holder

Abstract

A holder (201) for an aerosol generating device. The holder has a cover (100) and defines a docking space for receiving the aerosol generating device. The cover is movable between a covering position, in which the cover covers at least a portion of the docking space, and an uncovering position. When the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover defines a first curve. When the cover is in the uncovering position, the first portion of the cover defines a second curve. The radius of curvature of the second curve is greater than the radius of curvature of the first curve.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a holder for an aerosol generating device. Specifically, the present invention relates to a holder for an aerosol generating device, the holder comprising a cover.

[0002] An aerosol generation system typically comprises an aerosol generating device and an aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol generating device typically comprises a power source and an atomizer. When power is supplied to the atomizer, the atomizer atomizes the volatile compounds in the aerosol forming substrate to form an aerosol.

[0003] Some aerosol generating devices can get scratched or otherwise damaged if not protected from the external environment.

[0004] It would be desirable to provide a holder that can protect the aerosol generating device when it is not in use, while at the same time allowing the user to easily access the aerosol generating device if desired.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating device may interact with an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming substrate, or a cartridge comprising an aerosol forming substrate. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device may heat the aerosol forming substrate to facilitate the release of volatile compounds from the substrate. An electrically operated aerosol generating device may comprise an atomizer, such as an electric heater, for heating the aerosol forming substrate to form an aerosol.

[0006] As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate having the ability to release volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Volatile compounds may be released by heating or burning the aerosol-forming substrate. As an alternative to heating or burning, in some cases, volatile compounds may be released by chemical reactions or by mechanical stimuli such as ultrasound. The aerosol-forming substrate may be solid or liquid, or may contain both solid and liquid components.

[0007] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article may include an aerosol-forming substrate having the ability to release volatile compounds upon heating, and these volatile compounds may form aerosols.

[0008] As used herein, the term “aerosol” is used to refer to the dispersion of solid particles or droplets, or a combination of solid particles and droplets, in a gas. Aerosols may be visible or invisible. Aerosols may include vapors of substances that are normally liquid or solid at room temperature, as well as solid particles or droplets, or a combination of solid particles and droplets.

[0009] With reference to an aerosol generator (or article), the term “long axis direction” as used herein is used to describe the direction between the downstream end, or proximal end, or mouth end of the device (or article) and the opposing upstream end or distal end of the device (or article).

[0010] With reference to an aerosol generator or article, the term “transverse direction” as used herein is used to describe a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0011] With reference to an aerosol generator (or article), the term “length” as used herein is used to describe the maximum longitudinal dimension between the distal or upstream end of the device (or article) and the proximal or downstream end of the device (or article).

[0012] As used herein, the term “diameter” is used to describe the maximum transverse dimension of a component, such as an aerosol generator and an aerosol generating article.

[0013] As used herein, the term “exposed” is used to indicate that a feature or component is open to the external environment and is not surrounded or covered.

[0014] A holder for an aerosol generator is provided according to this disclosure. The holder may include a cover. The holder may define a docking space for housing an aerosol generator. The cover may be movable between a covered position and an uncovered position in which the cover covers at least a portion of the docking space. When the cover is in the covered position, a first portion of the cover may define a first curve. When the cover is in the uncovered position, a first portion of the cover may define a second curve. The radius of curvature of the second curve may be greater than the radius of curvature of the first curve.

[0015] According to one embodiment, a holder for an aerosol generator is provided.

[0016] The holder is equipped with a cover that defines a docking space for housing an aerosol generator. The cover is movable between a covered position and an uncovered position in which the cover covers at least a portion of the docking space. When the cover is in the covered position, a first portion of the cover defines a first curve. When the cover is in the uncovered position, a first portion of the cover defines a second curve. The radius of curvature of the second curve is greater than the radius of curvature of the first curve.

[0017] Advantageously, according to this embodiment, when the cover is in the covering position, the cover covers at least a portion of the docking space. When the cover is in the covering position, substantially the entire docking space may be covered, for example, the entire docking space may be covered. Therefore, when the cover is in the covering position, the cover may protect the aerosol generator housed within the docking space.

[0018] When the cover is in the uncovered position, at least a portion of the aerosol generator housed within the docking space may be exposed. The uncovered position may be any position where the docking space is covered to a lesser extent than in the covered position. There may be multiple positions where the cover can be positioned, which can be designated as the uncovered position. When the cover is in the uncovered position, the user may be able to access the aerosol generator housed within the docking space. The cover may be movable by the user between the covered and uncovered positions.

[0019] Therefore, to the user's advantage, the cover may be moved to a covered position, for example, to protect the aerosol generator housed in the docking space during transport, and the cover may be moved to an uncovered position when access to the device is desired.

[0020] The holder may have a first wall. The holder may have a second wall. The second wall may face the first wall. The docking space may be defined between the first wall and the second wall. The first wall and the second wall may be substantially parallel to each other. The first wall is separated from the second wall and relative to the second wall. Relatively It may be fixed in place. The docking space may be configured to accommodate the longitudinal dimension of an aerosol generator (such as an elongated aerosol generator) between the first and second walls.

[0021] The docking space may be further defined by a rear wall extending between the first and second walls. The docking space may be at least partially defined by the first wall, the second wall, and the rear wall.

[0022] The holder may be configured to engage with the aerosol generator housed within the docking space. The holder may be configured to engage with the aerosol generator housed within the docking space in order to hold the device within the docking space. The connecting member of the holder may be configured to engage with the corresponding connecting member of the aerosol generator when the device is housed within the docking space.

[0023] The holder may be equipped with a power source, such as a rechargeable power supply.

[0024] The holder's power supply may be configured to provide power to an aerosol generator housed within the docking space.

[0025] The connecting members may be provided with electrical contacts, and the corresponding connecting members may be provided with corresponding electrical contacts. When the aerosol generator is housed in the docking space, the electrical contacts and the corresponding electrical contacts may form an electrical connection. This electrical connection may allow the holder's power supply to power the device housed in the docking space.

[0026] The holder may include a housing. The housing may include a first wall. The housing may include a second wall. The housing may include a rear wall.

[0027] For example, the aerosol generator may be an elongated aerosol generator. For example, the aerosol generator may have a first major axis dimension that is larger than a second width dimension and a third thickness dimension. The second and third dimensions may be substantially the same and therefore both may be called width. The aerosol generator may be substantially cylindrical. The aerosol generator may be substantially cigarette or cigar-like in shape.

[0028] The dimension in the longitudinal direction may define the longitudinal axis. The width dimension may extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0029] The aerosol generating device may be described as having a proximal end and a distal end. The device may comprise an elongated body extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The body may comprise at least one side surface extending between the proximal end and the distal end.

[0030] Accommodating the aerosol generating device within the docking space may be achieved by relative movement of the aerosol generating device and the docking space in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension of the aerosol generating device.

[0031] For example, either the proximal end or the distal end of the aerosol generating device may be inserted into the docking space. The opposite end may then be pivoted into the docking space so that the aerosol generating device is fully accommodated within the docking space.

[0032] Advantageously, by using a substantially perpendicular movement, the distance that the aerosol generating device needs to move to be accommodated within the docking space when the aerosol generating device is inserted into the docking space in the longitudinal direction is shorter than in a holder for accommodating the aerosol generating device.

[0033] The docking space may accommodate the longitudinal dimension of the aerosol generating device.

[0034] When the aerosol generating device is accommodated within the docking space and the cover is in the uncovered position, at least a portion of the aerosol generating device may be exposed.

[0035] This advantageously may allow the user to easily remove the device by gripping the exposed portion of the aerosol generating device and removing the device from the holder.

[0036] The cover may be movable to a position in which it is substantially planar. This position may be called the substantially planar position of the cover. In the substantially planar position, the cover may have a length, a height, and a thickness of less than 10% of the length, or less than 10% of the height, or less than 10% of both the length and the height. In the substantially planar position, the cover may have a cubic or cubic shape.

[0037] For example, in a substantially planar position, the thickness may be less than 5% of the length, or less than 5% of the height, or less than 5% of both the length and the height.

[0038] At a substantially flat position, the thickness may be approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 4.5 mm. For example, the thickness may be 1 mm to 3 mm, or for example, 1.25 mm to 2 mm. At a substantially flat position, the height may be approximately 50 mm to approximately 200 mm. For example, the height may be 75 mm to 150 mm. At a substantially flat position, the length may be approximately 40 mm to approximately 180 mm. For example, the length may be 50 mm to 150 mm.

[0039] The cover may resist curvature around an axis extending in the direction of the cover's height, less than curvature around an axis extending in the direction of the cover's length. In other words, the cover may preferentially curve around an axis extending in the direction of the cover's height. The cover may preferentially curve around an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator located within the docking space.

[0040] The cover may resist curvature around an axis extending in the direction of the cover's height, less than curvature around an axis extending in the direction of the cover's thickness.

[0041] The cover may be more flexible in the first direction than in the second direction.

[0042] This is advantageous because it can give the cover some rigidity while allowing the user to easily bend the cover around an axis extending in the direction of the cover's height (for example, an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the docking space, or an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator located within the docking space).

[0043] In the uncovered position of the cover, all or substantially all of the docking space may be exposed. Alternatively, in the uncovered position of the cover, a portion of the docking space may be exposed.

[0044] An elongated aerosol generator defining its longitudinal axis is housed within the docking space, and when the cover is in the covering position, the first curve defined by the first part of the cover may curve around the longitudinal axis of the elongated aerosol generator.

[0045] When an elongated aerosol generator is housed within the docking space and the cover is in an uncovered position, at least 80% of the length of the elongated aerosol generator, or 90% of its length, or 95% of its length, or substantially all of its length, may be exposed.

[0046] This may also be advantageous as it may allow the user to easily grasp the device and detach it from the docking space. Furthermore, it may allow the user to view indicators (such as a screen) on the device housed in the docking space. These indicators may, for example, allow the user to determine whether the device is fully charged without detaching it from the docking space.

[0047] The cover may have a first mounting portion. The holder may have a first side wall having the first mounting portion. The housing of the holder may have a first side wall. The first mounting portion may have a recess in the first side wall to accommodate the thickness of the cover. The first mounting portion of the cover may be attachable to and detachable from the first mounting portion of the first side wall.

[0048] The first mounting portion of the cover may be located on the first side of the cover or toward the first side of the cover.

[0049] The attachment between the first mounting portion of the first side wall and the first mounting portion of the cover can be called the first mounting portion. The first mounting portion may be a magnetic mounting portion, or may include a magnetic mounting portion. The first mounting portion may be a mechanical mounting portion made by, for example, a mechanical fastener, or may include a mechanical mounting portion.

[0050] The first attachment portion of the cover may be one or more of the following: a magnet, a magnetic material, a component of a hook-and-loop fastener (such as Velcro®), a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0051] The first mounting portion of the first side wall may be one or more of the following: a magnet, a magnetic material, a component of a hook-and-loop fastener (such as Velcro®), a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0052] The first mounting portion of the cover may include an elongated magnet or an elongated strip of magnetic material. The elongated magnet or strip of magnetic material may be located on or toward the first side of the cover. The elongated magnet or strip of magnetic material may extend along at least 80%, 90%, or 95% of the height of the cover.

[0053] The first mounting portion of the first side wall may comprise a corresponding magnet (such as a corresponding elongated magnet) or a corresponding piece of magnetic material (such as a corresponding elongated piece of magnetic material). The term magnetic material refers to a material that interacts with a magnet, such as a ferrite material (such as iron or stainless steel that is attracted to a magnet).

[0054] When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnet or magnetic material of the first mounting portion of the first side wall may be aligned with the elongated magnet or elongated piece of magnetic material of the first mounting portion of the cover. When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnet or magnetic material of the first mounting portion of the first side wall may be in contact with the elongated magnet or elongated piece of magnetic material of the first mounting portion of the cover.

[0055] This is advantageous because it can provide a robust yet reversible attachment between the first mounting portion of the cover and the first mounting portion of the first side wall.

[0056] The first mounting portion of the cover may include a protruding element (e.g., a protruding element containing a magnet or magnetic material) or a protruding element forming a mechanical fastener. The protruding element may be made of a polymer material and may be elastically deformable for mechanical engagement with a corresponding slot, recess, or socket, or may have an elastically deformable portion. The protruding element may protrude in the direction of the thickness of the cover.

[0057] The first side wall may be provided with a groove. The protruding element of the cover may be configured to be received in the groove of the first side wall when the cover is in the covering position. The groove may be provided with a corresponding magnet or corresponding magnetic element. Therefore, when the cover is in the covering position, the protruding element may be aligned with or in contact with the corresponding magnet or corresponding magnetic element of the groove. The groove may also be a socket that mechanically interacts with the protruding element to form a mounting portion between the first mounting point of the cover and the first mounting point of the first side wall.

[0058] The first side wall may be provided with one or more grooves or sockets. Each of the grooves or sockets may engage with a corresponding protruding element extending from a portion of the cover to form a first mounting portion.

[0059] This is advantageous because it can provide a robust yet reversible attachment between the first mounting portion of the cover and the first mounting portion of the first side wall.

[0060] The cover may have a second mounting portion. The holder may have a second side wall having a second mounting portion. The housing of the holder may have a second side wall. The second mounting portion may have a recess in the second side wall to accommodate the thickness of the cover. The second mounting portion of the cover may be attachable to and detachable from the second mounting portion of the second side wall.

[0061] The second mounting portion of the cover may be located on or toward the second side of the cover.

[0062] The mounting between the second mounting portion of the second side wall and the second mounting portion of the cover can be called the second mounting portion. The second mounting fixture may be a magnetic mounting portion, or may include a magnetic mounting portion. The second mounting fixture may be a mechanical mounting portion made by, for example, a mechanical fastener, or may include a mechanical mounting portion.

[0063] The second attachment part of the cover may be one or more of the following: a magnet, a magnetic material, a component of a hook-and-loop fastener (such as Velcro®), a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0064] The second mounting portion of the second side wall may be one or more of the following: a magnet, a magnetic material, a component of a hook-and-loop fastener (such as Velcro®), a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0065] The second mounting portion of the cover may include a reinforcing material, such as a non-magnetic reinforcing material. The reinforcing material may extend along at least 80%, 90%, or 95% of the height of the cover.

[0066] The second mounting portion of the cover may include magnets or magnetic elements. For example, the second mounting portion of the cover may include multiple magnets or magnetic elements. The multiple magnets or magnetic elements may be spaced along the height of the cover. For example, the multiple magnets or magnetic elements may be evenly spaced along the height of the cover. The multiple magnets or magnetic elements may be spaced along a reinforcing material. For example, the multiple magnets or magnetic elements may be evenly spaced along a reinforcing material.

[0067] The second mounting portion of the wall may have one or more corresponding magnets or corresponding magnetic elements. When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnets or corresponding magnetic elements of the second mounting portion of the second side wall may be aligned with the magnets or magnetic elements of the second mounting portion of the cover. When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnets or corresponding magnetic elements of the second mounting portion of the second side wall may be in contact with the magnets or magnetic elements of the second mounting portion of the cover.

[0068] The cover may have a first mounting point, a second mounting point, or both the first and second mounting points, each comprising a magnetic mounting member, the magnetic mounting member comprising a magnet or magnetic material configured to magnetically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing.

[0069] The cover may have a first mounting point, a second mounting point, or both the first and second mounting points, each comprising a mechanical mounting member, the mechanical mounting member comprising a deformable projection configured to engage with a projection receiving slot for mechanically latching a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing, or the mechanical mounting member comprising a projection receiving slot configured to engage with a deformable projection for mechanically latching a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing. The deformable projection may comprise a deformable lip or hook for engaging with the projection receiving slot.

[0070] When the aerosol generator is housed within the docking space and the cover is in the covering position, the aerosol generator may be surrounded by a holder. For example, the cover and housing may surround the device housed within the docking space when the cover is in the covering position.

[0071] This may also protect the aerosol generator housed within the docking space and reduce the amount of dust or other debris entering the docking space when the cover is in the covering position.

[0072] When the aerosol generator is housed within the docking space and the cover is in the covering position, the aerosol generator may be surrounded by a holder.

[0073] In other words, the device may be completely enclosed by the holder. For example, the cover and housing may surround or completely enclose the device housed in the docking space when the cover is in the covering position.

[0074] This may also protect the aerosol generator housed within the docking space, and when the cover is in the covering position, it may substantially prevent dust or other debris from entering the docking space.

[0075] The cover may have multiple reinforcing elements. Each reinforcing element may be formed from or include one or more of the following: plastic or metal. For example, the reinforcing elements may be formed from a polymer such as polycarbonate (PC), or a composite material such as microfiber plastic or glass fiber composite. Each reinforcing element may extend along the height of the cover. For example, each reinforcing element may extend along at least 80% or 90% of the height of the cover. Multiple reinforcing elements may be multiple elongated reinforcing elements. The longest dimension of each elongated reinforcing element may extend along the height of the cover, for example, at least 80% or 90% of the height of the cover. Multiple elongated reinforcing elements may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0076] The cover may comprise a first layer. The cover may comprise a second layer. The first layer may comprise a fibrous material (such as cloth or felt), or leather, or synthetic leather, or bioplastic, or recycled plastic. The second layer may comprise a fibrous material (such as cloth or felt), or leather, or synthetic leather, or bioplastic, or recycled plastic.

[0077] Multiple reinforcing elements may be sandwiched between the first and second layers. The first mounting portion of the cover may be sandwiched between the first and second layers. The second mounting portion of the cover may be sandwiched between the first and second layers.

[0078] Each reinforcing element may be fixed to the first layer, the second layer, or both the first and second layers.

[0079] Multiple reinforcing elements may be spaced substantially equally apart from one another. When the elongated aerosol generator is housed in the docking space and the cover is in the covering position, the elongated aerosol generator and the multiple elongated reinforcing elements may be substantially parallel.

[0080] This is advantageous because it allows the cover to provide adequate protection to the device while also allowing the cover to easily bend around the docking space or around the device housed within the docking space.

[0081] The cover may be provided with retaining means. The retaining means may be configured to hold accessories. The retaining means includes a strip of elastic material. The strip of elastic material may extend along the height of the cover.

[0082] This may also be advantageous as it allows the user to keep accessories in the holder. Accessories may be, for example, packs of aerosol generating articles used in an aerosol generator.

[0083] A strip of elastic material may have a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion extending between the first and second ends. The first end of the strip of elastic material may be attached to or can be attached to the surface of the cover. For example, the first end may have a first reversible attachment means (such as a button, clip, or hook-and-loop fastener) configured to attach to and detach from a first corresponding reversible attachment means on the surface of the cover. Alternatively, the first end may be sewn to the surface of the cover. The second end of the strip of elastic material may be attached to or can be attached to the surface of the cover. For example, the second end may have a second reversible attachment means (such as a button, clip, or hook-and-loop fastener) configured to attach to and detach from a corresponding second reversible attachment means on the surface of the cover. Alternatively, the second end may be sewn to the surface of the cover. The intermediate portion does not have to be attached to the surface of the cover.

[0084] The retaining means may be attachable to and detachable from the cover. For example, the retaining means may include a strip of elastic material, and the first and second ends may be provided with the first and second reversible mounting means described above.

[0085] This may also allow the user to remove the retaining mechanism from the cover if undesirable.

[0086] When a strip of elastic material is attached to the cover, the user may pull the middle portion of the strip to allow it to expand and contract, enabling the accessory to be inserted between the strip and the surface of the cover. When the user releases the middle portion of the strip, the tension of the strip may act to hold the accessory between the strip and the surface of the cover.

[0087] According to this disclosure, a system is also provided. The system may comprise a holder, for example, the holder described above. That is, the holder of the system may have any of the features described in relation to the holder described above. The system may comprise an aerosol generator, for example, the aerosol generator described above. That is, the aerosol generator of the system may have any of the features described in relation to the aerosol generator described above.

[0088] Herein, for illustrative purposes only, the present invention will be explained with reference to the following attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0089] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the cover. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the aerosol generator, aerosol generating article, and holder without cover. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic top view of the holder shown in Figure 2, with the cover shown in Figure 1 in an uncovered position. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic side view of the holder shown in Figure 2, with the cover shown in Figure 1 in an uncovered position. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic top view of the holder shown in Figure 2, with the cover shown in Figure 1 in the covering position. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic side view of the holder shown in Figure 2, with the cover shown in Figure 1 in the covering position. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the holder shown in Figure 4, with the cover in the covering position, and the cover's retaining mechanism holds the accessory. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic end view of a cover according to a further specific embodiment, showing a protruding element. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic side view of a further specific embodiment of the holder, incorporating the cover as shown in Figure 8.

[0090] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the cover. The cover 100 includes a first mounting portion 102 located toward the first side surface of the cover and a second mounting portion 104 located toward the second side surface of the cover.

[0091] The first mounting portion 102 includes an elongated magnet 103. The elongated magnet 104 extends substantially along the entire height of the cover 100. The first mounting portion 102 also includes a magnetic projection element 106. The projection element protrudes in the direction of the thickness of the cover 100.

[0092] The second mounting portion 104 includes a reinforcing member 108. The second mounting portion 104 comprises four magnets 110, 112, 114, and 116. The four magnets 110, 112, 114, and 116 are in contact with the reinforcing member 108 and are evenly spaced along the reinforcing member 108.

[0093] The cover comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements 118. The reinforcing elements are preferably formed from a suitable polymer material such as polycarbonate (PC). The plurality of reinforcing elements 118 are elongated. The longest dimension of each elongated reinforcing element extends substantially along the entire height of the cover 100. The plurality of elongated reinforcing elements 118 are substantially parallel to one another.

[0094] The cover 100 comprises a first layer and a second layer. Since Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the cover 100, the first and second layers are not visible in Figure 1. Both the first and second layers are formed from a fibrous material. The first mounting portion 102, the second mounting portion 104, and the multiple reinforcing elements 118 are sandwiched between the first and second layers.

[0095] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the aerosol generator, aerosol generating article, and holder without cover.

[0096] The holder 201 comprises a housing 202 which is approximately the same size and shape as a conventional cigarette packet. The housing 202 positions and holds a lithium-ion battery 203. This battery 203 may also be called a primary power source or primary battery. The primary battery 203 is electrically connected to a charging port 213, allowing the primary battery 203 to be recharged from an external power source (such as a primary power source). The holder 201 has a first wall 206 and is separated from the first wall 206 and relative to the first wall 206. Relatively A docking space 205 is defined between the first wall 206 and the second wall 207, which is fixed and opposed to the first wall 206. The docking space is further defined by the rear wall 208. The docking space 205 is elongated and has a longitudinal axis extending between the first wall 206 and the second wall 207. The first wall 206, the second wall 207, and the rear wall 208 are part of the housing 202. The first electrical contacts 217 and the second electrical contacts 218 face into the docking space 205. The first and second electrical contacts are electrically connected to the primary battery 203. The holder further comprises electrical circuits, such as at least one microprocessor, for controlling the charging and discharging of the primary battery 203.

[0097] The aerosol generator 220 has a substantially cylindrical, elongated housing 222 having a proximal end 223, a distal end 224, and a body 225 extending between the proximal end 223 and the distal end 224. The length of the device 220 is slightly shorter than the length of the longitudinal dimension of the docking space 205. A first device contact 227 and a second device contact 228 are located near the distal end 224 and facing away from the distal end. The first and second device contacts are electrically connected to the device battery 226, enabling the recharging of the device battery 226. The device battery 226, which may be called a secondary power source or secondary battery, may be any suitable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery or a lithium iron phosphate battery.

[0098] A cavity 221 receiving a substrate is defined in the proximal portion of the device 220 for receiving an aerosol-generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity 221 is substantially cylindrical and has an opening defined at the proximal end of the device. A heating element positioned around the inner wall 229 of the cavity 221 receiving the substrate is electrically connected to the device battery 226 and works to heat the cavity. In an alternative embodiment, the heating element may be defined on a heating member such as a pin or blade located within the cavity for insertion into the aerosol-generating article. In another embodiment, an induction coil may be positioned around the wall 229 of the cavity 221 to inductively heat a susceptor within the cavity 221 or a susceptor within an aerosol-generating article inserted into the cavity.

[0099] Electronic circuits, including a microprocessor, are incorporated within the aerosol generator to control the operation of the charging and heating means for the device battery 226.

[0100] The aerosol-generating article 230 is a cylindrical article comprising several components (including an aerosol-forming substrate 231 and a mouthpiece filter 232) assembled within a cigarette paper 233. The article 230 has a distal end 234 and a proximal end 235 or mouth end located downstream of the distal end 234. The aerosol-forming substrate 231 is preferably in the form of an aggregate of homogenized tobacco material sheets and is located at or near the distal end 234 of the article 230. Further components, such as aerosol cooling elements, flavor elements, and spacing elements, may be located within the article 230 between the aerosol-forming substrate 231 and the mouthpiece filter 232.

[0101] The aerosol generator 220 may be housed in the docking space of the holder 210 by aligning the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator 220 with the longitudinal axis of the docking space 205 (with the proximal end 223 of the aerosol generator 220 adjacent to the first wall 206 and the distal end 224 of the aerosol generator 220 adjacent to the second wall 207). The aerosol generator may then be moved into and engaged in the docking space 205 by translational movement, which is movement perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator 220. The proximal end 223 of the aerosol generator 220 engages with the first wall 206, and the distal end of the aerosol generator 224 engages with the second wall 207. The first contact 217 and the second contact 218 align with and electrically contact the first device contact 227 and the second device contact 228. The aerosol generator may be engaged and held by clamping engagement or friction engagement. Alternatively, a mechanical latching mechanism may be operated automatically or manually to engage and hold the aerosol generator with the holder. In another embodiment, a magnetic latching mechanism may be used to engage and hold the aerosol generator with the holder.

[0102] The device battery may be charged automatically by the engagement between the aerosol generator 220 and the holder 201. Alternatively, charging may require manual activation, for example, by activating a button.

[0103] The aerosol generator 220 may be disengaged from the holder 201 by grasping the exposed portion of the aerosol generator and moving the aerosol generator out of the docking space by transverse movement.

[0104] Once the device battery 226 is charged, the aerosol generator may be used to consume the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generator is removed from the docking space 205, and the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity 221 that receives the substrate. The heater of the device 220 is then activated, and the aerosol-forming substrate 231 of the article 230 is heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an inhalable aerosol. By pulling it out onto the proximal end 235 of the article 230, the user can inhale the aerosol into their mouth and lungs. Once the article is consumed, it can be removed from the device 220, and the aerosol generator 220 can be housed in the docking space 205 of the holder 201 for protection or recharging of the device battery 226.

[0105] In some embodiments, data may be transmitted between the aerosol generator and the holder. The data may be transmitted using the same contacts used to charge 217, 218, 227, and 228. Alternatively, separate data contacts may be provided. Data transmission between the holder 201 and the aerosol generator 220 may be achieved wirelessly, for example, by a Bluetooth connection.

[0106] In one embodiment, the first charging contact 217 and the second charging contact 218 may be in the form of concentric rings. The charging contacts 227 and 228 of the device may be corresponding concentric rings or point contacts configured to align with each concentric ring. The advantage of this configuration is that the aerosol generator can engage with the holder in any radial orientation, and the holder can still charge the device.

[0107] Figure 3 is a schematic top view of the holder shown in Figure 2, with the cover shown in Figure 1 in an uncovered position.

[0108] Figure 4 is a schematic side view of the holder shown in Figure 2, with the cover shown in Figure 1 in an uncovered position.

[0109] Compared to Figure 2, Figure 4 shows the holder 201 after being rotated 180 degrees. Therefore, Figure 4 shows the opposite side of the holder 201, the side opposite to that shown in Figure 2.

[0110] In Figure 4, the cover is in an uncovered position. In the uncovered position shown in Figure 4, the magnets 110, 112, 114, and 116 of the second mounting portion 104 of the cover 100 are in contact with the second side wall of the housing 202, which contains magnetic material. Therefore, the magnetic attraction between the magnets 110, 112, 114, and 116 and the magnetic material attaches the second mounting portion 104 to the second side wall of the housing 202.

[0111] As can be seen in Figure 4, the first side wall of the housing 202 has a first mounting portion having a groove 251. The magnetic protruding element 106 of the cover 100 is configured to be received within the groove 251 when the cover 100 is in the covering position. The groove 251 has a corresponding magnetic element.

[0112] Figure 5 is a schematic top view of the holder shown in Figure 2, with the cover shown in Figure 1 in the covering position.

[0113] Figure 6 is a schematic side view of the holder shown in Figure 2, with the cover shown in Figure 1 in the covering position.

[0114] When the cover is in the covered position shown in Figure 6, the first portion 150 of the cover 100 defines a first curve with a radius of curvature. When the cover is in the uncovered position shown in Figure 4, the first portion 150 of the cover 100 defines a second curve with a radius of curvature. As can be seen from Figures 4 and 6, the radius of curvature of the second curve is greater than the radius of curvature of the first curve.

[0115] To move the cover from the position shown in Figure 4 to the position shown in Figure 6, the user simply bent the cover 100 around the outer portions of the first wall 206 and the second wall 207. The magnetic projection element 106 was then received within the groove 251.

[0116] As shown in Figure 6, when the cover is in the covering position, the magnetic projection element 106 contacts the corresponding magnetic element in the groove 251. Therefore, the magnetic attraction between the magnetic projection element 106 and the corresponding magnetic element in the groove 251 attaches the first mounting portion 102 of the cover 100 to the first mounting portion of the first side wall of the housing 202.

[0117] In the example shown in Figure 6, when the cover 100 is in the covering position and the aerosol generator 220 is housed in the docking space 205, the device is surrounded by the housing 202 and the cover 100. In this way, the device 220 is surrounded by the holder 201 and protected from the external environment.

[0118] In the example shown in Figure 6, the cover 100 includes a retaining means 152 configured to hold an accessory. The retaining means 152 includes a piece of elastic material.

[0119] A strip of elastic material extends along the height of the cover 100. The strip of elastic material has a first end and a second end, as well as an intermediate portion extending between the first and second ends. The first and second ends of the strip of elastic material are attached to the surface of the cover. In this embodiment, the first and second ends are sewn to the fibrous material of the first layer of the cover 100. The intermediate portion is not attached to the surface of the cover.

[0120] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the holder shown in Figure 6, with the cover in the covering position, and the cover holding means holds the accessories.

[0121] The user pulls the middle portion of the strip to allow the holding means 152 to hold the accessory 700, causing the strip to expand and contract, creating a space between the middle portion of the strip and the surface of the cover. The accessory may be, for example, a container for consumables such as a packet of heated aerosol generating article. The user then inserts the accessory 700 into this space between the strip and the surface of the cover 100. The user then releases the middle portion of the strip. After the user releases the middle portion of the strip, the tension of the strip works to hold the accessory 700 between the strip and the surface of the cover 100.

[0122] In the specific embodiment described above, a magnetic latching mechanism is used to hold the cover in place. In other embodiments, other latching mechanisms may be used, such as a mechanical latching mechanism or a combination of a mechanical latching mechanism and a magnetic latching mechanism. Figure 8 is a schematic end view of a cover 1100 using a mechanical latching mechanism.

[0123] The cover 1100 is shown in an end view so that its thickness and height are visible. Three elastic protrusions 1106, 1107, and 1108 are defined extending from the first side surface 1101 of the cover 1100. The protrusions are formed from an elastic material such as a polymer material, for example, a silicon material. Each of the three elements 1106, 1107, and 1108 defines a lip 1116, 1117, and 1118 that is easily and elastically deformable.

[0124] A holder 1201 interacting with the cover 1100 is shown in Figure 9. The features of Figure 9 are the same as those described in relation to the holder in Figure 4, except as follows: The first side wall of the housing 1202 has a first mounting portion defining three slots or sockets 1206, 1207, and 1208. Each of the three slots or sockets 1206, 1207, and 1208 aligns with the corresponding protruding elements 1106, 1107, and 1108 when the cover 1101 is moved to the covered position. Pressure applied to the cover pushes each of the protruding elements 1106, 1107, and 1108 into the corresponding slots or sockets 1206, 1207, and 1208. The lips 1116, 1117, and 1118 of each protruding element deform upon entering their slots or sockets and recover their shape within those slots or sockets to mechanically hold the cover in the covered position.

Claims

1. A holder for an elongated aerosol generator defining a longitudinal axis, wherein the holder comprises a cover and defines a docking space for housing the aerosol generator, The cover is movable between a covered position that covers at least a portion of the docking space and an uncovered position. When the cover is in the covering position, the first portion of the cover defines a first curve, and when the cover is in the uncovered position, the first portion of the cover defines a second curve, and the radius of curvature of the second curve is greater than the radius of curvature of the first curve. The elongated aerosol generator is housed within the docking space, and when the cover is in the covering position, the aerosol generator is surrounded by the holder so as to be completely enclosed by the holder, and the first curve curves around the longitudinal axis of the elongated aerosol generator, The cover comprises a first cover mounting portion and a second cover mounting portion, and the holder comprises a first side wall having a first side wall mounting portion and a second side wall having a second side wall mounting portion. The first cover mounting portion of the cover is attachable to the first side wall mounting portion of the first side wall, and is detachable from the first side wall mounting portion of the first side wall, and the attachment between the first cover mounting portion of the cover and the first side wall mounting portion of the first side wall is magnetic, or includes magnetic attachment. A holder wherein the second cover mounting portion of the cover is attachable to the second side wall mounting portion of the second side wall, and is detachable from the second side wall mounting portion of the second side wall, and the attachment between the second cover mounting portion of the cover and the second side wall mounting portion of the second side wall is magnetic, or is equipped with magnetic attachment.

2. The holder according to claim 1, wherein the cover is movable to a position in which the cover is substantially flat, and when the cover is in a position in which the cover is substantially flat, the cover has a length, a height, and a thickness, wherein the thickness is less than 10% of the length, or less than 10% of the height, or less than 10% of the length and less than 10% of the height.

3. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the elongated aerosol generator has a length, the elongated aerosol generator is housed in the docking space, and when the cover is in the uncovered position, at least 80% of the length of the elongated aerosol generator is exposed.

4. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the holder comprises a housing, and the cover comprises a first mounting point, or a second mounting point, or both the first and second mounting points, and the magnetic mounting member comprises a magnet or magnetic material configured to magnetically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing.

5. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the holder comprises a housing, and the cover comprises a first mounting point, or a second mounting point, or both the first and second mounting points, wherein the mechanical mounting member comprises a deformable projection configured to engage with a projection receiving slot for mechanically latching a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing, or the mechanical mounting member comprises a projection receiving slot configured to engage with a deformable projection for mechanically latching a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing.

6. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the cover comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements.

7. The holder according to claim 6, wherein the cover comprises a first layer and a second layer, and the plurality of reinforcing elements are sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer.

8. The holder according to claim 7, wherein the first layer, or the second layer, or both the first and second layers, comprises a fibrous material.

9. The holder according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the plurality of reinforcing elements are a plurality of elongated reinforcing elements.

10. The holder according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of elongated reinforcing elements are substantially parallel to one another.

11. The holder according to claim 10, wherein when the elongated aerosol generator is housed in the docking space, the elongated aerosol generator and the plurality of elongated reinforcing elements are substantially parallel.

12. The holder according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein each reinforcing element extends along at least 80% of the height of the cover.

13. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the holder comprises a first wall and a second wall opposite the first wall, and the docking space is defined between the first wall and the second wall.

14. The holder according to claim 13, wherein the first wall is separated from the second wall.

15. The holder according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the docking space is configured to accommodate the longitudinal dimension of the elongated aerosol generator between the first wall and the second wall.

16. The holder according to claim 13, claim 14, or claim 15, wherein the docking space is further defined by a rear wall extending between the first wall and the second wall.

17. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the holder is equipped with a power supply configured to supply power to the elongated aerosol generator when the elongated aerosol generator is housed in the docking space.

18. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the user can house the elongated aerosol generator in the docking space by relative movement of the elongated aerosol generator and the docking space in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongated aerosol generator.

19. The holder according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the cover comprises a retaining means for holding an accessory.

20. The holder according to claim 19, wherein the holding means includes a piece of elastic material.

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