Aerosol Delivery System

Abstract

To provide an aerosol supply system / cartridge for suppressing leakage of an aerosol precursor material from a refillable tank or a storage area and suppressing a careless access.SOLUTION: A cartridge includes a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material. The chamber is provided with an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material in the chamber. The cartridge is further provided with closing means 100 preventing an access to the opening. The closing means is movable from a first position preventing the access to the opening and a second position permitting the access. The cartridge is configured so that movement of the closing means between the first position and the second position requires use of a tool. At least either the body or the cartridge may be provided with a section 27 storing the tool, and the tool is removable from the section.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery cartridges, and related systems and methods. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol delivery systems such as e-cigarettes generally contain, among other components, an aerosol delivery cartridge with a reservoir of aerosol precursor material, such as a feed liquid or aerosolizable material, typically including nicotine, from which an aerosol is generated, for example by vaporization or other means. The aerosol delivery cartridge may further comprise an aerosol generating component, such as a heater, in fluid communication with the aerosol precursor material contained in the reservoir. When a user inhales on the device, the aerosol generating component is activated and vaporizes a quantity of the aerosol precursor material. More specifically, such devices typically comprise one or more air inlet holes located away from the mouthpiece of the system. When a user inhales on the mouthpiece, air is drawn through the inlet holes and passes through the aerosol generating component. There is a flow path connecting between the aerosol generating component and the mouthpiece opening such that the air drawn through the aerosol generating component continues along the flow path to the mouthpiece opening, carrying with it a portion of the aerosol generated from the aerosol generating component. The air carrying the aerosol exits the aerosol delivery system through the mouthpiece opening for inhalation by the user.

[0003] A typical aerosol generating component comprises a heater. The aerosol precursor material is typically disposed within the system such that it is accessible to the aerosol generating component. For example, the aerosol generating component is a wire that is heated during use of the device. When the wire is heated during use as a result of contact between the aerosol precursor material and the wire, the aerosol precursor material is vaporized and subsequently condenses into an aerosol, which is then inhaled by the user.

[0004] The means by which the aerosol precursor material can contact the wire may vary: it is not uncommon for the aerosol precursor material to be freely held in a refillable tank or other refillable storage area and then fed directly to the heated wire (which may itself be equipped with a wick to help hold the aerosol precursor material in close proximity to the wire).

[0005] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol delivery system / cartridge configured accordingly to inhibit leakage of aerosol precursor material from such refillable tanks or storage areas and to further inhibit inadvertent access to such aerosol precursor material holding areas by users. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In a first aspect, there is provided a system comprising an aerosol delivery cartridge, a body to which the cartridge is attachable, and a tool, the cartridge comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the cartridge further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is possible, the cartridge being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires the use of the tool, and at least one of the body and the cartridge comprises a compartment for storing the tool, the tool being removable from the compartment.

[0007] In a second aspect, there is provided an aerosol delivery system comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the aerosol delivery system further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is possible, the aerosol delivery system being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires the use of a tool, the aerosol delivery system comprising a compartment for storing the tool, the tool being removable from the compartment.

[0008] In a third aspect, there is provided an aerosol delivery cartridge for use in an aerosol delivery system comprising a cartridge and a body, the cartridge comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the aerosol delivery cartridge further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is possible, the aerosol delivery cartridge configured such that movement of the closure means between the first position and the second position requires the use of a tool, and the aerosol delivery cartridge comprises a compartment for storing the tool, the tool being removable from the compartment.

[0009] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of refilling a chamber for an aerosolizable material in an aerosol delivery system, the aerosol delivery system comprising a refillable chamber for the aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the aerosol delivery system further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is possible, the aerosol delivery system being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires use of a tool stored in a compartment of the aerosol delivery system, the method comprising the steps of removing the tool from the compartment of the aerosol delivery system, moving the closure means from the first position to the second position utilizing the tool, filling the chamber with the aerosolizable material, and moving the closure means utilizing the tool from the second position back to the first position.

[0010] In a fifth aspect, there is provided a tool for use in removing a closure means from a system according to any one of the first to third aspects.

[0011] The approaches described herein are not limited to specific embodiments, such as those described below, but encompass and contemplate any suitable combination of features presented herein. For example, an electronic aerosol delivery system may be provided according to the approaches described herein, including any one or more of the various features described below, as appropriate.

[0012] Various embodiments will now be described in detail, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic (exploded) diagram of an aerosol delivery system, such as an e-cigarette, according to some embodiments. [Diagram 2]FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of an aerosol delivery system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol delivery cartridge with a closure means in a first position, and FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol delivery cartridge with a closure means in a second position. [Figure 4] 1A is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol delivery cartridge in which a closure is located in a recess in the cartridge. [Diagram 5] 1 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol delivery cartridge that can be inserted into a concave end of a body to receive the cartridge. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol delivery system with a compartment for storing a tool for use with a closure present on the cartridge. [Figure 7] 1A and 1B are plan and cross-sectional views, respectively, of an embodiment of an aerosol delivery system comprising a slide member movable between an open position and a closed position, the slide member being in the closed position. [Figure 8] 8A-8C are schematic cross-sectional views of an embodiment of an aerosol delivery system including a closure for use with a tool, where movement of the closure from a second position to a first position is configured to render at least one of the closure and the tool inoperable for further use, FIG.8A particularly illustrates the tool initially engaging a portion of the closure, FIG.8B and FIG.8C particularly illustrate the tool used to move the closure between the first and second positions, and FIG.8D particularly illustrates the tool breaking when removed from the closure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] Aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments are discussed / described herein. Some aspects and features of certain examples and embodiments may be implemented in a conventional manner and are not discussed / described in detail for the sake of brevity. Thus, it will be understood that aspects and features of the apparatus and methods discussed herein that are not described in detail may be implemented in accordance with any conventional techniques for implementing such aspects and features.

[0015] The present disclosure relates to non-combustion aerosol delivery systems, also referred to as aerosol delivery systems, such as e-cigarettes. According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustion" aerosol delivery system is one in which the aerosolizable material that is a component of the aerosol delivery system (or its components) is not combusted or burned to facilitate delivery to a user. An aerosolizable material, also referred to herein as an aerosol-generating material or an aerosol precursor material, is a material that can generate an aerosol when activated, for example, by heating, irradiation, or any other method.

[0016] Throughout the following description, the terms "e-cigarette" or "electronic cigarette" may sometimes be used, but it will be understood that the terms may be used interchangeably with aerosol delivery systems / devices and electronic aerosol delivery systems / devices. Note that e-cigarettes may also be known as vaping devices or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDs), although the presence of nicotine in the aerosolizable material is not a requirement.

[0017] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is a hybrid system for generating aerosols that uses a combination of aerosolizable materials, one or more of which may be heated. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or aerosolizable gel material and an aerosolizable solid material. The aerosolizable solid material may include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

[0018] Typically, a non-combustion aerosol delivery system may comprise a non-combustion aerosol delivery device and an article for use with the non-combustion aerosol delivery device, however, it is envisaged that an article that itself comprises a means for powering an aerosol generating component may itself form a non-combustion aerosol delivery system.

[0019] In some embodiments, an article for use with a non-combustion aerosol delivery device may comprise an aerosolizable material (or aerosol precursor material), an aerosol generating component (or vaporizer), an aerosol-generating region, a mouthpiece, and / or a region for receiving the aerosolizable material.

[0020] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating component is a heater that can interact with the aerosolizable material to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosolizable material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating component can generate an aerosol from the aerosolizable material without heating. For example, the aerosol generating component may be capable of generating an aerosol from the aerosolizable material without heating the aerosolizable material, for example by one or more of vibrational, mechanical, pressurized, or electrostatic means.

[0021] In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered may be an aerosolizable material that may include an active ingredient, a carrier component, and optionally one or more other functional ingredients.

[0022] The active ingredient may include one or more physiological and / or olfactory active ingredients included in the aerosolizable material to obtain a physiological and / or olfactory response in the user. The active ingredient may be selected from, for example, nutritional supplements, nootropics, and psychoactive agents. The active ingredient may be naturally occurring or synthetically derived. The active ingredient may include, for example, nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, vitamins such as B6 or B12 or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or components, derivatives, or combinations thereof. The active ingredient may include components, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco or other botanical substances. In some embodiments, the active ingredient is a physiological active ingredient and may be selected from nicotine, nicotine salts (e.g., nicotine ditartrate / nicotine bitartrate), nicotine-free tobacco substitutes, other alkaloids such as caffeine, or mixtures thereof.

[0023] In some embodiments, the active ingredient is an olfactory active ingredient and can be selected from "flavors" and / or "flavoring agents," which may be used to create a desired taste, aroma, or other somatic sensation in the product for the adult consumer, if local regulations permit. In some cases, such ingredients may be referred to as flavors, flavorings, cooling agents, heating agents, and / or sweetening agents. These include naturally occurring flavoring substances, botanical substances, extracts of botanical substances, synthetically derived substances, or combinations thereof (e.g., tobacco, hemp, liquorice, hydrangea, eugenol, magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, maple, matcha, menthol, peppermint, aniseed, cinnamon, turmeric, Indian spices, Asian spices, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, red berry, cranberry). , peach, apple, orange, mango, clementine, lemon, lime, tropical fruits, papaya, rhubarb, grapes, durian, dragon fruit, cucumber, blueberry, mulberry, citrus, drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, gin, tequila, rum, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, aloe vera, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, bergamot, geranium, khat, naswar ), betel quid, perilla, pine, honey extract, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, orange blossom, cherry blossom, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, wasabi, bell pepper, ginger, coriander, coffee, thyme, peppermint oil from any species of the genus Mentha, eucalyptus, star anise, cocoa, lemongrass, rooibos, flax, ginkgo, hazel, hibiscus, bay leaf, yerba mate, orange peel , rose, tea such as green or black tea, thyme, juniper, elderflower, basil, bay leaf, cumin, oregano, paprika, rosemary, saffron, lemon peel, mint, shiso, turmeric, coriander, myrtle, blackcurrant, valerian, pimento, mace, damien, marjoram, olive, common mint, lemon basil, chives, carvi, verbena, tarragon, limonene, thymol, camphene), flavour enhancers,Bitter taste receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives such as charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath fresheners, which may be mimetic, synthetic, or natural ingredients, or blends thereof. They include extracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, magnolia leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, peppermint, aniseed, cinnamon, herbs, wintergreen, cherry, berry, peach, apple, Drambuie, bourbon, Scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, sandalwood, honey, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, fennel, pepper, and scallion. One or more of the following additives may be in any suitable form, e.g., liquid such as oil, solid such as powder, or gaseous: agave, anise, coriander, coffee, or peppermint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavor enhancers, bitter taste receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators or stimulants, sugars and / or sugar substitutes (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, cyclamate, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives, e.g., charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, botanicals, or breath fresheners. They may be imitation, synthetic, or natural ingredients, or blends thereof. They may be in any suitable form, e.g., oil, liquid, or powder.

[0024] In some embodiments, the flavoring includes menthol, spearmint, and / or peppermint. In some embodiments, the flavoring includes cucumber, blueberry, citrus, and / or red berry flavoring ingredients. In some embodiments, the flavoring includes eugenol. In some embodiments, the flavoring includes flavoring ingredients extracted from tobacco. In some embodiments, the flavoring can include sensate substances intended to obtain somatic sensations, usually chemically induced and perceived by stimulation of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), in addition to or instead of the scent or taste nerves, and these may include agents that provide a warming, cooling, tingling, or numbing effect. A suitable heat agent may be, but is not limited to, vanillyl ethyl ether, and a suitable cooling agent may be, but is not limited to, eucalyptol, WS-3.

[0025] The carrier component may include one or more components capable of forming an aerosol. In some embodiments, the carrier component may include one or more of glycerin, glycerol, propylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, erythritol, meso-erythritol, ethyl vanillate, ethyl laurate, diethyl suberate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenyl acetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0026] The one or more other functional ingredients may include one or more of a pH adjuster, a colorant, a preservative, a binder, a filler, a stabilizer, and / or an antioxidant.

[0027] As mentioned above, aerosol delivery systems (e-cigarettes) often constitute a modular assembly with both a reusable part / body part (control unit) and a replaceable (disposable) cartridge part. Devices conforming to this type of two-part modular configuration may be generally referred to as two-part devices. It is also common for electronic cigarettes to have a generally elongated shape. To provide a concrete example, certain embodiments of the disclosure described herein include this type of generally elongated two-part device employing a disposable cartridge. However, it will be understood that the basic principles described herein can be equally employed for other electronic cigarette configurations, for example modular devices including three or more parts, as well as devices conforming to other overall shapes, for example devices based on so-called box model smart devices, which typically have a more box-like shape.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram (not to scale) of an aerosol / vapor delivery system, such as an e-cigarette 10, according to some embodiments. The e-cigarette has a generally cylindrical shape extending along a longitudinal axis indicated by dashed line LA, and comprises two main components: a body 20 and a cartridge 30. The cartridge comprises an interior chamber housing an aerosolizable material storage area containing an aerosolizable material that generates an aerosol, and an aerosol generating component. The cartridge 30 further comprises a mouthpiece 35 having an opening through which a user can inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol generating component. In this regard, references to an "aerosol generating component" refer to a component that generates the aerosol, either directly or indirectly. For example, if the aerosol generating component is a heater, the aerosolizable substance can be vaporized and subsequently condensed to form an aerosol.

[0029] The aerosolizable material storage region for the aerosolizable material may comprise a foam matrix or any other structure, such as padding, within the housing for holding the aerosolizable material until required for delivery to the aerosol generating component. Alternatively, the aerosolizable material storage region may simply be a reservoir in which a quantity of "aerosolizable beneficial material" is contained. The aerosolizable material storage region is preferably refillable by the user.

[0030] The aerosol generating component includes a heater for vaporizing an aerosolizable substance to form an aerosol. The aerosol generating component may further include a wick or similar feature for transporting a small amount of aerosolizable material from a storage area to a heating location on or adjacent to the heater.

[0031] The body 20 includes a rechargeable cell or battery that powers the e-cigarette 10, and a circuit board that generally controls the e-cigarette. In use, when the heater receives power from the battery as controlled by the circuit board, the heater vaporizes an aerosolizable material at the heated location to generate an aerosol that is then inhaled by the user through an opening in the mouthpiece. The aerosol is carried to the mouthpiece along an air channel that connects the aerosol-generating region to the mouthpiece opening when the user inhales on the mouthpiece.

[0032] In this particular example, the body 20 and the cartridge 30 are removable from each other by separating them in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis LA, as shown in FIG. 1, but are coupled to each other by connections, shown diagrammatically as 25A and 25B in FIG. 1, for mechanical and electrical connection between the body 20 and the cartridge 30 when the device 10 is in use. The electrical connector of the body 20 used to connect to the cartridge also serves as a socket for connecting a charging device (not shown) when the body is removed from the cartridge 30. The other end of the charging device can be plugged into an external power source, for example a USB socket, to charge or recharge the cell / battery in the body of the e-cigarette. In other embodiments, a cable may be provided for direct connection between the electrical connector of the body and an external power source.

[0033] In this regard, to enable connection (both mechanical and electrical) with the body 20, the cartridge 30 will generally house one or more metallic components. For example, these components may be threaded rings, electrodes, or intermediate support members (all not shown). When assembled, such metallic components enable connection of the cartridge 30 to the body 20 to support the aerosol-generating components within the aerosol-generating region, provide electrical current to the aerosol-generating components, and enable airflow to move into the aerosol-generating region so that vapor / aerosol generated therein can be collected and delivered to the user.

[0034] The e-cigarette 10 is provided with one or more holes (not shown in FIG. 1 ) for air inlet. These holes lead to an air flow path through the aforementioned metal components of the e-cigarette 10 to the mouthpiece 35. The air passage includes a region around the aerosol-generation region and a section with an air channel leading from the aerosol-generation region to the opening of the mouthpiece.

[0035] When the user inhales through the mouthpiece 35, air is drawn into this air passage through one or more air inlet holes suitably positioned on the exterior of the e-cigarette. This airflow (or the resulting change in air pressure) is detected by a pressure sensor (as an example of an input means), which activates an aerosol-generating component (in this case a heater) to vaporize a portion of the aerosolizable material to generate an aerosol. The airflow passes through the air passage and combines with the aerosol in the area surrounding the aerosol-generation region, and the resulting aerosol travels along an air channel leading from the aerosol-generation region to the mouthpiece 35 for inhalation by the user. When the cartridge 30 has exhausted its supply of aerosolizable material, it may be removed from the body 20 and disposed of (or replaced with another cartridge if desired), although the cartridge is preferably refillable.

[0036] The e-cigarette 10 shown in Figure 1 is presented as an example, and it will be understood that various other implementations may be employed. For example, in some embodiments, the cartridge 30 is provided as two separable components: a cartridge with an aerosolizable material storage area and mouthpiece (which can be replaced / refilled when the aerosolizable material in the reservoir is depleted), and a vaporizer / aerosol generating component with a heater (which is typically retained). In some embodiments, the aerosol generating component may itself be replaceable.

[0037] 2, an embodiment of the vapor delivery system 10 is shown comprising a body 20 attachable to a cartridge 30. The body 20 forms a generally cylindrical component extending along a longitudinal axis indicated by dashed line LA and including a recessed end 32 in which an electrical contact 34 is housed. The recessed end 32 and the electrical contact 34 together form the connection 25B shown diagrammatically in FIG.

[0038] The cartridge 30 can be attached to the body 20 by inserting it into the recessed end 32 of the body 20. In this position, electrical contacts 36 disposed on the cartridge 30 contact electrical contacts 34 on the body, allowing power from a battery disposed within the body 20 to pass to the cartridge 30.

[0039] 3A and 3B, an embodiment of a cartridge 30 is shown. In this embodiment, the cartridge 30 extends along a longitudinal axis indicated by dashed line L1 and includes a chamber 40 for an aerosolizable material. The chamber 40 defines a generally frustoconical shape with a first end 44 and a second end 46. During use of the cartridge 30, the first end 44 is proximal to the user's mouth when inhalation occurs. The second end 46 of the chamber 40 includes a U-shaped channel 48 that leads to an aerosol generating component 60 that is integral with the cartridge 30. By "integral," it is meant that the aerosol generating component 60 cannot be removed from the cartridge 30 without disassembling the cartridge 30 or otherwise destroying it in a manner not anticipated by the manufacturer. The two ends of the U-shaped channel 48 each extend from the chamber 40, and the aerosol generating component 60 is located in the center of the channel 48.

[0040] Aerosol generating component 60 is powered by an electrical connection 62 extending between aerosol generating component 60 and electrical contacts 36 disposed on cartridge 30 at connection 25A. Aerosolizable material vaporized from aerosol generating component 60 is delivered along an air outlet channel 64 that extends from aerosol generating component 60 to an opening 66 in cartridge 30 proximal to first end 44 of chamber 40.

[0041] A mechanism is provided that allows for the chamber 40 of the cartridge 30 to be filled with an aerosolizable material. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B of FIG. 3, a first refill opening 70 is provided to allow for the passage of aerosolizable material from the exterior of the cartridge 30 through a first refill channel 71 into the chamber 40. According to some embodiments of the cartridge 30, further extending from the exterior of the cartridge 30 may be a second vent channel 72 that extends to a second opening 74 in the chamber 40 to allow air to be evacuated from the chamber 40 during the refill process of the aerosolizable material using the first channel 71.

[0042] For each cartridge 30, a closure means 100 is provided which prevents access to the first opening 70. In this regard, the closure means 100 is movable from a first position in which access to the first opening 70 is prevented, and a second position in which access to the opening is possible. In this regard, the cartridge 30 is configured such that movement of the closure means 100 between the first and second positions requires the use of a tool 200.

[0043] According to some embodiments of the cartridge as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B of FIG. 3, the closure 100 may comprise a cover portion 102 that covers the first opening 70 and the second opening 74 in a first position (as shown in FIG. 3A) but exposes these openings 70, 74 in a second position (as shown in FIG. 3B). According to some embodiments, the closure 100 may comprise a fastening mechanism 104 (such as a screw) that secures the cover portion 102 to the remainder of the cartridge 30, for example, when the closure 100 is in the first position. In such an embodiment, the tool 200 is configured to then engage the fastening mechanism 104 to expose the first opening 70 and remove the cover portion 102 from the remainder of the cartridge 30 to allow access to the first opening 70.

[0044] It is envisioned that the closure means 100 and the corresponding tool 200 may take any necessary shape to provide the necessary functionality of the closure means 100. In some particular embodiments, it is envisioned that at least one of the closure means 100 and the tool 200 may include a protrusion that engages with a corresponding recess in the other of the closure means 100 and the tool 200. This may be the case, for example, when the tool 200 includes a hex key / wrench and the closure means 100 includes a fastening mechanism 104 having a corresponding head for engaging the hex key / wrench.

[0045] According to some embodiments, the closure 100 may be disposed within a recess 80 of the cartridge 30 such that a tool 200 is configured to be inserted within the recess 80 to move the closure 100 between a first position and a second position. An example of such an embodiment is shown in FIG.

[0046] According to some embodiments, the closure 100 may be prevented from moving to the second position by the body 20 while the cartridge 30 is attached to the body 20. Thus, in this way, the effectiveness of the closure 100 in preventing inadvertent access to the chamber 40 of the cartridge 30 is increased. An example of such an embodiment is shown in Figure 5, where the cartridge 30 can be attached to the body 20 by inserting it into the recessed end 32 of the body 20. In this embodiment, the closure 100 is covered by the inside of the recessed end 32 of the body 20 when the cartridge 30 is attached to the body 20.

[0047] With regard to the exact location of the closure 100 and first opening 70 (and any associated second opening 74), it will be appreciated that their exact locations can vary depending on the intended geometry of the cartridge 30. In that regard, therefore, in some embodiments, each opening 70, 74 may be located at the first end 44 of the chamber 40 in proximity to the opening 66 through which the user inhales the vapor generated by the aerosol generating component 60. In other embodiments, each opening 70, 74 may be located in the cartridge 30 at or closer to the second end 46 of the chamber 40.

[0048] According to some embodiments, the body 20 may include a compartment 27 for storing the tool 200, and it is envisioned that the tool 200 is removable from the compartment 27. In some particular embodiments, the body 20 may also include a cover 29 for covering the compartment 27 when the compartment 27 stores the tool 200 when the tool is not in use. An example of such an embodiment is shown in the simplified schematic diagram of FIG.

[0049] In certain embodiments in which a compartment 27 is present, a lock 31 may be provided on the body 20 to prevent access to the compartment 27 (and its associated tools 200). In some particular embodiments, the lock 31 may include a physical lock (such as a padlock or combination lock) and / or an electronic lock.

[0050] With reference to the above embodiments in which compartment 27 is present, it will be appreciated that in some embodiments, compartment 27 may be provided in cartridge 30 as opposed to body 20 .

[0051] It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the closure means 100 need not explicitly comprise the fastening mechanism 104. In this regard, according to some embodiments, such as those shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B of FIG. 7, the closure means 100 may comprise a slide member 110. The slide member in these embodiments may be slidable between a closed position (shown in FIG. 7A of FIG. 7) in which access to the first opening 70 is prevented, and an open position (shown in FIG. 7B of FIG. 7) in which access to the opening is possible. In such embodiments, the slide member 110 may be configured to require the use of a tool 200 to slide the slide member 110 between its open and closed positions. In that regard, this may be achieved by making the slide member 110 sufficiently narrow or shaped such that a user cannot move the slide member 110 with just their hands, or may provide sufficient resistance or friction between the slide member 110 and the surface over which it is configured to slide such that the use of a tool 200 is required to provide sufficient force that can overcome this resistance / friction to move the slide member 110. In some particular embodiments, the siding member 110 may include surface features 112, such as surface protrusions or surface projections, configured to be grasped by a tool 200 to move the slide member 110 between its open and closed positions. It will be appreciated that, in the particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B of FIG. 7, the fastening mechanism 104 is absent from the closure means 100, although in some other embodiments, the openings therein may further provide for a fastening mechanism 104 that requires the use of a tool 200.

[0052] According to some embodiments, cartridge 30 may further comprise a source aerosolizable material valve 76, which may be a one-way valve disposed within first channel 71 for passing aerosolizable material under pressure from outside cartridge 30. In this manner, leakage of aerosolizable material from first channel 71 may be inhibited even when closure 100 is in the second position.

[0053] According to some of these embodiments, if a second ventilation channel 72 and its second opening 74 are present, similarly with respect to these, a ventilation valve 77 may be disposed within the second channel 72 to enable excess air in the chamber 40 to be vented from the chamber 40 during the process of refilling the chamber 40 with aerosolizable material via the first channel 71.

[0054] According to some embodiments, it is envisaged that the tool 200 and / or the closure means 100 may be configured to be disposable. In this regard, in some embodiments, as a result of or following the movement of the closure means 100 from the second position to the first position and / or after removal of the tool 200 from the fastening means 100, at least one of the closure means 100 and the tool 200 may be rendered inoperable for further use. In this way, the chamber 40 can only be refilled with aerosolizable material once. An application of this configuration may be, for example, when a refill container of aerosolizable material is supplied with the tool 200. In such an application, the tool can be used to move the closure means 100 to the second position and refill the chamber 40 with aerosolizable material. Once the chamber is refilled and then the tool 200 is used to move the closure means 100 back to the first position, the tool 200 may be configured to shear / break as part of the process of removal from the closure means 100 such that the tool 200 cannot be used again. An example of such an embodiment is shown in FIGS. 8A-8D of FIG. 8. In the exemplary embodiment, the tool 20 comprises a pair of resilient leg portions 202, the distal end of each leg portion 202 comprising an inwardly extending foot portion / projection 204. Each resilient leg portion 202 is configured to resiliently flex and engage with a shoulder portion 114 of the closure means 100. In the particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 8A-8D of FIG. 8, the shoulder portion 114 may be disposed on the fastening mechanism 104 of the closure means 100.

[0055] Once each resilient leg portion 202 engages the shoulder portion 114, the foot portion 204 of the tool 200 may then be received within the recessed portion 116 of the closure means 100 such that the tool 200 engages the closure means 100, as shown, for example, with reference to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8B of FIG. 8. From this engaged position, the tool 200 may then be used to move the closure means 100 between a first position and a second position, as shown, for example, with reference to FIGS. 8B and 8C of FIG. 8, where the tool may be twisted to disengage the fastening means 104 such that the closure means 100 can be moved to the second position shown in FIG. 8C of FIG.

[0056] From the second position of the closure means 100, the chamber 40 may be refilled with the aerosolizable material and then the tool 200 is used to return the closure means 100 to the first position, for example the position shown in FIG. 8B with reference to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 8A-8D of FIG. 8. According to some embodiments as shown in FIG. 8D, from this first position, removal of the tool 200 from the fastening means 100 may be configured to break such that the tool 200 becomes inoperable for further use. In this regard, with reference to the particular embodiment shown in FIG. 8D, it can be seen that the breakage is caused by each foot portion 204 shearing off from the remainder of the tool 200 (the shearing is caused by the user's removal force on the tool 200 against the force of the shoulder portion 114 acting on the foot portion 204 of the tool 200).

[0057] Thus, described above are examples of aerosol delivery systems and cartridges that may be provided with closures and associated tools to mitigate inadvertent user access to aerosolizable material holding areas of such systems. In this regard, for the avoidance of any doubt, it will be understood that the techniques described herein for mitigating inadvertent user access to aerosolizable material holding areas need not be explicitly used in an aerosol delivery system that includes a cartridge 30 and a body 20 that is separable from the cartridge 30.

[0058] In view of the above, a system is described comprising at least an aerosol delivery cartridge, a body to which the cartridge can be attached, and a tool, wherein the cartridge comprises a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the cartridge further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is possible, the cartridge being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires the use of the tool, and at least one of the body and the cartridge comprises a compartment for storing the tool, the tool being removable from the compartment.

[0059] Also described is an aerosol delivery system comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the aerosol delivery system further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is possible, the aerosol delivery system being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires the use of a tool, the aerosol delivery system comprising a compartment for storing the tool, the tool being removable from the compartment.

[0060] Also described is an aerosol delivery cartridge for use in an aerosol delivery system comprising a cartridge and a body, the cartridge comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the aerosol delivery cartridge further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is possible, the aerosol delivery cartridge being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires the use of a tool, the aerosol delivery cartridge comprising a compartment for storing the tool, the tool being removable from the compartment.

[0061] A method of refilling a chamber for an aerosolizable material in an aerosol delivery system is also described, the aerosol delivery system comprising a refillable chamber for the aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the aerosol delivery system further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is possible, the aerosol delivery system being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires use of a tool stored within a compartment of the aerosol delivery system, the method comprising the steps of removing the tool from the compartment of the aerosol delivery system, utilizing the tool to move the closure means from the first position to the second position, filling the chamber with the aerosolizable material, and utilizing the tool to move the closure means back from the second position to the first position.

[0062] Also described herein is a system comprising an aerosol delivery cartridge 30, a body 20 to which the cartridge 30 can be attached, and a tool 200. The cartridge 30 comprises a refillable chamber 40 for an aerosolizable material, the chamber 40 comprising an opening 70 for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber 40, the cartridge 30 further comprising a closure 100 preventing access to the opening 70, the closure 100 being movable from a first position preventing access to the opening 70 and a second position allowing access to the opening, the cartridge 30 being configured such that movement of the closure 100 between the first and second positions requires use of the tool 200. At least one of the body 20 and the cartridge 30 may comprise a compartment 27 for storing the tool 200, the tool 200 being removable from the compartment 27.

[0063] Also described herein are embodiments relating to the following numbered clauses and examples:

[0064] Section 1. A system comprising an aerosol delivery cartridge and a tool, the cartridge comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the cartridge further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is permitted, the cartridge being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires use of a tool.

[0065] Clause 2. The system of clause 1, wherein the cartridge further comprises an aerosol generating component.

[0066] Clause 3. The system of clause 2, wherein the aerosol generating component is disposed within the chamber.

[0067] Clause 4. The system of any one of clauses 1-3, wherein the closure is disposed within a recess in the cartridge and the tool is configured to be inserted into the recess to move the closure between the first position and the second position.

[0068] Clause 5. The system according to any one of clauses 1 to 4, further comprising a body to which a cartridge can be attached.

[0069] Clause 6. The system of clause 5, wherein the closure means is prevented from being moved to the second position by the body while the cartridge is attached to the body.

[0070] Clause 7. The system of clause 5 or clause 6, wherein the closure is covered by the body while the cartridge is attached to the housing.

[0071] Clause 8. The system of any one of clauses 5 to 7, wherein the body includes a compartment for storing the tool, and the tool is removable from the compartment.

[0072] Clause 9. The system of any one of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the cartridge comprises a compartment for storing the tool, and the tool is removable from the compartment.

[0073] Clause 10. The system of clause 8 or clause 9, further comprising a cover that covers the compartment when the compartment stores the tool when the tool is not in use.

[0074] Clause 11. The system of clause 10, further comprising a lock to prevent access to the compartment.

[0075] Clause 12. The system of clause 11, wherein the lock comprises a physical lock.

[0076] Clause 13. The system of clause 11 or 12, wherein the lock comprises an electronic lock.

[0077] Clause 14. The system of any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein at least one of the tool and the fastening means is configured to be disposable.

[0078] Clause 15. The system of any one of clauses 1-14, wherein the tool is configured to be removed from the closure means after being utilized to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position, and the tool is configured to be broken as a result of being removed from the closure means.

[0079] Clause 16. The system of any one of clauses 1-15, wherein the closure comprises a valve that prevents passage of aerosolizable material from the cartridge when the closure is in the second position.

[0080] Clause 17. The system of any one of clauses 1 to 16, wherein the closure means comprises a slide member slidable between a closed position, in which access to the first opening is prevented, and an open position, in which access to the opening is permitted, the slide member configured to require the use of a tool to slide the slide member between the open and closed positions.

[0081] Clause 18. A method of refilling a chamber for an aerosolizable material in an aerosol delivery cartridge, the cartridge comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the cartridge further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is permitted, the cartridge being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires the use of a tool, the method comprising: utilizing a tool to move the closure means from a first position to a second position; filling a chamber with an aerosolizable material; utilizing the tool to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position; A method comprising:

[0082] Clause 19. The method of clause 18, wherein the tool is configured to be removed from the closure means after being utilized to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position, and the tool is configured to be broken as a result of being removed from the closure means.

[0083] Clause 20. A tool for use in removing a closure means from a system according to any one of clauses 1 to 17.

[0084] Example 1. A system comprising an aerosol delivery cartridge and a tool, the cartridge comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the cartridge further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is permitted, the cartridge configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires use of a tool; The system, wherein the tool is configured to be removed from the closure means after being utilized to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position, and the tool is configured to be broken as a result of being removed from the closure means.

[0085] Example 2. The system of example 1, wherein the cartridge further comprises an aerosol generating component.

[0086] Example 3. The system of example 2, wherein the aerosol generating component is disposed within the chamber.

[0087] Example 4. The system of any one of Examples 1-3, wherein the closure means is disposed within a recess of the cartridge and the tool is configured to be inserted within the recess to move the closure means between the first position and the second position.

[0088] Example 5. The system of any one of Examples 1-4, further comprising a body to which the cartridge can be attached.

[0089] Example 6. The system of example 5, wherein the closure is prevented from moving to the second position by the body while the cartridge is attached to the body.

[0090] Example 7. The system of example 5 or 6, wherein the closure is covered by the body while the cartridge is attached to the housing.

[0091] Example 8. The system of any one of Examples 5-7, wherein the body includes a compartment for storing the tool, and the tool is removable from the compartment.

[0092] Example 9. The system of any one of Examples 1-7, wherein the cartridge comprises a compartment for storing the tool, and the tool is removable from the compartment.

[0093] Example 10. The system of example 8 or 9, further comprising a cover that covers the compartment when the compartment stores the tool when the tool is not in use.

[0094] Example 11. The system of example 10, further comprising a lock to prevent access to the compartment.

[0095] Example 12. The system of example 11, wherein the lock comprises a physical lock.

[0096] Example 13. The system of example 11 or 12, wherein the lock comprises an electronic lock.

[0097] Example 14. The system of any one of Examples 1-13, wherein at least one of the tool and the fastening means is configured to be disposable.

[0098] Example 15. The system of any one of Examples 1-14, wherein the closure comprises a valve that prevents passage of the aerosolizable material from the cartridge when the closure is in the second position.

[0099] Example 16. The system of any one of Examples 1-15, wherein the closure means comprises a slide member slidable between a closed position in which access to the first opening is prevented and an open position in which access to the opening is possible, the slide member being configured to require the use of a tool to slide the slide member between the open and closed positions.

[0100] Example 17. An aerosol delivery system comprising a tool and a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the aerosol delivery system further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is permitted, the aerosol delivery system being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires use of a tool; The aerosol delivery system, wherein the tool is configured to be removed from the closure means after being utilized to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position, and the tool is configured to be damaged as a result of being removed from the closure means.

[0101] Example 18. The aerosol delivery system of Example 17, further comprising an aerosol delivery cartridge and a body to which the cartridge can be attached, the aerosol delivery cartridge comprising a refillable chamber.

[0102] Example 19. A method of refilling a chamber for an aerosolizable material in an aerosol delivery system, the aerosol delivery system comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the aerosol delivery system further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is permitted, the aerosol delivery system being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires the use of a tool, the method comprising: utilizing a tool to move the closure means from a first position to a second position; filling a chamber with an aerosolizable material; and utilizing a tool to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position, wherein the tool is configured to be removed from the closure means after being utilized to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position, and wherein the tool is configured to be broken as a result of being removed from the closure means.

[0103] Example 20. The method of example 19, wherein the aerosol delivery system further comprises an aerosol delivery cartridge and a body to which the cartridge is attachable, the aerosol delivery cartridge comprising a refillable chamber.

[0104] Example 21. A tool for use in removing a closure means from the system of any one of Examples 1-16.

[0105] Example 22. A tool having at least one resilient portion configured to be resiliently deflected by and engage a closure of an aerosol delivery system, wherein upon removal of the tool from the closure, the resilient portion of the tool is configured to shear off from a remainder of the tool to prevent the tool from being reused.

[0106] Example 23. The tool of example 22, wherein the at least one resilient portion comprises a pair of resilient leg portions, a distal end of each leg portion comprising a protrusion for engaging with an aerosol delivery system.

[0107] Example 24. The tool of example 23, wherein each protrusion includes an inwardly extending protrusion.

[0108] Example 25. The tool of example 23 or 24, wherein the tool comprises a proximal end that is gripped by a user during use of the tool.

[0109] To address various problems and advance the art, the present disclosure illustrates by way of example various embodiments in which the claimed invention(s) may be implemented. The advantages and features of the present disclosure are merely a representative sample of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. They are presented solely to aid in the understanding and teaching of the claimed invention(s). The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects of the present disclosure should not be considered as limitations of the present disclosure as defined in the claims, or to the equivalents of the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be utilized or modified without departing from the scope of the claims. Various embodiments may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of various combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein, and thus it will be understood that the features of the dependent claims may be combined with the features of the independent claims in combinations other than those expressly recited in the claims. The present disclosure may include other inventions not currently claimed but which may be claimed in the future.

[0110] In that regard, it will be appreciated that the exact location of the aerosol generating component 60 may vary as desired, so long as, for example, the aerosolizable material can be vaporized from the chamber 40 and delivered along an air outlet channel 64 extending from the aerosol generating component 60 to an opening 66 in the cartridge 30. In that regard, it will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the aerosol generating component 60 may be located within the chamber 40.

[0111] Clause 1. A system comprising an aerosol delivery cartridge, a body to which the cartridge is attachable, and a tool, the cartridge comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the cartridge further comprising a closure preventing access to the opening, the closure being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is permitted, the cartridge being configured such that movement of the closure between the first and second positions requires use of the tool; A system wherein at least one of the body and the cartridge includes a compartment for storing the tool, the tool being removable from the compartment.

[0112] Clause 2. The system of clause 1, wherein the cartridge further comprises an aerosol generating component.

[0113] Clause 3. The system of clause 2, wherein the aerosol generation component is disposed within the chamber.

[0114] Clause 4. The system of any one of clauses 1 to 3, wherein the closure is disposed within a recess in the cartridge and the tool is configured to be inserted into the recess to move the closure between the first position and the second position.

[0115] Clause 5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the closure means is prevented from moving to the second position by the body while the cartridge is attached to the body.

[0116] Clause 6. The system of any one of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the closure is covered by the body while the cartridge is attached to the housing.

[0117] Clause 7. The system of any one of clauses 1-6, further comprising a cover that covers the compartment when the compartment stores the tool when the tool is not in use.

[0118] Clause 8. The system of clause 7, further comprising a lock to prevent access to said compartment.

[0119] Clause 9. The system of clause 8, wherein the lock comprises a physical lock.

[0120] Clause 10. The system of clause 8 or clause 9, wherein the lock comprises an electronic lock.

[0121] Clause 11. The system of any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein at least one of the tool and the fastening means is configured to be disposable.

[0122] Clause 12. The system of any one of clauses 1-12, wherein the tool is configured to be removed from the closure means after being utilized to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position, and the tool is configured to be broken as a result of being removed from the closure means.

[0123] Clause 13. The system of any one of clauses 1-12, wherein the closure comprises a valve that prevents passage of aerosolizable material from the cartridge when the closure is in the second position.

[0124] Clause 14. The system of any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein the closure means comprises a slide member slidable between a closed position in which access to the first opening is prevented and an open position in which access to the opening is possible, the slide member configured to require use of the tool to slide the slide member between the open and closed positions.

[0125] Clause 15. An aerosol delivery system comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the aerosol delivery system further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is permitted, the aerosol delivery system being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires the use of a tool; The aerosol delivery system includes a compartment for storing the tool, the tool being removable from the compartment.

[0126] Clause 16. The aerosol delivery system of clause 15, further comprising an aerosol delivery cartridge and a body to which the cartridge is attachable, the aerosol delivery cartridge comprising the refillable chamber, and at least one of the body and the cartridge comprising the compartment for storing the tool.

[0127] Clause 17. An aerosol delivery cartridge for use in an aerosol delivery system comprising a cartridge and a body, the cartridge comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the aerosol delivery cartridge further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is permitted, the aerosol delivery cartridge being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires the use of a tool; The aerosol delivery cartridge includes a compartment for storing the tool, the tool being removable from the compartment.

[0128] Clause 18. A method of refilling a chamber for an aerosolizable material in an aerosol delivery system, the aerosol delivery system comprising a refillable chamber for an aerosolizable material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the aerosolizable material into the chamber, the aerosol delivery system further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is permitted, the aerosol delivery system being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires use of a tool stored in a compartment of the aerosol delivery system, the method comprising: removing the tool from the section of the aerosol delivery system; utilizing the tool to move the closure means from the first position to the second position; filling the chamber with an aerosolizable material; utilizing the tool to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position; A method comprising:

[0129] Clause 19. The method of clause 18, wherein the tool is configured to be removed from the closure means after being utilized to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position, and the tool is configured to be broken as a result of being removed from the closure means.

[0130] Clause 20. The method of clause 18 or clause 19, wherein the aerosol delivery system further comprises an aerosol delivery cartridge and a body to which the cartridge is attachable, the aerosol delivery cartridge comprising the refillable chamber, and at least one of the body and the cartridge comprising the compartment for storing the tool.

[0131] Clause 21. A tool for use in removing a closure means from a system according to any one of clauses 1 to 16.

Claims

1. 1. A nicotine delivery system comprising a refillable chamber for a nicotine material, comprising: the chamber comprises an opening for inserting the nicotine material into the chamber, the nicotine delivery system further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is permitted, the nicotine delivery system being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires the use of a tool; A nicotine delivery system, wherein the closing means is disposed within a recess from the nicotine delivery system, and the tool is configured to be inserted into the recess to move the closing means between the first position and the second position.

2. The nicotine delivery system includes a compartment for storing the tool; The nicotine delivery system of claim 1 , wherein the tool is removable from the compartment.

3. The nicotine delivery system of claim 2 , further comprising a cover that covers the compartment when the compartment stores the tool when the tool is not in use.

4. 4. The nicotine delivery system of claim 3, further comprising a lock to prevent access to the compartment.

5. The nicotine delivery system of claim 4 , wherein the lock comprises a physical lock.

6. The nicotine delivery system of claim 4 or 5, wherein the lock comprises an electronic lock.

7. A nicotine delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one of the tool and the closure means is adapted to be disposable.

8. A nicotine delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the tool is configured to be removed from the closure means after being utilized to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position, and the tool is configured to be broken as a result of being removed from the closure means.

9. A nicotine delivery system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the closure means comprises a sliding member slidable between a closed position in which access to a first opening is prevented and an open position in which access to the opening is possible, the sliding member being configured to require the use of the tool to slide the sliding member between the open and closed positions.

10. 1. A method of refilling a chamber for a nicotine material in a nicotine delivery system, comprising: the nicotine delivery system comprises a refillable chamber for the nicotine material, the chamber comprising an opening for inserting the nicotine material into the chamber, the nicotine delivery system further comprising a closure means for preventing access to the opening, the closure means being disposed within a recess from the nicotine delivery system, the closure means being movable from a first position in which access to the opening is prevented and a second position in which access to the opening is permitted, the nicotine delivery system being configured such that movement of the closure means between the first and second positions requires the use of a tool, The method comprises: inserting the tool into the recess; utilizing the tool to move the closure means from the first position to the second position while the tool is inserted within the recess; filling the chamber with the nicotine material; utilizing the tool to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position; A method comprising:

11. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the tool is configured to be removed from the closure means after being utilized to move the closure means from the second position back to the first position, and the tool is configured to be broken as a result of being removed from the closure means.

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