Aerosol generator equipped with a cover element having a cavity

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device (1) comprising a housing (2) having an opening (4) adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, and a cover element (3) adapted to move relative to the housing (2) between a closed position and an open position, where in the closed position the cover element (3) at least partially covers the opening (4) and in the open position the opening (4) is at least partially uncovered, the cover element (3) defines a cover element cavity (10), a guide element (14) protruding from the housing (2), the guide element (14) being received within the cover element cavity (10). The present invention further relates to methods for opening and closing the opening (4) of the aerosol generating device (1), and to methods for assembling the cover element (3) on the housing (2) of the aerosol generating device (1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device comprising a cover element. The present invention also relates to a method of opening and closing an opening of an aerosol generating device and a method of assembling a cover element on a housing of an aerosol generating device.

Background Art

[0002] One type of aerosol generation system is an electrically operated smoking system. Known hand-held electrically operated smoking systems generally comprise an aerosol generating device comprising a battery, a control electronic circuit, and an electric heater for heating an aerosol generating article specially designed for use in the aerosol generating device. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article comprises an aerosol forming substrate such as a tobacco rod or a tobacco plug, and the heater housed within the aerosol generating device is inserted into or disposed around the aerosol forming substrate when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the aerosol generating device. In an alternative electrically operated smoking system, the aerosol generating article may comprise a capsule containing an aerosol forming substrate such as tobacco not contained in a container.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] In known electrically operated smoking systems, the aerosol generating article can be received within the heater chamber of the aerosol generating device. Some aerosol generating devices may comprise a sliding cover element that allows a user to slide over the opening of the heater chamber when the aerosol generating device is not in use. However, if the sliding cover element accidentally opens when the aerosol generating device is not in use, dust and foreign matter can contaminate the heater chamber and damage the heater.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0004] [Figure 1]A perspective view of an aerosol generator according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 2] A cross-sectional view of the cover element is shown. [Figure 3] A partial perspective view of an aerosol generator without the upper cap of the cover element is shown. [Figure 4] A partial perspective view of an aerosol generator without cover and guide elements is shown. [Figure 5] A partial perspective view of the bottom of the cover element, guide element, and elastic element is shown. [Figure 6] A perspective view of the guide element is shown. [Figure 7] A partial cross-sectional perspective view of the aerosol generator is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generator is provided comprising a housing having an opening adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, and a cover element adapted to move relative to the housing between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the cover element at least partially covers the opening, and in the open position the opening is at least partially uncovered. Preferably, the opening is completely covered by the cover element in the closed position. Preferably, the opening is not completely covered in the open position. The cover element forms a cover element cavity, and a guide element protrudes from the housing and is received within the cover element cavity. In particular, the guide element is partially positioned within the cover element cavity. Preferably, the guide element engages with the inner surface of the cover element cavity. Preferably, the cover element cavity opens only on the side of the cover element facing the housing. The cover element may enable a compact sliding mechanism for opening and closing the opening. In particular, the guide element is not visible to the consumer and is not exposed to damage or contamination.

[0006] The cover element may be adapted to movement between a closed position and an open position along a first path. The first path may be lateral, or may have at least components in the lateral direction of the aerosol generator. The first path may be straight or curved. The lateral direction may be vertical, or may have components perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generator. The longitudinal axis may be the main extension direction of the aerosol generator, i.e., the direction in which the aerosol generator has its maximum length. In the upright orientation of the aerosol generator, the longitudinal axis may be the height direction, and the lateral direction may be the horizontal direction. The lateral direction may be perpendicular to the width direction of the aerosol generator. The following indications of "up" and "down" refer to the longitudinal axis being the height direction.

[0007] The aerosol generating article may be inserted longitudinally through the opening of the aerosol generator so that the aerosol generating article is at least partially positioned within the heating chamber. When the aerosol generating article comes into contact with the stopping element or end surface of the heating chamber, the mouth end portion of the aerosol generating article may protrude longitudinally from the heating chamber.

[0008] The guide element may be adapted to apply a restraining force toward the housing on the cover element, at least when the cover element is in the closed position. This allows the cover element to be pulled toward the housing. The clearance tolerance between the cover element and the housing can be minimized. The ingress of dust and other contaminants between the cover element and the housing can be reduced or avoided.

[0009] The cover element may include a sealing element that contacts the housing and extends around the opening when the cover element is positioned in the closed position. In particular, the sealing element may be provided within a sealing recess or on the lower surface of the cover element facing the housing. The upper surface of the housing in contact with the sealing element is preferably at least partially complementary, and preferably substantially flat, to the lower surface of the cover element. Forces applied toward the housing by guide elements on the cover element can improve sealing efficiency.

[0010] The guide element may be elastically biased toward the housing in a certain direction. Preferably, the elastic bias is provided by an elastic element, which may be part of the guide element or engaged with the guide element. The guide element may be pulled downward in the longitudinal direction by the elastic element.

[0011] The guide element may be pulled downward in the longitudinal direction by an elastic element. Alternatively, or additionally, the guide element may be pushed downward in the longitudinal direction in addition to, or instead of being pulled. The elastic element may act downward on the guide element. The elastic element may be a spring-loaded plate. The elastic element may be located inside the cover element. The elastic element may be mounted on the top surface of the housing. The elastic element may engage with the guide element from above, from inside the cover element.

[0012] One of the cover element and the guide element includes a projection, and the other of the cover element and the guide element includes a recess, where the projection and the recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the closed position. In particular, the guide element includes a projection, and the cover element includes a first recess, where the projection and the first recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the closed position. The cover element is held in the closed position, and the possibility of accidental opening can be reduced.

[0013] In particular, the required release force on the cover element along the first path in which sliding begins from the closed position is determined by the geometric shape of the protrusions and recesses and the restraining force. Preferably, the release force from the closed position is at least twice, preferably five times, the release force at the intermediate position between the open and closed positions. In particular, the release force at the intermediate position is determined by the static friction between the cover element and the housing.

[0014] When the cover element reaches the closed position, the protrusions and recesses engage so that the consumer feels a tactile response, particularly a click.

[0015] One of the cover element and the guide element has a projection, and the other of the cover element and the guide element has a recess, where the projection and the recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the open position. In particular, the guide element includes a projection, and the cover element includes a second recess, where the projection and the second recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the open position. The cover element is held in the open position, reducing the possibility of it accidentally closing. The release force from the open position is preferably at least twice, preferably five times, the release force at an intermediate position between the open and closed positions.

[0016] One of the cover element and the guide element may have a projection, and the other of the cover element and the guide element may have a first recess and a second recess, wherein when the cover element is in the closed position, the projection and the first recess engage with each other, and when the cover element is in the open position, the projection and the second recess engage with each other.

[0017] One of the cover element and the guide element may have a recess, and the other of the cover element and the guide element may have a first projection and a second projection, wherein when the cover element is in the closed position, the recess and the first projection engage with each other, and when the cover element is in the closed position, the recess and the second projection engage with each other.

[0018] When the cover element reaches the open position, the protrusions and recesses engage so that the consumer feels a tactile response, particularly a click.

[0019] In particular, the cover element may have two recesses at the same position along the first path and on both sides in the width direction. The guide element may have two protrusions at the same position along the first path and on both sides in the width direction.

[0020] The guide element may be adapted to push the protrusion into the recess. In particular, the force by which the protrusion is pushed into the recess is a reaction force against the restraining force by which the guide element is pushed out towards the housing. Thus, three functions are provided, namely, holding the cover element closely to the housing, fixing the cover element in the closed or open position, and providing tactile feedback when the cover reaches the closed or open position.

[0021] The guide element may have legs that extend from the inside of the housing to the outside of the housing, and the elastic element may engage the legs inside the housing. The elastic element may be entirely disposed inside the housing. This reduces the possibility of the elastic element being damaged and improves the appearance and cleanability of the device. In particular, the elastic element presses the legs towards the inside of the housing. In an alternative embodiment, the legs themselves may be the elastic element.

[0022] The elastic element may be a latch spring. In particular, the latch spring may be formed as a bent sheet metal part. Alternatively, the latch spring may be formed as a helical wire spring. This enables a relatively high elastic force and long durability, and little space is required for the elastic element.

[0023] The elastic element may be disposed within a spring cavity in the housing, the spring cavity having an opening through which the leg extends. The spring cavity may be airtightly closed with respect to the inner compartment of the housing. The inner compartment may include control electronics, a heater, or a battery. Thereby, liquid or dust entering the spring cavity through the opening can be prevented from further moving into the inner compartment within the device and causing damage.

[0024] The spring cavity may be integrally formed within a cap of the housing. To improve assembly, the spring cavity may be closed by a lower closing portion such as a bottom wall. The lower closing portion may be sealed to the side wall of the spring cavity by a sealing element. The sealing element may be a gasket. The sealing element may seal the spring cavity with respect to the inner compartment of the device, which may particularly include control electronics. The opening of the spring cavity has a shape corresponding to the cross-section of the leg and thus minimizes the clearance.

[0025] The elastic element may comprise a head, the head being received within a cover element cavity of a cover element, the head having a width greater than the width of the leg. The head may be arranged such that the main extension of the head is perpendicular to the width direction, particularly the lateral direction, perpendicular to a first path. At least one protruding portion of the head may protrude in the width direction across the leg and may engage with the cover element. The protruding portions may be provided on both sides of the head in the width direction.

[0026] [[ID=ll]] The cover element may comprise a guide slot on a surface adjacent to the housing in which the leg of the guide element extends, the head engaging with the inner surface of the cover element cavity adjacent to the guide slot. In particular, the head engages with the inner surfaces of the cover element cavities on both sides of the guide slot. The cross-section of the head in the width direction may correspond to the required tolerance with respect to the cross-section of the cover element cavity in the width direction.

[0027] The cover element may comprise a bottom and a top cap, with the cover element cavity formed between the top cap and the bottom. The bottom may be a flat bottom plate. Preferably, a guide slot is provided in the bottom. The top cap may have a concave surface that defines the cover element cavity. Assembling the cover element from at least two parts, namely the top cap and the bottom, enables efficient assembly. The top cap may be fixed to the bottom, in particular by adhesive, conforming, especially snap fitting, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the cover element may be a single piece. In this case, the head is preferably inserted into the guide slot in a first orientation and then rotated to engage with the inside of the cover element cavity.

[0028] The cover element may include at least one guide projection that is guided along a guide surface within the housing. In particular, two guide projections are located on both sides of the cover element in the width direction. Specifically, two guide surfaces are provided within the housing and extend along a first path. Preferably, the guide surfaces are located on the side walls at the top of the housing. The side walls extend at least partially along the first path and may project in the longitudinal direction, particularly in the area of ​​the guide surfaces. The guide surfaces preferably extend along the first path and are curved or straight in a direction perpendicular to the first path.

[0029] In alternative embodiments, the cover element may include at least one guide projection that is guided into a guide recess within the housing. In particular, two guide projections are located on either side of the cover element in the width direction. Specifically, two guide recesses are provided within the housing and extend along a first path. Preferably, the guide recesses are located in the side wall at the top of the housing. The side wall extends at least partially along the first path and may project in the longitudinal direction, particularly in the area of ​​the guide recesses. The guide recesses may also be guide slots within the side wall.

[0030] The guide projection may be rigid. In an alternative embodiment, the guide projection may be elastic to compensate for tolerances, particularly to accommodate changes in the gap. The guide projection may be formed as a blade spring. The guide projection may be considered elastic if, when subjected to a restraining force, its most protruding end is displaced greater than the thickness of the guide projection. Otherwise, the guide projection may be considered rigid. The most protruding end of the guide projection may be displaced more than twice, particularly more than five times, the thickness of the guide projection when subjected to a restraining force.

[0031] A second aspect of the present invention provides an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to the first aspect of the present invention, as described in any of the embodiments herein. The aerosol generating system also comprises an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol-forming substrate. As used herein, the term "aerosol generating article" refers to an article containing an aerosol-forming substrate that, when heated, releases volatile compounds capable of forming aerosols.

[0032] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco plug. The tobacco plug may comprise one or more powders, granules, pellets, fragments, spaghetti, strips, or sheets containing one or more of tobacco leaves, tobacco stem fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, and puffed tobacco. Optionally, the tobacco plug may also comprise additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds released upon heating of the tobacco plug. Optionally, the tobacco plug may also comprise capsules containing, for example, additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds. Such capsules may melt during heating of the tobacco plug. Alternatively, or additionally, such capsules may be crushed before, during, or after heating of the tobacco plug.

[0033] If the tobacco plug contains homogenized tobacco material, the homogenized tobacco material may be formed by agglutinating particulate tobacco. The homogenized tobacco material may be in the form of a sheet. The homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosol-forming content greater than 5 percent by dry weight. Alternatively, the homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosol-forming content of 5 to 30 percent by weight by dry weight. The homogenized tobacco material sheet may be formed by agglutinating particulate tobacco obtained by crushing one or both of tobacco leaf laminas and tobacco leaf stems, or by other means of fine crushing, and alternatively, or additionally, the homogenized tobacco material sheet may contain one or more of the following: tobacco dust, tobacco fines, and other particulate tobacco by-products formed during tobacco processing, handling, and transport. The homogenized tobacco material sheet may contain one or more intrinsic binders (i.e., endogenous tobacco binders), one or more exogenous binders (i.e., exogenous tobacco binders), or a combination thereof, to assist in agglutinating particulate tobacco. Alternatively, or additionally, the homogenized tobacco material sheet may contain other additives, including but not limited to tobacco and non-tobacco fibers, aerosol formers, wetting agents, plasticizers, flavoring agents, fillers, aqueous and non-aqueous solvents, and combinations thereof. The homogenized tobacco material sheet is preferably formed by a casting process of a type that generally includes casting a slurry containing particulate tobacco and one or more binders onto a conveyor belt or other support surface, drying the cast slurry to form a homogenized tobacco material sheet, and removing the homogenized tobacco material sheet from the support surface.

[0034] The aerosol-generating article may have an overall length of approximately 30 mm to approximately 100 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have an outer diameter of approximately 5 mm to approximately 13 mm.

[0035] The aerosol generating article may include a mouthpiece positioned downstream of the cigarette plug. The mouthpiece may be located at the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. The mouthpiece may be a cellulose acetate filter plug. The mouthpiece is preferably about 7 millimeters in length, but can be about 5 to 10 millimeters in length.

[0036] The cigarette plug may have a length of approximately 10 millimeters. The cigarette plug may have a length of approximately 12 millimeters.

[0037] The diameter of the cigarette plug may be approximately 5 millimeters to approximately 12 millimeters.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating article has a total length of approximately 40 mm to approximately 50 mm. Preferably, the aerosol generating article has a total length of approximately 45 mm. Preferably, the aerosol generating article has an outer diameter of approximately 7.2 mm.

[0039] A third aspect of the present invention provides a method for opening and closing an opening in an aerosol generator, wherein the opening is adapted to receive an aerosol generating article, and a cover element is moved along a first path, particularly laterally with respect to the opening, between an open position where the opening is at least partially uncovered and a closed position where the cover element at least partially covers the opening. The cover element moves relative to a guide element, which pulls the cover element toward the housing, at least in the closed position. Thus, the tolerance clearance between the cover element and the housing can be reduced, thereby improving the closure of the opening. Preferably, the opening is completely covered by the cover element in the closed position.

[0040] In particular, the cover element includes a sealing element that contacts the housing and extends around the opening when the cover element is in the closed position.

[0041] In particular, one of the cover element and the guide element has a projection, and the other of the cover element and the guide element has a recess, where the projection and the recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the closed position.

[0042] In particular, one of the cover element and the guide element has a projection, and the other of the cover element and the guide element has a recess, where the projection and the recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the open position.

[0043] The guide element can move elastically in a direction different from the first path when the cover element is moved along the first path between the open and closed positions. Therefore, by increasing the elastic potential of the elastic element, the reaction force to movement along the first path can be changed along the movement of the cover element relative to the guide element. Thus, a tactile response can be provided at specific positions, particularly the open position, the closed position, or both the open and closed positions. Furthermore, the cover element can be held in the open position, the closed position, or both the open and closed positions against undesirable movement.

[0044] The guide element may pull the cover element toward the housing throughout the entire movement between the open and closed positions. Thus, the clearance between the cover element and the housing may be kept to a minimum throughout the entire movement, and the movement of the cover element outside the first path may be reduced to allow for precise guidance of the cover element.

[0045] The tensile force of the guide element can press at least one guide projection of the cover element against the wall of a guide recess in the housing. The guide projection may be provided on the side of the cover element. In particular, the guide recess is located within a protruding side wall of the housing. Preferably, the guide recess may be located on both sides of the cover element. The guide recess extends particularly along a first path.

[0046] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the use of a guide element is provided for elastically pushing the cover element toward the housing of an aerosol generator, while the cover element moves relative to the guide element and closes the opening of the housing with improved sealing properties.

[0047] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides a method for assembling a cover element on the housing of an aerosol generator, and in particular, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the bottom of the cover element is positioned on the upper surface of the housing of the aerosol generator, and the legs of a guide element are then inserted through guide slots in the bottom into openings of a spring cavity in the housing, and an elastic element positioned in the spring cavity engages with notches in the legs. Thus the legs are fixed in a manner that fits into the spring cavity. The head of the guide element can engage with the upper surface of the bottom, so that the bottom is slidably mounted on the upper surface of the housing. The elastic element can pull the bottom toward the housing.

[0048] Subsequently, the top cap may be positioned on the bottom so that a cover element cavity is formed, and the head of the guide element is positioned within the cover element cavity. Thus, the guide element is no longer visible and is protected.

[0049] Before inserting the legs into the spring cavity, the elastic elements may be positioned within the spring cavity, and the spring cavity may then be closed by a closure portion. The closure portion may be the lower closure portion, particularly the bottom wall. Sealing elements such as gaskets may be placed between the lower closure portion and the side wall of the spring cavity. The closure portion may be located on the opposite side of the spring cavity from the opening.

[0050] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generator is provided which includes an opening, the opening being adapted to receive an aerosol generating article, a cover element being adapted to move in a first direction relative to the opening between an open position in which the opening is at least partially uncovered and a closed position in which the cover element at least partially covers the opening, the cover element being adapted to move relative to a guide element, the guide element being adapted to pull the cover element toward the housing at least to the closed position.

[0051] Apparatuses according to the first or sixth aspect of the present invention may be used by the method of the third aspect of the present invention. The method of the third aspect of the present invention may be carried out in any of its embodiments by using an apparatus according to the first or sixth aspect of the present invention. The use of guide elements according to the fourth aspect of the present invention may be carried out by using an apparatus according to the first or sixth aspect of the present invention and a method step from the method of the third aspect of the present invention. An assembly method according to the fifth aspect may be used to assemble an apparatus according to the first or sixth aspect of the present invention.

[0052] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exclusive list of non-limiting embodiments is provided below.

[0053] One or more of the features of these embodiments may be combined with one or more features of other embodiments, models, or aspects described herein.

[0054] Example 1: An aerosol generator comprising a housing having an opening adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, and a cover element adapted to move relative to the housing between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the cover element at least partially covers the opening, and in the open position the opening is not at least partially covered, the cover element forms a cover element cavity, a guide element protrudes from the housing, and the guide element is received within the cover element cavity. Example 2: The aerosol generator according to Example 1, wherein a cover element can be adapted to move between a closed position and an open position along a first path which is lateral to the aerosol generating article. Example 3: The aerosol generator according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the guide element is adapted to apply a restraining force toward the housing on the cover element, at least when the cover element is in the closed position. Example 4: An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein when the cover element is positioned in the closed position, the cover element includes a sealing element that contacts the housing and extends around the opening. Example 5: An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the guide element is elastically biased toward the housing in a certain direction. Example 6: An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element has a projection, and the other of the cover element and the guide element has a recess, and when the cover element is in the closed position, the projection and the recess engage with each other. Example 7: An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element includes a projection, the other of the cover element and the guide element includes a recess, and when the cover element is in the open position, the projection and the recess engage with each other. Example 8: An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 5, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element is provided with a projection, and the other of the cover element and the guide element is provided with a first recess and a second recess, wherein when the cover element is in the closed position, the projection and the first recess engage with each other, and when the cover element is in the closed position, the projection and the second recess engage with each other. Example 9: An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 6 to 8, wherein the guide element is fitted to push the projection into the recess. Example 10: An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the guide element has legs, the legs extending from the inside to the outside of the housing, and the elastic element engages with the legs inside the housing. Example 11: The aerosol generator according to Example 11, wherein the elastic element is a latch spring. Example 12: The aerosol generator according to Example 10 or 11, wherein the elastic element is located within a spring cavity in the housing, the spring cavity has an opening, the legs extend through the opening of the spring cavity, and the spring cavity is airtightly closed to the inner compartment of the housing. Example 13: The aerosol generator according to Example 12, wherein the guide element has a head, the head is received within a cavity of the cover element, and the head has a width greater than the width of the legs. Example 14: The aerosol generator according to Embodiment 13, wherein the cover element has guide slots on a surface adjacent to the housing on which the legs of the guide element extend, and the head engages with the inner surface of a cover element cavity adjacent to the guide slots. Example 15: An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the cover element comprises a bottom and an upper cap, and a cover element cavity is formed between the upper cap and the bottom. Example 16: An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the cover element includes at least one guide projection that is guided into a guide recess in the housing. Example 17: An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article described in any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises an aerosol forming substrate. Example 18: A method for opening an opening in an aerosol generator, wherein the opening is adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, and a cover element is moved between an open position where the opening is not at least partially covered and a closed position where the cover element at least partially covers the opening, the cover element moves relative to a guide element, and the guide element pulls the cover element toward the housing to at least the closed position. Example 19: The method according to Example 18, wherein the cover element forms a cover element cavity, and the guide element is received within the cover element cavity. Example 20: The method according to Example 18 or 19, wherein the cover element includes a sealing element that contacts the housing when the cover element is in a closed position and extends around the opening. Example 21: The method according to any one of Examples 18 to 20, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element includes a projection, and the other of the cover element and the guide element includes a recess, and the projection and the recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the closed position. Example 22: The method according to any one of Examples 18 to 20, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element has a projection, and the other of the cover element and the guide element has a recess, and when the cover element is in the open position, the projection and the recess engage with each other. Example 23: The method according to any one of Examples 18 to 20, wherein a cover element moves along a first path, and when the cover element moves along the first path between an open position and a closed position, a guide element moves elastically in a direction different from the first path. Example 24: The method according to any one of Examples 18 to 23, wherein the guide element pulls the cover element toward the housing throughout the entire movement between the open and closed positions. Example 25: The method according to any one of Examples 18 to 24, wherein the tensile force of the guide element presses at least one guide projection of the cover element against the wall of the guide recess in the housing. Example 26: The use of a guide element to elastically press the cover element toward the housing of the aerosol generator, closing the opening of the housing with improved sealing properties while the cover element moves relative to the guide element. Example 27: In particular, a method for assembling a cover element on the housing of an aerosol generator, as described in any one of Examples 1 to 17 or 30, - The step of placing the bottom of the cover element on the upper surface of the housing of the aerosol generator, - An assembly method comprising the step of inserting the legs of a guide element into the opening of the spring cavity in the housing through guide slots at the bottom, such that an elastic element positioned within the spring cavity engages with a notch in the leg. Example 28: The assembly method according to Example 27, further comprising the step of positioning the upper cap on the bottom so that a cover element cavity is formed, and the head of the guide element is positioned within the cover element cavity. Example 29: The assembly method according to Example 27 or 28, further comprising the steps of positioning the elastic element within the spring cavity and closing the spring cavity with a closing portion. Example 30: Aerosol generator including an opening, the opening being fitted to receive an aerosol-generating article, a cover element being fitted to move in a first direction relative to the opening between an open position where the opening is at least partially uncovered and a closed position where the cover element at least partially covers the opening, the cover element being fitted to move relative to a guide element, and the guide element being fitted to pull the cover element toward the housing to at least the closed position.

[0055] Here, we will further describe the examples with reference to the figures.

[0056] An aerosol generator 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in the upright orientation of Figure 1. The aerosol generator 1 comprises a housing 2 and a cover element 3 slidably disposed on the housing 2 along a first path 100 in the lateral direction. The housing 2 extends mainly in the height direction 200 in the longitudinal axis direction, with relatively little extension in the width direction 300.

[0057] In its closed position, the cover element 3 covers the opening 4 of the heating chamber 5, as shown in Figure 4. In its open position, the cover element 3 allows a rod-shaped aerosol generating article to be inserted through the opening 4 of the heating chamber 5. The mouth end portion of the aerosol generating article typically protrudes over the opening 4, and once the aerosol generating article is heated in the heating chamber 5, it can be consumed substantially like a cigarette.

[0058] The housing 2 has a top surface 6 along which the cover element 3 can slide. Furthermore, the housing 2 includes an edge portion 7 that encloses the top surface 6. The edge portion 7 protrudes in the longitudinal direction 200 beyond the top surface 6, which forms a side wall at the top of the housing 2. In the closed position, the cover element 3 is positioned adjacent to the edge portion 7 on one side in the lateral direction 100. In the open position, the cover element 3 is positioned on the opposite edge portion 7 in the lateral direction 100.

[0059] Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the cover element 3. The cover element 3 includes an upper cap 8, which is positioned on and connected to the bottom 9. The upper cap 8 is fixed to the bottom 9. A cover element cavity 10 is provided between the bottom 9 and the upper cap 8. The guide slot 11 extends laterally 100 of the bottom 9. A first recess 12 and a second recess 13 are provided adjacent to the opposing ends of the guide slot 11. In particular, an aligned pair of first recesses 12 and an aligned pair of second recesses 13 are provided on both sides of the guide slot 11.

[0060] As shown in Figure 3, the guide element 14 is positioned on the housing 2. In particular, the guide element 14 is elastically movable in the height direction 200. As shown in Figure 5, the guide element 14 is pulled downward in the longitudinal direction 200 by an elastic element 15 in the form of a latch spring, causing the guide element 14 to pull the cover element 3 toward the housing 2. In particular, the guide element 14 is partially positioned within the spring cavity 16 of the housing 2. The elastic element 15 is fully positioned within the spring cavity 16.

[0061] The guide element 14 comprises a head 17 positioned within the cover element cavity 10 of the cover element 3. The guide element 14 further includes legs 18 that are at least partially positioned within the spring cavity 16. A notch 19 is formed within the legs 18. The elastic element 15 engages with the notch 19 to apply an elastic force in the downward longitudinal axis direction 200, pulling the guide element 14 toward the inside of the spring cavity 16.

[0062] As shown in Figure 6, the projection 20 is provided on the underside of the head 17 of the guide element 14. The projection 20 engages with the first recess 12 of the cover element 3 when the cover element 3 is in the closed position, as shown in Figure 3. When the cover element 3 is in the open position, the projection 20 of the guide element 14 engages with the second recess 13. During the sliding movement between the closed and open positions, the projection 20 slides along a sliding surface 21 that extends parallel to and adjacent to the guide slot 11 on the bottom 9 of the cover element 3. The engagement of the projection 20 in the recess 12 or 13 provides a tactile response in the form of a click, confirming to the consumer that the cover element 3 has reached the open or closed position.

[0063] The cover element 3 may be provided with guide projections 22 on each side in the width direction 300. The guide projections 22 engage with the curved surface 23 of the edge portion 7.

[0064] As shown in Figure 7, the spring cavity 16 in which the elastic element 15 is located is closed on its underside by a closing portion 24 in the form of a bottom wall. In particular, a gasket or adhesive is provided around the closing portion 24 so that the spring cavity 16 is sealed against the housing compartment containing the control electronics.

[0065] According to an embodiment of the method according to the present invention, the cover element 3 is moved along a first path in the lateral direction 100 from the closed position shown in Figure 1, and the projection 20 of the head 17 of the guide element 14 engages with the first recess 12. The guide element 14 remains stationary while the cover element 3 moves so that the projection 20 disengages from the first recess 12. Next, the cover element 3 is moved so that the sliding surface 21 of the bottom 9 slides along the projection 20 of the head 17 of the guide element 14. When the cover element 3 reaches the open position, the projection 20 engages with the second recess 13, and as a result the consumer feels a tactile response. At this position, the opening 4 is not completely covered, and the consumer may insert a rod-shaped aerosol generating article into the heating chamber 5.

[0066] In one embodiment of the assembly method according to the present invention, first, an elastic element 15 in the form of a latch spring is inserted into the spring cavity 16 from below. Next, the spring cavity is closed by a lower closing portion 24 in the form of the bottom wall of the spring cavity 16. Next, in the state shown in Figure 4, the bottom 9 of the cover element 3 is positioned on the upper surface 6 of the housing 2. The guide element 14 is inserted through the guide slot 11 with its legs 18 and pushed into the spring cavity 16, where the latch spring 15 engages with the notch 19 of the guide element 14. The latch spring 15 pulls the guide element 14 downward so that the head 17 of the guide element 14 is pressed against the sliding surface 21 or one of the pair of recesses 12, 13 with its projection 20. Thus, by a simple linear insertion motion, the guide element 14 is fixed to the latch spring 15 and the guide element 14 keeps the upper surface 6 and bottom 9 of the housing 2 in close contact. Next, the upper cap 8 is preferably secured to the bottom 9 by a snap-in element. Thus, the assembly of the cover element 3 is complete.

[0067] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers representing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc., should be understood in all cases as being modified by the term “approximately.” Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therewith, which may or may not be specifically listed herein. Thus, in this context, number A is understood as A ± 10%. In this context, number A can be considered to include a number that falls within the general standard error of the measurement of the characteristic that number A modifies. Number A may deviate by the percentages listed above, provided that in some cases, such as those used in the appended claims, the amount by which A deviates does not substantially affect the fundamental and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points and any intermediate ranges therewith, which may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. A housing having an opening adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, A cover element adapted to move relative to the housing between a closed position and an open position, In the closed position, the cover element covers the opening at least partially. In the open position, the opening is not covered at least partially. The cover element forms a cover element cavity, The guide element protrudes from the housing, The guide element is received within the cavity of the cover element, An aerosol generator in which the guide element comprises legs, the legs extending from the inside of the housing to the outside of the housing, and an elastic element engaging with the legs inside the housing.

2. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the guide element is adapted to apply a restraining force toward the housing on the cover element, at least when the cover element is in the closed position.

3. The aerosol generator according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element is provided with a projection, the other of the cover element and the guide element is provided with a first recess and a second recess, the projection and the first recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the closed position, and the projection and the second recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the open position.

4. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the elastic element is disposed in a spring cavity within the housing, the spring cavity has an opening, the leg extends through the opening of the spring cavity, and the spring cavity is airtightly closed to the inner compartment of the housing.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the guide element comprises a head, the head is received within the cavity of the cover element, and the head has a width greater than the width of the legs.

6. The aerosol generator according to claim 5, wherein the cover element has a guide slot on a surface adjacent to the housing through which the legs of the guide element pass and extend, and the head engages with the inner surface of the cover element cavity adjacent to the guide slot.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the cover element comprises a bottom and an upper cap, and a cavity of the cover element is formed between the upper cap and the bottom.

8. The aerosol generator according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cover element includes at least one guide projection that is guided into a guide recess in the housing.

9. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the aerosol generating article includes an aerosol forming substrate.

10. A method for closing the opening of the housing of an aerosol generator, The opening is adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, The cover element is moved between an open position in which the opening is not at least partially covered and a closed position in which the cover element at least partially covers the opening. The cover element moves relative to the guide element, The guide element pulls the cover element toward the housing to at least the closed position, A method wherein the guide element comprises legs, the legs extending from the inside of the housing to the outside of the housing, and an elastic element engages with the legs inside the housing.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein the cover element is moved along a first path, and when the cover element is moved along the first path between the open position and the closed position, the guide element moves elastically in a direction different from the first path.

12. A method for assembling a cover element on the housing of an aerosol generator, - The step of placing the bottom of the cover element on the upper surface of the housing of the aerosol generator, - An assembly method comprising the step of inserting the leg into the opening of the spring cavity through the bottom guide slot such that an elastic element located in the spring cavity within the housing engages with a notch in the leg of the guide element.

13. - The assembly method according to claim 12, further comprising the step of positioning an upper cap on the bottom such that a cover element cavity is formed, wherein the head of the guide element is positioned within the cover element cavity.

14. - The assembly method according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising the steps of positioning the elastic element within the spring cavity and closing the spring cavity with a closing portion.

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