Aerosol supply device

Abstract

An aerosol supply device is provided for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol supply device comprises a body defining an opening, a heating section arranged to receive at least a portion of an article containing the aerosol-generating material inserted into the opening, and a cover mechanism. The cover mechanism comprises a cover member arranged to selectively cover at least a portion of the opening, an operating member arranged to rotate on the body to actuate the cover member, and a connecting member rotatably attached to the cover member and rotatably attached to the operating member. The rotation of the operating member relative to the body causes the cover member to move between a relatively open position in which at least a portion of the article can pass through the opening and a relatively closed position in which at least a portion of the article is prevented from passing through the opening.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material. The present invention also relates to an aerosol supply system.

Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products include heating devices that release compounds by heating a material without burning it. The material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, and may or may not contain nicotine.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material is provided. The aerosol supply device includes a body defining an opening, a heating section arranged to receive at least a portion of an article including an aerosol generating material inserted into the opening, and a cover mechanism. The cover mechanism includes a cover member arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening, an actuating member arranged to rotate on the body to actuate the cover member, and a connecting member pivotally attached to the cover member and pivotally attached to the actuating member. Rotation of the actuating member relative to the body causes the cover member to move between a relatively open position where at least a portion of the article can pass through the opening and a relatively closed position where at least a portion of the article is prevented from passing through the opening.

[0004] In any one of the above embodiments, the connecting member is arranged to move the cover member between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position in response to the actuation of the actuating member.

[0005] In any of the above embodiments, the rotation of the operating member relative to the main body causes the movement of the cover member via the connecting member.

[0006] In any of the embodiments described above, the connecting member pulls the cover member by the rotation of the operating member in the first direction relative to the main body.

[0007] In any of the above embodiments, the rotation of the operating member relative to the main body in the second direction causes the connecting member to push the cover member.

[0008] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member is rotatably attached to the main body.

[0009] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member is positioned to move parallel to the main body.

[0010] In any of the above embodiments, the connecting member is rigid.

[0011] In any of the above embodiments, the connecting member is a rod.

[0012] In any of the above embodiments, the connecting member is an arm.

[0013] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member includes a first portion positioned to overlap the opening in a relatively closed position, and a second portion positioned to overlap the main body in a relatively closed position. The second portion can be pivotably attached to the main body.

[0014] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member includes an overlapping portion that overlaps the main body in both a relatively open and a relatively closed position. The overlapping portion can be pivotably attached to the main body.

[0015] In any of the above embodiments, the connecting member pivots around a fixed pivot point on the cover member.

[0016] In any of the above embodiments, the connecting member pivots around a fixed pivot point on the operating member.

[0017] In any of the above embodiments, the connecting member does not move linearly parallel to the cover member.

[0018] In any of the above embodiments, the connecting member does not move linearly parallel to the operating member.

[0019] In any one embodiment described above, the cover member is a first cover member, the connecting member is a first connecting member, and the cover mechanism comprises a second cover member positioned to selectively cover at least partially the opening, and a second connecting member rotatably attached to the second cover member and rotatably attached to the operating member.

[0020] In any one embodiment described above, the rotation of the actuarial member relative to the main body causes the first and second cover members to move between a relatively open position in which at least a portion of the article can pass through the opening and a relatively closed position in which at least a portion of the article is prevented from passing through the opening.

[0021] In any one embodiment described above, the first cover member and the second cover member are arranged to cooperate to selectively cover, at least partially, the opening.

[0022] In any of the embodiments described above, the first cover member and the second cover member are arranged to cooperate to selectively and completely cover the opening.

[0023] In any of the embodiments described above, the first cover member abuts against the second cover member in a relatively closed position.

[0024] In any one embodiment described above, the first cover member at least partially overlaps the second cover member in a relatively closed position.

[0025] In any of the above embodiments, the first cover member defines a first edge, the second cover member defines a second edge, and the first and second edges are arranged to coincide with each other.

[0026] In any of the above embodiments, the first edge includes an arcuate portion, and the second edge includes a corresponding arcuate portion.

[0027] In any of the above embodiments, the first edge is S-shaped, and the second edge is a corresponding S-shape.

[0028] In any of the above embodiments, the first edge includes a substantially linear portion, and the second edge includes a corresponding substantially linear portion.

[0029] In any of the above embodiments, the entire first edge is substantially linear, and the entire second edge is substantially linear.

[0030] In any of the above embodiments, the actuating member is arranged to receive at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol-generating material.

[0031] In any of the above embodiments, the actuating member defines an opening into which at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol-generating material can be inserted within a heating section.

[0032] In any of the above embodiments, the actuating member is rotatably attached to the body.

[0033] In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol supply device comprises a magnetic biasing configuration configured to bias the cover member towards at least one of a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

[0034] In the relatively open position, the cover member or each cover member is pulled out from the opening.

[0035] In any of the embodiments described above, the cover member or each cover member does not overlap the opening in a relatively open position.

[0036] According to embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply system is provided comprising one of the above-described aerosol supply devices and an article containing an aerosol generating material.

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below for illustrative purposes only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0038] [Figure 1] This is a schematic front view of an aerosol supply device with a cover assembly. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional side view of the aerosol supply device. [Figure 3] This is a schematic perspective view of the cover assembly for the aerosol supply device shown in Figure 1 in the closed position. [Figure 4] This is a schematic perspective view of the cover mechanism shown in Figure 3 in the open position. [Figure 5] This is a schematic perspective view of another cover mechanism in the closed position. [Figure 6] This is a schematic perspective view of the cover mechanism shown in Figure 5 in the open position. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0039] In this specification, the term “aerosol-generating material” refers to a material capable of generating an aerosol when subjected to energy application, for example, by heating, irradiation, or any other method. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings. Aerosol-generating materials may include any plant-based material, such as tobacco-containing materials, and may include one or more of the following: tobacco, tobacco derivatives, puffed tobacco, recycled tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Aerosol-generating materials may also include other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine, depending on the product. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, or wax. Aerosol-generating materials may also be, for example, a combination or mixture of materials. Aerosol-generating materials are sometimes referred to as “smoking materials.”

[0040] The aerosol-generating material may include an adhesive and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, an activator and / or filler may be present. Optionally, a solvent such as water may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant-based materials. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0041] The aerosol-generating material may include, or be, an amorphous solid. The amorphous solid may be a monolithic solid. In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dry gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that can hold some fluid, such as a liquid, inside. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may include, for example, about 50% by weight, 60% by weight, or 70% by weight of amorphous solid to about 90% by weight, 95% by weight, or 100% by weight of amorphous solid.

[0042] The aerosol-generating material may include an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may include or be a sheet, and may optionally be shredded to form shredded sheets. The aerosol-generating sheet or shredded sheet does not need to contain tobacco substantially.

[0043] According to this disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol supply system is a system that does not burn or incinerate the aerosol-generating materials of the aerosol supply system (or its components) in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to the user.

[0044] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0045] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an e-cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0046] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol supply system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

[0047] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system for generating aerosols using a combination of aerosol-generating materials, one or more of which can be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials can be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0048] Typically, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may comprise a non-combustible aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-combustible aerosol supply device.

[0049] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol-generating materials and configured for use with non-combustible aerosol supply devices. These consumables may be referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

[0050] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as the non-combustible aerosol supply device, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, a power source or a heat-generating power source. In some embodiments, the heat-generating power source may include a carbon substrate, which can be energized to disperse the force in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or heat-transferring material adjacent to the heat-generating power source.

[0051] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0052] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a roll of paper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and / or an aerosol corrector.

[0053] An aerosol generating device can receive an article containing aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, “article” is a component that contains or is contained in aerosol-generating material during use, which is heated during use to volatilize the aerosol-generating material and optionally other components. A user can insert an article into the aerosol generating device, heat the article to generate an aerosol, and then inhale the aerosol. The article may be of a predetermined or specific size, for example, configured to be placed within a heating chamber of a device of a size that receives the article.

[0054] Figure 1 shows an aerosol supply device 100 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. Roughly speaking, the device 100 can be used to heat a replaceable article 300 containing an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol or other aspirable medium, which is then aspirated by the user of the device 100. The article 300 and the device 100 together form an aerosol supply system 10.

[0055] The device 100 comprises a body 101, which includes a chamber 105, as shown in Figure 2. The chamber 105 defines a heating section 107, which is positioned to receive an article 300 at least partially. A housing 102 surrounds and accommodates various components of the body 101. An opening 103 is formed at one end of the body 101, communicating with the chamber 105. The article 300 can be at least partially inserted into the heating section 107 through the opening 103 for heating by the aerosol generator 150 (see Figure 2). During use, the article 300 can be heated by one or more components of the aerosol generator 150.

[0056] The device 100 also includes a button assembly 200 that, when pressed, activates the device 100. For example, a user can turn on the device 100 by operating the button assembly 200. The button assembly 200 can be assembled as part of other assemblies of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0057] The aerosol generator 150 defines the longitudinal axis X.

[0058] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of device 100. Device 100 includes electrical components such as a connector / port 160 that can receive a cable for charging device 100. For example, connector 160 can be a charging port, such as a USB charging port. In some examples, in addition or alternatively, connector 160 can be used to transmit data between device 100 and another device, such as a computing device.

[0059] Device 100 includes a power source 170, which is a battery such as a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (such as lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically coupled to the aerosol generator 150 and supplies power to heat the aerosol-generating material under the control of a controller when needed.

[0060] Device 100 comprises an electronic module 112. The electronic module 112 may include, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB may support at least one controller, such as a processor, and memory. The PCB may also have one or more electrical tracks for electrically connecting various electronic components of device 100 together. For example, battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB, thus distributing power throughout device 100.

[0061] The main body 101 defines the end of the device 100. The end of the device 100 closest to the opening 103 is the closest to the user's mouth during use and can therefore be called the proximal end (or mouthpiece end) 104 of the device 100. During use, the user inserts the article 300 into the opening 103, operates the aerosol generator 150 to begin heating the aerosol generating material, and utilizes the aerosol generated within the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through the device 100 along the flow path toward the proximal end of the device 100.

[0062] The other end of the device furthest from the opening 103 is the end furthest from the user's mouth during use and can therefore be called the distal end 106 of the device 100. When the user utilizes the aerosol generated within the device 100, the aerosol flows toward the proximal end of the device 100. The terms proximal and distal applied to the features of the device 100 are explained by referring to the relative positions of such features toward each other in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis X.

[0063] In this specification, the term "integrated component" refers to a component of device 100 that cannot be separated into two or more components after the assembly of device 100. Integral formation refers to two or more features formed as an integrated component during the manufacturing stage of the components.

[0064] An airflow passage 180 extends through the main body 101. The airflow passage 180 extends to the air inlet 190. Other airflow configurations are also conceivable. For example, an airflow can be provided between a receptacle defining the chamber 105 and the article 300.

[0065] In one example, the aerosol generator 150 includes an inductive heating system that includes a magnetic field generator. The magnetic field generator includes an inductor coil assembly. The aerosol generator 150 also includes a heating element, which is also known as a susceptor.

[0066] A susceptor is a material that can be heated by the intrusion of a fluctuating magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor can be a conductive material, and therefore, the intrusion of a fluctuating magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material can be a magnetic material, and therefore, the intrusion of a fluctuating magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. A susceptor can be both conductive and magnetic, and therefore, a susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. In this specification, a device configured to generate a fluctuating magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator.

[0067] The aerosol generator 150 is an induction heating assembly comprising various components for heating the aerosol-generating material of article 300 via an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating a conductive object (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly may comprise an induction element, for example, one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a fluctuating current, such as an alternating current, through the induction element. The fluctuating current in the induction element results in a fluctuating magnetic field. The fluctuating magnetic field penetrates a susceptor suitably positioned relative to the induction element, generating eddy currents within the susceptor. The susceptor has electrical resistance to eddy currents, and therefore the flow of eddy currents against this resistance heats the susceptor by Joule heating. If the susceptor contains a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses within the susceptor, i.e., fluctuations in the orientation of magnetic poles within the magnetic material resulting from alignment with the fluctuating magnetic field. For example, compared to heating by conduction, induction heating allows for rapid heating because heat is generated within the susceptor. Furthermore, since no physical contact is required between the induction heater and the susceptor, it is possible to increase structural and application flexibility.

[0068] An inductor coil assembly includes an inductor coil. Depending on the embodiment, the number of inductor coils may vary. Depending on the embodiment, two or more inductor coils may be used. The inductor coil assembly also includes a coil support. The coil support is tubular.

[0069] The aerosol generator 150 may also include, or alternatively, other types of heating systems. Depending on the embodiment, the aerosol generator 150 may include a resistance heating system.

[0070] The heating element is part of the heating assembly. In this example, the heating element is hollow and therefore defines at least a portion of the receptacle into which the aerosol-generating material is received. For example, article 300 can be inserted into the heating element. The heating element is tubular and has a circular cross-section. The heating element has a generally constant diameter along its axial length.

[0071] In some embodiments, the heating assembly defines a receptacle, and the heating element stands upright within the receptacle. The heating element may comprise pins or blades positioned to penetrate the consumable. In some embodiments, the consumable comprises the heating element, and the aerosol supply device comprises an inductor coil positioned to inductively heat the heating element within the consumable.

[0072] The heating element is formed from a conductive material suitable for heating by electromagnetic induction. In this example, the susceptor is made from carbon steel. It will be understood that other suitable materials, such as ferromagnetic materials like iron, nickel, or cobalt, can also be used.

[0073] In other embodiments, the feature acting as a heating element is not limited to induction heating. The feature acting as a heating element can also be heated by electrical resistance. Therefore, the aerosol generator 150 may be equipped with electrical contacts for electrical connection to the device in order to electrically activate the heating element by passing an electrical energy flow through it.

[0074] The receptacle and article 300 are sized such that article 300 is received by the heating element. This helps to ensure efficient heating. Article 300 in this example includes an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material is placed inside the receptacle. Article 300 may also comprise other components, such as at least one of a filter, packaging material, and a cooling structure.

[0075] The air passage 180 extends from the receptacle. The air passage 180 is located at the distal end. The air passage 180 extending from the receptacle is defined by the flow channel member 182. The heating element 220 and the flow channel member 182 form part of the air passage structure 181.

[0076] The flow path member 182 extends between the heating element and the opening 190. The flow path member 182 is tubular. The flow path member 182 defines an inner diameter. The flow path member extends axially along its length.

[0077] The cover assembly 400 is positioned to selectively cover the opening 103, and the cover assembly 400 will be described in more detail below.

[0078] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the cover assembly 400 with respect to the aerosol supply device in a closed position, and Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the cover assembly 400 in an open position. Some components are shown transparent to allow for clear illustration and explanation of the feature components.

[0079] The cover assembly 400 can be used with the aerosol supply device 100 shown in Figures 1 and 2, and will be described by referring to that device. Depending on the embodiment, the cover assembly 400 may be used with other device components. The cover assembly 400 comprises a cover mechanism 401.

[0080] Broadly speaking, the cover mechanism 401 comprises a body 402 defining the opening 103 of the aerosol supply device, one or more cover members 410, 411 arranged to selectively cover the opening 103, and an actuator 420. In these figures, the actuator 420 is shown transparent to clearly show the features below that are hidden by this component. One or more connecting members 430 are arranged to move the cover members 410, 411 between a relatively open position in which at least a portion of an article can pass through the opening and a relatively closed position in which at least a portion of an article is prevented from passing through the opening. The cover members 410, 411 are pivotably attached to the body 402. The actuator 420 overlaps the cover members 410, 411 and forms the exterior of the cover mechanism 401. The actuator 420 is exposed to the outside of the aerosol supply device 100 and is arranged to be manually operated by the user.

[0081] The cover assembly 400 comprises a body 402, which is part of the body 101 of the aerosol supply device 100. The body 402 is a rigid member. The body 402 defines a portion of the housing 102. A seal (not shown) can be provided between the body 402 and other components of the housing 102 of the aerosol supply device 100. The seal can extend around the entire perimeter of the body 402. In other embodiments, the body 402 can be integrally formed with the housing 102.

[0082] The main body 402 includes an opening 404, which is the opening 103 of the aerosol supply device 100. The opening 404 communicates with the chamber 105. The opening 404 is sized to receive at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol-generating material, such as article 300.

[0083] The cover mechanism 401 of the cover assembly 400 comprises one or more cover members 410, 411 arranged to selectively cover the opening 404. The cover members 410, 411 cooperate to selectively cover the opening 404. In this embodiment, two cover members 410, 411 are provided. In other embodiments, a different number of cover members can be provided, such as one cover member, three cover members, four cover members, or substantially any number of cover members.

[0084] The cover mechanism 401 comprises a first cover member 410 and a second cover member 411. The first cover member 410 and the second cover member 411 abut each other in a relatively closed position. The first cover member 410 defines a first edge 410a, and the second cover member 411 defines a second edge 411a. The first edge 410a and the second edge 411a are arranged to coincide with each other. That is, the first edge 410a and the second edge 411a have profiles such that they contact each other along their entire length in a relatively closed position. The first edge 410a includes an arched portion, and the second edge 411a includes a corresponding arched portion. The first edge 410a is S-shaped, and the second edge 411a is a corresponding S-shape. This provides a particularly space-efficient configuration for the cover members 410 and 411.

[0085] In embodiments comprising three or more cover members 410, 411, each cover member may include multiple edges that abut against adjacent cover members 410, 411.

[0086] The cover members 410 and 411 are interchangeable; that is, the cover members 410 and 411 are identical. In other embodiments, the cover members 410 and 411 may be different from each other.

[0087] This explanation will proceed by referring to a single cover member 410, but it will be understood that the other cover members 411 also have similar or identical features.

[0088] The cover member 410 is in slidable contact with the main body 402. The cover member 410 is substantially planar. The cover member 410 includes a blade portion 412 positioned to at least partially cover the opening 404. In embodiments with only a single cover member, the blade portion 412 is positioned to completely cover the opening 404. In embodiments with two cover members, each cover member is positioned to cover half of the opening 404, as shown in Figure 3, and thus together to completely cover the opening 404. These proportions may differ.

[0089] The cover member 410 includes an arm portion 414. The arm portion 414 extends from the blade portion 412. The arm portion 414 overlaps the body 402 in both a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. Therefore, the arm portion 414 can be described as an overlapping portion. The blade portion 412 and the arm portion 414 are integrally formed. In other embodiments, the blade portion 412 and the arm portion 414 are separate components in a fixed relationship.

[0090] The cover member 410 includes a lower swivel pin (not shown) that acts as a swivel member. The lower swivel pin extends from the arm portion 414. The lower swivel pin is spaced apart from the blade portion 420. The lower swivel pin is received by the inner diameter of the main body 402. Thus, the cover member 410 is swivelably attached to the main body 402. In other embodiments, the main body 402 may include a pin, and the cover member 410 may have an inner diameter for receiving the pin.

[0091] In some embodiments, the cover member 410 may have an upper swivel pin acting as a swivel member instead of, or in addition to, the lower swivel pin. In such embodiments, the body 402 may include an upper and a lower section, with the cover member 410 held between the upper and lower sections. One of the upper and lower swivel pins may be omitted. The upper swivel pin extends from the arm section 414. The upper swivel pin is spaced apart from the blade section 412. The upper swivel pin extends from the arm section 414 on the side opposite to the lower swivel pin. The upper and lower swivel pins share a common axis. The upper and lower swivel pins extend parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0092] The cover member 410 is a single, integrated component. The cover member 410 is formed as a single unit. In other embodiments, the cover member 410 can be a composite component formed from multiple parts. For example, the upper and lower swivel pins can be a single pin extending through the arm portion 414.

[0093] The cover mechanism 401 includes an operating member 420. The operating member 420 is rotatably mounted on the main body 402. The operating member 420 is operable to selectively operate the cover members 410 and 411. The operating member 420 is exposed to the outside of the aerosol supply device 100. The operating member 420 is positioned to be manually operated by the user to operate the cover members 410 and 411.

[0094] The actuating member 420 is substantially annular in shape. The actuating member 420 defines an opening 422. The opening 422 is centrally located within the actuating member 420. The opening 422 can also be omitted. The opening 422 overlaps with the opening 404 of the main body 402. The opening 422 is axially aligned with the opening 404 of the main body 402. Therefore, the opening 422 communicates with the heating section 107.

[0095] The actuating member 420 is positioned to rotate on the main body 402 to actuate the cover members 410 and 411. The actuating member 420 covers a portion of the main body 402; that is, a portion of the main body 402 extends into the actuating member 420. The axis of rotation of the actuating member 420 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the chamber 105. In some embodiments, the axis of rotation is lateral or perpendicular.

[0096] The main body 402 includes an actuation member mount 424. The actuation member 420 is rotatably engaged with the actuation member mount 424. The actuation member mount 424 substantially restricts the movement of the actuation member 420 relative to the main body to rotational motion. The actuation member 420 includes an arrangement feature 425 that engages with the actuation member mount 424. The arrangement feature is a circumferential projection or other preferred feature on the inner surface of the actuation member 420.

[0097] The actuation member mount 424 includes a clip 426 that acts as a retaining structure. The clip 426 is elastic. The actuation member mount 424 may have multiple clips 426.

[0098] The cover members 410 and 411 are positioned between the main body 402 and the operating member 420. The cover members 410 and 411 make sliding contact with the main body 402. The cover members 410 and 411 also make sliding contact with the operating member 420. Such a configuration helps to limit the intrusion of debris.

[0099] The rotation of the actuator 420 relative to the main body 402 causes the cover members 410 and 411 to move between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. The connecting member 420 connects the cover members 410 and 411 to the actuator 430 to enable this movement, as will be described in detail below. The cover assembly 400 is configured to operate selectively between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. Such positions are related to each other. In the relatively open position, at least a portion of the article 300 is allowed to pass through the opening 404. In the relatively closed position, at least a portion of the article 300 is prevented from passing through the opening 404.

[0100] The term "relatively open position" will be understood to mean any position in which at least a portion of the article 300 can pass through the opening, i.e., a fully open position and an intermediate position that leaves sufficient space for the portion of the article 300 to be inserted. The term "relatively closed position" will be understood to mean any position in which the portion of the article 300 is prevented from passing through the opening 404, i.e., a fully closed position and an intermediate position in which there is not enough space for the article 300 to pass through the opening.

[0101] In this embodiment, when in a relatively open position, the cover members 410 and 411 do not overlap the opening.

[0102] In this embodiment, the rotation of the actuarial member 420 relative to the main body 402 causes the cover members 410, 411 to move to or from the fully closed position. The term fully closed position will be understood to mean that the cover members 410, 411 completely close the opening 404. In this specification, the terms open and closed as applied to the features of the cover mechanism 401 will be explained in relation to one another.

[0103] The cover members 410 and 411 are positioned to pivot relative to the main body 402. The cover members 410 and 411 are positioned to pivot in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the actuator 420. The rotation axis of the actuator 420 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the chamber. Therefore, the movement of the cover members 410 and 411 between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position is a rotation of the cover members 410 and 411. In other embodiments, such movement may also include, or otherwise, translation, i.e., linear motion.

[0104] The cover mechanism 401 comprises a plurality of connecting members 430. The connecting members 430 connect the cover members 410, 411 to the operating member 420. The connecting members 430 provide a mechanical connection between the cover members 410, 411 and the operating member 420. In this embodiment, the cover mechanism 401 comprises one connecting member 430 for each cover member 410, 411. That is, the cover mechanism 401 comprises two connecting members 430. In other embodiments, the ratio of connecting members 430 to cover members 410, 411 may differ. For example, two connecting members may be provided for each cover member 410, 411.

[0105] The connecting members 430 are identical. In other embodiments, the connecting members 430 may be different from one another. This description will proceed by referring to a single connecting member 430, but it will be understood that other connecting members 430 also have similar or identical features.

[0106] The connecting member 430 is pivotably attached to the operating member 420. The connecting member 430 pivots around a fixed point on the operating member 420. In some embodiments, the connecting member 430 includes a pin 432 that is received in the inner diameter of the operating member 420. In other embodiments, the operating member 420 includes a pin that is received in the inner diameter of the connecting member 430. In other embodiments, both the connecting member 430 and the operating member 420 have inner diameters, and separate pins are provided to be received in both inner diameters.

[0107] The connecting member 430 is rotatably attached to the cover member 410. The connecting member 430 is rotatably attached to the lower surface of the cover member 410.

[0108] The connecting member 430 pivots around a fixed point on the cover member 410. In some embodiments, the connecting member 430 includes a pin (not shown) that is received in the inner diameter of the cover member 410. In other embodiments, the cover member 410 includes a pin that is received in the inner diameter of the connecting member 430. In other embodiments, both the connecting member 430 and the cover member 410 have inner diameters, and separate pins are provided to be received in both inner diameters.

[0109] The connecting member 430 does not move linearly parallel to the cover member 410. The connecting member 430 does not move linearly parallel to the actuating member 420. In other words, the connecting member 430 is limited to rotation only relative to the actuating member 420 and the cover member 410, respectively.

[0110] The connecting member 430 is an elongated member. The connecting member 430 defines a first end and a second end. The connecting member 430 is pivotably attached to the operating member 420 near the first end. The connecting member 430 is pivotably attached to the cover member 410 near the second end.

[0111] The connecting member 430 is a rod. The connecting member 430 is made from a plastic material. The connecting member 430 is made from polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The connecting member 430 is an integral component. The connecting member 430 is integrally formed.

[0112] The connecting member 430 is a rigid member. This allows the connecting member 430 to push and pull the cover member 410. This allows the connecting member 430 to selectively induce movement of the cover member 410 in both the first and second directions.

[0113] The connecting member 430 is pivotably attached to the blade portion 412 of the cover member 410. The cover member 410 defines a first end and a second end. The connecting member 430 is pivotably attached to the cover member 410 near the first end, and the cover member 410 is pivotably attached to the main body 402 near the second end.

[0114] The connecting member 430 is pivotably attached to the cover member 410 at a point proximal to the point where the cover member 410 is attached to the main body 402. This provides a relationship in which the movement of the connecting member 430 results in a greater movement of the blade portion of the cover member 410. This reduces the required range of motion of the operating member and provides a space-efficient structure.

[0115] The rotation of the operating member 420 relative to the main body 402 causes the cover members 410 and 411 to move via the connecting member 430. When the operating member 420 is rotated by the user, the connecting member 430 moves the cover members 410 and 411 between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

[0116] Figure 3 shows the cover mechanism 401 in the closed position, and Figure 4 shows the cover mechanism 401 in the open position. The cover members 410 and 411 are movable between the closed position shown in Figure 3 and the open position shown in Figure 4. As shown in these figures, rotating the actuator 420 clockwise moves the cover members 410 and 411 toward the closed position. As shown in these figures, rotating the actuator 420 counterclockwise moves the cover members 410 and 411 toward the open position. In other embodiments, these directions can be reversed. In some embodiments, the cover mechanism 401 contains a lubricant.

[0117] The cover mechanism 401 includes a magnetic biasing component 440. The magnetic biasing component 440 includes a first magnetic assembly 442 joined to the actuarial member 420. The magnetic biasing component 440 includes a second magnetic assembly 444 joined to the main body 402. The first magnetic assembly 442 and the second magnetic assembly 444 are arranged to attract each other in a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. The first magnetic assembly 442 and the second magnetic assembly 444 are arranged to repel each other in an intermediate position between the relatively open position and the relatively closed position. The first magnetic assembly 442 and the second magnetic assembly 444 are arranged to bias the cover assembly 400 to either the relatively open position or the relatively closed position, depending on the position of the cover assembly. Specifically, the first magnetic assembly 442 and the second magnetic assembly 444 are arranged to bias the cover assembly 400 to a relatively open position over a range of motion adjacent to a relatively open position, and the first magnetic assembly 442 and the second magnetic assembly 444 are arranged to bias the cover assembly 400 to a relatively closed position over a range of motion adjacent to a relatively closed position.

[0118] Figure 5 shows a schematic perspective view of the second cover assembly 500 with respect to the aerosol supply device in a closed position, and Figure 6 shows a schematic perspective view of the cover assembly 500 in an open position. The cover assembly 500 can be used with the aerosol supply device 100 shown in Figures 1 and 2, and the cover assembly 500 will be described by referring to that device. In some embodiments, the cover assembly 400 is used with other device components. The second cover assembly 500 is similar to the cover assembly 400, and for brevity, a description of the common features will be omitted. The features of the second cover assembly 500 are indicated by increasing the reference number by 100, corresponding to the features of the first cover assembly 400.

[0119] The cover mechanism 501 of the second cover assembly 500 comprises a first cover member 510 and a second cover member 511. The first cover member 510 and the second cover member 511 abut each other in a relatively closed position. The first cover member 510 defines a first edge, and the second cover member 511 defines a second edge. The first and second edges are positioned to coincide with each other; that is, the first and second edges have profiles such that they contact each other along their entire length in a relatively closed position. The first edge includes a substantially linear portion, and the second edge includes a corresponding substantially linear portion. In this embodiment, the entire first edge is substantially linear, and the entire second edge is substantially linear. This provides a cover mechanism 500 that aids in manufacturing, allows for easier alignment of components, facilitates assembly of the cover mechanism 500, and helps reduce malfunctions.

[0120] The connecting members 430 and 530 of the first cover assembly 400 and the second cover assembly 500 provide a robust means of transmitting the motion of the actuari members 420 and 520 to the cover members 410, 411, 510, and 511. Compared to, for example, a cam mechanism or a gear mechanism, the connecting members 430 and 530 are less likely to become clogged or worn by the ingress of debris.

[0121] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in the understanding and teaching of the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations to the scope of the invention as defined by the claims, or to equivalents of the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilized and modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably include, consist of, or essentially consist of, appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol supply device for generating aerosols from aerosol-generating materials, The main body that defines the opening, A heating section is provided to receive at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol-generating material inserted into the opening, Cover mechanism, It is equipped with, The cover mechanism, A cover member is arranged to selectively cover the opening at least partially, An operating member is arranged to rotate on the main body to operate the cover member, A connecting member is rotatably attached to the cover member and rotatably attached to the operating member, Equipped with, The rotation of the operating member relative to the main body causes the cover member to move between a relatively open position in which at least a portion of the article can pass through the opening and a relatively closed position in which at least a portion of the article is prevented from passing through the opening. Aerosol supply device.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein the rotation of the operating member relative to the main body causes the movement of the cover member via the connecting member.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover member is rotatably attached to the main body.

4. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the connecting member is rigid.

5. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the connecting member is a rod.

6. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cover member includes an overlapping portion that overlaps the main body in both the relatively open position and the relatively closed position, and the overlapping portion is rotatably attached to the main body.

7. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the connecting member rotates around a fixed pivot point on the cover member.

8. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the connecting member rotates around a fixed pivot point on the operating member.

9. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the connecting member does not linearly translate parallel to at least one of the cover member and the operating member.

10. The cover member is the first cover member, The aforementioned connecting member is the first connecting member, The cover mechanism, A second cover member is positioned to selectively cover the opening at least partially, A second connecting member is rotatably attached to the second cover member and rotatably attached to the operating member, an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising:

11. The aerosol supply device according to claim 10, wherein the first cover member and the second cover member are arranged to cooperate to selectively and at least partially cover the opening.

12. The aerosol supply device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the first cover member abuts against the second cover member in the relatively closed position.

13. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the first cover member defines a first edge, the second cover member defines a second edge, and the first and second edges are arranged to coincide with each other.

14. The aerosol supply device according to claim 13, wherein the first edge includes a curved portion and the second edge includes a corresponding curved portion.

15. The aerosol supply device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the first edge is S-shaped and the second edge is correspondingly S-shaped.

16. The aerosol supply device according to claim 13, wherein the first edge includes a substantially linear portion and the second edge includes a corresponding substantially linear portion.

17. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the operating member defines an opening into which at least a portion of an article containing the aerosol generating material can be inserted into the heating section.

18. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the operating member is rotatably mounted on the main body.

19. A magnetic biasing component configured to bias the cover member toward at least one of the relatively open position and the relatively closed position, an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, comprising:

20. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein in the relatively open position, the cover member or each cover member does not overlap the opening of the main body.

21. An aerosol supply system comprising an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 20 and an article containing an aerosol generating material.

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