Holder

Abstract

A holder for an aerosol-generating device is provided.SOLUTION: The holder for an aerosol-generating device comprises a cover 100 and defines a docking space for accommodating the aerosol-generating device. The cover is movable between a covered position in which the cover covers at least a portion of the docking space and an uncovered position. When the cover is in the covering position, the first portion of the cover defines a first curve. When the cover is in the uncovered position, the first portion of the cover defines a second curve. The radius of curvature of the second curve is greater than the radius of curvature of the first curve.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a holder for an aerosol generating device, and more particularly to a holder for an aerosol generating device, the holder comprising a cover.

[0002] An aerosol-generating system typically includes an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device typically includes a power source and an atomizer. When power is supplied to the atomizer, the atomizer atomizes the volatile compounds in the aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol.

[0003] Some aerosol generating devices can become scratched or otherwise damaged if not protected from the external environment.

[0004] It would be desirable to provide a holder that can protect an aerosol generating device when the device is not in use, while still allowing the user easy access to the aerosol generating device when desired. Summary of the Invention

[0005] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-generating device may interact with an aerosol-generating article that includes the aerosol-forming substrate, or with a cartridge that includes the aerosol-forming substrate. In some examples, the aerosol-generating device may heat the aerosol-forming substrate to facilitate release of volatile compounds from the substrate. An electrically operated aerosol-generating device may include an atomizer, such as an electric heater, for heating the aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol.

[0006] The term "aerosol-forming substrate," as used herein, refers to a substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The volatile compound may be released by heating or burning the aerosol-forming substrate. As an alternative to heating or burning, in some cases the volatile compound may be released by a chemical reaction or by mechanical stimulation, such as ultrasound. The aerosol-forming substrate may be solid or liquid, or may contain both solid and liquid components.

[0007] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate. In some examples, an aerosol-generating article may include an aerosol-forming substrate that is capable of releasing volatile compounds upon heating, and these volatile compounds may form an aerosol.

[0008] As used herein, the term "aerosol" refers to a dispersion of solid particles, or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets in a gas. Aerosols can be visible or invisible. Aerosols can include vapors of substances that are normally liquids or solids at room temperature, as well as solid particles, or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets.

[0009] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" with reference to an aerosol generating device (or article) is used to describe the direction between the downstream, or proximal, or mouth end of the device (or article) and the opposing upstream, or distal end of the device (or article).

[0010] As used herein, the term "transverse" with reference to an aerosol-generating device or article is used to describe a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0011] As used herein, the term "length" in reference to an aerosol generating device (or article) is used to describe the maximum longitudinal dimension between the distal or upstream end of the device (or article) and the proximal or downstream end of the device (or article).

[0012] As used herein, the term "diameter" is used to describe the largest transverse dimension of components, such as aerosol generating devices and aerosol-generating articles.

[0013] As used herein, the term "exposed" is used to indicate that a portion of a feature or component is open to the external environment and is not enclosed or covered.

[0014] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a holder for an aerosol generating device. The holder may include a cover. The holder may define a docking space for receiving the aerosol generating device. The cover may be movable between a covering position in which the cover covers at least a portion of the docking space and an uncovering position. When the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover may define a first curve. When the cover is in the uncovering position, the first portion of the cover may define a second curve. The radius of curvature of the second curve may be greater than the radius of curvature of the first curve.

[0015] According to one embodiment, a holder for an aerosol generating device is provided.

[0016] The holder includes a cover and defines a docking space for receiving the aerosol generating device. The cover is movable between a covering position in which the cover covers at least a portion of the docking space and an uncovering position. When the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover defines a first curve. When the cover is in the uncovering position, the first portion of the cover defines a second curve. The radius of curvature of the second curve is greater than the radius of curvature of the first curve.

[0017] Advantageously, according to this embodiment, when the cover is in the covering position, the cover covers at least a portion of the docking space. When the cover is in the covering position, substantially the entire docking space may be covered, for example, the entire docking space may be covered. Thus, when the cover is in the covering position, the cover may protect the aerosol generating device housed in the docking space.

[0018] When the cover is in the uncovered position, at least a portion of the aerosol generating device housed in the docking space may be exposed. The uncovered position may be any position in which the docking space is covered to a lesser extent than in the covered position. There may be multiple positions in which the cover can be disposed that may be designated as uncovered positions. When the cover is in the uncovered position, a user may be able to access the aerosol generating device housed in the docking space. The cover may be movable between the covered position and the uncovered position by a user.

[0019] Thus, a user may advantageously be able to move the cover to a covered position, for example to protect an aerosol generating device housed within the docking space during transport, and to move the cover to an uncovered position when access to the device is desired.

[0020] The holder may include a first wall. The holder may include a second wall. The second wall may face the first wall. A docking space may be defined between the first wall and the second wall. The first wall and the second wall may be substantially parallel to each other. The first wall may be spaced apart from the second wall and fixed relative to the second wall. The docking space may be configured to accommodate a longitudinal dimension of the aerosol generating device (e.g., an elongated aerosol generating device) between the first wall and the second wall.

[0021] The docking space may be further defined by a rear wall extending between the first wall and the second wall. The docking space may be at least partially defined by the first wall, the second wall, and the rear wall.

[0022] The holder may be configured to engage with an aerosol generating device housed within the docking space. The holder may be configured to engage with an aerosol generating device housed within the docking space to retain the device within the docking space. A coupling member of the holder may be configured to engage with a corresponding coupling member of the aerosol generating device when the device is housed within the docking space.

[0023] The holder may include a power source, for example a rechargeable power source.

[0024] The power supply of the holder may be configured to provide power to an aerosol generating device housed within the docking space.

[0025] The coupling member may include an electrical contact, and the corresponding coupling member may include a corresponding electrical contact. When the aerosol generating device is housed within the docking space, the electrical contact and the corresponding electrical contact may form an electrical connection. This electrical connection may allow a power source of the holder to provide power to the device housed within the docking space.

[0026] The holder may comprise a housing. The housing may comprise a first wall. The housing may comprise a second wall. The housing may comprise a rear wall.

[0027] For example, the aerosol generating device may be an elongated aerosol generating device. For example, the aerosol generating device may have a first longitudinal dimension that is greater than a second width dimension and a third thickness dimension. The second and third dimensions may be substantially the same, and therefore may both be referred to as widths. The aerosol generating device may be substantially cylindrical. The aerosol generating device may be substantially cigarette- or cigar-shaped.

[0028] The longitudinal dimension may define a longitudinal axis. The width dimension may extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0029] The aerosol generating device may be described as having a proximal end and a distal end. The device may include an elongate body extending between the proximal and distal ends. The body may include at least one side extending between the proximal and distal ends.

[0030] Accommodation of the aerosol-generating device within the docking space may be achieved by relative movement of the aerosol-generating device and the docking space in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension of the aerosol-generating device.

[0031] For example, either the proximal or distal end of the aerosol generating device may be inserted into the docking space, and then the opposite end may be pivoted into the docking space so that the aerosol generating device is fully contained within the docking space.

[0032] Advantageously, by using a substantially vertical movement, when the aerosol generating device is inserted longitudinally into the docking space, the distance that needs to be moved to accommodate the aerosol generating device within the docking space is shorter than in a holder that accommodates the aerosol generating device.

[0033] The docking space may accommodate the longitudinal dimension of the aerosol generating device.

[0034] When the aerosol generating device is housed within the docking space and the cover is in the uncovered position, at least a portion of the aerosol generating device may be exposed.

[0035] This may advantageously allow a user to easily remove the device by grasping the exposed part of the aerosol generating device and removing the device from the holder.

[0036] The cover may be movable to a position where the cover is substantially planar. This position may be referred to as the substantially planar position of the cover. In the substantially planar position, the cover may have a length, a height, and a thickness that is less than 10% of the length, or less than 10% of the height, or less than 10% of the length and less than 10% of the height. In the substantially planar position, the cover may have a cubic or cube-like shape.

[0037] For example, in the substantially planar position, the thickness may be less than 5% of the length, or less than 5% of the height, or less than 5% of the length and less than 5% of the height.

[0038] In a substantially flat position, the thickness may be about 0.5 mm to about 4.5 mm. For example, the thickness may be 1 mm to 3 mm, e.g., 1.25 mm to 2 mm. In a substantially flat position, the height may be about 50 mm to about 200 mm. For example, the height may be 75 mm to 150 mm. In a substantially flat position, the length may be about 40 mm to about 180 mm. For example, the length may be 50 mm to 150 mm.

[0039] The cover may resist bending about an axis extending in the direction of its height less than it resists bending about an axis extending in the direction of its length, i.e., the cover may preferentially bend about an axis extending in the direction of its height, or the cover may preferentially bend about an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device positioned within the docking space.

[0040] The cover may resist bending about an axis extending in the direction of the height of the cover less than it resists bending about an axis extending in the direction of the thickness of the cover.

[0041] The cover may be more flexible in the first direction than in the second direction.

[0042] This can advantageously provide some rigidity to the cover while allowing the user to easily bend the cover around an axis extending in the height direction of the cover (e.g., an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the docking space, or an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device positioned within the docking space).

[0043] In the uncovered position of the cover, all or substantially all of the docking space may be exposed. Alternatively, in the uncovered position of the cover, a portion of the docking space may be exposed.

[0044] When an elongated aerosol generating device defining a longitudinal axis is housed within the docking space and the cover is in the covering position, a first curve defined by a first portion of the cover may curve around the longitudinal axis of the elongated aerosol generating device.

[0045] When the elongated aerosol generating device is housed within the docking space and the cover is in the uncovered position, at least 80% of the length, or 90% of the length, or 95% of the length, or substantially all of the length of the elongated aerosol generating device may be exposed.

[0046] This may advantageously allow a user to easily grasp the device and remove it from the docking space. Additionally, this may allow a user to view indicators (such as a screen) on the device housed within the docking space. The indicators may, for example, allow a user to see whether the device is fully charged without removing it from the docking space.

[0047] The cover may include a first mounting portion. The holder may include a first sidewall having the first mounting portion. The housing of the holder may include a first sidewall. The first mounting portion may include a recess in the first sidewall to accommodate a thickness of the cover. The first mounting portion of the cover may be attachable to and detachable from the first mounting portion of the first sidewall.

[0048] The first attachment portion of the cover may be located at or towards the first side of the cover.

[0049] The attachment between the first attachment portion of the first side wall and the first attachment portion of the cover can be referred to as a first attachment. The first attachment can be or include a magnetic attachment. The first attachment can be or include a mechanical attachment, for example, created by a mechanical fastener.

[0050] The first attachment portion of the cover may be or may comprise one or more of a magnet, a magnetic material, a hook and loop fastener component (such as Velcro®), a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0051] The first attachment portion of the first side wall may be or may comprise one or more of a magnet, a magnetic material, a hook and loop fastener component (such as Velcro®), a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0052] The first mounting portion of the cover may comprise an elongated magnet or strip of magnetic material. The elongated magnet or strip of magnetic material may be located at or toward the first side of the cover. The elongated magnet or strip of magnetic material may extend along at least 80%, 90%, or 95% of the height of the cover.

[0053] The first mounting portion of the first side wall may comprise a corresponding magnet (such as a corresponding elongated magnet) or a corresponding strip of magnetic material (such as a corresponding elongated strip of magnetic material). The term magnetic material relates to a material that interacts with a magnet, for example a ferrite material (such as iron or stainless steel that is attracted to a magnet).

[0054] When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnet or corresponding magnetic material on the first mounting portion of the first side wall may be aligned with the elongated magnet or strip of magnetic material on the first mounting portion of the cover.When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnet or corresponding magnetic material on the first mounting portion of the first side wall may be in contact with the elongated magnet or strip of magnetic material on the first mounting portion of the cover.

[0055] This may advantageously provide a robust yet reversible attachment between the first attachment portion of the cover and the first attachment portion of the first side wall.

[0056] The first attachment portion of the cover may include a protruding element (e.g., a protruding element including a magnet or magnetic material) or a protruding element that forms a mechanical fastener. The protruding element may be a polymeric material and may be elastically deformable or have an elastically deformable portion for mechanical engagement with a corresponding slot, recess, or socket. The protruding element may protrude in the direction of the thickness of the cover.

[0057] The first sidewall may include a groove. The protruding element of the cover may be configured to be received in the groove of the first sidewall when the cover is in the covering position. The groove may include a corresponding magnet or corresponding magnetic element. Thus, the protruding element may align with or contact the corresponding magnet or corresponding magnetic element in the groove when the cover is in the covering position. The groove may be a socket and may mechanically interact with the protruding element to form an attachment between the first attachment point of the cover and the first attachment point of the first sidewall.

[0058] The first sidewall may include one or more grooves or sockets, each of which may engage a corresponding protruding element extending from a portion of the cover to form a first mounting portion.

[0059] This may advantageously provide a robust yet reversible attachment between the first attachment portion of the cover and the first attachment portion of the first side wall.

[0060] The cover may include a second mounting portion. The holder may include a second sidewall having the second mounting portion. The housing of the holder may include a second sidewall. The second mounting portion may include a recess in the second sidewall to accommodate a thickness of the cover. The second mounting portion of the cover may be attachable to and detachable from the second mounting portion of the second sidewall.

[0061] The second attachment portion of the cover may be located at or toward the second side of the cover.

[0062] The attachment between the second attachment portion of the second side wall and the second attachment portion of the cover can be referred to as a second attachment. The second attachment can be or include a magnetic attachment. The second attachment can be or include a mechanical attachment, for example, created by a mechanical fastener.

[0063] The second attachment portion of the cover may be or may comprise one or more of a magnet, a magnetic material, a hook and loop fastener component (such as Velcro®), a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0064] The second attachment portion of the second side wall may be or comprise one or more of a magnet, a magnetic material, a hook and loop fastener component (such as Velcro®), a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0065] The second attachment portion of the cover may include a stiffener, for example a non-magnetic stiffener, which may extend along at least 80%, 90%, or 95% of the height of the cover.

[0066] The second mounting portion of the cover may include a magnet or magnetic element. For example, the second mounting portion of the cover may include a plurality of magnets or magnetic elements. The plurality of magnets or magnetic elements may be spaced apart along a height of the cover. For example, the plurality of magnets or magnetic elements may be evenly spaced apart along a height of the cover. The plurality of magnets or magnetic elements may be spaced apart along the stiffener. For example, the plurality of magnets or magnetic elements may be evenly spaced apart along the stiffener.

[0067] The second mounting portion of the wall may include one or more corresponding magnets or magnetic elements. When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnets or magnetic elements of the second mounting portion of the second side wall may be aligned with the magnets or magnetic elements of the second mounting portion of the cover. When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnets or magnetic elements of the second mounting portion of the second side wall may be in contact with the magnets or magnetic elements of the second mounting portion of the cover.

[0068] The cover may include a first attachment point, or a second attachment point, or both the first and second attachment points, that includes a magnetic attachment member, the magnetic attachment member comprising a magnet or magnetic material configured to magnetically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing.

[0069] The cover may include a first attachment point, or a second attachment point, or both the first and second attachment points, with a mechanical attachment member, the mechanical attachment member comprising a deformable protrusion configured to engage with the protrusion-receiving slot to mechanically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing, or the mechanical attachment member comprising a protrusion-receiving slot configured to engage with the deformable protrusion to mechanically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing, and the deformable protrusion may comprise a deformable lip or hook to engage with the protrusion-receiving slot.

[0070] When the aerosol generating device is housed in the docking space and the cover is in the covering position, the aerosol generating device may be surrounded by the holder, for example, the cover and housing may surround the device housed in the docking space when the cover is in the covering position.

[0071] This may advantageously protect the aerosol generating device housed within the docking space and may reduce the amount of dust or other debris that enters the docking space when the cover is in the covering position.

[0072] When the aerosol generating device is housed in the docking space and the cover is in the covering position, the aerosol generating device may be surrounded by the holder.

[0073] That is, the device may be completely surrounded by the holder. For example, the cover and housing may enclose or completely surround the device housed within the docking space when the cover is in the covering position.

[0074] This may advantageously protect the aerosol generating device housed within the docking space and may substantially prevent dust or other debris from entering the docking space when the cover is in the covering position.

[0075] The cover may include a plurality of reinforcing elements. Each reinforcing element may be formed from or include one or more of plastic or metal. For example, the reinforcing elements may be formed from a polymer, such as polycarbonate (PC), or a composite, such as a microfiber plastic or a glass fiber composite. Each reinforcing element may extend along the height of the cover. For example, each reinforcing element may extend along at least 80% or 90% of the height of the cover. The plurality of reinforcing elements may be a plurality of elongated reinforcing elements. The longest dimension of each elongated reinforcing element may extend along the height of the cover, for example, at least 80% or 90% of the height of the cover. The plurality of elongated reinforcing elements may be substantially parallel to one another.

[0076] The cover may include a first layer. The cover may include a second layer. The first layer may include a textile material (such as fabric or felt), or leather, or synthetic leather, or bioplastic, or recycled plastic. The second layer may include a textile material (such as fabric or felt), or leather, or synthetic leather, or bioplastic, or recycled plastic.

[0077] The plurality of reinforcing elements may be sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer. The first attachment portion of the cover may be sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer. The second attachment portion of the cover may be sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer.

[0078] Each reinforcing element may be secured to the first layer, or the second layer, or to both the first and second layers.

[0079] The plurality of reinforcing elements may be substantially evenly spaced from one another. When the elongated aerosol-generating device is housed within the docking space and the cover is in the covering position, the elongated aerosol-generating device and the plurality of elongated reinforcing elements may be substantially parallel.

[0080] This may advantageously allow the cover to provide adequate protection for the device, while allowing the cover to easily flex around the docking space or around a device housed within the docking space.

[0081] The cover may comprise a retaining means. The retaining means may be configured to retain the accessory. The retaining means may comprise a strip of elastic material. The strip of elastic material may extend along the height of the cover.

[0082] This may advantageously allow a user to keep an accessory in the holder. The accessory may be, for example, a pack of aerosol-generating articles for use with the aerosol generating device.

[0083] The strip of elastic material may have a first end and a second end and an intermediate portion extending between the first end and the second end. The first end of the strip of elastic material may be attached or attachable to the surface of the cover. For example, the first end may include a first reversible attachment means (such as a button, clip, or hook-and-loop fastener) configured to attach to and detach from a first corresponding reversible attachment means on the surface of the cover. Alternatively, the first end may be sewn to the surface of the cover. The second end of the strip of elastic material may be attached or attachable to the surface of the cover. For example, the second end may include a second reversible attachment means (such as a button, clip, or hook-and-loop fastener) configured to attach to and detach from a second corresponding reversible attachment means on the surface of the cover. Alternatively, the second end may be sewn to the surface of the cover. The intermediate portion may not be attached to the surface of the cover.

[0084] The retaining means may be attachable to and detachable from the cover. For example, the retaining means may comprise a strip of elastic material, and the first and second ends may be provided with the first and second reversible attachment means described above.

[0085] This may advantageously allow the user to remove the retaining means from the cover if not desired.

[0086] When a strip of elastic material is attached to the cover, a user may pull on a middle portion of the strip to stretch the strip, allowing an accessory to be inserted between the strip and the surface of the cover. When a user releases the middle portion of the strip, the tension in the strip may act to hold the accessory between the strip and the surface of the cover.

[0087] According to the present disclosure, there is also provided a system. The system may include a holder, such as a holder as described above. That is, the holder of the system may include any of the features described in relation to the holder above. The system may include an aerosol generation device, such as an aerosol generation device as described above. That is, the aerosol generation device of the system may include any of the features described in relation to the aerosol generation device above.

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

[0089] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the cover. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol-generating device, an aerosol-generating article, and a holder without a cover. [Figure 3] 3 is a schematic top view of the holder shown in FIG. 2 with the cover shown in FIG. 1 in the uncovered position. [Figure 4] 4 is a schematic side view of the holder shown in FIG. 2 with the cover shown in FIG. 1 in an uncovered position. [Figure 5] 5 is a schematic top view of the holder shown in FIG. 2 with the cover shown in FIG. 1 in the covering position. [Figure 6] 6 is a schematic side view of the holder shown in FIG. 2 with the cover shown in FIG. 1 in the covering position. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the holder shown in FIG. 4 with the cover in the covering position, the retaining means of the cover retaining the accessory. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic end view of a cover according to a further particular embodiment showing protruding elements. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of a further particular embodiment of a holder incorporating a cover as illustrated in FIG.

[0090] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a cover 100. The cover 100 has a first mounting portion 102 located toward a first side of the cover and a second mounting portion 104 located toward a second side of the cover.

[0091] First mounting portion 102 includes an elongated magnet 103. An elongated magnet 104 extends along substantially the entire height of cover 100. First mounting portion 102 also includes a magnetic protruding element 106. The protruding element protrudes in the direction of the thickness of cover 100.

[0092] The second mounting portion 104 includes a stiffener 108. The second mounting portion 104 includes four magnets 110, 112, 114, 116. The four magnets 110, 112, 114, 116 are in contact with the stiffener 108 and are evenly spaced along the stiffener 108.

[0093] The cover includes a plurality of reinforcing elements 118. The reinforcing elements are preferably formed from a suitable polymeric material, such as polycarbonate (PC). The plurality of reinforcing elements 118 are elongated. The longest dimension of each elongated reinforcing element extends along substantially the entire height of the cover 100. The plurality of elongated reinforcing elements 118 are substantially parallel to one another.

[0094] The cover 100 includes a first layer and a second layer. Because FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the cover 100, the first layer and the second layer are not visible in FIG. 1. Both the first layer and the second layer are formed from a fibrous material. The first attachment portion 102, the second attachment portion 104, and a plurality of reinforcing elements 118 are sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer.

[0095] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol-generating device, an aerosol-generating article, and a holder without a cover.

[0096] The holder 201 includes a housing 202 that is approximately the same size and shape as a conventional packet of cigarettes. The housing 202 positions and holds a lithium-ion battery 203. This battery 203 may be referred to as a primary power source or primary battery. The primary battery 203 is electrically connected to a charging port 213, allowing the primary battery 203 to be recharged from an external power source (such as a mains power source). The holder 201 defines a docking space 205 between a first wall 206 and an opposing second wall 207 that is spaced apart from and fixed relative to the first wall 206. The docking space is further defined by a rear wall 208. The docking space 205 is elongated and has a longitudinal axis extending between the first wall 206 and the second wall 207. The first wall 206, the second wall 207, and the rear wall 208 are portions of the housing 202. The first electrical contact 217 and the second electrical contact 218 face into the docking space 205. The first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are electrically connected to the primary battery 203. The holder further includes an electrical circuit, such as at least one microprocessor, for controlling the charging and discharging of the primary battery 203.

[0097] The aerosol generating device 220 has a substantially cylindrical, elongated housing 222 having a proximal end 223, a distal end 224, and a body 225 extending between the proximal and distal ends 223, 224. The length of the device 220 is slightly less than the length of the longitudinal dimension of the docking space 205. A first device contact 227 and a second device contact 228 are located near and away from the distal end 224. The first and second device contacts are electrically connected to a device battery 226, allowing the device battery 226 to be recharged. The device battery 226, which may be referred to as a secondary power source or secondary battery, may be any suitable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery or a lithium iron phosphate battery.

[0098] A substrate-receiving cavity 221 is defined in the proximal portion of the device 220 for receiving an aerosol-generating article, including an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity 221 is substantially cylindrical and has an opening defined at the proximal end of the device. A heating element positioned around the interior wall 229 of the substrate-receiving cavity 221 is electrically connected to the device battery 226 and serves to heat the cavity. In an alternative embodiment, the heating element may be defined on a heating member, such as a pin or blade, positioned within the cavity for insertion into the aerosol-generating article. In another embodiment, an induction coil may be positioned around the wall 229 of the cavity 221 to inductively heat a susceptor within the cavity 221 or a susceptor within an aerosol-generating article inserted into the cavity.

[0099] Electronic circuitry, including a microprocessor, is included within the aerosol generating device to control the charging of the device battery 226 and the operation of the heating means.

[0100] The aerosol-generating article 230 is a cylindrical article comprising multiple components (including an aerosol-forming substrate 231 and a mouthpiece filter 232) assembled within cigarette paper 233. The article 230 has a distal end 234 and a proximal or mouth end 235 located downstream from the distal end 234. The aerosol-forming substrate 231 is preferably in the form of an assembly of homogenized tobacco material sheets and is located at or near the distal end 234 of the article 230. Additional components, such as aerosol-cooling elements, flavor elements, and spacing elements, may be positioned within the article 230 between the aerosol-forming substrate 231 and the mouthpiece filter 232.

[0101] The aerosol-generating device 220 may be received within the docking space of the holder 210 by aligning the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device 220 with the longitudinal axis of the docking space 205 (with the proximal end 223 of the aerosol-generating device 220 adjacent to the first wall 206 and the distal end 224 of the aerosol-generating device 220 adjacent to the second wall 207). The aerosol-generating device may then be moved into and engaged with the docking space 205 by translation, which is movement perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device 220. The proximal end 223 of the aerosol-generating device 220 engages with the first wall 206, and the distal end of the aerosol-generating device 224 engages with the second wall 207. The first contact 217 and the second contact 218 align with and are in electrical contact with the first device contact 227 and the second device contact 228. The aerosol-generating device may be held engaged by interference or frictional engagement. Alternatively, mechanical latching means may be automatically or manually operated to hold the aerosol generating device in engagement with the holder, hi other embodiments, magnetic latching means may be used to hold the aerosol generating device in engagement with the holder.

[0102] Charging of the device battery may be achieved automatically upon engagement between the aerosol generating device 220 and the holder 201. Alternatively, charging may require manual activation, for example, by actuating a button.

[0103] The aerosol generating device 220 may be removed from engagement with the holder 201 by grasping the exposed portion of the aerosol generating device and moving the aerosol generating device out of the docking space in a transverse movement.

[0104] Once the device battery 226 is charged, the aerosol-generating device may be used to consume an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device is removed from the docking space 205, and the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the substrate-receiving cavity 221. The heater of the device 220 is then activated, heating the aerosol-forming substrate 231 of the article 230 to a temperature sufficient to generate an inhalable aerosol. By drawing on the proximal end 235 of the article 230, the user can inhale the aerosol into the user's mouth and lungs. Once the article is consumed, it can be removed from the device 220, and the aerosol-generating device 220 can be stored in the docking space 205 of the holder 201 for protection or recharging of the device battery 226.

[0105] In some embodiments, data may be transmitted between the aerosol generating device and the holder. Data may be transmitted using the same contacts used to charge 217, 218, 227, and 228. Alternatively, separate data contacts may be provided. Data transmission between the holder 201 and the aerosol generating device 220 may be accomplished wirelessly, for example, via a Bluetooth connection.

[0106] In one embodiment, the first charging contact 217 and the second charging contact 218 may be in the form of concentric rings. The charging contacts 227, 228 on the device may be corresponding concentric rings or may be point contacts configured to align with the respective concentric rings. The advantage of this configuration is that the aerosol generating device can engage with the holder in any radial orientation and the holder can still charge the device.

[0107] 3 is a schematic top view of the holder shown in FIG. 2 with the cover shown in FIG. 1 in the uncovered position.

[0108] 4 is a schematic side view of the holder shown in FIG. 2 with the cover shown in FIG. 1 in an uncovered position.

[0109] 4 shows the holder 201 after being rotated by 180 degrees compared to FIG. 2. Therefore, FIG. 4 shows the opposite side of the holder 201, opposite to the side shown in FIG.

[0110] In Figure 4, the cover is in the unsheathed position. In the unsheathed position shown in Figure 4, the magnets 110, 112, 114, 116 of the second mounting portion 104 of the cover 100 are in contact with the second side wall of the housing 202, which second side wall comprises a magnetic material. Therefore, magnetic attraction between the magnets 110, 112, 114, 116 and the magnetic material attaches the second mounting portion 104 to the second side wall of the housing 202.

[0111] 4, the first side wall of the housing 202 includes a first mounting portion having a groove 251. The magnetic protruding element 106 of the cover 100 is configured to be received in the groove 251 when the cover 100 is in the covering position. The groove 251 includes a corresponding magnetic element.

[0112] 5 is a schematic top view of the holder shown in FIG. 2 with the cover shown in FIG. 1 in the covering position.

[0113] 6 is a schematic side view of the holder shown in FIG. 2 with the cover shown in FIG. 1 in the covering position.

[0114] When the cover is in the covered position shown in Figure 6, the first portion 150 of the cover 100 defines a first curve having a radius of curvature. When the cover is in the uncovered position shown in Figure 4, the first portion 150 of the cover 100 defines a second curve having a radius of curvature. As can be seen from Figures 4 and 6, the radius of curvature of the second curve is greater than the radius of curvature of the first curve.

[0115] 4 to the position shown in FIG. 6, the user simply curved the cover 100 around the outer portion of the first wall 206 and the outer portion of the second wall 207. The magnetic protruding elements 106 were then received within the grooves 251.

[0116] 6 , when the cover is in the covering position, the magnetic protruding elements 106 contact the corresponding magnetic elements in the grooves 251. Therefore, the magnetic attraction between the magnetic protruding elements 106 and the corresponding magnetic elements in the grooves 251 attaches the first mounting portion 102 of the cover 100 to the first mounting portion of the first side wall of the housing 202.

[0117] 6, when the cover 100 is in the covering position and the aerosol generating device 220 is housed in the docking space 205, the device is enclosed by the housing 202 and the cover 100. In this way, the device 220 is enclosed by the holder 201 and protected from the external environment.

[0118] 6, the cover 100 includes a retaining means 152 configured to retain an accessory. The retaining means 152 includes a strip of elastic material.

[0119] The strip of elastic material extends along the height of the cover 100. The strip of elastic material has a first end and a second end and an intermediate portion extending between the first and second ends. The first and second ends of the strip of elastic material are attached to the surface of the cover. In this embodiment, the first and second ends are sewn to the fabric material of the first layer of the cover 100. The intermediate portion is not attached to the surface of the cover.

[0120] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the holder shown in FIG. 6 with the cover in the covering position, the retaining means of the cover retaining the accessory.

[0121] In order for the retaining means 152 to retain the accessory 700, the user pulls on the middle portion of the strip, which causes the strip to stretch and create a space between the middle portion of the strip and the surface of the cover. The accessory may be a container of a consumable product, such as a packet of heated aerosol-generating articles. The user then inserts the accessory 700 into this space between the strip and the surface of the cover 100. The user then releases the middle portion of the strip. After the user releases the middle portion of the strip, the tension in the strip acts to retain the accessory 700 between the strip and the surface of the cover 100.

[0122] The particular embodiment described above uses a magnetic latching means to hold the cover in the closed position. In other embodiments, other latching means may be used, such as a mechanical latching means or a combination of mechanical and magnetic latching means. Figure 8 is a schematic end view of a cover 1100 using a mechanical latching means.

[0123] The cover 1100 is shown in an end view so that the thickness and height of the cover 1100 are visible. Three resilient protruding elements 1106, 1107, and 1108 are defined extending from a first side 1101 of the cover 1100. The protruding elements are formed from a resilient material, such as a polymeric material, e.g., a silicone material. Each of the three elements 1106, 1107, and 1108 defines a lip 1116, 1117, and 1118 that is easily and resiliently deformable.

[0124] A holder 1201 interacting with the cover 1100 is illustrated in FIG. 9. The features of FIG. 9 are the same as those described in connection with the holder of FIG. 4, with the following exceptions: A first side wall of the housing 1202 includes a first mounting portion defining three slots or sockets 1206, 1207, and 1208. Each of the three slots or sockets 1206, 1207, and 1208 aligns with a corresponding protruding element 1106, 1107, and 1108 when the cover 1101 is moved to the covering position. Pressure applied to the cover forces each of the protruding elements 1106, 1107, and 1108 into its corresponding slot or socket 1206, 1207, and 1208. The lip 1116, 1117, and 1118 of each protruding element deforms upon entering its slot or socket and then regains its shape within the slot or socket, mechanically retaining the cover in the covering position.

Claims

1. 1. A holder for an elongated aerosol generating device defining a longitudinal axis, the holder comprising a cover and defining a docking space for receiving the aerosol generating device, the cover is movable between a covering position where the cover covers at least a portion of the docking space and an uncovered position; a first portion of the cover defining a first curve when the cover is in the covering position, and a second portion of the cover defining a second curve when the cover is in the uncovered position, the second curve having a radius of curvature greater than the radius of curvature of the first curve; A holder in which, when the elongated aerosol generating device is housed in the docking space and the cover is in the covering position, the aerosol generating device is surrounded by the holder and the first curve curves around the longitudinal axis of the elongated aerosol generating device.

2. 2. The holder of claim 1, wherein the cover is substantially planar and movable to a position having a length, a height, and a thickness, the thickness being less than 10% of the length, or less than 10% of the height, or less than 10% of the length and less than 10% of the height.

3. A holder as described in any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the elongated aerosol generating device has a length, and when the elongated aerosol generating device is housed in the docking space and the cover is in the uncovered position, at least 80% of the length of the elongated aerosol generating device is exposed.

4. 4. The holder of claim 1, wherein the cover has a first mounting portion, the holder has a first side wall having a first mounting portion, and the first mounting portion of the cover is attachable to and detachable from the first mounting portion of the first side wall.

5. 5. The holder of claim 4, wherein the cover comprises a second mounting portion, the holder comprises a second sidewall having a second mounting portion, and the second mounting portion of the cover is attachable to and detachable from the second mounting portion of the second sidewall.

6. 6. The holder of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the cover comprises a first attachment point, or a second attachment point, or both a first attachment point and a second attachment point, comprising a magnetic attachment member, the magnetic attachment member comprising a magnet or magnetic material configured to magnetically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing.

7. 6. The holder of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the cover comprises a first attachment point, or a second attachment point, or both a first attachment point and a second attachment point, that comprises a mechanical attachment member, and the mechanical attachment member comprises a deformable protrusion configured to engage with a protrusion receiving slot to mechanically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing, or the mechanical attachment member comprises a protrusion receiving slot configured to engage with a deformable protrusion to mechanically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing.

8. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cover comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements.

9. 9. The holder of claim 8, wherein the cover comprises a first layer and a second layer, and the plurality of reinforcing elements are sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer.

10. 10. A holder according to claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the plurality of reinforcing elements is a plurality of elongated reinforcing elements.

11. The holder of claim 10 , wherein the plurality of elongated reinforcing elements are substantially parallel to one another.

12. The holder of claim 11 , wherein the elongated aerosol generating device and the plurality of elongated reinforcing elements are substantially parallel when the elongated aerosol generating device is housed within the docking space.

13. A holder according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein each reinforcing element extends along at least 80% of the height of the cover.

14. A holder according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the first layer, or the second layer, or both the first layer and the second layer comprise a fibrous material.

15. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the holder comprises the first wall and a second wall opposite the first wall, and the docking space is defined between the first wall and the second wall.

16. 16. The holder of claim 15, wherein the first wall is spaced apart from the second wall and fixed relative to the second wall.

17. 17. The holder of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the docking space is configured to accommodate the longitudinal dimension of the elongated aerosol generating device between the first wall and the second wall.

18. 18. The holder of claim 15, claim 16, or claim 17, wherein the docking space is further defined by a rear wall extending between the first wall and the second wall.

19. A holder as described in any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the holder comprises a power source configured to provide power to the elongated aerosol generating device when the elongated aerosol generating device is accommodated within the docking space.

20. A holder as described in any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein a user can accommodate the elongated aerosol generating device within the docking space by relative movement of the elongated aerosol generating device and the docking space in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension of the elongated aerosol generating device.

21. A holder according to any preceding claim, wherein the cover comprises retaining means for retaining an accessory.

22. 22. The holder of claim 21, wherein the retaining means comprises a strip of resilient material.

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