Aerosol generator with cleaning tools

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device (100) comprising a longitudinal heating cavity (10) defined by sidewalls (12), the longitudinal heating cavity (10) having an opening (14) at one upper end (10a) and adapted to receive at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article inserted through the opening (14), and a heating system (20) for heating the aerosol-generating article (1) received in the heating cavity (10). According to the present invention, the device (100) comprises an integrated cleaning tool (30) configured to move longitudinally within the heating cavity (10) upon actuation of an actuator (60) and including at least one cleaning member (40) configured to flexibly scrub the sidewalls (12) of the heating cavity (10) as it moves along the heating cavity (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device.

Background Art

[0002] Aerosol generating devices are increasingly being used today as alternatives to conventional cigarettes. Certain types of aerosol generating devices are heat-not-burn (HnB) devices that heat rather than burn or incinerate an aerosol generating substrate to generate an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user.

[0003] A heat-not-burn aerosol generating device typically comprises a heating cavity adapted to receive at least a portion of a consumable aerosol generating article inserted therein, and a heating system for heating the article housed within the cavity.

[0004] The aerosol generating article contains a tobacco substrate that includes an aerosol forming substance (such as glycerin and / or propylene glycol) that vaporizes during heating to create a vapor that extracts nicotine and flavor components from the tobacco substrate. The aerosol forming substance is heated to 200 - 400 °C, which is lower than the normal combustion temperature of a conventional cigarette.

[0005] Volatile compounds and aerosols released during heating of the tobacco substrate tend to deposit on the inner surfaces of the aerosol generating device. Also, fragments or particles of the aerosol generating article itself, for example, from its packaging or fragments or particles of the substrate, may flake off during manipulation or use of the article.

[0006] During intervals between use, external materials such as dust may further penetrate into the interior of the heating cavity.

[0007] All such residues deposit particularly on the side surfaces of the heating cavity. They can be further accumulated and / or partially removed by the friction of the inserted aerosol generating article.

[0008] Such residues can interfere with the optimal use of aerosol generators. Accumulated on the walls of the heating cavity, residues can reduce or block the necessary airflow in the device. Residues can also affect the optimal flavor perception of the aerosol. In fact, contaminants or particles can give users an unpleasant flavor or bitterness. Furthermore, the heater can be damaged depending on how and where the residues accumulate.

[0009] Currently, users generally clean the device itself using specialized cleaning tools such as brushes. This manual cleaning can also be detrimental to both the device's sustainability and the user experience, aside from the unpleasant experience it may provide and the heavy burden it places on the user. Heaters can be damaged by excessive or insufficient cleaning. Insufficient cleaning can also lead to a deterioration of the user's sensations during vaping and unpleasant odors.

[0010] Therefore, it is necessary to improve the management of residues inside the aerosol generator, enhance the user experience during vaping, and increase the overall sustainability of the device. [Overview of the project] [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] This is an aerosol generator, - A heating cavity extending longitudinally along its longitudinal axis and separated by side walls in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, having an opening at one upper end and adapted to receive at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article inserted through the opening, - A heating system for heating an aerosol-generating article received in a heating cavity, Equipped with, This is achieved using an aerosol generator further comprising an integrated cleaning tool, which includes at least one cleaning member configured to move longitudinally within the heated cavity when the actuator is in operation and to flexibly rub against the side walls of the heated cavity as it moves along the heated cavity.

[0012] According to the present invention, the aerosol generator comprises a cleaning system including a dedicated cleaning tool and an actuator that activates the cleaning tool when a cleaning session is triggered.

[0013] The cleaning tool may be operated automatically by a control unit integrated into the device, which is configured to control one or more parameters such as the time elapsed since the last cleaning session and / or the number of vaping sessions, and / or the temperature of the heating system, and / or the charge state of the battery, and / or the resistance or impedance in the side walls of the cavity, and is configured to trigger an actuator based on the parameters.

[0014] Additionally or alternatively, the cleaning tool may operate based on the activation of a user command, such as an activation button on the device.

[0015] In particular, the actuator may be operated in accordance with the actual cleaning needs, and especially in accordance with one or more parameters representing the level of contamination of the heated cavity, typically measured by at least one sensor.

[0016] According to the present invention, the cleaning tool includes at least one cleaning member in its peripheral portion, the cleaning member being deformable against the side wall of the heated cavity in order to rub or brush the side wall.

[0017] The lateral dimension of at least one of the cleaning tools (in its unmounted state) may be greater than, for example, the lateral dimension of the cavity.

[0018] As the cleaning tool is moved longitudinally, the cleaning member, elastically biased against the side wall, removes the residue accumulated on the side wall. Once removed from the wall, the residue can be easily discharged, for example, by a simple rotation of the device.

[0019] The automated cleaning provided by such cleaning tools improves the user experience by eliminating the burden of manual cleaning. It also ensures consistency in the cleaning process. The heated cavity is always kept in good condition, improving the user's sensation during vaping and the sustainability of the device.

[0020] In the following, the transverse direction refers to the direction perpendicular to and intersecting the longitudinal axis of the heated cavity. Unless otherwise specified, the transverse plane refers to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0021] Cleaning tools can have various shapes and arrangements, which are described in more detail below.

[0022] A cleaning tool may include one single cleaning component or multiple cleaning components.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the length of each cleaning member measured in the lateral direction may be within the range of 0.1 to 1 mm.

[0024] The thickness of each cleaning member, measured in the longitudinal direction, is preferably in the range of 0.01 to 0.5 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.05 to 0.2 mm.

[0025] The cleaning tool can move along the cavity with only one degree of freedom (translate longitudinally without rotation), or it can move with two degrees of freedom (i.e., simultaneously translate longitudinally and rotate around the longitudinal axis of the cavity).

[0026] The arrangement of the cleaning members is selected, in particular, according to the thickness of each cleaning member, the presence or absence of rotational movement of the tool, and the translational and / or rotational speed of the tool, for the purpose of brushing at least once the maximum area of the side wall of the cavity during one longitudinal movement of the tool.

[0027] Advantageously, the position of the cleaning members can also be adapted to the shape of the heating cavity and / or the position of specific elements of the device, according to their cleaning needs or, conversely, according to their vulnerability (some components are easily breakable and direct contact between these components and the cleaning tool should be avoided).

[0028] Advantageously, the integrated cleaning tool can include a plurality of cleaning members that are deformable independently of each other.

[0029] Each cleaning member is flexible and can conform to the internal shape of the heating cavity, which may or may not be circular. By providing several cleaning members that are deformable independently of each other and can each bend precisely according to the part of the heating cavity being rubbed, better conformity to the shape of the cavity is achieved, thus enabling efficient cleaning.

[0030] The cleaning members are provided at the periphery of the cleaning tool in order to gently rub the side wall of the heating cavity when moving along the heating cavity.

[0031] For example, the integrated cleaning tool can include a plurality of cleaning members arranged at intervals.

[0032] The cleaning members can preferably be distributed over the whole or part of the periphery of the tool in a regular arrangement, particularly in a single cleaning layer.

[0033] According to one embodiment, each cleaning member can have an elongated shape in the transverse direction (hereinafter referred to as the main direction / axis of a specific cleaning member).

[0034] The cross-section of the cleaning member, perpendicular to its main axis, can be circular, rectangular, or any other shape.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the maximum dimension of each cleaning member measured in a plane perpendicular to its principal axis may be in the range of 0.01 to 0.5 mm, preferably 0.05 to 0.2 mm.

[0036] According to one embodiment, each cleaning member may be inscribed in an angular sector of less than 1°, and even less than 0.5°, around its longitudinal axis.

[0037] Multiple cleaning members can be arranged with a wide spacing between them. For example, only four elongated cleaning members may be arranged in a cross shape around the periphery of the tool, with two adjacent cleaning members forming a 90° angle.

[0038] According to another preferred embodiment, the cleaning tool may include a plurality of juxtaposed cleaning members that form a cleaning comb. Each cleaning member then forms the teeth of the comb, and the plurality of cleaning members are arranged closely together adjacent to one another.

[0039] Such cleaning combs may extend along the entire periphery of the tool (i.e., 360° around the longitudinal axis), or they may extend only to a portion of the periphery or to an angular portion.

[0040] According to another embodiment, at least one cleaning member may be a flexible spatula having a flat, wide blade shape.

[0041] Such a flexible spatula may extend continuously along the entire periphery of the tool (i.e., 360° around the longitudinal axis), or it may extend only to a portion of the periphery or to an angular portion.

[0042] Alternatively, each cleaning component may be made of a plastic such as silicone or polyetheretherketone (PEEK), a metal such as stainless steel, or any other suitable material.

[0043] The cleaning members or each cleaning member may also be coated partially (particularly at their tips) or entirely to enhance the rubbing action. The coating may include, for example, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), silicon, or any other suitable material. Such coatings may be applied, for example, by immersion, by immersion and centrifugation, or by any other coating technique.

[0044] According to one embodiment, in order to facilitate the discharge of debris brushed by the cleaning member, the cleaning tool may include at least one cleaning zone, which includes at least one cleaning member and at least one free zone, and which is seen particularly in a lateral projection on its periphery, the free zone or each free zone extending over an angular sector of at least 35° around the longitudinal axis, preferably at least 70° around the longitudinal axis.

[0045] More specifically, a cleaning tool may include alternating cleaning and free zones around its periphery.

[0046] In this application, the cleaning zone should be understood as being formed by one cleaning member or by multiple closely spaced cleaning members.

[0047] In particular, the cleaning zone may typically be formed by a single cleaning member that extends continuously over an angular cross-section of at least 35°, preferably at least 70°, around the longitudinal axis.

[0048] Alternatively, the cleaning zone may include a cleaning comb formed of multiple juxtaposed cleaning members extending laterally.

[0049] A cleaning member or a group of cleaning members may be defined within a plane, typically a transverse plane or a plane inclined to a transverse plane, to form a so-called cleaning layer.

[0050] According to a particular embodiment, the cleaning tool may include several cleaning layers superimposed in the longitudinal direction, each layer typically including one or more cleaning members and / or zones.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the cleaning tool may include at least one air channel located on both its side and top surfaces.

[0052] The air channel is configured to allow air to pass from the side of the cleaning tool toward its top surface. Therefore, the cleaning tool allows air to flow toward the tip of the tobacco stick, which is necessary for vaping efficiency.

[0053] A cleaning tool typically includes a central tool body, with each cleaning member formed around the periphery of the tool body.

[0054] According to one embodiment, each cleaning member can be formed integrally with the main body.

[0055] According to another embodiment, the cleaning tool may include a body, and at least one cleaning member may be detachably fixed to the body. The cleaning member may be replaced very easily, for example, due to use, if necessary.

[0056] In particular, the cleaning tool may include means for securing the cleaning component to the tool body.

[0057] According to a particular embodiment, the body may include an upper body portion and a lower body portion that function as clamping jaws. The cleaning tool may further include fastening means, typically screw fastening means, for securing the upper body portion and the lower body portion to each other.

[0058] According to one embodiment, each cleaning member may form part of an independent cleaning module that is detachable independently from the tool body.

[0059] As a favorable alternative, to facilitate both the assembly and disassembly of several cleaning components from the tool body, the cleaning tool may include at least one single-component cleaning module that includes several (preferably all) cleaning components and is detachably fixed to the tool body.

[0060] In particular, several cleaning members forming a single cleaning zone can typically be joined together at a central base to form a single cleaning module.

[0061] Furthermore, cleaning members in one cleaning zone can be joined to members in other cleaning zones to form a single cleaning module.

[0062] In the comb-like configuration described above, the cleaning module can be formed by etching a metal sheet, such as stainless steel or titanium, to form a cleaning member around its periphery.

[0063] According to an alternative embodiment, the cleaning module may be formed of folded wires, where the pleats of the wires form the cleaning members.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the cleaning tool includes a collection cup positioned beneath the cleaning zone, which can collect debris brushed by the cleaning member as the tool moves within the cavity. The cleaning member and the collection cup may be integrally formed (molded or injection-molded) or may be fastened and detached from each other and / or from the tool body, for example by press-fit / screw / magnetic engagement.

[0065] The heating cavity extends longitudinally along the longitudinal axis and is separated by side walls in the transverse direction perpendicular to the axis. The cavity generally has a tubular shape. It is fixed to the outer body of the apparatus.

[0066] More generally, the device comprises an outer body that houses a heating cavity, a heating system, and a power supply, and the heating cavity, heating system, and power supply are all fixed to each other and to the outer body.

[0067] The heating cavity is provided with an insertion opening at its insertion end. This opening allows for the introduction of an aerosol-generating article into the cavity.

[0068] In this disclosure, unless otherwise specified, the top, bottom, upper side, and lower side are considered with respect to the longitudinal axis of the heating cavity, with the top and upper side oriented toward the insertion end of the cavity and the bottom and lower side oriented toward the opposite end.

[0069] According to one embodiment, the cleaning tool may be configured to be stored in a storage position at the bottom of the heating cavity when the actuator is stationary. In this storage position, the cleaning tool then forms the bottom of the heating cavity, thus allowing the aerosol-generating article to take the necessary position within the cavity for normal vaping use.

[0070] The heating system may include a heater configured to surround the heating cavity and heat the heating cavity.

[0071] Such heaters may typically include a heater body in the form of a longitudinal metal sleeve, and a heating element such as a thick-film or thin-film heater that includes layers of electrically insulating material and layers of conductive material on the outside or inside of the heater body.

[0072] The heater body can also be made of ceramic.

[0073] Alternatively, the heating system may include an induction coil, typically surrounding the heating cavity, configured to form part or all of the heating cavity or to inductively heat a ferromagnetic material contained within the aerosol generating article.

[0074] According to one embodiment, the heater body may have a cup shape. That is, the heater body may have a lateral tubular wall and a bottom wall.

[0075] According to one embodiment, the heater body may be integrated with a holder, typically made of a high-temperature resistant plastic, configured to hold the heater body at its lower end. The holder may have a base perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the heating cavity and a holding means, such as a longitudinal tongue projecting upward from the base, configured to hold the heater body, for example, by a clamp.

[0076] In particular, the holding means may be configured to hold the heater body at a certain distance from the base.

[0077] According to one embodiment, the actuator configured to actuate the longitudinal movement of a cleaning tool inside a heated cavity is a mechanical linear actuator, also known as a screw-nut type feed screw actuator, which includes a longitudinally extending screw or shaft and a nut that screws into the screw.

[0078] The actuator may further include a motor for driving the screw.

[0079] A rotary motor may have a direct or indirect drive unit, in which case the shaft of the indirect drive unit is either aligned with the screw shaft or offset from the screw shaft.

[0080] According to an advantageous embodiment, the actuator may include a reduction gear between the motor and the screw. Such a reduction gear can transmit the rotational motion of the motor shaft to the screw while reducing the speed and increasing the torque delivered to the screw. The reduction gear may include, for example, a first gear integrated with the motor shaft and a second gear integrated with or engaged with the screw.

[0081] In one embodiment, a nut is fixed in the longitudinal direction of the heated cavity, a screw is capable of translating longitudinally as the nut rotates, and a cleaning tool is integrated with the screw. In such a type of actuator, also known as a non-captive linear actuator, the cleaning tool rotates with the screw while moving along the heated cavity. To enable movement, the cleaning tool typically has a circular cross-section that conforms to the circular cross-section of the heated cavity.

[0082] In embodiments including the reduction gear described above, the gears of the reduction gear may have screw holes for engaging with a screw, and thus a nut can be formed.

[0083] In another embodiment, the tool body may be supported at the end of the screw in a manner that allows it to rotate freely, for example, by at least one ball bearing. In one example, the hub of the ball bearing may be formed by a support element integrated with the upper end of the screw, and the shaft of the ball bearing may be integrated with the tool body, or vice versa.

[0084] In yet another embodiment, the screw is fixed in the longitudinal direction of the heating cavity, the nut is capable of translating longitudinally as the screw rotates, and the nut is formed by or integrated with a cleaning tool. This embodiment has the advantage of keeping the space located below the heating cavity uncluttered.

[0085] In the case of a cavity with a non-circular section, the cleaning tool can be fixed with one degree of freedom, allowing it to move longitudinally without rotation.

[0086] In embodiments including the reduction gear described above, the gears of the reduction gear can be fixedly mounted on a screw.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the screw may be offset laterally with respect to the central axis of the heating cavity.

[0088] In embodiments where the heater body is a cup, the screw can pass through an opening formed in the bottom wall of the heater body.

[0089] The edges of the bottom wall around the screw opening can then be advantageously curved upward to prevent dust from falling into the device. Additional seals, such as silicone seals, may be placed around the opening to further prevent dust from falling out.

[0090] According to one embodiment, the apparatus may include a control unit for controlling one or more parameters, in particular one or more parameters representing the contamination level of a heated cavity, and for operating actuators based on the parameters.

[0091] In particular, the apparatus may include at least one sensor configured to measure at least one parameter representing the contamination level of a heated cavity and to transmit a corresponding signal to a control unit.

[0092] The present invention further relates to a method for cleaning an aerosol generator as described herein, the method comprising activating an actuator to achieve longitudinal movement of a cleaning tool inside a heated cavity.

[0093] According to one embodiment, the cleaning method further includes measuring at least one parameter representing the level of contamination of a heated cavity in a closed loop, and activating an actuator based on the parameter.

[0094] Any sensor configured to evaluate the dust level within a cavity can be implemented in this method. The measured parameters may be directly related to the level of contamination or may enable the prediction of the level of contamination.

[0095] In particular, at least one parameter may be the resistance or impedance in the side wall typically formed by the heater body, and / or the time elapsed since the last cleaning session, and / or the number of vaping sessions since the last cleaning session, and / or the temperature of the heating system, and / or the battery charge state.

[0096] According to an advantageous embodiment, the measurement step may include measuring electrical resistance or impedance.

[0097] According to one embodiment, the cleaning step may include moving a cleaning tool back and forth several times along the cavity at different speeds and / or different temperatures within the heated cavity.

[0098] It should be understood that the different embodiments described above can be realized individually or in any technically compatible combination. In particular, the technical features described above and those described below can be used not only in the combinations shown, but also in other combinations or individually without departing from the scope of the present invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0099] [Figure 1A] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present invention, in which the cleaning tool is in a storage position that forms the bottom of the heated cavity. [Figure 1B] Figure 1A is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generator with the cleaning tool in its maximum extended position. [Figure 2] This is a detailed view of Figure 1B, Part II. [Figure 3]These are partial perspective views of the actuators in Figures 1A, 1B, and 2. [Figure 4] This figure shows a single-axis actuator with a screw and a motor that is aligned. [Figure 5] This figure shows a cleaning tool having a two-part tool body and a removable cleaning component. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the upper body of the cleaning tool. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of a cleaning tool including a cleaning comb formed by juxtaposed cleaning members. [Figure 8] This is a partial perspective view of a cleaning tool having a coated cleaning component. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of a cleaning tool that includes a cleaning module formed from folded wires. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view of a cleaning tool that includes a spatula-shaped cleaning component. [Figure 11] This is a perspective view of a cleaning tool having alternating cleaning zones and free zones along its periphery. [Figure 12] This is a cross-sectional view of a cleaning tool having two superimposed cleaning layers. [Figure 13] This is a cross-sectional view of a cleaning tool that includes a collection cup for collecting debris brushed by a cleaning member. [Figure 14] This is a cross-sectional view of a cleaning tool that can rotate freely at the upper end of a screw. [Figure 15] This figure shows an implementation mode of the cleaning method according to the present invention, including closed-loop control. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0100] The present invention will be described with reference to specific embodiments, but is not limited thereto. In the drawings, the size of some elements may be exaggerated for illustrative purposes and may not be drawn to scale. Dimensions and relative dimensions do not correspond to actual reductions in the implementation of the invention.

[0101] Figure 1A shows an aerosol generator 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0102] The apparatus 100 comprises an outer body 2 of any adapted shape that houses a longitudinal heating cavity 10 (hereinafter also referred to as a cavity) that defines the longitudinal direction Z or extends along the longitudinal axis Z1.

[0103] The heating cavity 10 is separated by side walls 12 in the transverse direction Y perpendicular to the longitudinal direction Z, and has a tubular shape with a constant, circular cross-section (considered here in the transverse plane XY perpendicular to the longitudinal direction Z).

[0104] The heating cavity 10 is provided with an opening 14 at one insertion end or upper end 10a and is adapted to receive at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article (not shown) inserted through the opening 14.

[0105] The apparatus 100 further includes a heating system 20 powered by a power supply 90 and configured to heat an aerosol-generating article received in the heating cavity 10, the heating system 20 and the power supply 90 housed in the outer body 2 of the apparatus 100.

[0106] As shown in the figure, the heating system 20 may be an external heater comprising a heater body 22 in the form of a longitudinal metal sleeve surrounding the heating cavity 10, and a heating element 28 such as a thick film or thin film containing layers of electrical insulating material and layers of conductive material on the outside or inside of the heater body 22.

[0107] In the specific example shown in Figures 2 and 3, the heater body 22 has a cup shape with a lateral tubular wall 23 and a bottom wall 24. The heating element 28 is located outside the heater body 22, where the side wall 23 forms the side wall 12 of the heating cavity 10.

[0108] As shown in Figure 2, the heater body 22 is housed in a holder 80, typically made of a high-temperature heat-resistant plastic such as PEEK, which has a transverse base 81 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction Z of the heating cavity 10 and a holding means 82 such as a longitudinal tongue projecting upward from the base 81, and is configured to hold the heater body 22, for example, by a clamp.

[0109] Advantageously, the holding means 82 is configured to hold the heater body 22 at a certain distance from the base 81, leaving a gap between the heater body 22 and the base 81, and these functions will be described below.

[0110] When an aerosol-generating article is inserted into the heating cavity 10 and the device 100 is activated by the user, the power supply 90 supplies current to the heating element 28. The heating element 28 is heated, and the heat is transferred to the heater body 22 by thermal conduction, and as a result, to the article surrounded by the heater body 22.

[0111] When heated, the aerosol-forming substances contained in the tobacco base material of the item vaporize, generating vapor that extracts nicotine and flavor components from the tobacco base material.

[0112] Volatile compounds, aerosols, fragments of aerosol-generating articles, or external dust accumulate on the side walls 12 of the heating cavity 10.

[0113] According to the present invention, the aerosol generator 100 includes an integrated cleaning tool 30 that is movable in the longitudinal direction Z and configured to rub contaminating material on the side wall 12.

[0114] The cleaning tool 30 includes at least one cleaning member 40 that extends laterally around the periphery of the tool 30 and is configured to flexibly rub against the side wall 12.

[0115] Several embodiments of the cleaning tool 30 are described in more detail below.

[0116] In the storage position, the cleaning tool 30 forms the bottom surface of the heating cavity 10, as shown in Figure 1A.

[0117] The movement of the cleaning tool 30 inside the heated cavity 10 is actuated by an actuator 60, such as a screw-nut type mechanical linear actuator.

[0118] The actuator 60 can be triggered based on a user command, for example, through a user button 92 provided on the device 100, and / or based on other parameters such as the time elapsed since the last cleaning session and / or the number of vaping sessions, and / or the level of contamination inside the cavity, and / or the temperature of the heating system, and / or the charge state of the battery 90, and / or the resistance or impedance in the side walls of the heating cavity.

[0119] The device 100 advantageously includes a control unit 94, typically a microcontroller, configured to trigger the actuator 60 based on one or more of the parameters described above.

[0120] The control unit 94 is linked to a user button 92 (if present) and a battery 90, and is configured to receive signals from them and operate both the actuator 60 and the heating system 20.

[0121] In a favorable configuration, the apparatus 100 may further include at least one sensor 96 configured to measure at least one parameter representing the contamination level of the heating cavity 10 and to transmit a corresponding signal to the control unit 94.

[0122] At least one sensor 96 may be configured to measure, for example, electrical resistance or impedance, particularly the electrical resistance or impedance at the side wall 12. Dust on the side wall 12 having a different electrical resistance / impedance than that of the heater body 22 allows for the estimation of the dust level on the side wall 12 by measuring such parameters.

[0123] Therefore, cleaning can be controlled in a closed loop according to actual needs, thus avoiding the heating cavity 10 being cleaned too frequently or, conversely, not being cleaned frequently enough.

[0124] A process flow diagram is provided in Figure 15, illustrating one possible implementation of the cleaning method according to the present invention, operating in a closed loop.

[0125] In the first step S1, the control unit 94 checks whether the conditions for cleaning are met, for example, if the battery 90 is charged to at least 80% or is in the process of being charged.

[0126] In the third step S2, parameters representing dust in the heated cavity 10 are measured.

[0127] In the fourth step S3, the measurement signal is filtered, digitized, and processed by firmware typically associated with the sensor 96.

[0128] In the fifth step S4, the dust level estimated by the firmware is transmitted to the control unit 94.

[0129] In the sixth step S5, the cleaning process is activated by the control unit 94 based on the estimated dust level.

[0130] In the seventh step S6, the user may be notified that the cleaning is complete.

[0131] Alternatively, cleaning can also be controlled in an open loop, i.e., as programmed by calibration. In such a case, the sensor 96 that evaluates contamination inside the cavity 10 can be omitted or used as a complement.

[0132] Automatic cleaning control in closed-loop or open-loop modes can also be supplemented by user commands for cleaning.

[0133] It should be noted that the cleaning process may be adapted as needed. For example, this may include moving the cleaning tool back and forth along the cavity several times at different speeds and / or different temperatures within the heated cavity.

[0134] Actuator 60 according to possible embodiments is shown in Figures 2 and 3. Here, actuator 60 includes a motor 62 and a screw 64 that can be translated in the longitudinal direction Z by the operation of the motor 62. In the illustrated example, the screw 64 extends coaxially with the heating cavity 10 along the longitudinal axis Z2, and the cleaning tool 30 is connected to the screw. 64 It is integrated with the upper end portion 64a (Figure 1B), and is fixed in particular by a screw-type connector 39, as will be described in more detail below with reference to Figure 5.

[0135] Here, the screw 64 penetrates the opening 25 formed in the bottom wall 24 of the heater body 22 and is long enough to allow the cleaning tool 30 to move up and down along the heating cavity 10. A clearance 9 is required below the heating cavity 10 to accommodate the screw 64 in its storage position.

[0136] The edge 26 of the bottom wall 24 of the heater body 22 around the screw opening 25 may be advantageously angled upward to prevent dust from falling into inaccessible parts of the device 100. To prevent dust from falling out, an additional silicone seal 27 may be further positioned around the lower opening 25 of the bottom wall 24.

[0137] In this first embodiment, the motor 62 is of the indirect drive and eccentric type (axis Z3), and the actuator 60 includes a reduction gear 70 between the motor 62 and the screw 64 to transmit rotational motion to the screw 64. The reduction gear 70 includes meshing gears, in this case two gears 71, 72, which have an overall transmission ratio of less than 1 in total to reduce the rotational speed and increase the torque transmitted to the screw 64.

[0138] In the illustrated embodiment, the motor 62 is mounted on the holder 80, particularly the bottom surface of the base 81, and its shaft 63, which passes through the base 81, is integrated with a smaller diameter first gear 71. The gap between the heater body 22 and the base 81 protects the motor 62 from the possibility of overheating. The motor 62 is connected to a control unit 94 and receives power from a battery 90.

[0139] The first gear 71 is secured to the upper side of the base 81 with a cotter pin 73 to prevent it from loosening. The first gear 71 meshes with the second gear 72, which has a larger diameter, thereby transmitting the rotational motion of the motor shaft 63 to the second gear 72.

[0140] The second gear 72 has a gear portion 74 positioned above the base 81 and meshing with the first gear 71, and a central shaft 75 having a screw hole 76 configured to receive a screw 64 by screw engagement. The second gear 72 forms the so-called nut of the mechanical actuator 60.

[0141] In such a configuration, the rotational motion of the second gear 72 induces longitudinal motion of the cleaning tool 30, which is integrated with the screw 64, such as longitudinal motion of the screw 64.

[0142] In a particular illustrated example, the central shaft 75 of the second gear 72 is attached to the through hole 83 of the base 81.

[0143] In embodiments not shown, a ball bearing may be further overmolded into the through-hole 83 of the holder 80 to reduce friction between the shaft and base 81 of the gear 72.

[0144] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, a small latch 77 is further positioned below the second gear 72 and the holder 80 to fix the gear 72 in a longitudinal position.

[0145] In embodiments not shown, the rigidity of the screw 64 can be further increased by providing an additional holder at its base.

[0146] Gear reducers such as gears 71 and 72 may be manufactured from temperature-resistant plastics such as polyetheretherketone (PEEK) or from metal. Screws 64 may be made from metal, preferably stainless steel.

[0147] Once the user presses the activation button 92, the motor 62 begins to move the screw 64 upward. As the screw 64 rotates upward, the cleaning tool 30 is pushed up. The bottom end of the screw 64 is advantageously provided with a hard stop 65 to prevent the screw from falling out if the motor 62 does not stop in time.

[0148] The actuator 60 described with reference to Figures 2 and 3 should not be considered limiting, and Figure 4 shows an actuator 60 including a motor 62 having its axis Z3 aligned with a screw axis Z2. In such a configuration, the motor 62 may be a direct-drive motor 62 with a nut integrated therewith. The actuator 60 with a direct-drive motor is more compact and does not require mechanical transmission elements such as gears. According to another embodiment, the motor 62 may be of an indirect-drive type.

[0149] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, the cleaning tool 30 is rotatably mounted within the cavity 10, which is particularly suitable for a heating cavity 10 with a circular cross-section. However, the cleaning tool 30 may also be fixed with one degree of freedom, allowing it to move longitudinally without rotation, particularly in cavities having a non-circular cross-section. In such a case, the screw 64 may be fixed in the longitudinal direction Z1, and the cleaning tool 30 may be configured to move along the screw 64 when the screw 64 is rotated. The screw may be offset, in particular, with respect to the longitudinal axis Z1 of the heating cavity 10. Alternatively, according to another embodiment shown in Figure 14, the tool 30 may be supported in a freely rotatable manner at the longitudinally movable end of the screw, for example, by at least one ball bearing 54. In the illustrated example, the ball bearing 54 includes an upper support element 55 that forms a hub 56 integrated with the upper end 64a of the screw 64 and a shaft 57 integrated with the tool body 31. The reverse configuration is also possible.

[0150] Here, examples of the cleaning tool 30 and its cleaning members 40 will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 13.

[0151] The cleaning tool 30 typically comprises a central cleaning body 31 and one or more cleaning members protruding from the periphery of the cleaning body 31.

[0152] After assembly, the tool body 31 has a body axis Z4 that is parallel to the longitudinal axis Z1 of the heating cavity 10 and is preferably aligned with it.

[0153] As shown in Figures 5 to 7 and Figure 14 mentioned above, the cleaning member 40 can be detachably attached to the tool body 31.

[0154] In such embodiments, the cleaning members 40 may form the distal portion of a cleaning module 46 attached to the main body 31 at their proximal ends.

[0155] For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the main body 31 includes an upper main body portion 32 and a lower main body portion 34 that are aligned along axis Z4.

[0156] The lower body portion 34 is securely attached to the upper end 64a of the screw 64 by a screw-type connector 39, and this configuration is compatible with the type of actuator described herein with reference to Figures 2 and 3 in particular. However, this should not be considered limiting, as already shown above in this specification.

[0157] In this example, the upper body portion 32 and the lower body portion 34 are configured to be fixed to each other using screws.

[0158] The lower body portion 34 has a screw hole 35 and a first contact surface 34a that is substantially perpendicular to the body axis Z4 on its upper side, opposite to the screw-type connector 39.

[0159] On the other hand, the upper body portion 32 is provided with a threaded rod 33 protruding from its lower side, the rod 33 being configured to cooperate in a threaded manner with a corresponding hole 35 in the lower body portion 34. The upper body portion 32 further includes a second contact surface 32a around the rod 33, which here is substantially perpendicular to the body axis Z4.

[0160] Once both parts 32 and 34 are securely fastened to each other, the first and second contact surfaces 32a and 34a function as clamping jaws for securing the cleaning module 46 between them. If necessary, the cleaning module can be easily removed by separating the upper body portion 32 and the lower body portion 34. Alternatively, any other means adapted to detachably fasten the cleaning member to the cleaning body may be contemplated.

[0161] The removable configuration of the cleaning member 40 is also not limited, and it should be noted that the cleaning member 40 and the cleaning body 31 can be integrally formed (molded or injected) with the cleaning member 40 protruding laterally from the central cleaning body 31. Figure 13 shows, for example, a cleaning tool 30 with a non-removable cleaning member 40.

[0162] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the cleaning tool 30 advantageously includes at least one air channel 38 located on both its side and top surfaces.

[0163] The air channels 38 are configured to allow air to pass from the sides of the cleaning tool 30 toward its upper surface. Thus, the cleaning tool 30 allows air to flow toward the tip of the tobacco stick, which is necessary for vaping efficiency. The number or configuration of the air channels 38 on the upper side of the tool body 31 can be adapted as needed. For example, in Figure 4, the body 31 has four intersecting air channels 38 forming a cross. In Figure 6, the body 31 has eight intersecting air channels 38, with two adjacent channels forming an angle of approximately 45°.

[0164] In the embodiments shown in Figures 7 and 8, the cleaning tool 30 includes several cleaning members 40 arranged closely adjacent to one another around its entire circumference.

[0165] The juxtaposed cleaning members 40 are narrow, elongated beams that form the teeth of the cleaning comb 42, and each cleaning member 40 has a main axis Z5 that extends laterally.

[0166] Each cleaning member 40 protruding laterally from the cleaning body 31 preferably has a length l that falls within 0.1 to 1 mm, measured along its main axis Z5.

[0167] The cross-section of the cleaning member 40 perpendicular to the main axis Z5 may be circular, rectangular, or any other shape adapted to ensure flexibility taking into account the length l of the cleaning member.

[0168] The thickness h of each cleaning member 40, measured in the longitudinal direction, is preferably in the range of 0.01 to 0.5 mm, and more preferably 0.05 to 0.2 mm.

[0169] More specifically, the maximum dimension of the cleaning member 40 measured in a plane perpendicular to its main axis Z5 may be in the range of 0.01 to 0.5 mm, preferably 0.05 to 0.2 mm.

[0170] As an example, each cleaning member may be inscribed in an angular sector having an angle θ1 of less than 1°, and even less than 0.5°, around the longitudinal axis Z1 (main axis Z4).

[0171] In a detachable configuration as shown in Figure 5, each cleaning member 40 may be part of a single individual element or module 46, attached to the tool body 31 independently of the others.

[0172] However, according to a preferred embodiment, multiple teeth 40, in particular all teeth 40, can be joined together to form a single-piece cleaning module 46.

[0173] Such a cleaning module may be formed, for example, from a disc-shaped metal sheet, such as stainless steel or titanium, which has a central hole and its periphery is etched to form teeth 40.

[0174] As shown in Figure 8, the cleaning members 40 may also be coated, at least partially, particularly at their free ends 40a, to enhance the rubbing effect or otherwise improve cleaning. The coating 44 may be based on or made from PTFE, silicon, or any other suitable material. For example, it may be applied by dipping, immersion and centrifugation, or other coating techniques.

[0175] Figure 9 shows another embodiment in which the cleaning module 46 is formed of folded wires 44, in particular folded metal wires, and the outwardly oriented bends of each wire form a cleaning member 40 around the periphery of the cleaning tool 30. The cleaning members 40 thus formed are closely juxtaposed and form a cleaning comb 42 similar to that in Figure 7, configured to brush the side walls 12 of the heating cavity 10.

[0176] Figure 10 shows a cleaning tool 30 according to yet another embodiment, in which the cleaning member 40 is a flexible disc-shaped spatula with a hole in its center for passing through the fixed rod 33.

[0177] The aforementioned diagram shows a single cleaning layer L containing one cleaning zone 50 extending around the entire cleaning tool 30, but this should not be considered a limitation.

[0178] In particular, as shown in Figure 11, the cleaning tool 30 may also include at least one free zone 52 that does not have a cleaning member 40, as seen in a transverse projection of its periphery, or each free zone 52 may extend over an angular sector having an angle θ2 of at least 35°, preferably at least 70°, around the longitudinal axis.

[0179] More specifically, the cleaning tool 30 may include alternating cleaning zones 50 and free zones 52 along its periphery.

[0180] In such cases, the entire sidewall 12 can be swiped by relying on the rotation of the cleaning tool 30. The thickness of the cleaning zone 50 in the longitudinal direction Z should then be designed according to the thread pitch.

[0181] As shown in the figure, the cleaning member 40 or a plurality of juxtaposed cleaning members 40 are typically defined in a transverse plane or in a plane inclined with respect to the transverse plane to form a so-called cleaning layer L.

[0182] Although the cleaning tool described herein includes one single cleaning layer L, the cleaning tool 30 may also include several cleaning layers L1, L2 superimposed in the longitudinal direction, as shown in Figure 12, with each layer L1, L2 including one or more cleaning members 40 and / or zones 50.

[0183] The superimposed cleaning layers L1 and L2 may be stacked directly on top of each other to provide a thicker cleaning zone 50, or the different cleaning layers may be spaced apart by spacers 48, as shown in Figure 12.

[0184] Figure 13 shows a cleaning tool 30 according to a further embodiment.

[0185] The tool 30, here comprising a collection cup 37 positioned below the cleaning zone 50, collects debris brushed by the cleaning member 40 as the tool 30 moves within the cavity 10. This is intended to avoid the accumulation of debris at the bottom of the heated cavity 10 over time and to facilitate its removal by tilting the device 100 when the screw 64 is fully extended within the heated cavity 10 (i.e., the tool 30 is in its maximum extended position as shown in Figure 1B). The cleaning member 40 and the collection cup 37 may be integrally formed (molded or injection-molded) with the tool body 31 as shown in the figure. However, alternatively, they may be attached together in a removable manner and / or fixed to the tool body 31 by, for example, press-fit / screw / magnetic engagement in any adapted way.

Claims

1. Aerosol generator (100), - A heating cavity (10) extending longitudinally (Z) along a longitudinal axis (Z1) and separated by a side wall (12) in a transverse direction (X) perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (Z), having an opening (14) at one upper end (10a) and adapted to receive at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article inserted through the opening (14), - A heating system (20) for heating the aerosol generating article (1) received in the heating cavity (10), Equipped with, The system further includes an integrated cleaning tool (30) comprising at least one cleaning member (40) configured to move longitudinally within the heating cavity (10) when the actuator (60) is operated, and configured to flexibly rub against the side walls (12) of the heating cavity (10) as it moves along the heating cavity (10), An aerosol generator (100) characterized in that the integrated cleaning tool (30) includes a plurality of cleaning members (40) that can be deformed independently of each other.

2. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 1, wherein the integrated cleaning tool (30) includes a plurality of cleaning members (40) arranged at intervals.

3. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning tool (30) includes a plurality of juxtaposed cleaning members (40) that form a cleaning comb (42).

4. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning member (40) is at least partially coated with, for example, PTFE or silicone.

5. The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning member (40) is a flexible spatula.

6. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 1, wherein the length of the at least one cleaning member measured in the lateral direction is in the range of 0.1 to 1 mm.

7. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 1, wherein the thickness of the at least one cleaning member (40), measured in the longitudinal direction (Z), is in the range of 0.01 to 0.5 mm, and more preferably 0.05 to 0.2 mm.

8. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning tool (30) comprises at least one cleaning zone (50) including at least one cleaning member (40) and at least one free zone (52) in its peripheral portion, and the free zone or each free zone (52) extends on an angular sector of at least 35°, preferably at least 70°, around the longitudinal axis (Z).

9. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning tool (30) includes at least one air channel (38) located on both its side and top surfaces.

10. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning tool (30) includes a tool body (31, 32, 34), and the at least one cleaning member (40) is detachably fixed to the tool body (31, 32, 34).

11. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 10, wherein the cleaning tool (30) includes several cleaning members (40) and includes at least one single-component cleaning module (46) that is detachably fixed to the tool body (31).

12. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 11, wherein the cleaning module (46) is formed of a folded wire (44), and the pleats of the wire form a cleaning member (40).

13. The aerosol generating device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the actuator (60) is a mechanical linear actuator including a screw (64) extending in the longitudinal direction (Z) and a nut (75) screwed onto the screw (64).

14. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit (94) for controlling one or more parameters, in particular one or more parameters representing the contamination level of the heating cavity (10), and for operating the actuator based on the parameters.

15. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 14, further comprising at least one sensor (96) configured to measure at least one parameter representing the contamination level of the heating cavity (10) and to transmit a corresponding signal to the control unit (94).

16. The aerosol generator (100) according to claim 1, wherein the cleaning tool (30) is configured to be stored in a storage position at the bottom end (10b) of the heating cavity (10) when the actuator (60) is stationary.

17. A method for cleaning an aerosol generator (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, comprising operating the actuator (60) to achieve longitudinal movement of the cleaning tool (30) inside the heating cavity (10).

18. The cleaning method according to claim 17, comprising measuring at least one parameter representing the level of contamination of the heated cavity (10) in a closed loop, and operating the actuator (60) based on the parameter.

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