Charger for aerosol generating device having insertion mechanism

Abstract

The present invention relates to a charger for an aerosol generating device, comprising a cavity for receiving the device and an insertion mechanism. The insertion mechanism includes an insertion stage for inserting the device into the cavity and a charging stage for moving the device into a charging position. The insertion mechanism is configured to automatically initiate operation of the charging stage upon completion of operation of the insertion stage. The present invention also relates to a kit comprising a charger and an aerosol generating device. The present invention also relates to a method for charging an aerosol generating device.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a charger for an aerosol generating device. The present disclosure further relates to a kit comprising a charger, an aerosol generating device, and optionally an aerosol generating article. The present disclosure further relates to a method for charging an aerosol generating device. [Background technology]

[0002] It is known to provide an aerosol generating device for generating an inhalable aerosol. Such a device may heat an aerosol-forming substrate contained in the aerosol-generating article without combustion. The aerosol-generating article may have a rod shape configured for insertion into a heating chamber of the aerosol generating device. A heating element is disposed in or around the heating chamber for heating the aerosol-forming substrate after the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the heating chamber. The heater of such an aerosol generating device is often powered by a rechargeable battery of the device.

[0003] It is further known to provide a separate charger for the aerosol generating device to releasably hold and recharge the aerosol generating device when not in use. The charger itself may be powered by a battery, which may be rechargeable. Alternatively, or additionally, the charger may charge the device via an external power source.

[0004] The charger may comprise a body, a rechargeable power supply housed within the body, and a cavity for receiving an electrically operated aerosol generating device. Typically, the aerosol generating device needs to be coaxially aligned with the cavity in order to insert the aerosol generating device for charging. Some chargers even require a specific rotational orientation of the aerosol generating device relative to the charging unit to mate corresponding electrical contacts.

[0005] Aerosol generating devices often have an elongated shape or fit into a rod-like aerosol generating article. Aerosol generating devices typically have a high aspect ratio with a first longitudinal dimension that is greater in size than the second and third width dimensions. Chargers for holding aerosol generating devices often include a housing that defines a narrow opening into which a user must insert the device. The narrow opening typically has a width similar to that of the aerosol generating device. A user inserting an aerosol generating device into these cases is generally required to insert the aerosol generating device into the case with the aerosol generating device closely aligned with the narrow opening, and then slide the aerosol generating device longitudinally into the case to ensure proper electrical connection between the aerosol generating device and the charger. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] It would be desirable to improve the ease with which a user can electrically connect an aerosol generating device and a charger. It would be desirable to have a charger into which the device can be inserted using only one hand. It would be desirable to have a charger into which the device can be inserted without looking. It would further be desirable to provide a means for improving the electrical connection between the aerosol generating device and the charging unit. It would also be desirable to improve the speed and ease with which a user can remove an aerosol generating device from a charging unit. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a charger for an aerosol generating device. The charger may comprise a cavity for receiving the device. The charger may comprise an insertion mechanism. The insertion mechanism may include an insertion stage for inserting the device into the cavity. The insertion mechanism may include a charging stage for moving the device into a charging position. The insertion mechanism may be configured for automatically initiating a charging stage operation upon completion of the insertion stage operation.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a charger for an aerosol generating device. The charger comprises a cavity for receiving the device and an insertion mechanism. The insertion mechanism includes an insertion stage for inserting the device into the cavity. The insertion mechanism further includes a charging stage for moving the device into a charging position. The insertion mechanism is configured for automatically initiating a charging stage operation upon completion of the insertion stage operation.

[0009] As used herein, the terms "insertion phase," "charging phase," and "removal phase" refer to the configuration of components of the charger's insertion mechanism for the operational sequences of inserting, charging, and removing the aerosol generating device, respectively.

[0010] The insertion phase operations may include moving the aerosol generating device from an initial insertion position along at least a first direction into a final insertion position. At the end of the insertion phase operations, the device may be in the final insertion position. The cavity may be configured to completely surround the device in the final insertion position. The charging phase operations may include moving the aerosol generating device from the final insertion position into a charging position along at least a second direction. At the end of the charging phase operations, the device may be in the charging position. The cavity may be configured to completely surround the device in the charging position. The device may be charged when in the charging position. The removal phase operations may include moving the aerosol generating device from the charging position into a removal position. The removal position may correspond to the initial insertion position. The removal phase operations may include reverse operations of the charging and insertion phases. The removal phase operations may include reverse movements of the aerosol generating device from the charging position back to the initial insertion position.

[0011] A component of a stage configured to operate a sequence may simultaneously be a component of another stage configured to operate a different sequence, for example a spring mechanism may be part of an insertion stage and may be compressed during an insertion sequence, and at the same time, the spring mechanism may be part of an ejection stage and may be relaxed during an ejection sequence.

[0012] By providing a charger of the present invention, the insertion of an aerosol generating device may be simplified. The charger of the present invention may be particularly advantageous in low light conditions or when the user is driving a vehicle while maintaining continuous visual focus and attention on the road. By providing a charger of the present invention, the speed and ease with which a user can electrically connect an aerosol generating device and a charger may be improved. Insertion of an aerosol generating device into a charger of the present invention may not require coordinated movement of both hands of the user. The charger of the present invention may provide a charger in which the device can be inserted by using only one hand. The charger of the present invention may provide a charger in which the device can be inserted without looking. This is achieved by the insertion mechanism of the charger of the present invention, which may take over fine control of the orientation, positioning and movement of the aerosol generating device towards the charger.

[0013] By providing the charger of the present invention, an additional hinged cover that may be present in current chargers may be unnecessary, thereby simplifying the handling of the charger. By providing the charger of the present invention, the electrical connection between the aerosol generating device and the charging unit may be improved. By providing the charger of the present invention, the speed and ease with which a user can remove the aerosol generating device from the charging unit may be improved.

[0014] The insertion stage may be configured for moving the device in a first direction and the charging stage may be configured for moving the device in at least a second direction different from the first direction. The second direction may be substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The first direction may be perpendicular to one or both of a longitudinal axis of the device and a longitudinal axis of the charger.

[0015] The insertion phase may be configured for one or both of linearly and rotationally moving the device along a first direction, and the charging phase may be configured for one or both of linearly and rotationally moving the device along a second direction.

[0016] The insertion step may be configured for both linearly moving the device along a first direction, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device, and rotationally moving the device about the longitudinal axis of the device.

[0017] The insertion phase may be configured for both linearly moving the device along a first direction, in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the device, and rotationally moving the device by pivoting the longitudinal axis of the device. Pivoting the longitudinal axis of the device may refer to rotational movement of the longitudinal axis of the device relative to the longitudinal axis of the charger during the operation of the insertion phase. For example, the longitudinal axis of the device may be angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the charger in an initial insertion position, and the longitudinal axis of the device may be collinear with the longitudinal axis of the charger in a final insertion position.

[0018] The charger may comprise a motor mechanism, preferably a motor driven gear.The insertion mechanism may comprise a motor mechanism, preferably a motor driven gear.

[0019] The charger may include one or both of a spring mechanism and a motor mechanism to move the device along a first direction.The charger may include one or both of a spring mechanism and a motor mechanism to move the device along a second direction.

[0020] The insertion stage may include one or both of a spring mechanism and a motor mechanism configured to be activated during at least a portion of the movement of the insertion stage.

[0021] The charging stage may be configured to exert a force on the device to press electrical contacts of the device onto electrical contacts of the charger in the charging position. The charging stage may be configured to exert a force along the longitudinal axis of the device to cause movement of the device parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device towards the electrical contacts of the charger. The charging stage may comprise one or both of a spring mechanism and a motor mechanism configured to exert a force on the device and configured to be activated at the end of the insertion stage movement. The mechanism may be configured to be activated when the device is fully pressed against the rear wall of the cavity. The mechanism may be configured to move the button to protrude out of the outer surface of the charger, whereby pressing the button may cause the mechanism to return and release the force exerted on the device.

[0022] The charger may include an elongated opening for lateral insertion of the device into the cavity via a longitudinal side of the device. The longitudinal side generally refers to the longest side of the device or charger. By inserting the device into the elongated opening via its longitudinal side, the insertion dimension is maximized. It may be easier for a user to insert the device into a larger longitudinal opening via its longitudinal side compared to inserting the device into a corresponding smaller opening via a smaller side of the device. For example, it may be easier for a car driver to place the device into a larger opening while maintaining continuous visual focus and attention on the road.

[0023] The side walls of the opening may have a funnel shape toward the cavity to guide the device into the cavity. In other words, the size of the opening may decrease in a direction toward the interior of the cavity. A user may find a large charger opening easier. Aided by the guidance of the gradually narrowing of one or more walls of the charger opening, a user may easily properly insert the device inside the charger.

[0024] The elongated opening may be disposed on a longitudinal side of the charger, and the charger may be disposed such that a longitudinal axis of the charger is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device when the device is inserted into the opening.

[0025] The cavity may be configured to completely enclose the device in the charging position. The interior of the charger may be waterproof and dustproof according to or exceeding the protection class IP64. This may advantageously allow the charger to protect the device from water and dust. IP (i.e. protection class) ratings are defined in the international standard EN 60529. They are used to define the level of sealing effectiveness of an electrical enclosure against the ingress of foreign objects (e.g. tools or dust) and moisture. IP64 refers to a completely dust-tight enclosure, i.e. complete protection against dust and other particulates, including vacuum seal, tested against a continuous air flow. IP64 further refers to an enclosure that is protected against water droplets from all directions (limited ingress without harmful effects is permitted) tested for a minimum of 10 minutes with an oscillating spray.

[0026] The charger may comprise a set of charging terminals configured to be connected to a corresponding set of charging terminals of the aerosol generating device. The charger may comprise two sets of charging terminals symmetrically arranged on opposite walls within the cavity, so that the device can be charged when inserted either face up or face down. Hence, a user may insert the device into the charger without paying attention to the orientation of the device. This may simplify handling of the charger.

[0027] The charger may include a movable rear wall. The movable rear wall may be mounted within the cavity. The movable rear wall may be part of one or both of the insertion and removal stages. The movable rear wall may be configured for contacting the aerosol generating device. The movable rear wall may be configured for movement within and relative to a wall of the cavity during operation of the insertion stage. The movable rear wall may be configured for reverse movement during operation of the removal stage. The movable rear wall may be moved by one or both of a spring mechanism and a motor mechanism of the charger.

[0028] The insertion stage may comprise a clamp for gripping the device. The clamp may simplify insertion of the device. The clamp may support correct orientation of the device when inserted into the charger. The clamp may be mounted on a movable back wall of the charger. The insertion stage may comprise a magnetic surface for gripping the device. The movable back wall of the charger may comprise a magnetic surface. The device may have a corresponding magnetic surface.

[0029] The charger may be configured for use in a vehicle. The charger may comprise means for mounting the charger in a vehicle. For example, the charger may comprise a bracket for an automobile air vent or a holder for a motorcycle handlebar.

[0030] The insertion mechanism may include an ejection stage for at least partially removing the charged device from the cavity into the ejection position. This may allow the device to be easily grasped by a user. The ejection stage operation may be initiated automatically when the device is being charged. The ejection stage may comprise a user interface for a user to manually initiate the ejection stage operation. The user interface may comprise a button.

[0031] The removal phase may be configured for at least partial reversal of one or both of the charging and insertion phases.

[0032] The present invention further relates to a kit comprising a charger as described herein and an aerosol generating device. The kit may also comprise an aerosol generating article. One or both of the charger, the aerosol generating device and the aerosol generating article may have an elongated shape. The longitudinal axis of the charger may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device when the aerosol generating device is inserted into the charger.

[0033] The present invention further relates to a method of charging an aerosol generating device. The method comprises providing a charger as described herein. The method further comprises providing an aerosol generating device. The method further comprises moving the device into the cavity along a first direction and moving the device into a charging position along a second direction. A longitudinal axis of the device may be substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the charger while the device is moved along one or both of the first and second directions. The first direction may be substantially perpendicular to the second direction.

[0034] The method may further include charging the device at the charging location.

[0035] The method may further include removing the device from the charging position into the unloading position. Removing the device from the charging position into the unloading position may include reverse movement of the device out of the charging position along the second direction and along the first direction.

[0036] The charger may include a primary power source. The aerosol generating device may include a secondary power source. An external power connection may be coupled to the electrical circuitry of the charger. For example, the external power connection may be compatible with a USB or micro USB connection. The external power connection may be used to provide power to charge the aerosol generating device.

[0037] The charger may include a power storage unit. For example, the charger may include a battery. The battery may be used to provide portable power for charging the aerosol generating device. The charger's battery may be capable of storing more charge than the aerosol generating device's battery.

[0038] The charger may have a docking arrangement configured to engage the aerosol generating device for charging of the secondary power source by the primary power source. The docking arrangement may comprise one or more sets of electrical contacts that function as coupling members. The coupling members may comprise data contacts, for example data contacts that enable data transfer between the aerosol generating device and the charging device.

[0039] The charger may be configured to receive the aerosol generating device. The charger may have any suitable size and shape for receiving the aerosol generating device. Typically, the charger is portable. In other words, the charger has a suitable size and shape to be carried by a user. The charger may have a size and shape similar to a packet of cigarettes. The charger may have any suitable maximum cross-section and any suitable length. In some embodiments, the charger may have a shape, maximum cross-section, and length substantially similar to a conventional pack of cigarettes. The charger may have a length of about 50 mm to about 200 mm. The charger may have an outer diameter, or maximum cross-section, of about 10 mm to about 50 mm. The charger may have a cross-section of any suitable shape. For example, the charger may have a substantially circular, elliptical, triangular, square, rhombus, trapezoidal, pentagonal, hexagonal, or octagonal cross-section. The charger may have a substantially constant cross-section along its length. The charger may have a substantially rectangular cross-section along its length. In certain embodiments, the charger may be substantially rectangular.

[0040] The housing may generally form the shape of the charging device. The housing may include one or more walls. In certain embodiments, the housing may be substantially rectangular. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composites containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastics suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyethylene. In certain embodiments, the material is lightweight and not brittle.

[0041] The aerosol generating device may be a handheld device. In other words, the aerosol generating device may have any size and shape suitable for being held in a user's hand. The aerosol generating device may have a size and shape similar to a conventional cigarette or cigar. The aerosol generating device may be portable. The aerosol generating device may have any suitable size and shape. The aerosol generating device may have a transverse cross-section of any suitable shape. For example, the aerosol generating device may have a substantially circular, elliptical, triangular, square, rhombus, trapezoidal, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal cross-section. In some specific embodiments, the aerosol generating device has a substantially circular transverse cross-section. The aerosol generating device may have a substantially constant transverse cross-section along its length. The aerosol generating device may have a substantially circular transverse cross-section along its length. The device may have rotational symmetry about its longitudinal axis. The device may have rotational symmetry of an order greater than one about its longitudinal axis. The device may be substantially axially symmetric about its longitudinal axis. In certain embodiments, the aerosol generating device may be substantially circular and cylindrical.

[0042] The aerosol generating device may have any suitable diameter (maximum cross-section) and any suitable length. The aerosol generating device may be elongated. In some particular embodiments, the aerosol generating device may have a shape, diameter, and length substantially similar to a conventional cigarette or cigar. The aerosol generating device may have a length of about 30 mm to about 150 mm. The aerosol generating device may have an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 30 mm.

[0043] The aerosol generating device may be an elongated aerosol generating device having a proximal end, a distal end, and a body extending between the proximal and distal ends.

[0044] As used herein, the terms "upstream," "downstream," "proximal," and "distal" are used to describe the relative positions of components or portions of components of the aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating article, and the case.

[0045] As used herein, the term "longitudinal" is used to describe the direction between a downstream or proximal or mouth end and an opposing upstream or distal end, and the term "transverse" is used to describe the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0046] As used herein, the term "length" is used to describe the maximum longitudinal dimension between the distal or upstream end and the proximal or downstream end of components, aerosol generating devices, aerosol generating articles, and housings.

[0047] As used herein, the term "diameter" is used to describe the maximum transverse dimension of components, such as aerosol generating devices and aerosol generating articles.

[0048] As used herein, the term "transverse cross-section" is used to describe a cross-section of a component, an aerosol generating device, an aerosol generating article, and a charging device, in a direction perpendicular to a major axis of the component, the aerosol generating device, the aerosol generating article, and the case, respectively.

[0049] The term "aerosol-forming substrate" as used herein refers to a substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The volatile compound may be released by heating or burning the aerosol-forming substrate. As an alternative to heating or burning, in some cases the volatile compound may be released by a chemical reaction or by mechanical stimulation such as ultrasound. The aerosol-forming substrate may be solid or liquid, or may include both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article.

[0050] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate capable of emitting a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The aerosol-generating article may be disposable.

[0051] The term "aerosol-generating device" as used herein refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-generating device may interact with one or both of an aerosol-generating article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate and a cartridge that includes an aerosol-forming substrate. In some examples, the aerosol-generating device may heat the aerosol-forming substrate to facilitate the release of volatile compounds from the substrate. An electrically operated aerosol-generating device may include an atomizer, such as an electric heater, for heating the aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol.

[0052] The term "aerosol-generating system" as used herein refers to the combination of an aerosol-generating device with an aerosol-forming substrate. When the aerosol-forming substrate forms part of an aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating system refers to the combination of an aerosol-generating device with an aerosol-generating article. In an aerosol-generating system, the aerosol-forming substrate and the aerosol-generating device work together to generate an aerosol.

[0053] The following provides a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples, any one or more of the features of which may be combined with any one or more features of the other examples, embodiments, or aspects described herein.

[0054] Example 1: A charger for an aerosol generating device, comprising a cavity and an insertion mechanism for receiving the device; an insertion mechanism including an insertion step for inserting the device into the cavity and a charging step for moving the device into a charging position; A charger, wherein the insertion mechanism is configured for automatically commencing a charging phase of operation upon completion of an insertion phase of operation. Example 2: A charger as described in Example 1, wherein the insertion step is configured for moving the device in a first direction and the charging step is configured for moving the device in at least a second direction different from the first direction. Example 3: The charger of example 2, wherein the insertion stage is configured for one or both of linearly and rotationally moving the device along a first direction. Example 4: A charger as described in example 2 or example 3, wherein the charging stage is configured for one or both of linearly and rotationally moving the device along a second direction. Example 5: The charger of any of Examples 2-4, wherein the first direction is perpendicular to one or both of a longitudinal direction of the device and a longitudinal direction of the charger. Example 6: The charger of any one of Examples 2 to 5, wherein the second direction is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Example 7: A charger according to any of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the charging stage is configured to exert a force on the device such that the electrical contacts of the device are pressed onto the electrical contacts of the charger in the charging position. Example 8: A charger as described in Example 7, wherein the charging stage is configured to exert a force along a longitudinal axis of the device to cause movement of the device parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device towards the electrical contacts of the charger. Example 9: A charger as described in Example 7 or Example 8, wherein the charging stage comprises one or both of a spring mechanism and a motor mechanism configured to exert a force on the device and configured to be activated at the end of the insertion stage movement. Example 10: The charger of example 9, wherein the mechanism is configured to be activated when the device is fully pressed against a rear wall of the cavity. Example 11: The charger of example 9 or example 10, wherein the mechanism is configured to move the button to protrude outside an outer surface of the charger, such that pressing the button may cause the mechanism to return or release the force exerted on the device. Example 12: A charger as described in any of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the insertion stage includes one or both of a spring mechanism and a motor mechanism configured to be activated during at least a portion of the operation of the insertion stage. Example 13: A charger according to any of Examples 1 to 12, comprising an elongated opening for lateral insertion of the device into the cavity via a longitudinal side of the device. Example 14: The charger of example 13, wherein the sidewall of the opening has a funnel shape toward the cavity to guide the device into the cavity. Example 15: The charger of example 13 or example 14, wherein the elongated opening is disposed on a longitudinal side of the charger. Example 16: The charger of Example 15, wherein the charger is arranged such that the longitudinal axis of the charger is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device when the device is inserted into the opening. Example 17: The charger of any of Examples 1-16, wherein the cavity is configured to completely surround the device in the charging position. Example 18: The charger according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, wherein the interior of the charger is waterproof and dustproof in accordance with IP64 or higher. Example 19: A charger as described in any of Examples 1 to 18, wherein the charger has two sets of charging terminals arranged symmetrically on opposite walls within the cavity, thereby allowing the device to be charged whether it is inserted face up or face down. Example 20: A charger according to any of Examples 1 to 19, wherein the insertion step includes a clamp for gripping the device. Example 21: A charger according to any of Examples 1 to 20, wherein the insertion step provides a magnetic surface for gripping the device. Example 22: The charger of any of Examples 1 to 21, wherein the charger is configured for use in a vehicle. Example 23: The charger of any of Examples 1 to 22, wherein the charger comprises a means for mounting the charger in a vehicle. Example 24: The charger of any of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the insertion mechanism includes an ejection step for partially removing the charged device from the cavity into the ejection position. Example 25: The charger of example 24, wherein the removal phase of operation is initiated automatically when the device is being charged. Example 26: The charger of example 24, wherein the ejection step comprises a user interface for a user to manually initiate the ejection step operation. Example 27: The charger of example 26, wherein the user interface comprises a button. Example 28: The charger of any of Examples 24-27, wherein the removal phase is configured for at least a partial reverse operation of one or both of the charging phase and the insertion phase. Example 29: The charger of any of Examples 1 to 28, wherein the insertion mechanism comprises a motor mechanism, preferably a motor-driven gear. Example 30: A kit comprising the charger according to any one of Examples 1 to 29, an aerosol generating device, and optionally an aerosol-generating article. Example 31: The kit of Example 30, wherein one or both of the charger, the aerosol generating device, and the aerosol generating article have an elongated shape. Example 32: The kit described in Example 30 or Example 31, wherein the longitudinal axis of the charger is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation device when the aerosol generation device is inserted into the charger. Example 33: A method for charging an aerosol generating device, comprising: Providing a charger according to any one of Examples 1 to 29; Providing an aerosol generating device; moving the device into the cavity along a first direction; and moving the device along a second direction into a charging position. Example 34: The method of example 33, wherein the longitudinal axis of the device is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charger while the device is moved along one or both of the first direction and the second direction. Example 35: The method of example 33 or example 34, wherein the first direction is substantially perpendicular to the second direction. Example 36: The method of any of Examples 33-35, comprising charging the device at a charging station. Example 37: The method of any of Examples 33-36, comprising removing the device from the charging position into the removal position. Example 38: The method of example 37, wherein removing the device from the charging position into the removing position comprises reverse movement of the device along the second direction and out of the charging position along the first direction.

[0055] Features described with respect to one embodiment may equally be applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0056] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0057] [Figure 1] 1a to 1c show operation of the charger of the present invention in the insertion stage. [Diagram 2] 2a and 2b show the charging phase operation of the charger of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 3a to 3c show the operation of the charger of the present invention in the removal stage. [Figure 4] 4a-4c show the insertion and charging phases of operation of the charger of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0058] 1a-1c show the operation of an insertion stage of a charger 10 of the present invention. The charger 10 and an aerosol generating device 12 are shown in cross-section. The charger 10 comprises a cavity 14 for receiving the device 12. The charger 10 comprises an insertion mechanism. The insertion mechanism includes an insertion stage for inserting the device 12 into the cavity 14.

[0059] The charger 10 includes an elongated opening 16 for lateral insertion of the device 12 into the cavity 14 via a longitudinal side of the device 12. The elongated opening 16 is disposed on a longitudinal side of the charger 10. The insertion direction is illustrated by an arrow. The charger 10 is disposed such that when the device 12 is inserted into the opening 16, the longitudinal axis of the charger 10 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device 12. A side wall 18 of the opening 16 has a funnel shape toward the cavity 14 to guide the device 12 into the cavity 14.

[0060] The insertion stage includes a clamp 20 for gripping the device 12 and initiating insertion of the device 12, as shown in Fig. 1a. The clamp 20 is mounted on a movable back wall 22 of the charger 10. The insertion stage is further configured for linearly moving the device 12 in a first direction from an initial insertion position as shown in Fig. 1b into a final insertion position as shown in Fig. 1c. The first direction is perpendicular to both the longitudinal axis of the device 12 and the longitudinal axis of the charger 10.

[0061] The insertion mechanism includes a first spring mechanism 24 configured to be activated during an insertion phase of operation. The first spring mechanism 24 is compressed during insertion of the device 12 and during movement of the movable rear wall 22. The end of the insertion phase of operation is shown in FIG.

[0062] Figures 1a-c also show the second spring mechanism 26 in a compressed state, which is part of the charging phase, as explained below.

[0063] The charger 10 includes a charging stage for moving the device from a final insertion position into a charging position, as shown in Figures 2a and 2b.

[0064] Figure 2a is largely identical to Figure 1c, which shows the end of the insertion phase of motion when the device is in its final insertion position. The only difference between Figure 1c and Figure 2a is that Figure 2a shows a counter spring mechanism 28. The counter spring mechanism 28 is weaker than the second spring mechanism 26. The counter spring mechanism 28 may be used to support removal of the device 12.

[0065] The insertion mechanism is configured for automatically initiating a charging phase of operation upon completion of the insertion phase of operation. The charging phase is configured for linearly moving the device in a second direction different from the first direction, as shown by the arrow in Fig. 2b. The second direction is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. Fig. 2b shows the final charging position. As shown in Fig. 2b, the cavity 14 is configured to completely surround the device 12 in the charging position.

[0066] The charging stage is configured to exert a force along the longitudinal axis of the device 12 to induce a vertical movement of the device 12 parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device 12 towards the electrical contacts 30 of the charger 10. The charging stage is configured to exert a force on the device to press the electrical contacts of the device 12 onto the electrical contacts 30 of the charger 10 in the charging position. The second spring mechanism 26 is configured to exert a force on the device 12. The second spring mechanism 26 is configured to be automatically activated at the end of the insertion stage of the movements. The second spring mechanism 26 is configured to be activated when the device 12 is fully pressed against the rear wall of the cavity 14 (meaning that the movable rear wall 22 is fully pressed towards the left side). As shown in FIG. 2a, the second spring mechanism 26 is no longer blocked by the movable rear wall 22 at the end of the insertion stage of the movements. The second spring mechanism 26 can therefore move vertically to press the electrical contacts of the device 12 onto the electrical contacts 30 of the charger 10 as shown in FIG. 2b. The clamp 20 may assist in the correct downward movement of the device 12. Additionally, the charger 10 includes meshing gears between the vertical shaft member 32, which has been moved downward by the second spring mechanism 26 in FIG. 2b, and the transverse shaft member 34. The meshing gears may serve to convert the vertical downward movement of the vertical shaft member 32 into a linear outward movement of the transverse shaft member 34. The outward movement of the transverse shaft member 34 causes a button 36 at the end of the transverse shaft member 34 to move on the outer surface of the charger 10. The button 36 protrudes out of the charger 10, such that pressing the button 36 may cause the mechanism to return, releasing the force exerted on the device 12 by the second spring mechanism 26.

[0067] Additionally, the first spring mechanism 24 (not shown in FIG. 2) is held in its compressed state by a vertical shaft member 34, which holds the movable rear wall 22 in place when it moves downward as shown in FIG. 2b. Alternatively, or additionally, the first spring mechanism 24 may also be held in place by a rotating hook or an electromagnet.

[0068] Figures 3a-c show a charger 10 of the present invention with an additional removal step. The charger 10 may be the same charger 10 shown in Figures 1 and 2. The insertion mechanism of the charger 10 shown in Figure 3 includes an removal step configured to partially remove the charged device 12 from the cavity 14 into a removal position where the device 12 can be easily grasped by a user.

[0069] FIG. 3a shows the charging position as also shown in FIG. 2b. The removal phase of operation may be initiated automatically when the device 12 is charged. Additionally or alternatively, a user may manually initiate the removal phase of operation by pressing a button 36. Removal is achieved by a motor driven gear 38 connected to the mating gears of the vertical and transverse shaft members 32, 34. The motor driven gear 38 may also be used in reverse to bring the device from the end of the insertion phase of operation as shown in FIG. 2a to the final charging position as shown in FIG. 2b.

[0070] Fig. 3b shows the rotation of the motor drive gear 38 by a curved arrow. The transverse shaft member 34 is pulled out inside the charger 10 as shown by another arrow 40. Due to the gear connection between the vertical shaft member 32 and the transverse shaft member 34, the vertical shaft member 32 moves upwards, compressing the second spring mechanism 26 and relieving the pressure on the device 12. The counter spring mechanism 28 can then push the device 12 upwards, back into the opening path as shown by arrow 42 in Fig. 3c.

[0071] Figure 3b shows that the vertical and transverse shaft members 32 and 26 are fully retracted. The second spring mechanism 26 then no longer blocks the movable rear wall 22. The first spring mechanism 24 can then push the device 12 outwardly of the charger 10, allowing the user to easily remove the device, as shown in Figure 3c. Figure 3c therefore shows the removal position, which corresponds to the initial insertion position.

[0072] A comparison of Figures 1-3 visualizes that the removal phase is configured for the reverse operation of the charging and insertion phases.

[0073] Figures 4a-c show successively the insertion and charging phases of operation of the charger 10 of the present invention as described above. In the embodiment of Figures 4a-c, the charger 10 comprises two sets of charging terminals 30 symmetrically arranged on opposite walls within the cavity 14, so that the device 12 can be charged when inserted either face up or face down. This is shown in Figure 4c, where the device 12 is in its final charging position.

Claims

1. 1. A charger for an aerosol generating device, comprising: a cavity and an insertion mechanism for receiving the device; the insertion mechanism includes an insertion step for inserting the device into the cavity and a charging step for moving the device into a charging position; A charger, wherein the insertion mechanism is configured to automatically commence the charging phase of operation upon completion of the insertion phase of operation.

2. 2. The charger of claim 1, wherein the charging stage is configured for automatically moving the device into engagement with electrical contacts of the device with electrical contacts of the charger.

3. 3. The charger of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the insertion mechanism comprises an actuator for automatically initiating the charging phase of operation upon completion of the insertion phase of operation.

4. 2. The charger of claim 1, wherein the charging stage is configured for automatically moving the device into engagement with electrical contacts of the device with electrical contacts of the charger, and the insertion mechanism comprises an actuator for automatically initiating operation of the charging stage upon completion of operation of the insertion stage.

5. 5. The charger of claim 1, wherein the insertion step is configured for moving the device in a first direction, and the charging step is configured for moving the device in at least a second direction different from the first direction.

6. The charger of claim 5 , wherein the second direction is substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

7. A charger according to any preceding claim, wherein the charging stage is configured to exert a force on the device such that electrical contacts of the device are pressed onto electrical contacts of the charger in the charging position.

8. 8. The charger of claim 7, wherein the charging stage is configured to exert the force along a longitudinal axis of the device to cause movement of the device parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device toward the electrical contacts of the charger.

9. 9. The charger of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the charging stage comprises one or both of a spring mechanism and a motor mechanism configured to exert a force on the device and configured to be activated at the end of the insertion stage movement.

10. 10. The charger of claim 9, wherein the mechanism is configured to move a button to protrude beyond an exterior surface of the charger, such that pressing the button causes the mechanism to return, releasing the force exerted on the device.

11. A charger as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, comprising an elongated opening for lateral insertion of the device into the cavity via a longitudinal side of the device, the elongated opening being disposed on a longitudinal side of the charger, and the charger being disposed such that when the device is inserted into the opening, the longitudinal axis of the charger is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating device.

12. A charger according to any preceding claim, wherein the cavity is configured to completely surround the device in the charging position.

13. A charger as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the charger comprises two sets of charging terminals symmetrically arranged on opposite walls within the cavity, thereby allowing the device to be charged whether it is inserted face up or face down.

14. A charger as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the insertion mechanism includes an ejection stage for partially removing the charged device from the cavity into an ejection position.

15. 15. The charger of claim 14, wherein the removal phase of operation begins automatically when charging of the device is complete.

16. 15. The charger of claim 14, wherein the ejection step includes a user interface for a user to manually initiate the ejection step operation.

17. A kit comprising the charger according to any one of claims 1 to 16 and an aerosol generating device.

18. 1. A method for charging an aerosol generating device, comprising: Providing a charger according to any one of claims 1 to 16; Providing an aerosol generating device; moving the device into the cavity along a first direction; and moving the device along a second direction into the charging location.

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