Smoking substitute system

Abstract

This relates to a smoking replacement system, including a smoking replacement device and tools for the device. [Solution] The smoking substitute device 201 comprises a main body 209, a heating element extending from the main body, and a cap 210 detachably attached to the main body. The cap is movable between a first position and a second position along the longitudinal axis of the main body. In the first position, the heating element is concealed within the cap, and in the second position, the heating element is at least partially exposed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] [1] The present invention relates to a smoking substitute system, and more particularly, to a smoking substitute system including a smoking substitute device and tools for the device.

Background Art

[0002] [2] Smoking tobacco is generally regarded as exposing smokers to potentially harmful substances. It is generally believed that significant amounts of potentially harmful substances are produced through the burning of tobacco and / or the heat caused by the combustion of tobacco, as well as the components of the burned tobacco in the tobacco smoke itself.

[0003] [3] Conventional combustible smoking articles such as cigarettes typically include a cylindrical tobacco rod containing shredded tobacco surrounded by a wrapper, and usually also include a cylindrical filter axially aligned in abutting relation with the rolled tobacco rod. The filter typically includes a filtering material circumscribed by a plug wrap. The rolled tobacco rod and the filter are held together by a rolled strip of tipping paper that circumscribes the entire length of the filter and an adjacent portion of the rolled tobacco rod. This type of conventional cigarette is used by lighting the end located opposite the filter and burning the tobacco rod. The smoker inhales the mainstream smoke into his or her mouth by sucking at the mouth end or filter end of the cigarette.

[0004] [4] The combustion of organic materials such as tobacco is known to produce tar and other potentially harmful by-products. To avoid smoking tobacco, various smoking substitute systems (or "substitute smoking systems") have been proposed.

[0005] [5] Such smoking substitute systems can form part of a nicotine replacement therapy for people who wish to quit smoking and overcome their nicotine dependence.

[0006] [6] A smoking substitute system includes an electronic system that allows a user to simulate the act of smoking by producing an aerosol (also called “vapor”) which is inhaled (inhaled) through the mouth into the lungs and then exhaled. The inhaled aerosol typically contains nicotine and / or flavoring, which is absent or lesser than the odor and health risks associated with conventional smoking.

[0007] [7] Generally, smoking substitute systems are intended to provide a substitute for the habitual act of smoking, while offering users an experience and satisfaction similar to that experienced with conventional smoking and combustible tobacco products. Some smoking substitute systems use smoking substitute items (also called “consumables”), which are designed to resemble conventional cigarettes and are cylindrical in shape with a mouthpiece at one end.

[0008] [8] The popularity and use of smoking substitute systems have grown rapidly in recent years. Originally marketed as aids to help habitual smokers who wish to quit smoking tobacco, consumers are increasingly viewing smoking substitute systems as accessories to a desirable lifestyle.

[0009] [9] Several different categories of smoking replacement systems exist, each employing a different smoking replacement approach.

[0010]

[10] One approach for a smoking substitute system is the so-called heated tobacco ("HT") approach, in which tobacco (not "e-liquid") is heated or warmed to release vapor. HT is also known as "non-combustion heated" ("HNB"). The tobacco may be loose leaf tobacco or reconstituted tobacco. The vapor may contain nicotine and / or flavorings. In the HT approach, the intention is that the tobacco is heated without being burned, i.e., the tobacco does not undergo combustion.

[0011]

[11] A typical HT smoking substitute system may include a device and consumables. The consumables may include tobacco material. The device and consumables may be configured to be physically coupled together. For example, the consumables may be inserted into a cavity or heating chamber so as to establish physical contact with a heating element located within the cavity. In use, the heating element of the device may heat the tobacco material, and an airflow through the tobacco material causes the components in the tobacco material to be released as vapor. The vapor may also be formed from carriers in the tobacco material (which may include, for example, propylene glycol and / or vegetable glycerin), in addition to volatile compounds released from the tobacco. The released vapor may be carried by the airflow inhaled through the tobacco.

[0012]

[12] As the vapor passes through the consumable (accompanied by the airflow) from the place of evaporation to the outlet of the consumable (e.g., the mouthpiece), the vapor cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by the user. The aerosol typically contains volatile compounds.

[0013]

[13] In HT smoking substitute systems, heating the tobacco material, in contrast to burning it, is believed to reduce the amount of harmful compounds that are typically produced during smoking. As a result, the HT approach can reduce the odor and / or health risks that may arise through the burning, combustion, and pyrolytic degradation of tobacco.

[0014]

[14] During use, physical contact between the heating element and the tobacco material causes residue to form on the surface of the heating element. Therefore, HT devices often require frequent cleaning with special tools to avoid the accumulation of residue on the surface of the heater. For example, the user may need to clean the heating element using a brush or a disposable solvent swap. However, currently available HT systems may only provide access to the heating element through an opening facing the end of the cavity. Furthermore, the user may need to remove a cap covering the opening in order to gain access to the heating element before cleaning. Such a configuration can be inconvenient. Therefore, some users may only clean the heating element after the device has consumed a given number of consumables, for example 20 consumables, by which time the accumulation of residue may be detrimental to the experience, for example, a burnt taste may be perceived.

[0015]

[15] Improved design of smoking substitutes, particularly HT smoking substitutes, is needed to enhance the user experience and improve the functionality of HT smoking substitutes.

[0016]

[16] This disclosure was devised in view of the above-mentioned problems. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0017]

[17] Most commonly, the present invention relates to a smoking substitute system comprising a smoking substitute device having a cap that is movable between two positions to selectively conceal or expose a heating element of the smoking substitute device. This allows the user to more conveniently access the heating element to clean it, thereby facilitating more frequent cleaning routines. The present invention also relates to a tool for removing the cap from the device, thereby preventing accidental removal of the cap. The tool may further include cleaning means to conveniently allow the user to clean the heating element after the cap has been removed by the tool.

[0018]

[18] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a smoking substitute device is provided, comprising a body, a heating element extending from the body, and a cap detachably attached to the body. The cap is movable between a first position and a second position along the longitudinal axis of the body. In the first position, the heating element is concealed within the cap, and in the second position, the heating element is at least partially exposed.

[0019]

[19] For example, in a first position, the cap covers a window or opening in the side wall of the body extending into a transverse cavity housing a heating element, thereby concealing the heating element. In a second position, the cap is moved or slid to a position where it no longer covers the opening, thereby exposing the heating element at least partially through the opening. More specifically, the opening may be located adjacent to the exposed portion of the heating element, thus providing physical access to the exposed portion of the heating element.

[0020]

[20] By providing a device including a cap that is movable between two positions, the heating element can be more conveniently cleaned. For example, when the cap is moved to a second position, the heating element may be exposed from the side of the device through a window or opening, and so the heating element may be visually inspected or cleaned through the opening. It is advantageous that the user can perform simple cleaning on the heating element without requiring a dedicated cleaning tool. For example, the user can simply blow air through the opening or physically shake, tilt and / or tap the device to remove any flaked debris formed on the heating element. The user can also physically clean exposed parts of the heating element, such as the base of the heating element, by using a tool, such as a brush. Furthermore, the smoking substitute devices disclosed herein can extend the usefulness of the device until thorough cleaning or other such maintenance is required.

[0021]

[21] The characteristics of optional selection are described below. These can be applied individually or in any combination with any aspect.

[0022]

[22] Optionally, the cap may be retained in the body by a retaining means in a second position.Optionally, the retaining means may be any suitable retaining means, such as a locking or latching mechanism. The retaining means may allow the cap to be positioned and held in the second position during visual inspection and / or cleaning, and may prevent the cap from moving further along the longitudinal axis after it has reached the second position, thereby preventing the cap from being accidentally removed from the body.

[0023]

[23] Optionally, the retaining means includes at least one flexible locking arm extending from the body and a locking projection positioned on at least one locking arm. The locking projection may be configured to engage with a slot defined in the cap for retaining the cap in the body.Optionally, the locking projection may be held in the slot when the cap moves between a first position and a second position. It is advantageous that the locking projection can slide along the slot when the cap moves from the first position to the second position, thereby preventing relative rotation between the cap and the body.

[0024]

[24] Optionally, the body may define a transverse cavity opening through a first side wall of the body, the opening being juxtaposed with the base of the heating element such that the base of the heating element is at least partially exposed when the cap is in a second position. For example, the opening in the side wall of the body leads to the transverse cavity. The transverse cavity may be juxtaposed laterally with respect to the base of the heating element, or in other words, the transverse cavity may open in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body.

[0025]

[25] Optionally, the transverse cavity can extend from the first side wall of the body to the second side wall located at a position opposite to the first side wall. In other words, the transverse cavity may be a through hole extending through both the first and second side walls of the body. This is advantageous in that it can enable the effective discharge of the peeled fragments from the opening or through hole.

[0026]

[26] Optionally, the locking protrusion is configured to prevent separation of the cap from the device by abutting against the end of the slot after the cap has moved to the second position, thus preventing further movement of the cap. In other words, the locking protrusion can prevent removal of the cap by preventing movement of the cap by abutting against the peripheral surface of the cap defining the slot when the cap is in the second position.

[0027]

[27] Optionally, the cap can define a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-forming article. Optionally, the slot may be connected to or open into the cavity.

[0028]

[28] In a second aspect according to the present invention, a tool for separating a cap from the body of the disclosed smoking substitute device is provided. The tool may be used to separate or remove the cap from the device for thorough cleaning of the heating element. The tool has unlocking means at one end and cleaning means at the other end. The tool can provide for easy maintenance of the smoking substitute device of the disclosed smoking substitute system in a compact size.

[0029]

[29] The tool can have at least one unlocking arm and an unlocking protrusion disposed on the unlocking arm. The unlocking protrusion may be configured to displace a corresponding locking protrusion disposed on a locking arm extending from the body of the device, thereby disengaging the locking protrusion from the slot in the cap. The tool is advantageous in preventing inadvertent removal of the cap from the body of the device.

[0030]

[30] Optionally, the tool further includes cleaning means for cleaning the heating element. The cleaning means advantageously enables the user to physically clean the heating element after the cap has been removed by the tool, thereby cleaning the heating element more thoroughly and, for example, enabling a "thorough cleaning" of the heating element. Optionally, the cleaning means includes at least one cleaning brush. In use, it is advantageous that the brush can rub against the surface of the heating element, thereby enabling the heating element to be cleaned more efficiently.

[0031]

[31] Optionally, the tool further includes a central rod, and at least one unlocking arm extends in a first direction along the longitudinal axis of the central rod, and the cleaning means extends in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0032]

[32] Optionally, the tool includes a collar around the central rod having an unlocking arm extending in the first direction, the collar being movable between an insertion position and an unlocking position, at the insertion position, at least one unlocking arm being enabled to bend, and at the unlocking position, the central rod preventing the bending of the unlocking arm. The collar can constitute a ring-shaped collar. The collar may be positioned concentrically with the central rod.

[0033]

[33] Optionally, the tool further includes a first cover configured to cover at least one unlocking arm and a second cover configured to cover the cleaning means.

[0034]

[34] Optionally, the tool has an external profile similar to an aerosol-forming article for a smoking substitute system.

[0035]

[35] The device may include an elongated body. The ends of the elongated body may be configured to engage with an aerosol-forming article. For example, the body may be configured to engage with heated tobacco (HT) consumables (or non-combustible heated (HNB) consumables). The terms “heated tobacco” and “non-combustible heated” are used herein without distinction to describe consumables of a type that are heated rather than burned (or used without distinction to describe devices for use with such consumables). The device may include a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the consumable (i.e., to engage with the consumable). The aerosol-forming article may be of a type that comprises an aerosol-forming body (e.g., supported by an aerosol-forming substrate).

[0036]

[36] The body may define transverse cavities extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body. The transverse cavities may extend laterally and may be located in the body such that at least the base of the heating element is juxtaposed with the transverse cavities.

[0037]

[37] In addition, at least one locking arm may extend from the body. The locking arm may lock or hold the cap to the body. The locking arm may have a locking projection at its distal end. The locking projection may extend transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the body. The locking arm may be positioned so that when the cap is attached to the body, the locking arm can engage with the cap and hold the cap to the body.

[0038]

[38] The cap may have a slot extending along the longitudinal axis of the body (when the cap is held in the body), and a locking projection may be configured to engage with the slot. The slot may be elongated so that the cap moves or slides relative to the body along the longitudinal axis of the body. The locking projection may have a contact surface for engaging with a circumferential surface of the cap that defines the slot for holding or locking the cap in the body.

[0039]

[39] The cap may be movable between a first position and a second position. When the cap is in the first position, the cap may conceal the heating element. When the cap is in the second position, the heating element may be at least partially exposed, for example, through a window or opening in the side wall of the body. When the heating element is partially exposed, the heating element may be visually inspected to determine whether cleaning of the heating element is required. If necessary, when the cap is in the second position, the heating element may be at least partially cleaned by blowing air through the opening to remove and dislodge any debris, or by simply gently shaking, tilting, and / or tapping the device.

[0040]

[40] The smoking substitute systems of the present disclosure may further include a tool for separating the cap from the body. The tool may be configured to displace a locking arm to enable separation of the cap from the body. The tool may include at least one unlocking arm. The unlocking arm may be adapted to engage with and displace a locking arm in order to separate the cap from the body. Each unlocking arm may have an unlocking projection. The unlocking projection may extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the unlocking arm. The unlocking projection may be adapted to engage with and displace a locking projection in order to release the cap from the body.

[0041]

[41] The tool may further include a central rod. A collar may be positioned concentrically with respect to the central rod. The collar may be movable on the rod, so that it moves relative to the central rod along the longitudinal axis of the central rod. An unlocking arm may extend from the collar along the longitudinal axis of the central rod. The collar may be movable on the central rod between an insertion position and an unlocking position. In the insertion position, the central rod may be kept away from the unlock projection, and the unlocking arm may bend radially inward with respect to the longitudinal axis of the central rod. In the unlocking position, the central rod may move adjacent to the unlock projection, preventing the unlocking arm from bending radially inward with respect to the longitudinal axis of the central rod. The collar may be biased to move toward the insertion position using any preferred means, such as a coil spring.

[0042]

[42] The tool may be configured to be inserted into a cavity. The unlock projection may be configured such that when the unlock arm is inserted into the cavity, the unlock arm displaces the lock arm, thereby releasing the lock arm from its engagement with the slot. The unlock projection may have dimensions that interfere with the width of the cavity. To enable insertion of the unlock arm into the cavity, at the insertion position, the central rod may be spaced apart from the distal end of the unlock arm, allowing the distal end of the unlock arm to bend radially inward, thereby enabling insertion of the unlock arm having the unlock projection into the cavity. The bending can be achieved when the unlock projection abuts against and slides against the inner surface of a cap defining the internal cavity. As shown in the embodiment, the unlock projection may have a tapered surface to guide the bending motion of the unlock arm in and out of the cavity and slot.

[0043]

[43] The tool may further include a cleaning means for cleaning the heating element. The cleaning means may be in the form of a cleaning brush. The cleaning brush may be rubbed against the outer surface of the heating element to remove or scrub off any debris or residue from the heating element.

[0044]

[44] The tool may include a first cover for covering an unused unlock arm. A second cover may be provided for covering an unused cleaning brush.

[0045]

[45] The device may include a heater for heating an aerosol-forming article. The heater may include a heating element, which may be in the form of a rod extending from the body of the device. The heating element may extend from an end of the body configured to engage with the aerosol-forming article.

[0046]

[46] The heater (and thus the heating element) may be rigidly attached to the body. The heating element may be elongated to define a longitudinal axis and may have, for example, a substantially circular transverse profile (i.e., transverse to the longitudinal axis of the heating element) (i.e., the heating element may be substantially cylindrical). Alternatively, the heating element may have a rectangular transverse profile (i.e., the heater may be a “blade heater”). Alternatively, the heating element may be tubular in shape (i.e., the heater may be a “tubular heater”). The heating element may take other shapes (i.e., the heating element may have an oval transverse profile). The shape and / or size (e.g., diameter) of the transverse profile of the heating element may be generally consistent over the entire length (or substantially the entire length) of the heating element.

[0047]

[47] The heating element may be 15 mm to 25 mm in length, for example 18 mm to 20 mm in length, for example about 19 mm in length. The heating element may have a diameter of 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm, for example 2 mm to 2.3 mm in diameter, for example about 2.15 mm in diameter.

[0048]

[48] ​​The heating element may be formed from ceramic. The heating element may include a core containing Al2O3 (e.g., a ceramic core). The core of the heating element may have a diameter of 1.8 mm to 2.1 mm, for example, 1.9 mm to 2 mm. The heating element may include an outer layer containing Al2O3 (e.g., an outer ceramic layer). The thickness of the outer layer may be 160 μm to 220 μm, for example, 170 μm to 190 μm, for example, about 180 μm. The heating element may include a heating track, which may extend longitudinally along the heating element. The heating track may be sandwiched between the outer layer and the core of the heating element. The heating track may contain tungsten and / or rhenium. The heating track may have a thickness of about 20 μm.

[0049]

[49] The heating element may be located in the cavity (of the device) and may extend from the internal base of the cavity toward the opening of the cavity (for example, along the longitudinal axis). The length of the heating element (i.e., the length of the heater along the longitudinal axis) may be less than the depth of the cavity. Thus, the heating element may extend only over a portion of the length of the cavity; that is, the heating element may not extend through (or beyond) the opening of the cavity.

[0050]

[50] The heating element may be configured to be inserted into the aerosol-forming article (e.g., an HT consumable) when the aerosol-forming article is received into the cavity. In this regard, the distal end of the heating element (i.e., distal to the base of the heating element attached to the device) may include a tapered portion, thereby facilitating insertion of the heating element into the aerosol-forming article. When the aerosol-forming article is received into the cavity, the heating element may penetrate the aerosol-forming article completely; that is, the entire length or substantially the entire length of the heating element may be received into the aerosol-forming article.

[0051]

[51] The heating element may have a length less than or substantially the same as the axial length of the aerosol-forming substrate that forms part of the aerosol-forming article (e.g., an HT consumable). Thus, when such an aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device, the heating element may penetrate only the aerosol-forming substrate, and not other components of the aerosol-forming article. The heating element may penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate over substantially the entire axial length of the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article. Thus, when penetrated by the heating element, heat may be transferred from the heating element (e.g., its outer surface) to the surrounding aerosol-forming substrate. That is, the heat may be transferred radially outward (in the case of a cylindrical heating element) or radially inward (in the case of a tubular heater).

[0052]

[52] If the heater is a tubular heater, the heating element of the tubular heater can surround at least a portion of the cavity. When a portion of the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity, the heating element can surround the portion of the aerosol-forming article (i.e., heat that portion of the aerosol-forming article). In particular, the heating element can surround the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article. That is, when the aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device, the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article may be located adjacent to the inner surface of the (tubular) heating element. When the heating element is activated, heat can be transferred radially inward from the inner surface of the heating element to heat the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0053]

[53] The cavity may include a (e.g., circumferential) wall (or more walls), and a (tubular) heating element may extend around at least a portion of this wall. In this way, the wall may be located between the inner surface of the heating element and the outer surface of the aerosol-forming article. The cavity wall (or more walls) may be formed of a thermally conductive material (e.g., a metal) to allow heat conduction from the heating element to the aerosol-forming article. Thus, heat can be conducted from the heating element through the cavity wall (or more walls) to the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article received in the cavity.

[0054]

[54] In some embodiments, the device may include a cap positioned at the end of a body configured to engage with an aerosol-forming article. If the device includes a heater having a heating element, the cap may at least partially enclose the heating element. The cap may be movable between an open position or a second position that provides access to the heating element and a closed position in which the cap at least partially encloses the heating element. The cap may be slidably engaged with the body of the device and may be slidable between the open and closed positions.

[0055]

[55] The cap can define at least a portion of the cavity of the device. That is, the cavity may be completely defined by the cap, or the cap and the body may each define a portion of the cavity. If the cap completely defines the cavity, the cap may include an opening for receiving a heating element into the cavity (when the cap is in the closed position). The cap may include an opening to the cavity. The opening may be configured to receive at least a portion of an aerosol-forming article. That is, the aerosol-forming article may be inserted into the cavity through the opening (engaged with the device).

[0056]

[56] The cap may be configured such that when the aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device (e.g., received into the cavity), only a portion of the aerosol-forming article is received into the cavity. That is, a portion of the aerosol-forming article (the portion not received into the cavity) may protrude from the opening (i.e., extend beyond the opening). This (protruding) portion of the aerosol-forming article may be the end of the aerosol-forming article (e.g., the mouth end), which may be received into the user's mouth for the purpose of inhaling the aerosol formed by the device.

[0057]

[57] The device may include a power supply or may be connectable to a power supply (e.g., a power supply separate from the device). The power supply may be electrically connectable to the heater. In this regard, changing (e.g., toggling) the electrical connection of the power supply to the heater may affect the state of the heater. For example, the heater can be toggled between an on state and an off state by toggling the electrical connection of the power supply to the heater. The power supply may be a power store. For example, the power supply may be a battery or a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium-ion battery).

[0058]

[58] The device may include input connections (e.g., USB ports, Micro USB ports, USB-C ports, etc.). The input connections may be configured to connect to an external power source, such as a power supply port. The input connections may, if applicable, be used as a substitute for an internal power source (e.g., a battery or a rechargeable battery). That is, the input connections may be electrically connectable to a heater (to provide power to the heater). Thus, in some forms, the input connections may form at least part of the power supply of the device.

[0059]

[59] If the power supply includes a rechargeable power source (such as a rechargeable battery), the input connection may be used to charge and recharge the power supply.

[0060]

[60] The device may include a user interface (UI). In some embodiments, the UI may include input means for receiving operation commands from a user. The input means of the UI may enable the user to control at least one form of operation of the device. In some embodiments, the input means may include a power button for switching the device between an on state and an off state.

[0061]

[61] In some embodiments, the UI may, in addition or otherwise, include output means for communicating information to the user. In some embodiments, the output means may include lights for indicating the status of the device (and / or aerosol-forming article) to the user. The status of the device (and / or aerosol-forming article) indicated to the user may include a status indicating the operation of the heater. For example, the status may include whether the heater is off or on. In some embodiments, the UI unit may include at least one of the following: buttons, displays, touchscreens, switches, lights, etc. For example, the output means may include one or more (e.g., two, three, four, etc.) light-emitting diodes ("LEDs"), the light-emitting diodes may be located in the body of the device.

[0062]

[62] The device may further include a puff sensor (e.g., an airflow sensor) which forms part of the input means of the UI. The puff sensor may be configured to detect when the user has inhaled at the end (i.e., the end (mouth end)) of the aerosol-forming article. The puff sensor may be, for example, a pressure sensor or a microphone. The puff sensor may be configured to produce a signal indicating the state of the puff. The signal may indicate, for example, in the form of a binary signal, that the user has inhaled (aerosol from the aerosol-forming article). Alternatively, or in addition, the signal may indicate characteristics of the inhalation (e.g., the flow rate of the inhalation, the length of time of the inhalation, etc.).

[0063]

[63] The device may include a controller, or may be connectable to a controller, which may be configured to control at least one function of the device. The controller may include a microcontroller, which may be mounted, for example, on a printed circuit board (PCB). The controller may also include memory, for example, non-volatile memory. The memory may include instructions, which, when executed, cause the controller to perform a particular task or step of a method. If the device includes an input connection, the controller may be connected to the input connection.

[0064]

[64] The controller is configured to control the operation of the heater (and, for example, the heating element). Thus, the controller may be configured to control the evaporation of the aerosol-forming portion of an aerosol-forming article engaged with the device. The controller may be configured to control the voltage applied to the heater by the power supply. For example, the controller may be configured to toggle between applying the full output voltage (of the power supply) to the heater and not applying any voltage to the heater. Alternatively, or in addition, the control unit may implement a more complex heater control protocol.

[0065]

[65] The device may further include a voltage regulator for adjusting the output voltage supplied by the power supply to form a regulated voltage. The regulated voltage may then be applied to the heater.

[0066]

[66] In some embodiments, if the device includes a UI, the controller may be operably connected to one or more components of the UI. The controller may be configured to receive command signals from input means of the UI. The controller may be configured to control the heater in response to the command signals. For example, the controller may be configured to receive "on" and "off" command signals from the UI and can control the heater in response to these to be in the corresponding on or off state.

[0067]

[67] The controller may be configured to send output signals to components of the UI. The UI may be configured to communicate information to the user via output means in response to such output signals (received from the controller). For example, if the device includes one or more LEDs, the LEDs may be operably connected to the controller. The controller may then be configured to control the illumination of the LEDs (for example, in response to output signals). For example, the controller may be configured to control the illumination of the LEDs according to the state of the heater (for example, on or off).

[0068]

[68] If the device includes a sensor (e.g., a puff / airflow sensor), the controller may be operably connected to the sensor. The controller may be configured to receive signals from the sensor (e.g., indicating the state of the device and / or engaged aerosol-forming article). The controller may be configured to control, based on the signals from the sensor, a heater or in the form of an output means.

[0069]

[69] The device may include a wireless interface configured to communicate wirelessly with an external device (for example, via Bluetooth® (e.g., Bluetooth Low Energy Connectivity) or WiFi®). Similarly, an input connection may be configured to provide communication between the device and the external device via a wired connection to the external device.

[0070]

[70] The external device may be a mobile device. For example, the external device may be a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or smart car. An application (for example, an app) may be installed on the external device (for example, a mobile device). The application can facilitate communication between the device and the external device via a wired or wireless connection.

[0071]

[71] A wireless or wired interface may be configured to transmit signals between an external device and the device's controller. In this regard, the controller can control the configuration of the device in response to signals received from the external device. Alternatively, or in addition, the external device can respond to signals received from the device (e.g., the device's controller).

[0072]

[72] In a third embodiment, a system (e.g., a smoking substitute system) is provided which includes a device according to the first embodiment and an aerosol-forming article. The aerosol-forming article may include an aerosol-forming substrate at the upstream end of the aerosol-forming article. The article may be in the form of a smoking substitute, for example, a heated tobacco (HT) consumable (also known as a non-combustible heated (HNB) consumable).

[0073]

[73] In this specification, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are intended to refer to the direction of vapor / aerosol flow, i.e., the downstream end of the article / consumable is the mouth end or outlet from which the aerosol exits the consumable for inhalation by the user. The upstream end of the article / consumable is the end opposite to the downstream end.

[0074]

[74] The aerosol-forming substrate may be heated to release at least one volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be located at the upstream end of the article / consumable.

[0075]

[75] To generate an aerosol, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least one volatile compound, such volatile compound is intended to evaporate / aerosolize and, when inhaled, can provide the user with distracting and / or medicinal effects. Suitable chemical and / or physiologically active volatile compounds include the group consisting of nicotine, cocaine, caffeine, opiates and opoids, cathine and cathinone, kavaactones, mysticin, beta-carboline alkaloids, and salvinorin A, together with any combination, functional equivalents, and / or synthetic substitutes of the above.

[0076]

[76] The aerosol-forming substrate may include plant material. Plant materials include Amaranthus dubius, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, Argemone mexicana, Amica, Artemisia vulgaris, Yellow Tees, Galea zacatechichi, Canavalia maritima (Baybean), Cecropia mexicana (Guamura), Cestrum. noctumum, Cynoglossum virginianum (wild comfrey), Cytisus scoparius, damiana, Entada rheedii, Eschscholzia califomica (California Poppy), Fittonia albivenis, Hippobroma longiflora, Humulus japonica (Japanese) Hops (Kanamugra)), Humulus lupulus (Hops), Lactuca virosa (Lettuce), Opium (Wild Lettuce), Laggera alata, Leonotis leonurus, Leonurus cardiaca (Motherwort), Leonurus sibiricus (Honeyweed), Lobelia cardinalis, Lobelia inflata (Indian-tobacco), Lobelia siphilitica, Nepeta cataria (Catnip), Tobacco species (Tobacco), Nymphaea alba (White Lily), Nymphaea caerulea (Blue Lily), Opium poppy, Passiflora incamata (Passionflower), Pedicularis densiflora (Indian Warrior (Indian Warrior), Pedicularis groenlandica (Elephant's)Salvia divinorum (Elephant Head), Salvia dorrii (Tobacco Sage), Salvia species (Sage), Scutellaria galericulata, Scutellaria lateriflora, Scutellaria nana, Scutellaria species (Skullcap), Sida acuta (Wireweed), Sida rhombifolia, Silene capensis, Syzygium aromaticum (Clove), Tagetes lucida (Mexican Tarragon), Tarchonanthus camphoratus, Tumera diffusa (Damiana), Mullein genus (Mullein), Zamia latifolia (Maconi At least one plant material selected from the list including Brava (Maconha Brava) may be included together with any of the above combinations, functional equivalents, and / or synthetic substitutes.

[0077]

[77] The plant material may be tobacco. Any type of tobacco may be used, but is not limited to, iron pipe dried tobacco, burley tobacco, Maryland tobacco, dark air dried tobacco, Oriental tobacco, dark fire dried tobacco, Perique tobacco, and Rustika tobacco. This also includes blends of the tobaccos mentioned above.

[0078]

[78] Tobacco may include one or more of the following: leaf tobacco, stem tobacco, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, puffed tobacco, homogenized tobacco, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobacco, and / or reconstituted tobacco (e.g., slurry recon or paper recon).

[0079]

[79] The aerosol-forming substrate may include a collection sheet of homogeneous (e.g., paper / slurry recon) tobacco, or collection strips formed from such a sheet.

[0080]

[80] The aerosol-forming substrate may include one or more additives selected from wetting agents, flavoring agents, fillers, aqueous / non-aqueous solvents, and binders.

[0081]

[81] Flavoring agents may be provided in solid or liquid form. Flavoring agents may include menthol, licorice, chocolate, fruit flavors (e.g., citrus, cherry, etc.), vanilla, spices (e.g., ginger, cinnamon), and tobacco flavors. Flavoring agents may be uniformly dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate or provided at separate locations and / or at varying concentrations throughout the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0082]

[82] The aerosol-forming substrate may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape so that the article / consumable resembles a conventional cigarette. The aerosol-forming substrate may have a diameter of 5–10 mm, e.g., 6–9 mm or 6–8 mm, e.g., about 7 mm. The aerosol-forming substrate may have an axial length of 11–14 mm, e.g., 10–15 mm, e.g., about 12 or 13 mm.

[0083]

[83] An item / consumable may contain at least one filter element. A terminal filter element may be located at the downstream / front end of the item / consumable.

[0084]

[84] A filter element or at least one filter element (e.g., a terminal filter element) may be made of cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow. At least one filter element (e.g., a terminal filter element) may be made of activated carbon. At least one filter element (e.g., a terminal element) may be made of paper. Each filter element or each filter element may be enclosed at least partially (e.g., entirely) by a plug wrap, such as a paper plug wrap.

[0085]

[85] A circumscribing chip layer, such as a chip paper layer, can be used to connect the end filter element (the downstream end of the article / consumable) to the upstream element to form the article / consumable. The chip paper may have an axial length longer than the axial length of the end filter element, so that the chip paper is fully circumscribing the end filter element and any adjacent upstream element wrap layer.

[0086]

[86] In some embodiments, the article / consumable may include an aerosol cooling element adapted to cool the aerosol generated (by heat exchange) from the aerosol-forming substrate before it is inhaled by the user.

[0087]

[87] Articles / consumables may include spacer elements that define a space or cavity between the aerosol-forming substrate and the downstream end of the consumable. The spacer elements may include paper tubes. The spacer elements may be enclosed by a (paper) wrap layer.

[0088]

[88] In a fourth embodiment, a kit is provided which includes a device according to the first embodiment and a tool according to the second embodiment.

[0089]

[89] The present invention includes combinations of the embodiments and preferred features described, unless such combinations are explicitly unacceptable or expressly avoided.

[0090]

[90] It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that, except where mutually exclusive, any feature or parameter described in relation to any one of the above embodiments may be applied to any other embodiment. Furthermore, except where mutually exclusive, any feature or parameter described herein may be applied to any embodiment and / or in combination with any other feature or parameter described herein. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0091]

[91] To enable understanding of the present invention and to recognize further aspects and features thereof, embodiments illustrating the principles of the present invention will be discussed in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Figure 1]

[92] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a smoking substitute system. [Figure 2A]

[93] Figure 2A is a front view of a first embodiment of a smoking substitute system in which consumables are engaged with the device. [Figure 2B]

[94] Figure 2B is a front view of a first embodiment of a smoking substitute system, with consumables detached from the device. [Figure 2C]

[95] Figure 2C is a cross-sectional view of the consumables of the first embodiment of the smoking substitute system. [Figure 2D]

[96] Figure 2D is a detail view of the end of a device of a first embodiment of a smoking substitute system. [Figure 2E]

[97] Figure 2E is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of the smoking substitute system. [Figure 3]

[98] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the smoking substitute system, with the cap in a second position. [Figure 4A]

[99] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of the smoking substitute system, with the cap in a first position. [Figure 4B]

[0100] Figure 4B is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of the smoking substitute system, with the cap in a second position. [Figure 5A]

[0101] Figure 5A is a perspective view of a tool according to one embodiment. [Figure 5B]

[0102] Figure 5B is a perspective view of the tool in Figure 5A with the first cover removed. [Figure 5C]

[0103] Figure 5C is a perspective view of the tool in Figure 5A with the second cover removed. [Figure 6A]

[0104] Figure 6A is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment, showing the tool inserted into the cavity at the insertion position. [Figure 6B]

[0105] Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment, showing the tool inserted into the cavity in the unlocked position. [Figure 7]

[0106] Figures 7(a) to 7(e) show the steps of separating the cap from the body of the smoking substitute device of the first embodiment using a tool. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0092]

[0107] Aspects and embodiments of the present invention will be discussed below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents referred to herein are incorporated herein by reference.

[0093]

[0108] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram providing a schematic overview of the smoking substitute system 100. The system 100 includes a smoking substitute device 101 and an aerosol-forming article in the form of a consumable 102, the consumable 102 including an aerosol-forming body 103. The system is configured to evaporate the aerosol-forming body 103 by heating it (forming vapor / aerosol for inhalation by the user).

[0094]

[0109] In the system shown, the heater 104 forms part of the device 101 and is configured to heat the aerosol-forming body 103. The heat from the heater 104 causes the aerosol-forming body 103 to evaporate, producing vapor. The vapor then condenses to form an aerosol, which is eventually aspirated by the user.

[0095]

[0110] The system 100 further includes a power supply 105, which forms part of the device 101. In other embodiments, the power supply 105 may be located outside the device 101 (but connectable to the device 101). The power supply 105 is electrically connectable to the heater 104 so that it can supply power to the heater 104 (i.e., for the purpose of heating the aerosol former 103). Thus, control of the state of the heater 104 is provided by controlling the electrical connection of the power supply 105 to the heater 104. The power supply 105 may be a power store, for example, a battery or a rechargeable battery (for example, a lithium-ion battery).

[0096]

[0111] The system 100 further includes an I / O module which includes a connector 106 (for example, in the form of a USB port, Micro USB port, USB-C port, etc.). The connector 106 is configured to connect to an external power source, for example, a power supply port. The connector 106 may be used as a substitute for the power supply 105. That is, the connector 106 may be electrically connectable to the heater 104 to supply power to the heater 104. In such an embodiment, the device does not have to include a power supply, and instead the system's power supply may include the connector 106 and the external power source (with the connector 106 providing the electrical connection).

[0097]

[0112] In some embodiments, the connector 106 may be used to charge and recharge the power supply 105 if the power supply 104 includes a rechargeable battery.

[0098]

[0113] System 100 also includes a user interface (UI) 107. Although not shown, the UI 107 may include input means for receiving commands from the user. The input means of the UI 107 enable the user to control at least one form of operation of System 100. The input means may take the form of, for example, buttons, touchscreens, switches, microphones, etc.

[0099]

[0114] UI107 also includes output means for conveying information to the user. Output means may include, for example, lights (e.g., LEDs), display screens, speakers, vibration generators, etc.

[0100]

[0115] The system 100 further includes a controller 108 configured to control at least one function of device 101. In the shown embodiment, the controller 108 is a component of device 101, but in other embodiments, it may be separate from device 101 (but connectable to device 101). The controller 108 is configured to control the operation of the heater 104, and may, for example, be configured to control the voltage applied to the heater 104 from the power supply 105. The controller 108 may be configured to toggle the supply of power to the heater 105 between an ON state in which the entire output voltage of the power supply 105 is applied to the heater 104 and an OFF state in which no voltage is applied to the heater 104.

[0101]

[0116] Although not shown, system 100 may also include a voltage regulator for adjusting the output voltage from power supply 105 to form a regulated voltage. The regulated voltage may then be applied to heater 104.

[0102]

[0117] In addition to being connected to the heater 104, the controller 108 is operably connected to the UI 107. Therefore, the controller 108 can receive input signals from the input means of the UI 107. Similarly, the controller 108 can transmit output signals to the UI 107. In response, the output means of the UI 107 can transmit information to the user based on the output signals.

[0103]

[0118] Figures 2A and 2B show a heated tobacco (HT) smoking substitute system 200. System 200 is an example of system 100 described in relation to Figure 1. System 200 includes an HT device 201 and HT consumables 202. The description of Figure 1 above is also applicable to system 200 in Figures 2A and 2B and will therefore not be repeated.

[0104]

[0119] Device 201 and consumable 202 are configured such that consumable 202 can be engaged with device 201. Figure 2A shows device 201 and consumable 202 in the engaged state, and Figure 2B shows device 201 and consumable 202 in the disconnected state.

[0105]

[0120] Device 201 includes a body 209 and a cap 210. In use, the cap 209 engages with the end of the body 209. Although not evident from these figures, the cap 210 is movable relative to the body 209. In particular, the cap 210 is slidable and can slide along the longitudinal axis of the body 209.

[0106]

[0121] As shown in Figure 7(e), the body 209 defines a transverse cavity 227 extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body 209. The transverse cavity 227 opens through the first side wall of the body 209 and extends from the first side wall of the body 209 toward at least a portion of the heating element, enclosing at least a portion of the heating element. The transverse cavity 227 is positioned in the body 209 such that at least the base 228 of the heating element is juxtaposed with the transverse cavity 227. The transverse cavity 227 extends from the first side wall of the body 209 toward a second side wall located opposite the first side wall of the body 209 and passes through the second side wall. That is, the transverse cavity 227 forms a through-hole extending through the body 209.

[0107]

[0122] Device 201 includes output means in the form of multiple light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 211 linearly arranged on the outer surface of the body 209 of device 201 along the longitudinal axis of device 201 (forming part of the UI of device 201). Button 212 is also located on the outer surface of the body 209 of device 201 and is spaced axially (i.e., along the longitudinal axis) from the multiple LEDs 211.

[0108]

[0123] Figure 2C shows a detailed cross-sectional view of a consumable 202 of system 200. The consumable 202 is generally similar to a cigarette. In that respect, the consumable 202 has a roughly cylindrical shape, with a diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of 70 mm. The consumable 202 includes an aerosol-forming substrate 213, a terminal filter element 214, an upstream filter element 215, and a spacer element 216. In other embodiments, the consumable may further include a cooling element. The cooling element can cool the vapor by exchanging heat with the vapor formed by the aerosol-forming substrate 213 in order to facilitate the condensation of the vapor.

[0109]

[0124] The aerosol-forming substrate 213 is substantially cylindrical and located at the upstream end 217 of the consumable 202, and contains the aerosol-forming body of the system 200. In this respect, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 is configured to be heated by the device 201 to release vapor. The released vapor is then carried by an airflow flowing through the aerosol-forming substrate 213. The airflow is generated by the action of the user inhaling at the downstream end 218 (i.e., the terminal or mouth end) of the consumable 202.

[0110]

[0125] In this embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 comprises tobacco material, which may include, for example, any preferred part of a tobacco plant (e.g., leaves, stems, roots, bark, seeds, and flowers). Tobacco may include one or more of the following: leaf tobacco, stem tobacco, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, puffed tobacco, homogeneous tobacco, shredded tobacco, extruded tobacco, shredded rag tobacco, and / or reconstituted tobacco (e.g., slurry recon or paper recon). For example, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 may include a collection sheet of homogeneous (e.g., paper / slurry recon) tobacco, or collection strips / filtrates formed from such a sheet.

[0111]

[0126] To generate an aerosol, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 comprises at least one volatile compound, such volatile compound intended to evaporate / aerosolize and, when inhaled, can provide the user with a distracting and / or medicinal effect. The aerosol-forming substrate 213 may further comprise one or more additives. For example, such additives may be in the form of a wetting agent (e.g., propylene glycol and / or vegetable glycerin), a flavoring agent, a filler, an aqueous / non-aqueous solvent, and / or a binder.

[0112]

[0127] The end filter element 214 is also substantially cylindrical and is located downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate 213, at the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202. The end filter element 214 is in the form of a hollow filter element with holes 219 (for example, for airflow) formed therein. The diameter of the holes 219 is 2 mm. The end filter element 214 is formed from a porous (for example, monoacetate) filter material. As described above, the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 (i.e., where the end filter 214 is located) forms the mouthpiece portion of the consumable 202 that the user inhales. Airflow is drawn in from the upstream end 217 through the components of the consumable 202 and exits from the downstream end 218. The airflow is driven by the user inhaling at the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 (i.e., the mouthpiece portion).

[0113]

[0128] The upstream filter element 215 is located axially adjacent to the aerosol-forming substrate 213 between the aerosol-forming substrate 213 and the end filter element 214. Similar to the end filter 214, the upstream filter element 215 is in the form of a hollow filter element, with pores 220 extending axially through the hollow filter element. In this way, the upstream filter 215 can act as an airflow restrictor. The upstream filter element 215 is formed from a porous filter material (e.g., monoacetate). The pores 220 of the upstream filter element 214 have a larger diameter (3 mm) than those of the end filter element 214.

[0114]

[0129] The spacer 216 is in the shape of a paper tube and defines a cavity or chamber between the upstream filter element 215 and the terminal filter element 214. The spacer 216 acts to allow both cooling and mixing of the vapor / aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate 213. The spacer has an outer diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of 14 mm.

[0115]

[0130] Although not evident from these figures, the aerosol-forming substrate 213, upstream filter 215, and spacer 216 are circumscribed by a paper wrap layer. The end filter 214 is circumscribed by a tip layer, which in turn circumscribes a portion of the paper wrap layer (to connect the end filter 214 to the remaining components of the consumable 202). The upstream filter 215 and end filter 214 are circumscribed by further wrap layers in the form of plug wraps.

[0116]

[0131] Referring again to device 201, Figure 2D shows a detail view of the end of device 201 configured to engage with consumable 202. The cap 210 of device 201 includes an opening 221 to an internal cavity 222 defined by the cap 210 (more evident from Figure 2D). The opening 221 and cavity 222 are formed to receive at least a portion of the consumable 202. When the consumable 202 is engaged with device 201, a portion of the consumable 202 is received into the cavity 222 through the opening 221. After engagement (see Figure 2B), the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 protrudes from the opening 221 and therefore also from device 201. The opening 221 includes laterally positioned notches 226. When the consumable 202 is received into the opening 221, these notches 226 remain open and can be used, for example, to hold a cover for covering the end of device 201.

[0117]

[0132] Figure 2E shows a cross-sectional view taken through the central longitudinal plane passing through the device 201. The device 201 is shown with the consumable 202 engaged. Furthermore, as shown, at least one locking arm 229 extends from the body 209. The locking arm 229 locks or holds the cap 210 to the body 209. In the shown embodiment, there are two locking arms 229. In one embodiment, any preferred number of locking arms 229 may be provided. The locking arms 229 extend substantially along the longitudinal axis of the body 209, as shown. The locking arms 229 are provided with a locking projection 231 at the distal end, i.e., the end of the locking arm 229 distal to the end of the locking arm 229 connected to the body 209. The locking projection 231 extends transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the body 209. The lock arm 229 is positioned so that when the cap 210 is attached to the body 209, the lock arm 229 engages with the cap 210 and holds the cap 210 in place on the body 209.

[0118]

[0133] In the embodiment shown, the cap 210 may have a slot 232 extending along the longitudinal axis of the body 209 (when the cap 210 is held by the body 209), and the locking projection 231 may be configured or positioned to engage with the slot 232. The slot 232 may be elongated so that the cap 210 moves or slides relative to the body 209 along the longitudinal axis of the body 209. The locking projection 231 may have a contact surface 233 for engaging with a circumferential surface 234 of the cap 210 that defines the slot 232. The contact surface 233 can prevent movement of the cap 210 in one direction by contacting the circumferential surface 234 in order to hold or lock the cap 210 by the body 209.

[0119]

[0134] The cap 210 is movable between a first position and a second position. Figures 2A, 2B, and 2D, as well as Figure 4A, show the device 200 with the cap 210 in the first position. As shown, when the cap 210 is in the first position, the cap 210 conceals the heating element 223. In the first position, the cap 210 completely covers the transverse cavity 227, concealing the heating element 223.

[0120]

[0135] Figures 3 and 4B show the device 200 with the cap 210 in the second position. When the cap 210 is in the second position, the cap 210 exposes the heating element 223 at least partially. In the second position, the cap 210 does not cover the transverse cavity 227 and partially exposes the heating element 223. When the heating element 223 is partially exposed, the heating element 223 may be visually inspected to determine whether cleaning of the heating element 223 is required. If necessary, when the cap 210 is in the second position, the heating element 223 may be cleaned by blowing air through the opening to remove any detached debris, or by simply gently shaking, tilting, or tapping the device. As discussed above, in the second position, the contact surface 233 of the cap 210 can contact the surrounding surface 234.

[0121]

[0136] Device 201 includes a heater 204, which includes a heating element 223. The heater 204 forms part of the body 209 of device 201 and is rigidly attached to the body 209. In the shown embodiment, the heater 204 is a rod heater, and the heating element 223 has a circular transverse profile. In other embodiments, the heater may be a blade heater (e.g., a heating element with a rectangular transverse profile) or a tubular heater (e.g., a heating element with a tubular shape).

[0122]

[0137] The heating element 223 of the heater 204 protrudes from the internal base of the cavity 222 along the longitudinal axis toward the opening 221. As is clear from this figure, the length of the heating element (i.e., the length along the longitudinal axis) is less than the depth of the cavity 222. In this way, the heating element 223 does not protrude from or extend beyond the opening 221.

[0123]

[0138] When the consumable 202 is received into the cavity 222 (as shown in Figure 2E), the heating element 223 penetrates the aerosol-forming substrate 213 of the consumable 202. In particular, when inserted, the heating element 223 extends almost the entire axial length of the aerosol-forming substrate 213. Therefore, when the heater 204 is activated, heat is transferred radially from the outer surface of the heating element 223 to the aerosol-forming substrate 213.

[0124]

[0139] The smoking substitute system of the present disclosure may further include a tool 235 for separating the cap 210 from the body 209. The tool 235 may be configured to displace a locking arm 229 to enable separation of the cap 210 from the body 209. Figures 5A, 5B, and 5C show the tool 235 according to one embodiment. The tool 235 has at least one unlocking arm 230. In the embodiment shown, two unlocking arms 230 are provided. The number of unlocking arms 230 may be provided as needed. In one embodiment, the number of unlocking arms 230 may correspond to the number of locking arms 229. The unlocking arms 230 are adapted to engage with and displace the locking arms 229 in order to separate the cap 210 from the body 209. Each unlocking arm 230 may include an unlocking projection 236. The unlocking projection 236 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the unlocking arm 230. The unlock projection 236 is adapted to engage with the lock projection 231 and displace the lock projection 231 in order to release the cap 210 from the body 209.

[0125]

[0140] The tool 235 may include a central rod 237. A collar 238 may be positioned concentrically around the central rod 237. The collar 238 may be movably positioned on the rod, so that it moves relative to the central rod 237 along its longitudinal axis. An unlock arm 230 may extend from the collar 238 along the longitudinal axis of the central rod 237. The collar 238 may be movable on the central rod 237 between an insertion position and an unlock position. In the insertion position, the central rod 237 may be kept away from the unlock projection 236, and the unlock arm 230 may be bent radially inward with respect to the longitudinal axis of the central rod 237. In Figures 5B and 6A, the collar 238 is shown in the insertion position. In the unlocked position, the central rod 237 moves to align with the unlock projection 236, preventing the unlock arm 230 from bending radially inward with respect to the longitudinal axis of the central rod 237. Figure 6B shows the collar 238 in the unlocked position. Preferred configurations of the collar 238 and rods may be provided to allow and / or guide the movement of the collar 238 between the insertion position and the unlocked position. The collar 238 may be biased to move toward the insertion position using any preferred means, such as a coil spring.

[0126]

[0141] As shown in Figures 7(a) to 7(e), the tool 235 may be configured to be inserted into the cavity 222. The unlock projection 236 is configured such that when the unlock arm 230 is inserted into the cavity 222, the unlock arm 230 displaces the lock arm 229, thereby releasing the lock arm 229 from its engagement with the slot 232. In the shown embodiment, when the unlock projection 236 is inserted into the cavity 222 to remove the cap 210 from the body 209, the unlock projection 236 is configured to enter a slot 232 defined in the cap 210 and displace the lock projection 231. The unlock projection 236 may have dimensions that interfere with the width of the cavity 222. Therefore, in order to enable insertion of the unlock arm 230 into the cavity 222, in the insertion position, the central rod 237 is separated from the distal end of the unlock arm 230, allowing the distal end of the unlock arm 230 to bend radially inward, thereby enabling insertion of the unlock arm 230 having the unlock projection 236 into the cavity 222. The bending can be achieved when the unlock projection 236 abuts and slides against the inner surface 239 of the cap 210 defining the internal cavity 222. As shown in the embodiment, the unlock projection 236 may have a tapered surface 240 to guide the bending motion of the unlock arm 230 in and out of the cavity 222 and slot 232. Figure 7(a) shows the tool 235 inserted into the cavity 222 with the collar 238 in the insertion position.

[0127]

[0142] In the initial stage, the tool 235 is pushed toward the body 209 (indicated by the arrow in Figure 6A), allowing the unlock arm 230 to be inserted into the cavity 222, after which the collar 238 abuts against the opening of the cavity 222, as shown in Figures 6A and 7(b). At this stage, the unlock arm 230 enters the slot 232 defined in the cap 210, as shown in Figure 6A. At this stage, the unlock projection 236 has not completely displaced the lock projection 231 to the extent necessary for the separation of the cap 210. Furthermore, the central rod 237 is pushed into the cavity 222, allowing the collar 238 (relative to the central rod 237) to move to the unlocked position shown in Figure 6(c). When the central rod 237 is pressed, the unlock projection 236 is pushed radially outward and enters the slot 232 properly, occupying the slot 232, as shown in Figure 6B, displacing the lock projection 231 and moving it radially outward (indicated by the arrow), allowing it to be removed from the slot 232. After this, the cap 210, together with the tool 235, is pulled away from the body 209, allowing the cap 210 to be separated from the body 209, as shown in Figure 7(d). Figure 7(e) shows the cap 210 completely separated from the body 209.

[0128]

[0143] The tool 235 may further have cleaning means for cleaning the heating element 223. The cleaning means may be in the form of a cleaning brush 241, as shown in Figure 5C. The cleaning brush 241 may extend from the central rod 237 in the opposite direction to the direction in which the unlock arm 230 extends, as shown in Figure 5C. The cleaning brush 241 may be rubbed against the outer surface of the heating element 223 to remove or scrub off any debris or residue from the heating element 223.

[0129]

[0144] The tool 235 may include a first cover 242 for covering the unused unlock arm 230. Furthermore, a second cover 243 may be provided for covering the unused cleaning brush 241. The covers 242, 243 may be designed so that the tool 235 visually resembles the consumables for a smoking substitute system. A preferred configuration may be provided for holding the covers in place with the tool 235.

[0130]

[0145] Device 202 further includes an electronic cavity 224. A power source in the form of a rechargeable battery 205 (lithium-ion battery) is located in the electronic cavity 224.

[0131]

[0146] Device 202 includes a connector in the form of a USB port 206 (i.e., forming part of the I / O module of device 201). For example, the connector may be, alternatively, a micro USB port or a USB-C port. The USB port 206 may be used to recharge a rechargeable battery 205.

[0132]

[0147] Device 202 includes a controller (not shown) located in the electronic cavity 224. The controller includes a microcontroller mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The USB port 206 also connects to the controller 208 (i.e., to the PCB and the microcontroller).

[0133]

[0148] The controller 208 is configured to control at least one function of the device 202. For example, the controller 208 is configured to control the operation of the heater 204. Such control of the operation of the heater 204 may be achieved by the controller toggling the electrical connection of the rechargeable battery 205 to the heater 204. For example, the controller 208 is configured to control the heater 204 in response to a user pressing a button 212. Pressing the button 212 may cause the controller to apply voltage (from the rechargeable battery 205) to the heater 204 (heating the heating element 223).

[0134]

[0149] The controller is also configured to control the LED 211 in response to the (e.g., detected) state of device 201 or consumable 202. For example, the controller may control the LED to indicate whether device 201 is ON or OFF (for example, when the device is ON, one or more of the LEDs may be lit by the controller).

[0135]

[0150] Device 202 includes further input means in the form of a puff sensor 225 (i.e., in addition to the button 212). The puff sensor 225 is configured to detect when the user has puffed (i.e., inhaled) at the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202. The puff sensor 225 may be, for example, a pressure sensor, a flow meter, or a microphone. The puff sensor 225 is operably connected to a controller 208 in an electronic cavity 224, so that a signal from the puff sensor 225 indicating the puff state (i.e., whether or not puffing is occurring) forms an input to the controller 208 (and may be responded to by the controller 208).

[0136]

[0151] The features disclosed in the above description, or in the following claims, or in the accompanying drawings, are expressed as appropriate in their specific forms, or with respect to means for performing the disclosed functions, or methods or processes for obtaining the disclosed results, and may be used separately or in any combination of such features to realize the present invention in a wide variety of forms.

[0137]

[0152] While the present invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art given this disclosure. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention described above are considered illustrative rather than restrictive. Various modifications may be made to the described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0138]

[0153] To avoid any doubts, all theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purpose of improving the reader's understanding. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.

[0139]

[0154] All item names used in this specification are for structural purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the subjects described.

[0140]

[0155] Throughout this Spec., including the subsequent claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “have,” “comprise,” and “include,” as well as variations such as “having,” “comprises,” “comprising,” and “including,” shall be understood to imply the inclusion of the described whole or step, or group of wholes or steps, but not to exclude any other whole or step, or group of wholes or steps.

[0141]

[0156] When used herein and in the appended claims, it should be noted that, unless the context expressly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references. Herein, ranges may be expressed as “about” one particular value and / or “about” another particular value. When such ranges are expressed, another embodiment includes one particular value and / or other particular values. Similarly, the use of the prefix “about” will be understood to mean that when a value is expressed as an approximation, a particular value forms another embodiment. The term “about” in relation to numbers is optional and means, for example, ±10%.

[0142]

[0157] The words “preferred” and “preferably” are used herein to refer to embodiments of the invention that may offer particular benefits under certain circumstances. However, it should be understood that other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or different circumstances. Therefore, reference to one or more preferred embodiments does not mean or imply that other embodiments are unhelpful, nor is it intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of this disclosure or the claims.

Claims

1. The main unit and Heating elements, The main body includes a cap that is detachably attached to the main body, the cap being movable between a first position and a second position to selectively conceal or expose the heating element, The aforementioned cap is designed to be removed from the main body using a removal tool. A smoking substitute device.

2. The smoking substitute device according to claim 1, wherein the heating element is a tubular heating element.

3. The smoking substitute device according to claim 1, wherein the cap can be held in the main body by a holding means at the second position.

4. The aforementioned holding means At least one flexible locking arm extending from the main body, The smoking substitute device according to claim 3, comprising a locking projection disposed on at least one of the locking arms, wherein the locking projection is configured to engage with a slot defined in the cap for holding the cap in the body.

5. The smoking substitute device according to claim 4, wherein the locking projection is held in the slot when the cap moves between the first position and the second position.

6. The smoking substitute device according to claim 1, wherein the body defines a transverse cavity opening through a first side wall of the body, and the transverse cavity is positioned alongside the base of the heating element such that the base of the heating element is at least partially exposed when the cap is in a second position.

7. The smoking substitute device according to claim 6, wherein the transverse cavity extends from the first side wall of the main body to a second side wall located opposite to the first side wall and passes through the second side wall.

8. The smoking substitute device according to claim 4, wherein the locking projection is configured to prevent the cap from separating from the device and thus prevent further movement of the cap by contacting the end of the slot after the cap has moved to the second position.

9. The smoking substitute device according to claim 8, wherein the cap defines a cavity for receiving at least a portion of an aerosol-forming article.

10. A smoking substitute device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, Aerosol-forming article for the aforementioned smoking substitute device and A smoking substitute system that includes [unclear / unclear].

11. A smoking substitute device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, A removal tool having an unlocking means for removing the cap of the smoking substitute device from the body of the smoking substitute device. A smoking substitute system that includes [unclear / unclear].

12. The smoking substitute system according to claim 11, wherein the removal tool has a cleaning means configured to clean the smoking substitute device when the cap is removed from the body.

13. The smoking substitute system according to claim 12, wherein the unlocking means and the cleaning means are located at different ends of the removal tool.

14. The smoking substitute system according to claim 12, wherein the cleaning means includes at least one cleaning brush.

15. The smoking substitute system according to claim 11, further comprising an aerosol-forming article for the smoking substitute device.

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