Charging case

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a charging case for an aerosol delivery system, the charging case including one or more structures configured to separate at least a portion of the aerosol delivery system from the charging case to provide an air gap, and to a kit of parts including the charging case and the aerosol delivery system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification relates to a charging case for an aerosol delivery system and a parts kit comprising the charging case and an aerosol delivery system. Background

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion. For example, a tobacco heating device forms an aerosol by heating an aerosol supply substrate such as tobacco, rather than by combustion of the substrate. The aerosol supply device may be attached with a case such as a carry case for holding the device when not in use. Further developments are still sought in this field. Summary

[0003] In a first aspect, this specification describes a charging case for an aerosol delivery system, the charging case comprising one or more structures configured to provide a gap by separating at least a portion of the aerosol supply system from the charging case.

[0004] In some embodiments, the one or more structures are protrusions.

[0005] In some embodiments, the one or more structures protrude from the surface of the charging case.

[0006] In some embodiments, the structure or each structure comprises ribs, preferably the rib or each rib being straight or substantially straight.

[0007] In some embodiments, when the aerosol delivery system is disposed in the charging case for charging, the charging case has a surface configured to underlie the aerosol delivery system, and the structure or each structure is provided over less than 20%, preferably less than 15%, less than 10%, or less than 5% of the surface area of the surface, and preferably, the surface is a planar surface.

[0008] In some embodiments, the total contact surface area of the structure or all structures with the aerosol delivery system disposed in the charging case for charging is at most 400 square millimeters, preferably at most 300, 250, 200, 150, 125, or 100 square millimeters.

[0009] In some embodiments, the structure or each structure extends longitudinally.

[0010] In some embodiments, the structure or each structure has a length in the range of at least 40 mm, preferably at least 60 mm, 80 mm, 100 mm, or 120 mm.

[0011] In some embodiments, the structure or each structure has a height in the range of 0.1 - 1 mm, preferably in the range of 0.1 - 0.5 mm, preferably in the range of 0.2 - 0.3 mm.

[0012] In some embodiments, the structure or each structure has a width in the range of 0.5 - 2 mm, preferably in the range of 0.5 - 0.8 mm, preferably in the range of 0.6 - 0.7 mm.

[0013] In some embodiments, the charging case comprises a plurality of structures providing voids.

[0014] In some embodiments, the charging case comprises a structure in the range of 2 - 10, preferably a structure in the range of 3 - 5.

[0015] In some embodiments, the above structures extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0016] In some embodiments, the above structures are discrete and spaced apart from each other.

[0017] In some embodiments, the above structure is integrally formed with the body and / or lid of the charging case. In some embodiments, the above structure is provided in regular rows and / or regular columns.

[0018] In some embodiments, the above structure or each structure has a generally convex cross-section, and preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the above structure or each structure is generally curved.

[0019] In some embodiments, the charging case includes a storage area configured to receive an aerosol delivery system, and preferably, the storage area is a cavity.

[0020] In some embodiments, at least one structure is provided in the storage area.

[0021] In some embodiments, the above one or more structures are configured to provide a gap by separating at least a part of the aerosol supply system from the charging case when the aerosol delivery system is received in the storage area of the charging case, and preferably, when the aerosol delivery system is attached to the port of the charging case.

[0022] In some embodiments, the charging case includes a port configured to be connected to an aerosol delivery system, and preferably, the port is configured such that during use, the aerosol delivery system slides in a direction away from the port and separates from the port.

[0023] In some embodiments, one or more structures are configured to provide a gap by separating at least a portion of the aerosol supply system from the charging case when the aerosol supply system is connected to the port.

[0024] In some embodiments, at least one structure is provided near the port.

[0025] In some embodiments, at least one structure is arranged to contact the aerosol delivery system when the aerosol delivery system is connected to the port.

[0026] In some embodiments, the port is provided at an end of the storage area.

[0027] In some embodiments, the charging case is an inclined surface, and when the above components move away from the port, a part of the aerosol supply system is arranged to move along the inclined surface.

[0028] In some embodiments, the inclined surface is arranged at an end of the storage area distal to the charging connector.

[0029] In some embodiments, the charging case has a first surface, the storage area extends into the first surface, and preferably, the inclined surface extends to the first surface.

[0030] In some embodiments, the first surface is substantially planar. In some embodiments, the first surface is an upper surface. For example, the first surface may be the upper surface of the body.

[0031] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the inclined surface follows a substantially linear path.

[0032] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the inclined surface follows a substantially curved path.

[0033] In some embodiments, the inclined surface has a length of at least 0.6 mm, preferably at least 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, or 1 mm.

[0034] In some embodiments, the charging case includes a main body and a lid, and the main body or the lid includes an inclined surface.

[0035] In some embodiments, the portion of the aerosol delivery system is a component of the aerosol delivery system or another component of the aerosol delivery system.

[0036] In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery system includes an aerosol delivery device, and preferably, the entire aerosol delivery device moves in a direction away from the charging connector.

[0037] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the inclined surface extends at an angle of at least 45° with respect to the central axis of the power connector in a direction away from the power connector, preferably at least 50°, 60°, 70°, 75°, 80°, 85°, 86°, or 87°.

[0038] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the inclined surface extends at an angle of at most 89° with respect to the central axis of the power connector in a direction away from the power connector, preferably at most 88° or 87°.

[0039] In some embodiments, the inclined surface is arranged such that the portion of the aerosol delivery system moves along the inclined surface only when the component is separated from the power connector, preferably only when the component is spaced apart from the power connector.

[0040] In some embodiments, the inclined surface is configured to lift the portion from the charging case when the portion of the aerosol delivery system moves along the inclined surface.

[0041] The inclined surface is arranged such that when the above component slides in a direction away from the charging connector, the above portion of the aerosol supply system moves along the inclined surface.

[0042] In some embodiments, the inclined surface is integrally formed with the main body or the lid. In other embodiments, the inclined surface is attached to the main body or the lid.

[0043] In some embodiments, the inclined surface includes first and second inclined surface portions. The first and second inclined surface portions may extend substantially parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the first and second inclined surface portions may be arranged such that when the above component is away from the power connector, they contact the corresponding portions (e.g., the corresponding corners of the aerosol delivery system) of the aerosol delivery system.

[0044] In some embodiments, the above structure or each structure is arranged such that at least one structure is in contact with the aerosol delivery system at all times from when the aerosol delivery system is separated from the port until it contacts the inclined surface.

[0045] In some embodiments, this charging case includes a main body and a lid, and the main body and / or the lid includes the above one or more structures.

[0046] In some embodiments, this charging case includes a battery. In other embodiments, the battery may be omitted. For example, this charging case may be configured to charge the aerosol delivery system by connection to a commercial power source, for example.

[0047] In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery system is an aerosol delivery device.

[0048] In some embodiments, this charging case further includes an aerosol delivery system.

[0049] In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery system is configured to receive a removable article containing an aerosolizable material.

[0050] In some embodiments, the aerosolizable material is present on a substrate.

[0051] In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, and preferably includes a tobacco heating system.

[0052] Also, according to the present disclosure, a component kit including the charging case according to the present disclosure and the aerosol delivery system is provided.

[0053] In some embodiments, the component kit further includes an article for use in the aerosol delivery system.

[0054] In some embodiments, the article is a removable article containing an aerosol generating material.

[0055] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the following schematic drawings, which are merely examples.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0056]

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[0057] As used herein, the term "aerosol delivery device" is intended to include a system for delivering a substance to a user, a non-flammable aerosol supply system that releases a compound from an aerosolizable material without combustion of the aerosolizable material (such as an electronic cigarette, a tobacco heating product, and a hybrid system that generates an aerosol by a combination of an aerosolizable material), an article containing an aerosolizable material and configured to be used in one of these non-flammable aerosol supply systems, and

[0058] According to the present disclosure, a "flammable" aerosol supply system is one in which an aerosolizable material (or a component thereof), which is a constituent of the aerosol supply system, is combusted in order to facilitate delivery to a user.

[0059] According to the present disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol supply system is one in which an aerosolizable material (or a component thereof), which is a constituent of the aerosol supply system, is not combusted in order to facilitate delivery to a user. In the embodiments described herein, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system such as a power supply type non-flammable aerosol supply system.

[0060] In one embodiment, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or an electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosolizable material is not a requirement.

[0061] In one embodiment, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a tobacco heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system.

[0062] In one embodiment, the non-flammable aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol by a combination of aerosolizable materials (one or more of which may be configured to be heated). Each aerosolizable material may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In one embodiment, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosolizable material and a solid aerosolizable material. The solid aerosolizable material may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0063] Generally, a non-flammable aerosol supply system may include a non-flammable aerosol supply device and an article to be used with the non-flammable aerosol supply system. However, an article that itself has a means for supplying power to an aerosol generating component may be considered to itself constitute a non-flammable aerosol supply system.

[0064] In one embodiment, the non-flammable aerosol supply device may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be a power supply or a heat generating power source. In one embodiment, the heat generating power source includes a carbon substrate that can supply energy to supply power in the form of heat to an aerosolizable material or a heat transfer material in proximity to the heat generating power source. In one embodiment, by providing a power source such as a heat generating power source in an article, non-flammable aerosol supply is made possible.

[0065] In one embodiment, an article to be used with the non-flammable aerosol supply device may include an aerosolizable material, an aerosol generating component, an aerosol generating area, a mouthpiece, and / or an area for receiving the aerosolizable material.

[0066] In one embodiment, the aerosol generating component is a heater capable of forming an aerosol by releasing one or more volatile substances from the aerosolizable material through interaction with the aerosolizable material. In one embodiment, 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 applying heat by one or more of, for example, vibration means, mechanical means, pressurization means, or electrostatic means.

[0067] In one embodiment, the aerosolizable material may include an active material, an aerosol-forming material, and optionally one or more functional materials. The active material may include nicotine (optionally included in tobacco or tobacco derivatives) or one or more other non-olfactory physiologically active materials. The non-olfactory physiologically active material is a material that is included in the aerosolizable material and realizes a physiological reaction other than olfaction. The active substance used herein may be a physiologically active material (a material intended to realize or enhance a physiological reaction). The active substance may be selected, for example, from nutraceuticals, psychotropic drugs, and psychoactive agents. The active substance may be naturally occurring or synthetically obtained. The active substance may include, for example, vitamins such as nicotine, caffeine, taurine, theine, B6, B12, or C, melatonin, cannabinoids, or their constituent substances, derivatives, or combinations. The active substance may include one or more constituent substances, derivatives, or extracts of tobacco, cannabis, or another plant. In some embodiments, the active substance includes nicotine. In some embodiments, the active substance includes caffeine, melatonin, or vitamin B12.

[0068] The aerosol-forming material 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 sulfate, triethyl citrate, triacetin, diacetin mixture, benzyl benzoate, benzyl phenylacetate, tributyrin, lauryl acetate, lauric acid, myristic acid, and propylene carbonate.

[0069] The one or more functional materials may include one or more of a fragrance, a carrier, a pH adjuster, a stabilizer, and / or an antioxidant.

[0070] In one embodiment, an article for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device may include an aerosolizable material or an area for receiving an aerosolizable material. In one embodiment, an article for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device may comprise a mouthpiece. The area for receiving the aerosolizable material may be a storage area for storing the aerosolizable material. For example, the storage area may be a reservoir. In one embodiment, the area for receiving the aerosolizable material may be separate from or combined with the aerosol generation area.

[0071] An aerosolizable material (which may also be referred to herein as an aerosol-generating material) is a material that can generate an aerosol when supplied with energy, for example, by heating, irradiation, or any other method. The aerosolizable material may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine and / or flavorants. In some embodiments, the aerosolizable material may include an "amorphous solid", which may alternatively be referred to as a "monolithic solid" (i.e., non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dry gel. An amorphous solid is a solid material capable of holding some fluid, such as a liquid, inside.

[0072] The aerosolizable material may be present on a substrate. The substrate may be, for example, paper, cardboard, paperboard, thick paper, recycled aerosolizable material, plastic material, ceramic material, composite material, glass, metal, or alloy, or may contain these materials.

[0073] A consumable is an article that contains an aerosol - generating material or consists of an aerosol - generating material, and part or all of it is intended to be consumed when used by the user. The consumable may comprise one or more other components such as an aerosol - generating material storage area, an aerosol - generating material transfer component, an aerosol - generating area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Further, the consumable may comprise an aerosol generator such as a heater that releases heat during use to generate an aerosol from the aerosol - generating material. The heater may include, for example, a combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

[0074] Referring now to FIGS. 1 - 11, these figures illustrate a first embodiment of a charging case 1 for an aerosol delivery system 20.

[0075] The charging case 1 comprises a main body 2 and a lid 3. In this example, the lid 3 is hingedly attached to the main body 2 and is pivotable between an open position (shown in FIG. 1) and a closed position (shown in FIG. 2). However, in other embodiments (not shown), the lid 3 may be in a different form. For example, it may be slidable between the open and closed positions, or it may be removably attached to the main body 2 by screws. It should be recognized that in other embodiments (not shown), the lid 3 may be omitted.

[0076] The main body 2 comprises a storage area 4 for storing the aerosol delivery system 20. In this example, the storage area 4 includes a cavity 4 of the main body 2 that receives the aerosol delivery system 20.

[0077] The charging case 1 comprises a port 5 that is associated with the aerosol delivery system 20. In this example, the port 5 is a power connector 5 for charging the battery of the aerosol delivery system 20 stored in the storage area 4.

[0078] In this example, the aerosol delivery system 20 is the aerosol delivery device 20. The aerosol delivery device 20 may be a non-combustible aerosol generation system 20, but this is not essential. In this example, the aerosol delivery device 20 is a non-combustible aerosol delivery device 20, and preferably is a tobacco heating system such as a tobacco heating device.

[0079] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of a non-combustible aerosol delivery device 20 according to an exemplary embodiment. The aerosol delivery device 20 may be adapted to be stored in the storage area 4 of the charging case 1 described above. The device 20 is a modular device including a first part 21A and a second part 21B. In some embodiments, the first part 21A and the second part 21B may be adapted to be stored separately in the case 1 (e.g., removably from each other). In other embodiments (not shown), the first and second parts 21A, 21B are integrally formed or only the first part for accommodating the components of the device 20 is provided.

[0080] The first part 21A of the device 20 includes a control circuit 22 and a battery 23. The second part 21B of the device 20 includes a heater 24 and a liquid reservoir 25 (which may together form an aerosol generator).

[0081] The first part 21A includes a first connector 26A (a USB connector connected to the USB port 5, e.g., a USB-C connector connected to the USB-C port 5). The first connector 26A can enable connection to a power source (e.g., the battery of the charging case 1 or an external power source via the port 5 of the charging case 1) for charging the battery 23 under the control of, for example, the control circuit 22.

[0082] Also, the first part 21A includes a second connector 26B that can be removably connected to the first connector 27 of the second part 21B. In other embodiments (not shown), the first and second parts 21A, 21B may be permanently connected.

[0083] When the device 20 is in use, as indicated by the arrow 28, air is drawn into the air inlet of the heater 24. The heater is used to heat the air (for example, under the control of the circuit 23). The heated air travels towards the liquid reservoir 25, where an aerosol is generated. The aerosol exits the device at the air outlet (for example, enters the mouth of the user of the device 20), as indicated by the arrow 29.

[0084] The liquid reservoir 25 may be provided by a removable article containing the aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating material may include an aerosol generating substrate and an aerosol forming material.

[0085] It should be noted that the device 20 is merely described as an example. According to an exemplary embodiment, it is also possible to store many alternative systems (including combustible or non-combustible aerosol delivery systems) in the charging case 1.

[0086] The body 2 of the charging case 1 includes one or more structures 6 configured to space at least a part of the aerosol supply system 20 from the charging case 1, providing a gap 7 between the charging case 1 and the aerosol supply system 20.

[0087] In this embodiment, each structure 6 is in the form of a protrusion 6 protruding from the surface 8 of the body 2. In this example, each protrusion 6 is a rib 6. Each rib 6 is a longitudinal rib 6 extending from near the first end 4A of the storage area 4 towards the second end 4B of the storage area 4. The ribs 6 may be parallel to each other.

[0088] In this example, the charging case 1 includes three structures 6 (for example, three ribs 6). However, it should be recognized that in other embodiments, the number of structures 6 may be different. In some embodiments (not shown), the charging case 1 includes one structure configured to provide a gap 7 by separating at least a part of the aerosol supply system 20 from the charging case 1 (for example, on both sides of one structure). In other embodiments (not shown), the charging case 1 includes at least two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten structures 6.

[0089] In some embodiments, the charging case 1 includes up to twenty, fifteen, ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, or two structures 6.

[0090] In some embodiments, the charging case 1 includes structures 6 in the range of two to ten, preferably in the range of three to five.

[0091] In some embodiments, the structure 6 is integrally formed with the charging case 1 (for example, integrally formed with the main body 2 or the lid 3 of the charging case 1). In an alternative embodiment (not shown), one or more of the structures 6 may be separate components attached to the main body 2 or the lid 3 of the charging case 1 by, for example, an adhesive.

[0092] In some embodiments, the portion of the main body 2 including the structure 6 is molded (for example, injection molded).

[0093] In some embodiments, the portion of the main body 2 including the structure 6 is plastic. It is conceivable that the structure 6 is plastic and / or the storage area 4 of the main body 2 is plastic.

[0094] In some embodiments, all of the structures 6 are provided over less than 20%, preferably less than 15%, less than 10%, or less than 5% of the total surface area of the surface 8 of the charging case 1 where the structure 6 is provided.

[0095] In some embodiments, the total contact surface area of the entire structure 6 disposed in the charging case 1 and connected to the port 5 with the aerosol delivery system 20 is at most 400 square millimeters (mm 2 ), preferably at most 300, 250, 200, 150, 125, or 100 square millimeters. The smaller the surface area of the structure 6 in contact with the aerosol delivery system 20, the smaller the friction between the aerosol delivery system 20 and the charging case 1, making it easier to remove the aerosol delivery system 20 from the storage area 4. Also, a smaller surface area of the structure 6 means a larger size of the void 7.

[0096] In some embodiments, the above structure 6 or each structure 6 has a length (indicated by arrow "L1" in FIG. 4) of at most 200 mm, preferably at most 180 mm, 160 mm, 140 mm, 130 mm, or 120 mm.

[0097] In some embodiments, the above structure 6 or each structure 6 has a length L1 of at least 40 mm, preferably at least 60 mm, 80 mm, 100 mm, or 120 mm.

[0098] The length L1 of each structure 6 is measured in the direction of the central axis A-A of the port 5. In this example, each structure 6 extends parallel to the central axis A-A of the port 5. In this example, since each structure 6 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charging case 1 between the first and second ends 4A, 4B of the storage area 4, the length L1 of each structure 6 is also measured in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charging case 1.

[0099] In some embodiments, the above structure 6 or each structure 6 has a width (indicated by arrow "W1" in FIG. 5) of at most 2 mm, preferably at most 1.5 mm, 1 mm, 0.9 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.6 mm, or 0.5 mm. Reducing the width W1 of each structure 6 also reduces the friction between the (one or more) structures 6 and the aerosol delivery device 20.

[0100] In some embodiments, the above-mentioned structure 6 or each structure 6 has a width W1 of at least 0.5 mm, preferably at least 0.6 mm.

[0101] In some embodiments, the above-mentioned structure 6 or each structure 6 has a width W1 in the range of 0.5 - 2 mm, preferably in the range of 0.5 - 0.8 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.6 - 0.7 mm.

[0102] The width W1 of each structure 6 is measured in a direction perpendicular to the central axis A - A of the port 5. In this example, each structure 6 extends parallel to the central axis A - A of the port 5. In this example, since each structure 6 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the charging case 1 between the first and second ends 4A, 4B of the storage area 4, the width W1 of each structure 6 is measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the charging case 1.

[0103] In some embodiments, the above-mentioned structure 6 or each structure 6 has a height (indicated by the arrow "H1" in FIG. 5) of at most 1 mm, preferably at most 0.9 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.5 mm, 0.4 mm, 0.3 mm, or 0.1 mm. It has been found that the smaller the height H1 of the above-mentioned structure 6 or each structure 6, the smaller the height of the charging case 1, and thus the portability of the charging case 1 is improved.

[0104] In some embodiments, the above-mentioned structure 6 or each structure 6 has a height H1 of at least 0.1 mm, preferably at least 0.2 mm. It has been found that increasing the height H1 of the (one or more) structures 6 improves the durability of the (one or more) structures.

[0105] In some embodiments, the above-mentioned structure 6 or each structure 6 has a height H1 in the range of 0.1 - 1 mm, preferably in the range of 0.1 - 0.5 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.2 - 0.3 mm.

[0106] The height of each structure 6 is measured as the distance that the structure 6 protrudes from the surface 8 of the main body 2.

[0107] When the aerosol delivery system 20 is received in the storage area 4 and connected to the port 5, the battery 23 of the aerosol delivery system 20 is charged. That is, power is sent from the battery 9 (or the power grid connector) of the charging case 1 to the battery 23 of the aerosol delivery system 20. As a result, the temperature of the battery 23 of the aerosol delivery system 20 may increase. The gap 7 provided by the structure 6 of the charging case 1 helps to cool the aerosol delivery system 20 within the charging case 1, which is in contrast to the case where the charging case 1 is tightly surrounded without the gap 7 by the charging case 1. Also, the gap 7 helps to insulate the charging case 1 from the aerosol delivery system 20 so that the outside of the charging case 1 becomes cold enough to be touched. This is particularly convenient when the user is holding the charging case 1 or wearing the charging case 1 in a pocket or the like. Such insulation of the aerosol delivery system 20 from the charging case 1 is also convenient when the aerosol delivery system 20 is heated during use (for example, when the aerosol delivery system 20 is placed in the charging case 1 after the heater 24 has recently operated). In such a situation, the gap 7 helps to cool the aerosol delivery system 20 more rapidly than when the gap 7 is not provided.

[0108] In some embodiments, the storage area 4 is in the form of the cavity 4 of the main body 2. In this example, the cavity 4 is a groove of the main body 2. The cavity 4 may extend longitudinally between the first and second ends 4A, 4B.

[0109] The port 5 may be a power connector 5. In some embodiments, the port 5 is a USB connector (for example, a USB-C connector).

[0110] In this example, the port 5 is a male connector that is connected to the female connector of the aerosol delivery system 20. In other embodiments (not shown), the port 5 is a female connector that is connected to the male connector of the aerosol delivery system 20.

[0111] In some embodiments, port 5 is configured to be connected to port 5 when in use by the aerosol delivery system 20 sliding towards port 5 from the position shown in FIG. 9 to the position shown in FIG. 8.

[0112] In some embodiments, port 5 is configured to be separated from port 5 when in use by the aerosol delivery system 20 sliding away from port 5 from the position shown in FIG. 8 to the position shown in FIG. 9.

[0113] Structure 6 reduces the friction between the aerosol delivery system 20 and the charging case 1 by reducing the contact area between the aerosol delivery system 20 and the charging case 1. This facilitates the connection and separation of the aerosol delivery system 20 to and from port 5.

[0114] To separate the aerosol delivery system 20 from port 5, the user can place the thumb and / or one or more fingers on the aerosol delivery system 20 and slide the aerosol delivery system 20 in a direction away from port 5. When the user attempts to slide the aerosol delivery system 20 for the first time, it has been found that the user tends to push the thumb or finger into the aerosol delivery system 20 to strongly grip the aerosol delivery system 20 to overcome the friction between port 5 and the aerosol delivery system 20. That is, when the user attempts to separate the aerosol delivery system 20 from port 5, the user will push the aerosol delivery system 20 downward (in the direction of arrow "F" in FIG. 8) towards surface 8, and this pushing action increases the friction between the user's thumb or finger and the aerosol delivery system 20, improving the user's grip. However, it has also been found that this downward pushing action may apply a force to port 5, potentially damaging port 5 and / or the aerosol delivery system 20.

[0115] To help avoid such damage, in some embodiments, at least one structure 6 is arranged to contact the aerosol delivery system 20 when the aerosol delivery system 20 is connected to the port 5. Thus, the structure 6 supports the aerosol delivery system 20 and prevents damage to the aerosol delivery system 20 by providing a reaction surface when the aerosol delivery system 20 is pushed downward toward the surface 8. In some embodiments, a plurality of structures 6 are arranged to contact the aerosol delivery system 20 when the aerosol delivery system 20 is connected to the port 5.

[0116] In some embodiments, at least one of the structures 6 is provided near the port 5 and supports the aerosol delivery system near the port 5. In some embodiments, at least one of the structures 6 extends directly below the port 5.

[0117] In some embodiments, at least one of the structures 6 has at least partially the same extent as at least a part of the port 5 in the axial direction of the port 5 (indicated by arrow "A - A" in FIG. 7). In FIG. 7, the area of this same extent (i.e., the overlap of the structure 6 with the port 5 in the axial direction A - A of the port 5) is indicated by arrow "S". This helps to support the portion of the aerosol delivery system 20 that contacts the port 5 with at least one of the structures 6 and prevent damage to the port 5.

[0118] In some embodiments, in the axial direction A - A of the port 5, at least one of the structures 6 overlaps the port 5.

[0119] In some embodiments, the port 5 is provided at or near the first end 4A of the storage area 4, and the aerosol delivery system 20 can be removed from the storage area 4 by sliding the aerosol delivery system 20 to the second end 4B side of the storage area 4 and separating it from the port 5.

[0120] In some embodiments, the main body 2 is provided with an inclined surface 12 at the second end 4B of the storage area 4. When the aerosol delivery system 20 slides away from the port 5, the first end of the aerosol delivery system 20 is adjacent to the inclined surface 12 and is configured to slide along the inclined surface 12 (in the direction of arrow "Z" in FIG. 9), so that the aerosol delivery system 20 can be lifted from the storage area 4. This makes it easier to remove the aerosol delivery system 20 from the charging case 1. For example, when the aerosol delivery system 20 moves along the inclined surface 12 and is lifted from the storage area 4, the user can grip the front end of the aerosol delivery system 20.

[0121] In this example, at least a part of the inclined surface 12 follows a substantially straight path. In fact, in this embodiment, the inclined surface 12 is a substantially planar surface, and the entire inclined surface 12 follows a substantially straight path. However, in other embodiments, at least a part or all of the inclined surface 12 may follow a non - straight path. For example, it is recognized that at least a part or all of the inclined surface 12 may follow a substantially curved path.

[0122] The main body 2 or the lid 3 may include the inclined surface 12. In some embodiments, the inclined surface 12 is integrally formed with the main body 2 or the lid 3. In other embodiments, the inclined surface 12 is a separate component attached to the main body 2 or the lid 3 by, for example, an adhesive.

[0123] In some embodiments, the inclined surface 12 has a length of at least 0.6 mm, preferably at least 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.9 mm, or 1 mm. The length of the inclined surface 12 is measured from the first end of the inclined surface 12 close to the port 5 to the second end of the inclined surface 12 distal to the port 5.

[0124] In this example, when the components of the aerosol delivery system 20 move away from port 5, the portion of the aerosol delivery system 20 that moves along the inclined surface 12 is the first portion 21A of the aerosol delivery system 20. However, in other embodiments, when the components of the aerosol delivery system 20 move away from port 5, the portion of the aerosol delivery system 20 that moves along the inclined surface 12 is the second portion 21B of the aerosol delivery system 20.

[0125] In one embodiment, the first and second portions 21A, 21B are stored separately (e.g., in different storage areas) in the charging case 1. The first portion 21A may be separated from port 5 and lifted from there along the inclined surface 21 so as to be taken out by the user. Thereafter, the first portion 21A may be configured to be connected to the second portion 21B (which may be supplied separately or provided in a different part of the charging case 1).

[0126] In some embodiments, the inclined surface 12 is arranged such that the aerosol delivery system 20 moves along the inclined surface 12 only when the aerosol delivery system 20 is separated from port 5, preferably only when the system 20 is spaced apart from port 5. This helps to prevent damage to port 5 and / or the system 20 caused by the system 20 being lifted from a state aligned with the central axis A-A of port 5 while still connected to port 5. In some embodiments (not shown), the inclined surface 12 comprises first and second inclined surface portions. The first and second inclined surface portions may extend substantially parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the first and second inclined surface portions are each arranged to contact a corresponding portion (e.g., a corresponding corner of the system 20) of the aerosol delivery system 20 when the aerosol delivery system 20 moves away from port 5. Each inclined surface portion may comprise its own inclined surface. The first and second inclined surface portions may be provided on both sides of the central axis A-A of port 5.

[0127] In this example, the above structure extends up to the inclined surface 12 and terminates at or before the inclined surface 12. However, in other embodiments (not shown), the above structure is inclined so as to constitute at least a part of the inclined surface 12. For example, in one embodiment (not shown), the above structure extends in a direction parallel to the central axis A-A of the port 5 from the first end 4A of the storage area 4, and then inclines upward to the second end 4B of the storage area 4 to constitute the inclined surface 12.

[0128] In some embodiments, at least one of the structures 6 is provided close to the inclined surface 12 such that the aerosol delivery system 20 moves from the at least one structure 6 onto the inclined surface 12. For this reason, the above structure 6 or each structure 6 guides the aerosol delivery system 20 away from the port 5 and onto the inclined surface 12 so that it can be taken out from the storage area 4. For example, at least one structure 6 may be provided within 5 cm of the inclined surface 12, preferably less than 4 cm, 3 cm, 2 cm, or 1 cm. In some embodiments (not shown), at least one of the structures 6 may constitute a part or the whole of the inclined surface 12.

[0129] In some embodiments, the above structure 6 or each structure 6 is arranged such that at least one structure 6 is in contact with the system 20 at all times from when the aerosol delivery system 20 is separated from the port 5 until it contacts the inclined surface 12. In this example, the above structure 6 or each structure 6 extends continuously from the first end 4A of the storage area 4 or a location near it to the second end 4B of the storage area 4 or a location near it. However, it should be recognized that in other embodiments, the above structure 6 or each structure 6 may extend intermittently between the first and second ends 4A, 4B of the storage area 4.

[0130] In this example, the above structure 6 or each structure 6 extends continuously from the first end 4A of the storage area 4 or a location near it to the second end 4B of the storage area 4B or a location near it. However, it should be recognized that in other embodiments, the above structure 6 or each structure 6 may extend intermittently between the first and second ends 4A, 4B of the storage area 4.

[0131] In this example, the main body 2 includes one or more structures 6 configured to separate at least a part of the aerosol supply system 20 from the main body 2 and provide a gap between the aerosol supply system 20 and the main body 2. In other embodiments (not shown), as an additional or alternative, the lid 3 includes one or more structures configured to separate at least a part of the aerosol supply system 20 from the lid 3 and ensure a gap between the aerosol supply system 20 and the lid 3. These structures of the lid 3 also help to lower the temperature of the aerosol delivery system 20 and insulate the lid 3 from the aerosol delivery system 20 to lower the temperature of the lid 3. In some embodiments, the lid 3 includes the above structure and the main body 2 does not include a structure. However, as an advantage of the main body 2 including a structure, these structures provide reduced friction with the aerosol delivery system 20 and / or support for the aerosol delivery system 20 in connection / separation with the port 5.

[0132] In this example, the main body 2 includes a storage area 4. In other embodiments (not shown), as an alternative or additional, the lid 3 may include a storage area for the aerosol delivery system 20. For example, a cavity (not shown) may be provided in the lid 3 and configured to receive at least a part of the aerosol delivery system 20.

[0133] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the charging system 10 of the charging case 1. The charging system 10 is connected to an external power source (e.g., a commercial power source, an external battery, or a vehicle charging point) and is configured to charge the battery 9 of the charging case 1 (or directly charge the battery 23 of the aerosol delivery system 20 when, for example, the battery 9 of the charging case 1 is omitted). The charging system 10 further includes a power connector 11. The charging system 10 further includes a battery 9 of the charging case 1 and a port 5 connected to the first connector 26A of the aerosol delivery system 20. The charging system 10 may further include a controller 12 for controlling the flow of power to and / or from the battery 9.

[0134] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view (along the same cross-section as FIG. 5 of the first embodiment) of a second embodiment of the charging case 1. The charging case 1 of the second embodiment is similar to the charging case 1 of the first embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 11 and has similar features. However, as a difference, the charging case 1 of the second embodiment has a curved storage area 4 configured to accommodate an aerosol delivery system (not shown) having a curved profile. Accordingly, the surface 8 from which the structure 6 protrudes is generally curved.

[0135] Each structure 6 is a protrusion 6 (e.g., a rib 6) and has a generally convex cross-section. In this example, the cross-sectional shape of each protrusion 6 is generally curved. This reduces the contact area between the protrusion 6 and the aerosol delivery system 20, suppresses heat transfer between the aerosol delivery system 20 and the charging case 1, and reduces the friction between the aerosol delivery system 20 and the charging case 1, thereby reducing the force required for connecting and disconnecting the aerosol delivery system 20 to and from the port 5. It should be recognized that the first embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 11 or the third or fourth embodiments of FIGS. 13 and 14 described below can be improved to have a curved surface 8 and / or a convex and / or curved structure 6. In some embodiments, the storage area 4 has a U-shaped cross-section.

[0136] Referring now to FIG. 13, this figure shows a third embodiment of the charging case 1. The charging case 1 of the third embodiment is similar to the charging case 1 of the first embodiment in FIGS. 1 to 11 and has similar features. The difference is that each continuous structure 6 of the first embodiment is omitted and replaced by a plurality of spaced-apart structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D.

[0137] That is, the charging case 1 of the third embodiment includes the structure 6A in the first row, the structure 6B in the second row, the structure 6C in the third row, and the structure 6D in the fourth row. A space 7A is provided between the adjacent structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D in the rows, which constitutes a part of the gap 7 between the charging case 1 and the aerosol delivery system 20.

[0138] As a drawback of the third embodiment in FIG. 13 compared to the first and second embodiments in FIGS. 1 to 12, since the structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D extend discontinuously between the first and second ends 4A, 4B of the storage area 4, in a specific configuration, the aerosol delivery system 20 is likely to get caught or clogged at the edges or corners of the spaced-apart structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D.

[0139] On the other hand, the space 7A between the adjacent structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D increases the size of the gap 7 between the charging case 1 and the aerosol delivery device 20, thereby promoting the cooling of the aerosol delivery device 20 and suppressing the heat transfer between the charging case 1 and the aerosol delivery device 20.

[0140] In this example, the structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D are aligned to form multiple rows of structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D. In this example, the charging case 1 includes three rows of structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, with four structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D in each row. In this example, the charging case includes four columns of structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D, with three structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D provided in each column. However, it should be recognized that in other embodiments, the number of structures in each row and / or column of the charging case 1 may be different. Also, the charging case 1 may have a different number of rows and / or columns of structures.

[0141] In this example, the structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D are provided in regular rows and columns. This allows for a more uniform thermal gap 7 between the charging case 1 and the aerosol delivery system 20. However, in other embodiments (not shown), the structures may be provided in irregular rows and / or irregular columns.

[0142] In this example, all of the structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D have the same shape. However, in other embodiments, some of the structures 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D may have different shapes.

[0143] In each of the above embodiments, the structures 6, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D are longitudinal ribs 6, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D. However, it should be recognized that these structures may have any other shape. For example, the above structures may be circular as shown in FIG. 14, which shows a fourth embodiment of the charging case 1. In the fourth embodiment, the structure 6 is generally circular and spaced apart such that a space 7A is formed between adjacent structures 6. The structure 6 is a protrusion 6 protruding from the surface 8 of the main body 2 and / or the lid (not shown in FIG. 14). These structures 6 may have a generally flat top, or each may have a generally convex cross-section, and the cross-sectional shape of the above structure 6 or each structure 6 may be generally curved. This reduces the contact area between the aerosol delivery system 20 and the charging case 1. The above structure 6 or each structure 6 may be dome-shaped.

[0144] In the modified examples of the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments described above with respect to FIGS. 1 to 14, it is recognized that the structure 6 may have different shapes (for example, oval, square, triangle, polygon, pentagon, or hexagon).

[0145] In each of the first, second, third, and fourth embodiments described above with respect to FIGS. 1 to 14, the structures 6, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D are protrusions. For example, the protrusions may protrude outward from the surface 8 of the main body 2 and / or the lid 3. However, in an alternative embodiment (not shown), these structures may be depressions. For example, these structures may protrude inward from the surface 8 of the main body 2 and / or the lid 3. The charging case 1 may be provided with one or more such depressions and / or one or more protrusions. The above or each depression forms a gap between the aerosol delivery system 20 and the charging case 1, thereby improving the cooling of the aerosol delivery system 20 and suppressing the heat transfer between the aerosol delivery system 20 and the charging case 1. Also, the above or each depression reduces the contact area between the charging case 1 and the aerosol delivery system 20, thereby reducing the friction between the two during the connection and separation of the aerosol delivery system 20 and the port 5. In some embodiments (not shown), the depression is in the form of one or more recesses.

[0146] In each of the above embodiments, the protrusions 6, 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D are arranged such that at least one protrusion is in contact with the aerosol delivery system 20 at all times from when the aerosol delivery system 20 first slides and separates from the port 5 until it contacts the inclined surface 12 of the charging case 1. This serves to constantly support the aerosol delivery system 20 and smooth the sliding movement of the aerosol delivery system 20.

[0147] The various embodiments described herein are presented only as an aid to understanding and teaching the features of the claims. These embodiments are given as representative samples of the embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations to the scope of the invention defined by the claims, nor as limitations to the equivalents of the claims, and it is understood that other embodiments can be utilized and modified without departing from the scope of the invention related to the claims. The various embodiments of the present invention may preferably include, consist of, or consist essentially of a suitable combination of elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc. of the disclosure other than those specifically described herein. Also, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future. [Item of Invention] [Item 1] A charging case for an aerosol delivery system, comprising one or more structures configured to provide a gap by separating at least a part of the aerosol supply system from the charging case. [Item 2] The charging case according to Item 1, wherein the one or more structures are protrusions. [Item 3] The charging case according to Item 2, wherein the one or more structures protrude from the surface of the charging case. [Item 4] The charging case according to Item 2 or 3, wherein the structure or each structure comprises ribs, preferably, the rib or each rib is straight or substantially straight. [Item 5] The charging case has a surface configured to be a base of the aerosol delivery system when the aerosol delivery system is disposed in the charging case for charging, and the structure or each structure is provided over less than 20%, preferably less than 15%, less than 10%, or less than 5% of the surface area of the surface, preferably, the surface is a planar surface. The charging case according to any one of Items 1 to 4. [Item 6] When the aerosol delivery system is disposed in the charging case for charging, the total contact surface area of the structure or all structures with the aerosol delivery system is at most 400 square millimeters, preferably, at most 300, 250, 200, 150, 125, or 100 square millimeters. The charging case according to any one of Items 1 to 5. [Item 7] The charging case according to any one of Items 1 to 6, wherein the structure or each structure extends in the longitudinal direction. [Item 8] The charging case according to any one of Items 1 to 7, wherein the structure or each structure has a length in the range of at least 40 mm, preferably, at least 60 mm, 80 mm, 100 mm, or 120 mm. [Item 9] The charging case according to any one of Items 1 to 8, wherein the structure or each structure has a height in the range of 0.1 to 1 mm, preferably, in the range of 0.1 to 0.5 mm, preferably in the range of 0.2 to 0.3 mm. [Item 10] The charging case according to any one of Items 1 to 9, wherein the structure or each structure has a width in the range of 0.5 to 2 mm, preferably, in the range of 0.5 to 0.8 mm, preferably in the range of 0.6 to 0.7 mm. [Item 11] The charging case according to any one of Items 1 to 10, comprising a plurality of structures that provide the gaps. [Item 12] The charging case according to Item 11, comprising structures in the range of 2 to 10, preferably in the range of 3 to 5. [Item 13] The charging case according to Item 11 or 12, wherein the structures extend substantially parallel to each other. [Item 14] The charging case according to any one of Items 11 to 13, wherein the structures are discrete and spaced apart from each other. [Item 15] The charging case according to any one of Items 1 to 14, wherein the structure or each structure has a substantially convex cross-section, and preferably, the cross-sectional shape of the structure or each structure is substantially curved. [Item 16] The charging case according to any one of Items 1 to 15, comprising a storage area configured to receive the aerosol delivery system, and preferably, the storage area is a cavity. [Item 17] The charging case according to Item 16, wherein at least one structure is provided in the storage area. [Item 18] The charging case according to any one of Items 1 to 17, comprising a port configured to be connected to the aerosol delivery system, and preferably, the port is configured such that, during use, the aerosol delivery system slides in a direction away from the port and is separated from the port. [Item 19] The charging case according to Item 18, wherein at least one structure is provided near the port. [Item 20] The charging case according to Item 18 or 19, wherein at least one structure is arranged such that when the aerosol delivery system is connected to the port, the structure contacts the aerosol delivery system. [Item 21] The charging case according to any one of Items 18 to 20 when dependent on Item 16 or 17, wherein the port is provided at an end of the storage area. [Item 22] The charging case according to any one of Items 18 to 21, comprising an inclined surface, and the inclined surface is arranged such that when the component moves in a direction away from the port, a part of the aerosol supply system moves along the inclined surface. [Item 23] The charging case according to item 22, when dependent on any one of items 18 to 21, wherein the structure or each structure is arranged such that at least one structure is in contact with the aerosol delivery system at all times from when the aerosol delivery system is separated from the port until it contacts the slope. [Item 24] The charging case according to any one of items 1 to 23, wherein the charging case includes a main body and a lid, and the main body and / or the lid includes the one or more structures. [Item 25] The charging case according to any one of items 1 to 24, wherein the aerosol delivery system is an aerosol delivery device. [Item 26] The charging case according to any one of items 1 to 25, further comprising the aerosol delivery system. [Item 27] The charging case according to any one of items 1 to 26, wherein the aerosol delivery system is configured to receive a removable article containing an aerosolizable material. [Item 28] The charging case according to item 27, wherein the aerosolizable material is present on a substrate. [Item 29] The charging case according to any one of items 1 to 28, wherein the aerosol delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system, preferably comprising a tobacco heating system. [Item 30] A component kit comprising the charging case according to any one of items 1 to 29 and an aerosol delivery system. [Item 31] The component kit according to item 30, further comprising an article to be used in the aerosol delivery system, preferably, the article is a removable article containing an aerosol generating material. [Item 32] The component kit according to item 31, wherein the article is a removable article containing an aerosol generating material.

Claims

1. A charging case for an aerosol delivery system, comprising one or more structures that protrude from the surface of the charging case, provide a gap by separating at least a part of the aerosol delivery system from the charging case, and reduce friction between the aerosol delivery system and the charging case.

2. The charging case according to claim 1, wherein the one or more structures are protrusions.

3. The charging case according to claim 2, wherein the structure or each structure comprises ribs.

4. The charging case according to claim 3, wherein the rib or each rib is straight or substantially straight.

5. The charging case has a surface configured to underlie the aerosol delivery system when the aerosol delivery system is disposed in the charging case for charging, and the structure or each structure is provided over less than 20% of the surface area of the surface. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The charging case has a surface configured to underlie the aerosol delivery system when the aerosol delivery system is disposed in the charging case for charging, and the structure or each structure is provided over less than 15%, less than 10%, or less than 5% of the surface area of the surface. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The charging case has a surface configured to underlie the aerosol delivery system when the aerosol delivery system is disposed in the charging case for charging, and the surface is a planar surface. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. When the aerosol delivery system is disposed in the charging case for charging, the total contact surface area of the structure or all structures with the aerosol delivery system is at most 400 square millimeters. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. When the aerosol delivery system is disposed in the charging case for charging, the total contact surface area of the structure or all structures with the aerosol delivery system is at most 300, 250, 200, 150, 125, or 100 square millimeters. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the structure or each structure extends in the longitudinal direction.

11. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the structure or each structure has a length in the range of at least 40 mm.

12. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the structure or each structure has a length in the range of at least 60 mm, 80 mm, 100 mm, or 120 mm.

13. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the structure or each structure has a height in the range of 0.1 to 1 mm.

14. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the structure or each structure has a height in the range of 0.1 to 0.5 mm.

15. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the structure or each structure has a height in the range of 0.2 to 0.3 mm.

16. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the structure or each structure has a width in the range of 0.5 to 2 mm.

17. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the structure or each structure has a width in the range of 0.5 to 0.8 mm.

18. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the structure or each structure has a width in the range of 0.6 to 0.7 mm.

19. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a plurality of structures that provide the voids.

20. The charging case according to claim 19, comprising 2 to 10 structures.

21. The charging case according to claim 19, comprising 3 to 5 structures.

22. The charging case according to claim 19, wherein the structures extend substantially parallel to each other.

23. The charging case according to claim 19, wherein the structures are discrete and spaced apart from each other.

24. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the structure or each structure has a generally convex cross-section.

25. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the structure or each structure is generally curved.

26. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a storage area configured to receive the aerosol delivery system.

27. The charging case according to claim 26, wherein the storage area is a cavity.

28. The charging case according to claim 26, wherein at least one structure is provided in the storage area.

29. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a port configured to be connected to the aerosol delivery system.

30. The charging case according to claim 29, wherein the port is configured such that, during use, the aerosol delivery system slides in a direction away from the port and is separated from the port.

31. The charging case according to claim 29, wherein at least one structure is provided near the port.

32. The charging case according to claim 29, wherein at least one structure is arranged such that when the aerosol delivery system is connected to the port, the structure contacts the aerosol delivery system.

33. Comprising a storage area configured to receive the aerosol delivery system, The charging case according to claim 29, wherein the port is provided at an end of the storage area.

34. The charging case according to claim 33, wherein the storage area is a cavity.

35. The charging case according to claim 29, comprising an inclined surface, and when the aerosol delivery system moves in a direction away from the port, a part of the aerosol delivery system is arranged to move along the inclined surface.

36. The charging case according to claim 35, wherein the structure or each structure is arranged such that at least one structure always contacts the aerosol delivery system from when the aerosol delivery system is separated from the port until it contacts the inclined surface.

37. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the charging case comprises a main body and a lid, and the main body and / or the lid comprises the one or more structures.

38. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerosol delivery system is an aerosol delivery device.

39. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising the aerosol delivery system.

40. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerosol delivery system is configured to receive a removable article containing an aerosolizable material.

41. The charging case according to claim 40, wherein the aerosolizable material is present on a substrate.

42. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerosol delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol supply system.

43. The charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerosol delivery system comprises a tobacco heating system.

44. A parts kit comprising the charging case according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and an aerosol delivery system.

45. The parts kit according to claim 44, further comprising an article for use in the aerosol delivery system.

46. The parts kit according to claim 45, wherein the article is a removable article containing an aerosol-generating material.

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