 by the movement of the rails. Residue can be pushed out of the first open end 560 into the chamber 105. Alternatively or additionally, residue can be pushed out of the second open end 562. Typically, a closing mechanism for an aerosol delivery device is provided to restrict the ingress of debris into the mechanism. The inventors have recognized that by using the present configuration, debris in the mechanism can be minimized without the need for such a restriction. Thus, the cover mechanism 500 is self-cleaning.

[0122] The body includes a stopper 564 at the second open end 562. In some embodiments, the second open end is the only open end. The stopper 564 includes a lip or protrusion positioned to limit the range of motion of the cover member 510. An edge of the stopper 564 at least partially defines the open end 562. The stopper 564 is integrally formed with the body 502. In some embodiments, the stopper 564 is a separate component joined to the body 502.

[0123] An actuation member 520 is capable of closing the open side of the channel.

[0124] The cover member 510 includes a cam element 518. The cam element 518 is disposed on the cover member 510 opposite the guide element 515. The cam element 518 includes a pin 519. The pin 519 is disposed on the peripheral portion 514. The pin 519 upstands from the cover member 510. The pin 519 extends in the longitudinal axial direction.

[0125] The cover mechanism 500 comprises an actuating member 520. The actuating member 520 is shown in more detail in FIG. 4. The actuating member 520 is arranged to rotate on the body 502. The axis of rotation of the actuating member 520 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the chamber 105. The actuating member 520 comprises a hole 522. The hole 522 is aligned with the opening 504. The hole 522 is arranged to receive at least a portion of the article 300 containing the aerosol-generating material. The actuating member 520 slidably engages the body 502. The actuating member 520 defines a cap. The actuating member 520 has an upper wall 529. The hole 522 is located in the upper wall 529. The upper wall 529 is annular.

[0126] The cover member 510 is received in a recess 507a in the body 502. The recess 507a allows the cover member 510 to be easily sandwiched between the body 502 and the actuation member 520.

[0127] The actuating member 520 includes a housing portion 528. The housing portion 528 is cylindrical. The housing portion 528 forms a peripheral wall. The second open end 562 is spaced from the 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.

[0128] The actuation member 520 includes a grip formation 530. The grip formation 530 is a protrusion on the exposed surface of the actuation member 520. The grip formation 530 is knurled or ribbed. In some embodiments, the grip formation may be a friction surface.

[0129] 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. The recesses 544 are located on the circumferential sides of the body 502. Recesses 544 provide clearance to accommodate radially inward deflection of the clips, thereby allowing for a compact construction.

[0130] The channels 509 communicate with the recesses 544. A second open end 562 of each channel 509 opens into the recesses 544. The recesses 544 accommodate residual material that is pushed out of the second open ends 562.

[0131] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the actuating member 520 from below.

[0132] 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 of each cover member 510 is received in a respective cam slot 534. An upper side of the cover member 510 is in sliding contact with the actuating member 520. The cam element 518 and the cam slot 534 together define a cam mechanism.

[0133] The cam slot 534 is arcuate. In some embodiments, the cam slot is arcuate so that the cam surface is arcuate. In some embodiments, the cam slot is straight.

[0134] 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.

[0135] 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 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. In the relatively open position, at least a portion of the article 300 is allowed to pass through the opening 504. In the relatively closed position, a portion of the article is prevented from being able to pass through the opening 504. 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 an intermediate position in which there remains sufficient space for a portion of the article 300 to be inserted. The term relatively closed position will be understood to mean any position in which a portion of the article 300 is prevented from being able to pass through the opening 504, i.e. any position including a fully closed position and an intermediate position in which there is not enough space for the article 300 to pass through the opening. In this embodiment, the cover member moves to or from a fully closed position by rotating the actuation member 520 relative to the body 502. The term fully closed position will be understood to mean that the cover member 510 completely closes the opening 504.

[0136] 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 515 is guided by the guide 508, i.e., the rails slide along the channel 509. 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.

[0137] 5 illustrates a top cross-sectional view of a portion of a 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.

[0138] 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.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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 .

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.

[0144] 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.

[0145] 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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] 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.

[0148] 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.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] 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.

[0152] 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.

[0153] 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 FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 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 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.

[0154] In some embodiments, the cover mechanism 500 comprises a lubricant.

[0155] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a portion of another cover mechanism 600 for use with an aerosol delivery device. A body 602 is shown. The cover mechanism 600 of Figure 6 is suitable for use with the aerosol delivery device 100 of Figure 1. In some embodiments, the cover mechanism 600 is used with other device configurations. The cover mechanism 600 of Figure 6 is similar to the cover mechanism 500 of Figure 3. Similar reference numerals incremented by 100 are used and descriptions of equivalent features will not be repeated.

[0156] The fastener 605 includes a rotation limiting feature (not shown) to prevent the body 602 from rotating relative to the housing 102 .

[0157] In the cover mechanism 600, the channel 609 includes only a second open end 662 that serves as an open end relative to the peripheral edge of the body 602. The first end of the channel 609 is closed.

[0158] The cover mechanism 600 includes uprights 648 on the body 602. The cover mechanism 600 includes two uprights 648. The uprights 648 are identical and only one of the uprights 648 will be described. In some embodiments, the number of uprights may vary or there may be a single upright. The uprights 648 are integrally formed with the body 602. In other embodiments, the uprights 648 may be separate components joined to the body 602. The uprights 648 are aligned with the channel. The uprights 648 are parallel to the channel 609.

[0159] The height of the uprights 648 corresponds substantially to the thickness of the cover member 610. To this end, it will be understood that the thickness of the cover member 610 does not include the guide elements 615. The uprights 648 are arranged to at least partially confine debris to the area of ​​the body 602 that includes the opening 604. The cover member 610 comprises a straight edge. The straight edge is defined at the peripheral portion 614 of the cover member 610. The straight edge runs adjacent to the uprights 648. The uprights 648 are arranged to slidably contact the straight edge. This helps to prevent the ingress of debris. In other embodiments, the straight edge may be omitted. It is sufficient that any edge of the cover member 610 slidably contacts the uprights 648 to help prevent the ingress of debris. It will be understood that debris, including aerosol condensates or particles of used or unused aerosol-generating material, may originate from the chamber 105. Such debris may exit the chamber through the opening 604 when the cover member 610 is not in the fully closed position. Contact between the cover member 610 and the uprights 648 confines such debris to the area of ​​the body 602 that includes the opening 604. This prevents the debris from spreading to other areas of the cover mechanism where it may cause clogging or damage.

[0160] 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. The main body, a chamber of the body arranged to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol-forming material; A cover mechanism comprising: a cover member movable between a relatively open position that allows the at least a portion of an article to pass into the chamber and a relatively closed position that constrains the at least a portion of an article from passing into the chamber; and a cover mechanism including a channel disposed to guide movement of the cover member, the channel having an open end; An aerosol delivery device comprising:

2. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1 , wherein the open end of the channel communicates with the chamber.

3. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the open end of the channel communicates with an outer side of the body.

4. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a stopper at the open end of the channel.

5. The aerosol delivery device of claim 4 , wherein the stopper comprises a lip or protrusion arranged to limit the range of motion of the cover member.

6. The aerosol delivery device of claim 4 or 5, wherein an edge of the stopper at least partially defines the open end.

7. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the channel is located in the body.

8. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cover member comprises a guide element received in the channel.

9. The aerosol delivery device of claim 8 , wherein a width of the guide element substantially corresponds to a width of the channel.

10. The aerosol delivery device of claim 8 or 9, wherein a height of the guide element received in the channel substantially corresponds to a depth of the channel.

11. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the profile of the guide element corresponds to the profile of the channel.

12. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the guide element is slidable in the channel.

13. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the guide element is movable at least proximally to the open end.

14. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the channel has a first open end and a second open end.

15. 15. The aerosol delivery device of claim 1, wherein the first open end of the channel communicates with the chamber and the second open end of the channel communicates with a peripheral edge of the body.

16. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein a lower side of the cover member is in sliding contact with the body.

17. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the body comprises an upright portion.

18. 18. The aerosol delivery device of claim 17, wherein the uprights are aligned with the channels.

19. 19. The aerosol delivery device of claim 17 or 18, wherein the height of the upright portion substantially corresponds to the thickness of the cover member.

20. 20. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the uprights are positioned to at least partially confine debris to an area of ​​the housing that includes the opening.

21. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein an edge of the cover member moves adjacent to the upright portion.

22. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the body comprises a recess in a peripheral side of the body.

23. The aerosol delivery device of any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the channel communicates with the recess.

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 movable 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 constrains the at least a portion of an article from passing through the opening; a track arranged to guide movement of the cover member, the track having an open end; A cover mechanism comprising:

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

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