Aerosol supply device

Abstract

An aerosol supply device (100) is provided. The device comprises a main body (101) having an opening (103) and a chamber (105) within the main body arranged to receive at least a portion of an article (300) containing aerosol-generating material inserted through the opening. The device comprises a cover assembly (400) having a cover mechanism (410). The cover mechanism is arranged to selectively cover at least partially the opening. An actuation mechanism (420) is provided to move a cover member (412) between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

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 smoking articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products are heating devices that release compounds by heating a material without burning it. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to some embodiments described herein, an aerosol supply device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating material is provided, the aerosol supply device comprising a body defining an opening, a heating zone arranged to receive at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol generating material inserted through the opening, and a cover member comprising a non-flat surface arranged to selectively at least partially cover the first opening, and an actuating member arranged to move relative to the body to operate the cover member, wherein the movement of the actuating member relative to the body rotates the cover member 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.

[0004] In any of the above embodiments, the non-flat surface is curved.

[0005] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member comprises a cover portion and at least one arm arranged to space the cover portion from the axis of rotation of the cover member.

[0006] In any of the embodiments described above, the rotation axis of the cover member traverses the longitudinal axis defined by the heating zone.

[0007] In any of the embodiments described above, the rotation axis of the cover member is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis defined by the heating zone.

[0008] In any of the above embodiments, the rotation axis of the cover member intersects with the rotation axis of the operating member.

[0009] In any of the embodiments described above, the axis of rotation of the cover member is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the operating member.

[0010] In any of the embodiments described above, the operating member is arranged to rotate around a longitudinal axis.

[0011] In any of the above embodiments, the operating member is rotated relative to the main body and is positioned to rotate the cover member between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

[0012] In any of the embodiments described above, the opening defines a plane, and the axis of rotation of the cover member is at least substantially parallel to the plane.

[0013] In any of the embodiments described above, the axis of rotation of the cover member is positioned at a distance from the plane.

[0014] In any of the embodiments described above, the rotation axis of the cover member is positioned at an angle to the plane along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device.

[0015] In any of the above embodiments, the main body comprises a tubular wall defining a heating zone, the tubular wall at least partially defining an opening, and the cover member is configured to cooperate with the tubular wall to at least partially close the opening.

[0016] In any of the above embodiments, the tubular wall is provided with a chamfered edge or a filleted edge for cooperating with the cover member.

[0017] In any of the embodiments described above, the tubular wall is cylindrical.

[0018] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member is pivotably attached to the main body.

[0019] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member includes a partially spherical portion.

[0020] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member is positioned to cooperate with the main body to at least partially close the opening.

[0021] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member has a partially spherical inner surface.

[0022] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member is positioned to contact the main body and at least partially close the opening.

[0023] In any of the above embodiments, a clearance is defined between the cover member and the main body.

[0024] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member is arranged to slide on the main body and move between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

[0025] In any of the embodiments described above, the cover member is positioned to cooperate with the operating member to at least partially close the opening of the operating member.

[0026] In any of the above embodiments, the cover member has an arc-shaped outer surface arranged to cooperate with a corresponding rim defined by the operating member.

[0027] The arc-shaped outer surface can define a non-flat surface.

[0028] In any of the above embodiments, the arcuate outer surface is partially spherical.

[0029] In any of the above embodiments, the rim is partially spherical.

[0030] In any of the above embodiments, the actuating member is arranged to translate relative to the body and rotate between a position where the cover member is relatively open and a position where the cover member is relatively closed.

[0031] In any of the above embodiments, the actuating member is arranged to translate substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device.

[0032] In any of the above embodiments, the actuating member is configured to receive at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol-generating material inserted into the heating zone.

[0033] In any of the above embodiments, the actuating member defines an actuating member opening for receiving at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol-generating material inserted into the heating zone.

[0034] In any of the above embodiments, the actuating member opening overlaps the opening.

[0035] In any of the above embodiments, the opening overlaps the heating zone.

[0036] In any of the above embodiments, the actuating member defines a sheath arranged to at least partially receive the cover member.

[0037] In any of the above embodiments, the actuating member and the body cooperate to surround the cover member when the cover member is in a relatively open position.

[0038] In any of the above embodiments, a clearance is defined between the operating member and the main body, and the cover member is positioned to move through it between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

[0039] In any of the above embodiments, the cover mechanism includes an operating mechanism that acts between the cover member and the operating member.

[0040] In any of the above embodiments, the operating mechanism includes a gear mechanism between the cover member and the operating member.

[0041] In any of the above embodiments, the gear mechanism includes a gear component adjacent to the opening.

[0042] In any of the above embodiments, the gear mechanism comprises a bevel gear component located on the first side of the opening and a shaft located on the second side opposite the opening.

[0043] In any of the above embodiments, the gear configuration includes a bevel gear.

[0044] In any of the above embodiments, the operating member includes a gear track for driving the gear assembly.

[0045] In any of the above embodiments, the gear track is inclined.

[0046] In any of the above embodiments, the operating mechanism includes a cam mechanism.

[0047] In any of the above embodiments, the main body and the operating member together define at least a portion of the device housing.

[0048] In any of the above embodiments, the operating member is rotatably mounted to the main body.

[0049] According to some 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.

[0050] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described as merely examples with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0051] [Figure 1] A schematic front view of the aerosol supply device is shown. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of the aerosol supply device with a cover assembly. [Figure 3] A schematic cross-sectional side perspective view of a portion of the cover assembly for the aerosol supply device shown in Figure 1 in the open position is displayed. [Figure 4] A schematic cross-sectional side perspective view of a portion of the cover assembly for the aerosol supply device shown in Figure 1 in the closed position is displayed. [Figure 5] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of part of the cover mechanism of the cover assembly for the aerosol supply device. [Figure 6] A schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of the cover assembly for the aerosol supply device shown in Figure 1 in the closed position is displayed. [Figure 7] A schematic cross-sectional side view of a portion of the cover assembly for the aerosol supply device shown in Figure 1 in the open position is displayed. [Figure 8] Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of the cover assembly for the aerosol supply device, with several components shown transparently to reveal hidden features. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0052] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating material” refers to a material that can generate an aerosol when, for example, heated, irradiated, or to which energy is applied in any other way. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings. The aerosol-generating material may also contain any plant-based material, such as tobacco-containing material, and may include one or more of the following: tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, recombined tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. The aerosol-generating material may also contain other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine, depending on the product. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, or wax. The aerosol-generating material may also be, for example, a combination or blend of materials. The aerosol-generating material may also be known as “smoked material.”

[0053] The aerosol-generating material may include a binder and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, an active substance and / or filler may also 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 materials. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0054] The aerosol-generating material may include or may 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 capable of holding some fluid, such as a liquid, within the amorphous solid. 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, or about 90% by weight, 95% by weight, or 100% by weight of amorphous solid.

[0055] The aerosol-generating material may include an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may include, or may be, sheets that can be optionally shredded to form shredded sheets. The aerosol-generating sheets or shredded sheets may not substantially contain tobacco.

[0056] According to this disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol supply system is a system in which the aerosol-generating materials (or their components) that make up the aerosol supply system are not burned or incinerated in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to the user.

[0057] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0058] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an electronic 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.

[0059] 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 cigarette heating system.

[0060] In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of one or more aerosol-generating materials that can be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of, for example, 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.

[0061] 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.

[0062] 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.

[0063] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system, for example, the non-combustible aerosol supply device, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electrical power source or a heat-generating power source. In some embodiments, the heat-generating power source includes a carbon substrate to which energy can be supplied to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or heat-transferring material adjacent to the heat-generating power source.

[0064] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a suction port, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0065] 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, packaging material, a filter, a suction nozzle and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0066] An aerosol generating device can accept an article containing an aerosol-generating material for heating. In this context, “article” is a component that contains or includes an aerosol-generating material which is heated during use to volatilize the aerosol-generating material, and optionally contains or includes other components during use. A user can insert an article into the aerosol generating device before the article is heated to generate an aerosol, after which the user inhales the aerosol. The article may be of a predetermined or specific size, for example, configured to be placed in a heating chamber of a device sized to accept the article.

[0067] Figure 1 shows an aerosol supply device 100 for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. Schematically, the device 100 can be used to heat a replaceable article 300 containing an aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium that is inhaled by a user of the device 100. Together, the article 300 and the device 100 form an aerosol supply system 10.

[0068] The device 100 comprises a main body 101, which includes a chamber 105, as shown in Figure 2. The housing 102 surrounds and accommodates various components of the main body 101. An opening 103 communicating with the chamber 105 is formed at one end of the main body 101. The article 300 can be at least partially inserted into the chamber 105 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.

[0069] Device 100 also includes a button assembly 200 that operates Device 100 when pressed. For example, a user may turn on Device 100 by operating the button assembly 200. The button assembly 200 may be assembled as part of other assemblies of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0070] The aerosol generator 150 defines the longitudinal axis X.

[0071] Figure 2 shows 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 may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port. In some examples, connector 160 may be used additionally or alternatively to transfer data between device 100 and another device, such as a computing device.

[0072] Device 100 includes a power supply 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 to supply power and heat the aerosol generating material under the control of a controller as needed.

[0073] Device 100 comprises an electronic module 112. The electronic module 112 may, for example, include a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB may support at least one controller, such as a processor, and memory. The PCB may also include 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 so that power can be distributed throughout device 100.

[0074] The main body 101 defines the end of the device 100. The end of the device 100 closest to the opening 103 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth-side end) 104 of the device 100, as it is closest to the user's mouth during use. During use, the user inserts an article 300 into the opening 103, operates the aerosol generator 150 to begin heating the aerosol-generating material, and aspirates the aerosol generated within the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through the device 100 along a channel toward the proximal end of the device 100.

[0075] The other end of the device furthest from the opening 103 may be known as the distal end 106 of the device 100, as it is the end furthest from the user's mouth during use. When the user inhales 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 arrangement of such features toward each other in the proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis X.

[0076] As used herein, 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. "Integrated" refers to two or more features formed on the integrated component during the manufacturing stage of the component.

[0077] The air passage 180 extends through the main body 101. The air passage 180 extends to the intake port 190. Other airflow configurations are also possible. For example, the airflow may be provided between the receptacle 107 defining the chamber 105 and the article 300.

[0078] In one example, the aerosol generator 150 includes an induction 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.

[0079] A susceptor is a material that can be heated by penetration of a fluctuating magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be a conductive material, thereby inductive heating of the heating material by penetrating the susceptor with a fluctuating magnetic field. The heating material may be a magnetic material, thereby magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material by penetrating the fluctuating magnetic field. The susceptor may be both conductive and magnetic, thereby allowing it to be heated by both heating mechanisms. A device configured to generate a fluctuating magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

[0080] 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 the process of heating a conductive object (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly may comprise an inductive element, for example, one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a variable current, such as an alternating current, through the inductive element. The variable current in the inductive element generates a fluctuating magnetic field. The fluctuating magnetic field penetrates a susceptor suitably positioned relative to the inductive element, generating eddy currents inside 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., by a change in the orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of alignment with the fluctuating magnetic field. In induction heating, compared to, for example, conduction heating, heat is generated inside the susceptor, enabling rapid heating. Furthermore, it allows for greater flexibility in configuration and application because no physical contact is required between the induction heater and the susceptor.

[0081] An inductor coil assembly includes an inductor coil. In some embodiments, the number of inductor coils varies. In some embodiments, two or more inductor coils are used. The inductor coil assembly also comprises a coil support. The coil support is tubular.

[0082] The aerosol generator 150 may additionally or alternatively include other types of heating systems. In several embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a resistance heater type heating system.

[0083] The heating element is part of the heating assembly. The heating element in this example is hollow and thus defines at least a portion of the receptacle 107 in which the aerosol-generating material is received. For example, article 300 can be inserted into the heating element. The heating element is tubular with a circular cross-section. The heating element has a diameter that is substantially constant along its axial length.

[0084] In several embodiments, the heating assembly defines a receptacle 107, and the heating element stands upright within the receptacle 107. The heating element may comprise pins or blades positioned to penetrate the consumable. In several 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.

[0085] The heating element is formed from a conductive material suitable for heating by electromagnetic induction. In this example, the susceptor is made of carbon steel. It will be understood that other suitable materials, such as ferromagnetic materials like iron, nickel, or cobalt, may also be used.

[0086] In other embodiments, the feature that functions as a heating element is not limited to being inductively heated. Therefore, the feature that functions as a heating element may be heatable by electrical resistance. Accordingly, the aerosol generator 150 may be equipped with electrical contacts for electrically connecting to a device for electrically operating the heating element by passing a flow of electrical energy through the heating element.

[0087] The receptacle 107 and article 300 are sized so that article 300 is accepted 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 107. Article 300 may also comprise other components, such as a filter, packaging material, and at least one of a cooling structure.

[0088] The air passage 180 extends from the receptacle 107. The air passage 180 is located at the distal end. The air passage 180 extending from the receptacle 107 is defined by the flow path member 182. The heating element 220 and the flow path member 182 form part of the air passage structure 181.

[0089] The flow channel member 182 extends between the heating element and the opening 190. The flow channel member 182 is tubular. The flow channel member 182 defines a bore. The flow channel member 182 extends axially along its length.

[0090] The cover assembly 400 is positioned to selectively cover the opening 103, which will be described in more detail below.

[0091] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the exterior of the cover assembly 400 in the open position. Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the exterior of the cover assembly 400 in the closed position. The cover assembly 400 may be used with the aerosol supply device 100 shown in Figures 1 and 2, and will be described with reference to that device. For clarity, some components of device 100 have been omitted. In some embodiments, the cover assembly 400 is used with other device components.

[0092] The cover assembly 400 comprises a cover mechanism 410. The cover assembly 400 is located at the proximal end 104 of the device 100. The cover mechanism 410 comprises a body 402 that defines an opening 103 of the device 100. The cover member 412 is positioned to selectively cover the opening 103.

[0093] The actuation mechanism 420 (see Figure 5) is positioned to move the cover member 412 between a relatively open position in which at least a portion of the article can pass through the opening 103 and a relatively closed position in which at least a portion of the article is prevented from passing through the opening 103. The actuation member 422 is operable to actuate the cover mechanism 410.

[0094] The actuating member 422 overlaps the cover member 412 and forms the exterior of the cover mechanism 410. The actuating member 422 is exposed to the outside of the device 100 and is positioned to be operated manually by the user.

[0095] In several embodiments, the body 402 is at least a part of the main body 101 of the aerosol supply device 100. In some embodiments, the body 402 comprises a tubular wall 403 having an opening 103 defined at its proximal end. The opening 103 communicates with a heating zone 405. The heating zone 405 is arranged to receive at least a portion of an article containing aerosol-generating material, for example, article 300, inserted through the opening 103. The longitudinal axis X is defined by the central axis of the heating zone 405.

[0096] The cover member 412 has a non-flat surface 413. The non-flat surface 413 is arc-shaped. That is, although other non-flat shapes are conceivable, the contour of the non-flat surface 413 is curved. As shown in the figure, the non-flat surface 413 is formed by a partial spherical component.

[0097] The cover member 412 comprises a cover portion 414 and two arm portions 416 and 417 that function as a support mechanism, as can be seen, for example, in Figure 6. The arm portions 416 and 417 are provided with flanges, although other configurations are conceivable. The arm portions 416 and 417 extend from opposing sides of the cover portion 414. In some embodiments, the arm portions 416 and 417 are continuum of the cover portion 414. In some embodiments, a single support mechanism is used. The cover portion 414 includes a non-flat surface 413. At least a portion of the non-flat surface 413 is exposed to the outside of the device 100 in the closed position, as can be seen in Figure 4.

[0098] The non-flat surface 413 is partially spherical. The non-flat surface 413 is formed by the outer surface of the cover member 412. The cover portion 414 has a non-flat shape. The cover member 412 includes a partially spherical portion.

[0099] In particular, as shown in Figures 6 and 7, the cover member 412 is pivotably attached to the main body 402. The pivot mechanism 415 extends between the cover member 412 and the main body 402. The pivot mechanism 415 includes a shaft 418. The shaft 418 defines the axis of rotation of the cover member 412. The shaft 418 includes opposing pivot pins 418a and 418b extending from the cover member 412. The cover member 412 includes two arms 416 and 417 extending from both sides of the cover portion 414. Each arm 416 and 417 includes a corresponding pivot pin from among the pivot pins 418a and 418b. The pivot pins 418a and 418b engage with corresponding pivot seats 419a and 419b on the main body 402. The arrangement of the pivot pins 418a, 418b and the pivot seats 419a, 419b may be reversed. The pivot mechanism 415 in some embodiments has a different configuration. The pivot mechanism 415 allows the cover member 412 to rotate about a rotation axis between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. The rotation axis of the cover member 412 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. In some embodiments, the rotation axis may substantially traverse the longitudinal axis X.

[0100] The opening 103 defines a plane, and the axis of rotation of the cover member 412 is at least substantially parallel to the plane. The axis of rotation of the cover member 412 is positioned at a distance from the plane. In some embodiments, the axis of rotation of the cover member 2 is positioned at a distance from the plane along the longitudinal axis X. In some embodiments, the inner surface of the cover member 412 is configured to be rotatably attached to the outer surface of the tubular wall 403 so that the cover member 412 is rotatable about its axis of rotation. Arms 416, 417 position the cover portion 414 at a distance from the axis of rotation of the cover member 412.

[0101] The cover member 412 is rotatably mounted on the body 402 so as to be able to rotate between an open position, as seen, for example in Figure 3, in which at least a portion of an article, for example, article 300, can pass through the opening 103, and a closed position, as seen, for example in Figure 4, in which at least a portion of an article, for example, article 300, is prevented from passing through the opening 103. The cover member 412 is arranged to slide on the body 402 to move between the open and closed positions. In the closed position, the cover member 412 completely closes the opening 103; that is, the cover member 412 overlaps the rim of the opening 103 along its circumferential direction. In some embodiments, when in the relatively closed position, the cover member 412 at least partially closes the opening 103.

[0102] In the open position, the cover member 412 fully opens the opening 103. That is, the cover member 412 does not overlap the rim of the opening 103. In some embodiments, when in the relatively open position, the cover member 412 overlaps a portion of the rim of the opening 103, but is open enough for an article to pass through.

[0103] The actuator 422 is positioned to move relative to the body 402. The actuator 422 and the body 402 together define at least a portion of the housing of the device 100. The actuator 422 is configured to receive at least a portion of an article containing aerosol-generating material, for example, article 300, inserted into the heating zone 108. The actuator 422 defines an actuator opening 424 for receiving at least a portion of an article containing aerosol-generating material, for example, article 300, inserted into the heating zone 108. The actuator 422 is positioned such that the actuator opening 424 is parallel to the opening 103 and is spaced apart from the opening 103. The actuator 422 is also positioned such that the centerline of the actuator opening 424 coincides with the centerline of the opening 103. The operating member opening 424 overlaps the opening 103 so that when an article, for example, article 300, at least a portion of it is inserted into the operating member opening 424, it passes through the opening 103 and enters the heating zone 108 defined by the tubular wall 403.

[0104] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the cover member 412 interacts with the operating member 422 to selectively open and close the operating member opening 424.

[0105] In several embodiments, the cover member 412 is positioned to contact the main body 402 and at least partially close the opening 103. In some embodiments, the cover member 412 may contact the upper edge of the tubular wall 403 to seal the opening 103. In some embodiments, a clearance is defined between the cover member 412 and the main body 430.

[0106] The actuator 422 is attached to the body 402. The actuator 422 is attached to the body 402 in any suitable manner that allows movement of the actuator 422 relative to the body 402. The movement of the actuator 422 may include, but is not limited to, rotation and translation. In this embodiment, the actuator 422 is rotatably attached to the body 402. The actuator 422 provides the user with a simple mechanical mechanism for moving the cover member 412 between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

[0107] The movement of the actuator 422 relative to the main body 402 moves the cover member 412 between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. A clearance 426 is defined between the actuator 422 and the main body 402, and the cover member 412 is positioned to move through it between the relatively open position and the relatively closed position. The axis of rotation coincides with the longitudinal axis X so that the actuator 422 rotates around the longitudinal axis X. In some embodiments, the axis of rotation of the actuator 422 is offset from the longitudinal axis X and optionally parallel to the longitudinal axis X. The axis of rotation of the cover member 412 is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the actuator 422. In some embodiments, the axis of rotation of the cover member 412 intersects the axis of rotation of the actuator 422. In several embodiments, the rotation axis of the cover member 412 is parallel to the rotation axis of the actuator member 422 and can optionally coincide with or be offset from the rotation axis of the actuator member. The rotation of the actuator member 422 relative to the body 402 rotates the cover member 412 between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position.

[0108] The cover member 412 is positioned to cooperate with the operating member 422 to at least partially close the opening 103.

[0109] The term "relatively open position" is understood to mean any position in which at least a portion of the article 300 can pass through the opening 103, i.e., including a fully open position and an intermediate position that leaves sufficient space for a portion of the article 300 to be inserted. The term "relatively closed position" is understood to mean any position in which a portion of the article 300 is prevented from passing through the opening 103, i.e., including a fully closed position and an intermediate position in which there is not enough space for the article 300 to pass through the opening. In this embodiment, the rotation of the actuator 422 relative to the body 402 moves the cover member 412 to or from the fully closed position. The term "fully closed position" is understood to mean that the cover member 412 covers the extent of the opening 103. The terms "open" and "closed" as applied to the features of the cover mechanism 410 are described herein in relation to one another. When the cover member 412 is in the closed position, the entry of undesirable substances such as liquids and particulate matter into the heating chamber is restricted. This improves the lifespan of the device and the overall user experience.

[0110] In some embodiments, the actuator 422 is positioned to translate relative to the body 402 and rotate the cover member 412 between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. In some embodiments, the actuator 422 is positioned to translate substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis X.

[0111] The operating member 422 extends across the proximal end of the main body 430 and houses the cover member 412. The operating member 422 defines the sheath 438, which is positioned around the tubular wall 403.

[0112] The rim 428 defines the operating member opening 424. A clearance 426 is defined between the operating member 422 and the body 402. The clearance 426 extends between the inner surface 427 of the operating member 422 and the proximal end of the tubular wall 403. In some embodiments, at least one of the inner surface of the rim 428 and the proximal end of the tubular wall 403 is provided with a filleted edge or chamfered edge so as to align in cooperation with the path of the cover member 412. In some embodiments, the chamfered edge or filleted edge of the proximal end of the tubular wall 403 cooperates with the cover member 412. In some embodiments, the chamfered edge or filleted edge of the cover member 412 cooperates with the cover member 412. The clearance 426 has a width greater than the thickness of the cover portion 412 so that the cover portion 412 can pass through the clearance 426. The surfaces of the cover member 412 and the main body 402 may be adapted to accommodate the non-planar movement of the cover portion 412 as it moves between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. When in the closed position, the cover member 412 is positioned between the opening 103 and the operating member opening 424. This arrangement prevents any object passing through the operating member opening 424 from passing through the opening 103 and entering the heating zone 108.

[0113] In some embodiments, the cover member 412 has an arc-shaped outer surface arranged to cooperate with the rim 428. The arc-shaped outer surface may be partially spherical.

[0114] In some embodiments, at least one of the rim 428 and the proximal end of the tubular wall 403 defines or is formed by a sealing element that forms a seal with the cover member 412 when the cover member 412 is in a relatively closed position. The seal helps prevent liquids and other contaminants from entering and leaving the heating zone 108. In some embodiments, the seal forms an airtight seal.

[0115] The actuation mechanism 420 includes a gear mechanism 440. Alternative actuation mechanisms are conceivable, and in some embodiments, for example, the actuation mechanism 420 includes a cam mechanism.

[0116] Referring particularly to Figures 5 to 8, the gear mechanism 440 comprises a gear component 442. In Figure 5, a portion of the actuating member 422 is omitted. In Figure 6, the cover member 412 is shown in a closed position, and in Figure 7, the cover member 412 is shown in an open position. In Figure 8, the cover member 412 is shown partially transparent so that the components below are visible. The gear component 442 is surrounded by the actuating member 422. In several embodiments, the gear component 442 is at least partially surrounded by another part of the housing of the device 100. In some embodiments, the gear component 442 comprises a gear 444 that rotates around the rotation axis of the cover member 2. The gear 444 is located on a shaft 418. The gear 444 is fixedly mounted on the shaft 444. In several embodiments, the gear 444 is formed integrally with the cover member 412. The rotation axis of the gear 444 coincides with the rotation axis of the cover member 412. The rotation of the gear 444 around the rotation axis of the cover member 412 causes the cover member 412 to rotate.

[0117] The gear 444 includes gear teeth 446 that cooperate with the actuating member 422. In some embodiments, the gear teeth 446 extend around the entire circumference of the gear 444. Alternatively, only a portion of the circumference of the gear 444 is covered with gear teeth. The gear 444 may be a bevel gear. Other gear configurations are also possible.

[0118] The actuator 422 includes a gear track 448 for driving the gear assembly 422. The gear track 448 is positioned to cooperate with the gear 444. The gear track 448 extends at least partially around the rim 428. The gear track 448 is arc-shaped. As the actuator 422 rotates, the gear track 448 cooperates with the gear 444 throughout its entire range of motion. The gear track 448 has a constant radius.

[0119] In several embodiments, the gear track 448 extends substantially perpendicularly from the rim 428. In such embodiments, the gear track 448 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis X toward the distal end of the body 402. The gear track 448 drives the gear 444 when the actuator 422 is translated away from the body 402 in the direction of the longitudinal axis. In several embodiments, the gear track 448 is provided with retainers 449 at each end, which prevent further cooperation with the gear 444 and prevent further movement of the actuator 422. The retainers 449 are positioned such that further movement of the actuator 422 is prevented when the cover member 412 reaches either a relatively open position or a relatively closed position. In some embodiments, the gear track 448 is inclined.

[0120] In some embodiments, a second gear assembly (not shown) is located at a second node 418 opposite to the node 418 where the gear 444 is located. In such embodiments, the gear track 448 extends over two opposing portions on the rim 428, with each portion of the gear track 448 being of equal length. The second gear assembly includes a transfer gear, a switchback gear, and a drive gear. The second gear assembly provides auxiliary drive to the first gear assembly. The drive gear is located on the shaft 418. The transfer gear is located parallel to the drive gear and has teeth configured to cooperate with the actuator 422. The transfer gear is not located at the second node 418. The switchback gear is mounted on the body and is configured to cooperate with both the transfer gear and the drive gear. The movement of the actuator 422 causes the transfer gear to rotate, which in turn causes the switchback gear to rotate, which in turn causes the drive gear to rotate. This provides an auxiliary drive for moving the cover member 412 between a relatively open position and a relatively closed position. The second gear component drives the cover member 412 in the opposite direction to the rotation of the transfer gear and in the same direction as the gear 444.

[0121] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are presented only as representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered limitations to the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or to equivalents of the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be used or modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may, may consist of, or may 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 an aerosol-generating material, wherein the aerosol supply device is The main body that defines the opening, A heating zone arranged to receive at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol-generating material inserted through the opening, and A cover mechanism, A cover member having a non-flat surface arranged to selectively cover the opening at least partially, The cover mechanism comprises an operating member arranged to move relative to the main body in order to operate the cover member, An aerosol supply device wherein the movement of the operating member relative to the main body rotates the cover member 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.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein the non-flat surface is curved.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover member comprises a cover portion and at least one arm positioned at a distance from the rotation axis of the cover member.

4. The aerosol supply device according to claim 3, wherein the rotation axis of the cover member traverses the longitudinal axis defined by the heating zone.

5. The aerosol supply device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the rotation axis of the cover member intersects the rotation axis of the operating member.

6. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the operating member is arranged to rotate around the longitudinal axis.

7. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the operating member is arranged to rotate relative to the main body and rotate the cover member between the relatively open position and the relatively closed position.

8. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the main body comprises a tubular wall defining the heating zone, the tubular wall at least partially defining the opening, and the cover member is configured to cooperate with the tubular wall to at least partially close the opening.

9. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the cover member is pivotably attached to the main body.

10. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the operating member defines an operating member opening for receiving at least a portion of an article containing an aerosol-generating material inserted into the heating zone.

11. The aerosol supply device according to claim 10, wherein the opening of the operating member overlaps the opening of the main body.

12. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the operating member defines a sheath arranged to at least partially accommodate the cover member.

13. The aerosol supply device according to claim 12, wherein the operating member and the main body cooperate to surround the cover member when the cover member is in the relatively open position.

14. An aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein a clearance is defined between the operating member and the main body, and the cover member is arranged to move through it between the relatively open position and the relatively closed position.

15. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the cover mechanism comprises an operating mechanism that acts between the cover member and the operating member.

16. The aerosol supply device according to claim 15, wherein the operating mechanism includes a gear mechanism between the cover member and the operating member.

17. The aerosol supply device according to claim 16, wherein the gear mechanism comprises a bevel gear component located on the first side of the opening and a shaft located on the second side opposite the opening.

18. The aerosol supply device according to claim 17, wherein the gear configuration comprises a bevel gear.

19. The aerosol supply device according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the operating member comprises a gear track for driving the gear assembly.

20. An aerosol supply system comprising an aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 19 and an article containing an aerosol generating material.

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