Aerosol supply system

Abstract

Disclosed is an aerosol delivery system (1) comprising: an aerosol delivery device (2) having an outer surface comprising a first portion and a second portion (6), the second portion (6) being recessed in a first direction relative to the first portion (5), the aerosol delivery device (2) comprising a connecting portion (7) connecting the first portion (5) to the second portion (6) and defining an undercut (8) in a direction non-parallel to the first direction; and a removable member (4) configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol delivery device (2) to cover at least a portion of the outer surface (3), the removable member (4) comprising at least one attachment element (9) configured to be at least partially removably receivable within the undercut (8) to restrict movement of the removable member (4) in a direction opposite to the first direction when the removable member is attached to the aerosol delivery device (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply system, an aerosol supply device, a removable member for selectively attaching to the aerosol supply device to customize the aerosol supply device, and a kit. Background

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

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol supply device having an outer surface, the outer surface comprising a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion, the aerosol supply device comprising a connection portion connecting the first portion to the second portion and defining an undercut in a direction not parallel to the first direction, and a removable member configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol supply device so as to cover at least a portion of the outer surface, the removable member having at least one attachment element configured to be at least partially removably receivable within the undercut to limit movement of the removable member in a direction opposite to the first direction when the removable member is attached to the aerosol supply device. An aerosol supply system is provided.

[0004] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an outer surface comprising a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion is recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion, and a connection portion that connects the first portion to the second portion and defines an undercut in a direction not parallel to the first direction.

[0005] Optionally, the undercut extends substantially parallel to the first portion.

[0006] Optionally, the connecting portion defines a plurality of individual undercuts, each of the individual undercuts being in a direction not parallel to the first direction.

[0007] Optionally, the second portion is recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion to define a recess, and the individual undercuts are provided on the opposite side surfaces of each of the recesses.

[0008] Optionally, the recess is elongated.

[0009] Optionally, the individual undercuts are provided at the longitudinal ends on the opposite sides of each of the recesses.

[0010] Optionally, the aerosol supply device is configured to generate an aerosol from a non-liquid, for example a solid, aerosol generating material.

[0011] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a removable member for selectively attaching to an aerosol supply device to customize the aerosol supply device, the removable member comprising a body and at least one attachment element protruding from the body and configured to be insertable into a hole of the aerosol supply device.

[0012] Optionally, the body comprises a plurality of layers.

[0013] Optionally, at least one of the plurality of layers is transparent so as to define a transparent layer, and another of the plurality of layers is visible through the transparent layer.

[0014] Optionally, at least one of the plurality of layers is integrally formed with at least one attachment element.

[0015] Optionally, the removable member is elastic.

[0016] Optionally, the removable member comprises or consists of a metal or metal alloy.

[0017] Optionally, the removable member comprises or consists of spring steel.

[0018] Optionally, the body comprises an opening for receiving a part of an aerosol supply device.

[0019] Optionally, at least one attachment element is integrally formed with the body.

[0020] Optionally, at least one attachment element comprises a material different from that of the body.

[0021] Optionally, one attachment element or each attachment element is elastic.

[0022] Optionally, the removable member has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and the width, the length being equal to or greater than the width, the width being greater than the depth, and one attachment element or each attachment element projects from the body in a direction perpendicular to the depth.

[0023] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol supply device having an outer surface, and a removable member configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol supply device so as to cover at least a part of the outer surface. In order to hold the removable member against the outer surface, one of the aerosol supply device and the removable member includes a magnetic material, and the other of the aerosol supply device and the removable member is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material, thereby providing an aerosol supply system.

[0024] Optionally, the aerosol supply device includes a magnetic material.

[0025] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol supply device having an outer surface and a magnetic material configured to attract a removable member toward the outer surface so as to hold the removable member against the outer surface in order to customize the aerosol supply device.

[0026] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit including a removable member configured to be removably attachable to an aerosol supply device so as to cover at least a part of an outer surface of an aerosol generation device, and a tool configured to releasably engage with the removable member to assist in (a) removing the removable member from the aerosol generation device and / or (b) attaching the removable member to the aerosol generation device.

[0027] Optionally, the aerosol supply device of the aerosol supply system according to the first aspect of the present invention is the aerosol supply device according to the second aspect of the present invention. Accordingly, any one or more of the above optional features of the aerosol supply device according to the second aspect of the present invention may be present in the aerosol supply device of the aerosol supply system according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0028] Optionally, the removable member of the aerosol supply system according to the first aspect of the present invention is the removable member according to the third aspect of the present invention. Accordingly, any one or more of the above optional features of the removable member according to the third aspect of the present invention may be present in the removable member of the aerosol supply system according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0029] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, given by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0030] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6a

Figure 6b

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

[0031] FIG. 1 shows an aerosol supply system 1 according to an embodiment. The aerosol supply system 1 includes an aerosol supply device 2 having an outer surface 3 and a removable member 4. In FIG. 1, the removable member 4 is shown removed from the aerosol supply device 2. FIG. 2 shows the aerosol supply system 1 of FIG. 1 with the removable member 4 attached to the aerosol supply device 2.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol supply device 2 includes a housing 100 that forms an outer cover of the aerosol supply device 2 and surrounds and houses various components of the aerosol supply device 2. The chamber 101 is configured to receive a consumable (not shown in FIG. 1) that includes an aerosol-generating material (the aerosol supply device 2 is configured to generate an aerosol from this). In some embodiments, the aerosol supply device 2 generates an aerosol from the consumable by heating the aerosol-generating material. In other embodiments, the aerosol is generated from the aerosol-generating material in another way, for example, by applying energy to the aerosol-generating material using ultrasonic energy.

[0033] The aerosol supply device 2 has an opening 102 at one end, whereby consumables can be inserted into the chamber 101. In some embodiments, a portion of the consumable may be received in the chamber 101 of the aerosol supply device 2, while a portion of the consumable may protrude from the opening 102 of the device 100. In some embodiments, the portion of the consumable received in the chamber 101 contains an aerosol-generating material (the aerosol supply device 2 is configured to generate an aerosol therefrom). The portion of the consumable protruding from the opening 102 may be provided with, for example, a filter, etc., and the user can suck the generated aerosol stream from that portion by inserting the portion of the consumable protruding from the opening 102 into the mouth.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol supply device 2 includes a user-operable control element 103 such as a button or switch that operates the aerosol supply device 2 when pressed. For example, the user can turn on the device 100 by operating the user-operable control element 103.

[0035] In some embodiments, the aerosol supply device 2 also includes electrical components such as a socket / port 105 that can receive a cable for charging the battery. For example, the socket 105 may be a charging port such as a USB charging port. In some examples, in addition to or instead of this, the socket 105 may be used to transfer data between the aerosol supply device 2 and another device such as a computing device. The socket may also be electrically coupled to the battery via an electrical track.

[0036] The end of the aerosol supply device 2 closest to the opening 105 is sometimes known as the proximal end (or mouth-side end) of the aerosol supply device 2 because it is closest to the user's mouth during use. During use, the user can insert a consumable into the opening 102, operate the user control unit 103 to start heating the aerosol-generating material, and inhale at the proximal end of the aerosol supply device 2. Thereby, the aerosol flows through the aerosol supply device 2 along the flow path towards the proximal end of the aerosol supply device 2. In some embodiments, a portion of the consumable may protrude from the opening 102, and the user can inhale at the proximal end of the consumable so that the aerosol can flow to and be inhaled at the proximal end of the aerosol supply device 2. In other embodiments, the aerosol supply device 2 includes a suction port for the user to inhale the aerosol flow.

[0037] On the side opposite the proximal end, the end of the aerosol supply device 2 located at the farthest position from the opening 102 is sometimes known as the distal end of the aerosol supply device 2 because it is the end farthest from the user's mouth during use. When the user inhales the aerosol generated within the aerosol supply device 2, the aerosol flows away from the distal end of the aerosol supply device 2. As shown in FIG. 1, the aerosol supply device 2 includes a lid / cap 104. In other embodiments, the lid / cap 104 is omitted. When the lid / cap 104 is opened, access to the heating chamber 101 can be obtained. The user can, for example, open the lid to gain access to the heating chamber 101 for the consumable, or, for example, clean the components within the heating chamber 101 to remove debris resulting from a previous use session.

[0038] By providing a removable member 4 in the aerosol supply system 1, the components of the system can be protected from impact forces. For example, the removable member 4 serves as a barrier between the aerosol supply device 2 and an external object (e.g., the floor or another surface). When the removable member 4 contacts the external object, at least a portion of the force is not transmitted to the aerosol supply device 2 and is absorbed or dissipated by the removable member 4. This helps to reduce the likelihood of damage to the aerosol supply device 2. As a result, if the removable member 4 is damaged, the removable member 4 can be replaced without the need to replace the aerosol supply device 2. Further, because the removable member 4 is removable and replaceable, the user can customize the aerosol supply device 2. For example, a specific texture, grip, or ergonomic aspect can be given to the removable member 4. The removable member 4 is releasably engagable with the surface of the aerosol supply device 2 so as to be able to protect the aerosol supply device 2 at a specific location. One or more such removable members 4 are provided attached to the aerosol supply device 2 to enhance protection around the assembly at multiple locations. The aerosol supply system 1 can be used to generate a medium that can be aspirated during use.

[0039] As discussed above, the removable member 4 can also be used to customize the aerosol supply device 2. For example, the removable member 4 may include a graphic pattern or color on at least one surface. The user can then customize the aerosol supply device 2 by selecting a removable member 4 that includes the desired pattern or color.

[0040] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol supply device 2 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the outer surface 3 includes a first portion 5 and a second portion 6. The second portion 6 is recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion 5. The aerosol supply device 2 also includes a connecting portion 7 that connects the first portion 5 to the second portion 6 and defines an undercut 8 in a direction not parallel to the first direction.

[0041] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 (as well as FIGS. 7, 10, and 12 discussed below), the first portion 5 of the aerosol supply device 2 includes a portion or rib protruding from the aerosol supply device 2. Alternatively, the first portion omits such a protrusion such that when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol supply device 2, the first portion 5 is substantially flush with the surface of the removable member 4 (as shown in FIG. 2). In such a configuration, the user can hold it more comfortably and there are fewer exposed protrusions that may be subject to wear and / or damage.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 1, the removable member 4 is configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol supply device 2 so as to cover at least a portion of the outer surface 3. The removable member 4 includes three attachment elements 9 configured to be at least partially removably receivable within the undercut 8 to restrict movement of the removable member 4 in a direction opposite to the first direction when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol supply device 2.

[0043] In Figure 1, three mounting elements 9 are provided on the outer periphery of the removable member 4. The first mounting element 9a is provided at the longitudinal end of the removable member 4, and the two additional mounting elements 9b, 9c are elongated and partially extend along both side surfaces of the outer periphery of the removable member 4 between the longitudinal ends of the removable member 4. Although three mounting elements 9 are shown in Figure 1, more or fewer mounting elements 9 may be used. For example, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 mounting elements may be used. In some embodiments, a single mounting element 9 may extend substantially around the entire circumference of the removable member 4. Alternatively, two mounting elements 9 are provided, each at the longitudinal end of the removable member 4 on the opposite side.

[0044] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, the undercut 8 extends substantially parallel to the first portion 5. Alternatively, the undercut 8 may extend at an oblique angle with respect to the first portion 5. For example, the undercut 8 may extend at an angle of 0 degrees to less than 90 degrees with respect to the first portion 5.

[0045] As discussed above in connection with Figure 3, the connecting portion 7 defines an undercut 8 in a direction not parallel to the first direction. In some embodiments, the connecting portion 7 defines a plurality of individual undercuts 8, each in a direction not parallel to the first direction. In some embodiments, the number of individual undercuts 8 is the same as the number of mounting elements 9. For example, the removable member 4 may include three mounting elements 9, and the aerosol supply device 2 may include three individual undercuts 8, each corresponding to one of the mounting elements 9. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, the second portion 6 is recessed in the first direction with respect to the first portion 5 to define a recess (or hole) 10, and the individual undercuts 8 are provided on opposite sides of each recess 10.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 1, the recess 10 is elongated. In other embodiments, the recess 10 is not elongated. The individual undercuts 8 are provided at the longitudinal ends 17a, 17b on opposite sides of each of the recesses 10. In other embodiments, the undercuts 8 are provided at one of the longitudinal ends 17a, 17b but not at the other longitudinal end 17a, 17b.

[0047] FIG. 4 shows the removable member 4 of FIGS. 1 and 2 alone. The removable member 4 is for selectively attaching to an aerosol supply device 2 (e.g., the aerosol supply device 2 of FIGS. 1 and 2). As described above in connection with FIG. 1, the removable member 4 includes a body 11 and three attachment elements 9 that project from the body 11 and are configured to be insertable into the hole 13 of the aerosol supply device 2. The first attachment element 9a is provided at a longitudinal end of the removable member 4, and the two further attachment elements 9b, 9c are elongated and extend partially along opposite side surfaces of the outer periphery of the removable member 4 between the longitudinal ends of the removable member 4. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the attachment elements 9 are integrally formed with the body 11. Alternatively, the attachment elements 9 may be separately formed components attached to the body 11 of the removable member 4.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 4, the removable member 4 has a length L, a width W perpendicular to the length L, and a depth D perpendicular to each of the length L and the width W. The length L is equal to or greater than the width W, and the width W is greater than the depth D. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the width W may be greater than the length L and / or the depth D may be greater than the width W. As shown in FIG. 4, the attachment elements 9 project from the body 11 in a direction perpendicular to the depth D.

[0049] FIG. 5 shows an alternative form of the removable member 5. The body 11 of the removable member 4 includes a plurality of layers 12. One of the plurality of layers 12 is transparent and defines a transparent layer 12a. Thus, another of the plurality of layers 12 can be seen through the transparent layer 12a.

[0050] For example, at least one of the plurality of layers 12 comprises a visual pattern. The transparent layer 12a may be provided over the patterned layer so that the pattern can be seen through the transparent layer. This allows the pattern to be seen while protecting against damage and / or wear of the pattern during use. The user can select a removable member 4 having a specific pattern to make the aerosol supply device 2 more readily recognizable.

[0051] In some embodiments, the surface of the removable member 4 comprises a texture. Such a texture can assist the user in gripping the aerosol supply system 1 during use.

[0052] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, one of the plurality of layers 12 is integrally formed with a mounting element 9 (shown as layer 12b in FIG. 5). As shown in FIG. 5, the body 11 comprises an adhesive layer 12c which is configured to bond the layers on either side of the adhesive layer to each other. In other embodiments, one or more of the layers discussed above are omitted.

[0053] In some embodiments, the removable member 4 is elastic. Thereby, the removable member 4 can be slightly deformed to assist insertion into the aerosol supply device 2. Alternatively, only a part of the removable member 4 is elastic. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the layer 12b including the attachment element 9 is elastic. Specifically, at least the arm portion 16 of the layer 12b is elastic. Thus, when a vertical force is applied to the arm portion 16 toward the center of the removable member 4, the arm portion 16 deforms toward the center of the removable member 4. When this force disappears, the arm portion 16 returns to its original position. Thereby, the removable member 4 can be more easily inserted into the aerosol supply device, and in particular, the attachment element 9 and / or the arm portion 16 can be more easily arranged within the undercut 8. When the arm portion 16 deforms toward the center of the removable member 4, the occupied area of the removable member 4 is reduced, and the removable member 4 can be more easily fitted into the recess 10 of the aerosol supply device 2.

[0054] In some embodiments, the removable member 4 comprises or consists of a metal or metal alloy. For example, the removable member may comprise or consist of at least one of stainless steels such as stainless steel 301, 302, 304, or 316. In some embodiments, the removable member 4 comprises or consists of spring steel. Other metals or metal alloys having suitable spring characteristics may be used. In other embodiments, the removable member 4 comprises or consists of a polymer. For example, the removable member 4 is a plastic such as nylon, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), or polypropylene (PP). In other embodiments, other polymers having suitable flexibility may be used.

[0055] In some embodiments, at least one mounting element 9 comprises a material different from that of the body 11. In some embodiments, one mounting element 9 or each mounting element 9 is elastic. In some embodiments, one mounting element 9 or each mounting element 9 has elasticity 9, and the body 11 of the removable member 4 has no elasticity. Thereby, while the mounting element 9 can be deformed for easier insertion into the undercut 8, the body 11 of the removable member 4 can retain its strength.

[0056] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 5, the body 11 of the removable member 4 comprises an opening 13 for receiving a part of the aerosol supply device 2. The part of the aerosol supply device 2 received by the opening 13 is, for example, a button 103 for operating the aerosol supply device 2. Advantageously, the opening 13 can help to align the removable member 4 with the aerosol supply device 2 when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol supply device 2. In other embodiments, the removable member 4 does not comprise an opening 13, or another part of the aerosol supply device 2 protrudes through the opening 13.

[0057] FIG. 6a shows an aerosol supply system 1 according to an embodiment. The removable member 4 comprises three mounting elements 9 extending perpendicular to the surface of the removable member 4. In other embodiments, the removable member comprises more or fewer than three mounting elements 9. The aerosol supply device 2 comprises at least one opening 18 corresponding to at least one mounting element 9 of the removable member 4. When the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol supply device 2, at least one mounting element 9 is received by the corresponding at least one opening 18 of the aerosol supply device 2. An interference fit is provided between at least one mounting element 9 and at least one opening 18 to hold the removable member 4 in place.

[0058] Figure 6b shows the removable member 4 of Figure 6a alone. As shown in Figure 6b, the attachment element 9 is offset from the longitudinal axis of the removable member 4. The offset attachment element 9 is configured to be received by a correspondingly offset opening 18 of the aerosol supply device 2. In other embodiments, the attachment element 9 is not offset from the longitudinal axis of the removable member 4. For example, in some embodiments, the attachment element 9 is aligned with the longitudinal axis of the removable member 4.

[0059] Figure 7 shows an aerosol supply system 1 according to one embodiment. In the embodiment of Figure 7, the aerosol supply device 2 includes a raised island portion 19 on a second portion 6 of the outer surface 3. The removable member 4 includes a corresponding cutout configured to receive the raised island portion 19. The aerosol supply system 1 also includes a seal 20 configured to engage the surface of the raised island portion 19 during use. The seal 20 is compressed between the raised island portion 19 and the removable member 4 and holds the removable member 4 in place when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol supply device 2. In some embodiments, the seal 20 includes spring steel and / or the seal 20 does not form a complete ring. For example, when the seal 20 includes spring steel, a gap is provided in the seal 20 so that the seal 20 can deform.

[0060] As shown in Figure 8, in some embodiments, the kit includes a removable member 4 configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol generating device 14 so as to cover at least a portion of the outer surface 3 of the aerosol generating device 14, and a tool 15 configured to releasably engage the removable member 4 to assist in (a) removing the removable member 4 from the aerosol generating device 14 and / or (b) attaching the removable member 4 to the aerosol generating device 14.

[0061] Figure 8 shows a removable member 4 comprising a plurality of layers 25. The removable member comprises two cover layers 25a with a latch layer 25b therebetween. An adhesive layer 25c is provided between each cover layer 25a and the latch layer 25b to bond the cover layer 25a to the latch layer 25b.

[0062] As shown in Figure 8, the latch layer 25b comprises three attachment elements 26 configured to be received in an undercut (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 14. A first attachment element 26a is provided at a first longitudinal end of the removable member 4. Second and third attachment elements 26b and 26c are provided on opposite sides of the removable member 4 and extend from a second longitudinal end of the removable member 4 towards the first longitudinal end of the removable member 4. The second and third attachment elements 26b and 26c are elastic and configured to be deformable towards each other. The second and third attachment elements 26b and 26c each comprise a slot 27 and a tool 15 is configured to removably engage with the slot 27. The tool 15 comprises a first end portion 29a and a second end portion 29b, each of which is engageable with a respective one of the slots 27 of the second and third attachment elements 26b and 26c. In use, the first end portion 29a and the second end portion 29b are movable towards each other to push the second attachment element 26b towards the third attachment element 26c. In some embodiments, such as that shown in Figure 8, the tool 15 is configured to be biased such that the end portions 29a, 29b move away from each other to assist in removing the tool 15 from the slot 27. The tool may be made of any suitable elastic material for biasing.

[0063] Providing a tool 15 to assist in attaching and / or removing the removable member 4 from the aerosol generating device 14 helps reduce the risk of the user damaging the device and / or themselves when attempting to attach / remove the removable member 4 from the aerosol generating device 14.

[0064] Figures 9 to 14 show an alternative aerosol supply system 1 comprising an aerosol supply device 2 and respective removable members 4. The aerosol supply system 1 described in relation to Figures 9 to 14 is the same as that described in relation to Figures 1 to 8 above, with features described in relation to each figure being added.

[0065] Figure 9 shows a removable member 4 similar to that shown in Figure 5. The removable member 4 of Figure 9 comprises only a single arm 16 which is deformable so that the removable member 4 can be easily inserted into the recess (or hole) 10.

[0066] Figure 10 shows an aerosol supply system 1 comprising a removable member 4. The removable member 4 comprises a plurality of layers 28. As shown in Figure 10, the removable member 4 comprises a cover layer 28a, a backing layer 28b, and an adhesive layer 28c. The adhesive layer 28c is provided between the cover layer 28a and the backing layer 28b to adhere the cover layer 28a to the backing layer 28c. In other embodiments, one or more of the layers 28 may be omitted. The cover layer 28a comprises two attachment elements 9 (only one of which is shown in Figure 10) formed by bending a part of the cover layer 28a along the edges on both sides of the cover layer 28a. The attachment element 9 is configured to be received within the undercut 8 of the aerosol supply device 2.

[0067] FIG. 11 shows an alternative aerosol supply system 1 comprising a removable member 4 and an aerosol supply device 2. The aerosol supply system 1 comprises an aerosol supply device 2 having an outer surface 3 and a removable member 4 configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol supply device 2 so as to cover at least a portion of the outer surface 3. In order to hold the removable member 4 against the outer surface 3, the aerosol supply device 2 includes a magnetic material and the removable member 4 is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the aerosol supply device 2 is coated with a magnetic material (e.g., by magnetron sputtering). In other embodiments, at least the outer surface 3 of the aerosol supply device 2 is formed from a magnetic material. In other embodiments, in order to hold the removable member 4 against the outer surface 3, the removable member 4 includes a magnetic material and the aerosol supply device 2 is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material. For example, in some embodiments, the removable member 4 comprises a flexible magnetic sheet. In other embodiments, both the removable member 4 and the aerosol supply device 2 include a magnetic material. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the magnetic material includes steel. In other embodiments, the magnetic material includes a material other than steel. For example, the magnetic material is any material exhibiting suitable magnetic attraction properties.

[0068] FIG. 12 shows an aerosol supply system 1 comprising a removable member 4 and an aerosol supply device 2. As shown in FIG. 12, the aerosol supply device comprises two projections 22 that project from a second portion 6 of the outer surface 3 and are perpendicular thereto. The removable member 4 comprises a mounting element 9 with two holes 24, each of the two holes being configured to receive a corresponding one of the projections 22 when the removable member is attached to the aerosol supply device 2. Each projection 22 comprises an undercut configured to receive a corresponding clip 23. After the mounting element 9 is positioned on the aerosol supply device 2 and the projections 22 are received by the mounting element 9, a clip 23 is attached to the projection 22 to hold the mounting element 9 (and thus the removable member 4) in a fixed position relative to the aerosol supply device 2 and substantially restrict the movement of the mounting element.

[0069] FIG. 13 shows an aerosol supply system 1 comprising an aerosol supply device 2 and a removable member 4. The removable member 4 comprises a plurality of layers 12, one of the plurality of layers comprising a mounting element 9. As shown in FIG. 13, the removable member 4 comprises a decorative plate 32 and a retaining plate 33. The mounting element 9 is provided on the retaining plate 33, and a visual pattern or color is provided on the decorative plate 32. As shown in FIG. 13, the mounting element 9 is provided at a longitudinal end of the removable member 4, more particularly at a longitudinal end of the retaining plate 33. The mounting element 9 is configured to be received by a corresponding undercut at a longitudinal end of the aerosol supply device 2. A notch 34 is provided at a longitudinal end of the retaining plate 33. The notch 34 allows the removable member 4 to be further flexed to assist in removing the removable member 4 and inserting it into the aerosol supply device 2.

[0070] Figure 14 shows an aerosol supply system 1 comprising an aerosol supply device 2 and a removable member 4. The removable member 4 comprises two attachment elements 9, each configured to be received by a corresponding undercut (not shown) of the aerosol supply device 2. The removable member 4 comprises an elastic material, such as spring steel, and is configured to deform when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol supply device 2. The deformation of the removable member 4 helps to enable it to be easily fitted into the recess 10 of the aerosol supply device 2.

[0071] As discussed above, providing the removable member 4 enables customization of the aerosol supply system 1. Such customization can be achieved by a removable member 4 comprising an adhesive sticker that is attached to the aerosol supply device 2 during manufacture. The adhesive sticker may comprise a single layer or multiple layers. For example, the adhesive sticker may comprise an adhesive layer, a patterned layer, and a protective layer. The protective layer can be transparent or translucent so that the patterned layer can be seen through the protective layer. Such an adhesive sticker may comprise steps cut into the surface of the outer periphery of the sticker or the aerosol supply device to enable further customization. Alternatively, the adhesive sticker has a uniform surface without steps. However, such a configuration of the adhesive sticker has several limitations in that the sticker may be difficult to peel off, sticky rubbery material may remain on the device, it may not be selectively removable, and it may not be reattachable. Embodiments of the present invention overcome these drawbacks, for example, by providing a removable member 4 that is removable and reattachable and does not rely on an adhesive to hold the removable member 4 in place or relative to the aerosol supply device 2.

[0072] FIG. 15 shows a tool 30 for assisting in removing a removable member 4 from an aerosol supply device 2, for example, a part of the tool 30 for removing the removable member 4 from the aerosol supply device 2 shown in FIG. 14. The tool 30 includes a handle 35 that extends linearly along an axis X-X, and an engaging portion 31 provided at a distal end of the handle 35. The engaging portion 31 projects in a direction away from the axis X-X from the distal end of the handle 35. In use, the engaging portion 31 is configured to engage with the removable member 4 to assist in removing the removable member 4 from the aerosol supply device 2. For example, in use, the engaging portion 31 is disposed between the removable member 4 and the aerosol supply device 2 so that a user can move the removable member 4 away from the aerosol supply device 2 by means of a lever principle. In some embodiments, the tool 30 is provided with any one of the devices and / or removable members described herein, and optionally, together with the tool 15 of FIG. 8 to form a kit.

[0073] Any of the embodiments discussed herein may be configured to generate an aerosol from a non-liquid, e.g., solid, aerosol-forming material. The aerosol-forming material is a material that can generate an aerosol when heated, irradiated, or otherwise energized. The aerosol-forming material may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and they may or may not contain an active substance and / or a flavorant. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming 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 that can hold some fluid such as a liquid therein. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming material may include, for example, about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% of an amorphous solid.

[0074] The aerosol-forming material may comprise one or more active substances and / or flavorings, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0075] The above embodiments are to be understood as examples for the description of the present invention. Further embodiments of the present invention are also conceivable. Any feature described in connection with any one embodiment may be used alone or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other embodiment, or any combination of one or more features of any other embodiment. It should further be understood that equivalents and modifications not described above may also be used without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0076] The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in the understanding of the claimed features and teachings. These embodiments are provided as merely representative examples of the embodiments, and neither cover all embodiments nor exclude other embodiments. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present invention as defined by the claims, or as limiting equivalents to the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments can be utilized and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the claimed present invention. The various embodiments of the present invention may suitably include, consist of, or consist essentially of suitable combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. Further, the present disclosure can include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol supply device having an outer surface, wherein the outer surface comprises a first portion and a second portion, and the second portion is recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion, the aerosol supply device further comprising a connecting portion that connects the first portion to the second portion and defines an undercut in a direction non-parallel to the first direction; A removable member configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol supply device so as to cover at least a portion of the outer surface, the removable member comprising at least one attachment element configured to be at least partially removably received within the undercut to restrict movement of the removable member in a direction opposite to the first direction when the removable member is attached to the aerosol supply device; and the removable member comprising at least one elastic arm deformable towards the center of the removable member and configured to be insertable into the undercut. An aerosol supply system.

2. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1, wherein the undercut extends substantially parallel to the first portion.

3. The aerosol supply system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connecting portion defines a plurality of individual undercuts, each of the individual undercuts being in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.

4. The aerosol supply system according to claim 3, wherein the second portion is recessed in the first direction with respect to the first portion to define a recess, and each of the individual undercuts is provided on an opposite side of the recess.

5. The aerosol supply system according to claim 4, wherein the recess is elongated.

6. The aerosol supply system according to claim 5, wherein each of the individual undercuts is provided at a longitudinal end on an opposite side of the recess.

7. A removable member for selectively attaching to an aerosol supply device to customize the aerosol supply device, the removable member comprising a body, At least one mounting element having at least one elastic arm that protrudes from the body, is deformable towards the center of the removable member, and is configured to be insertable into an undercut of the aerosol supply device. A removable member, wherein the body comprises a plurality of layers. **Claim 8** The removable member according to claim 7, wherein at least one of the plurality of layers is transparent so as to define a transparent layer, and another of the plurality of layers is visible through the transparent layer. **Claim 9** The removable member according to claim 7 or 8, wherein at least one of the plurality of layers is integrally formed with the at least one mounting element. **Claim 10** The removable member according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the body comprises an opening for receiving a part of the aerosol supply device. **Claim 11** The removable member according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the at least one mounting element is integrally formed with the body. **Claim 12** The removable member according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the at least one mounting element comprises a material different from that of the body. **Claim 13** A removable member having a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and the width, wherein the length is equal to or greater than the width, and the width is greater than the depth, The removable member according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein the mounting element or each mounting element protrudes from the body in a direction perpendicular to the depth. **Claim 14** A removable member configured to be removably attachable to an aerosol generating device so as to cover at least a portion of an outer surface of the aerosol generating device, and a tool configured to releasably engage with the removable member to assist in (a) removing the removable member from the aerosol generating device and / or (b) attaching the removable member to the aerosol generating device. Comprising A kit, wherein the removable member comprises an elastic arm deformable towards the center of the removable member.

Images