Aerosol supply device

Abstract

The present invention provides an aerosol delivery device comprising: a heating chamber for receiving an aerosol product article, the aerosol product article being inserted into the heating chamber in a first longitudinal direction in use; one or more air inlets arranged to direct air into the aerosol delivery device in an inlet direction; and one or more first air channels arranged to direct air from the one or more air inlets in a second longitudinal direction, the second longitudinal direction being opposite to the first longitudinal direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device, an aerosol generation system, and a method of generating an aerosol.

Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars generate tobacco smoke by burning tobacco during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion. Examples of such products are so-called "non-combustion heating type" products that release compounds by heating a material without burning it, or tobacco heating devices or products. The material can be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, and may or may not contain nicotine.

[0003] [[ID=1S]] Aerosol supply systems for handling the above-described devices or products are known. In a typical system, a heater is used to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium, which is then inhaled by the user. Often, in order to supply different aerosols for inhalation, it is necessary to replace or change the medium used. As a heater for generating an aerosol from a suitable medium, it is known to use an induction heating system. An induction heating system generally consists of a magnetic field generating device for generating a fluctuating magnetic field, and a susceptor or heating material that can be heated by penetration by the fluctuating magnetic field for heating a suitable medium.

[0004] Conventional aerosol supply devices include a cylindrical heating chamber into which a rod-shaped consumable is inserted.

[0005] There is a desire to provide an improved aerosol supply device.

Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect, there is provided an aerosol supply device, A heating chamber for receiving an aerosol product, wherein the aerosol product is inserted into the heating chamber in a first longitudinal direction when in use, One or more air inlets are arranged to guide air into the aerosol supply device toward the inlet, A device comprising: one or more first air channels arranged to guide air from one or more air inlets in a second longitudinal direction, wherein the second longitudinal direction is opposite to the first longitudinal direction. An aerosol supply device is provided.

[0007] According to various embodiments, air may be drawn into the aerosol supply device through one or more air inlets that may be located near the distal end of the aerosol supply device. The air may then pass through one or more air channels in the opposite direction to the insertion direction of the aerosol product, i.e., toward the proximal end of the aerosol supply device. As a result, air may be drawn into the aerosol supply device from a region that is likely to be relatively cool and less likely to contain user exhaled breath. Consequently, the air drawn into the aerosol supply device is relatively cool and relatively clean.

[0008] Optionally, the aerosol supply device further comprises a heating element for heating the aerosol product.

[0009] Optionally, the aerosol supply device is an elongated aerosol supply device having a longitudinal axis, where the first longitudinal direction is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0010] Optionally, one or more air inlets are located away from the opening.

[0011] Optionally, one or more air inlets are located distal to the heating chamber.

[0012] Optionally, the entrance direction is radial.

[0013] Optionally, the entrance direction is perpendicular to the first longitudinal direction.

[0014] Optionally, the entrance direction is perpendicular to the second longitudinal direction.

[0015] Optionally, one or more first air channels overlap the heating chamber longitudinally.

[0016] Optionally, one or more first air channels extend proximal to the heating element.

[0017] Optionally, one or more first air channels are located radially outward from the heating chamber.

[0018] Optionally, the second direction is at an angle with respect to the inlet direction such that one or more air inlets and one or more first air channels are arranged to guide air through one or more air inlets along one or more first air channels in an L-shaped path.

[0019] Optionally, the aerosol supply device further comprises one or more second air channels arranged to guide air from one or more first air channels in a third direction.

[0020] Optionally, the third direction is the radial direction.

[0021] Optionally, one or more second air channels are arranged to guide air into the heating chamber from one or more first air channels.

[0022] Optionally, the aerosol supply device further comprises one or more third air channels arranged to guide air from one or more first air channels in a fourth direction.

[0023] Optionally, one or more third air channels are arranged to guide air from one or more second air channels in a fourth direction.

[0024] Optionally, the fourth direction is a longitudinal direction towards the distal end of the heating chamber.

[0025] Optionally, the aerosol supply device further comprises an inner surface for contacting the aerosol generating article when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the heating chamber during use, The inner surface comprises a longitudinally extending portion facing radially inwards and an end portion at the distal end of the longitudinally extending portion.

[0026] Optionally, the inner surface comprises one or more longitudinal recesses extending towards the distal end of the heating chamber.

[0027] Optionally, the longitudinally extending portion of the inner surface comprises one or more longitudinal recesses.

[0028] Optionally, the one or more third air channels include one or more gaps defined between the aerosol generating article and the one or more longitudinal recesses when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the heating chamber during use.

[0029] Optionally, the one or more longitudinal recesses overlap the length of the heating element in the longitudinal direction.

[0030] Optionally, the one or more longitudinal recesses include one or more longitudinal grooves.

[0031] Optionally, the longitudinally extending portion contacts the aerosol generating article along substantially the entire length of the longitudinally extending portion when the aerosol generating article is inserted into the heating chamber during use.

[0032] Optionally, the aerosol supply device further comprises one or more fourth air channels arranged to direct air from the one or more third air channels in a fifth direction, the fifth direction being radial.

[0033] Optionally, the end portion of the inner surface is provided with one or more radial recesses extending in a fifth direction. One or more fourth air channels include one or more gaps defined between the aerosol product and one or more radial recesses when the aerosol product is inserted into the heating chamber during use.

[0034] Optionally, the end portion comprises one or more stepped projections configured to contact the distal end of the aerosol product when the aerosol product is inserted into the heating element during use, and the one or more stepped projections define one or more radial recesses.

[0035] Optionally, the inner surface is the surface of the heating chamber.

[0036] Optionally, the aerosol supply device further comprises an article chamber for receiving aerosol products, the article chamber extending at least partially into the heating chamber, and the inner surface is the surface of the article chamber.

[0037] Optionally, the aerosol supply device comprises a main housing and a removal mechanism.

[0038] The heating element may optionally extend within the heating chamber.

[0039] Optionally, the main housing includes walls surrounding the heating chamber.

[0040] Optionally, the wall is a tubular wall.

[0041] Optionally, the removal mechanism is detachably retained in the main housing when in use.

[0042] Optionally, the removal mechanism comprises an article chamber having a tubular portion and a base portion, and an outer cap that at least partially encloses the article chamber. The gap between the article chamber and the outer cap is configured to accommodate the wall of the main housing.

[0043] Optionally, one or more first air channels include one or more gaps defined between the wall of the main housing and the outer cap of the removal mechanism when the removal mechanism is held in the main housing during use.

[0044] Optionally, the wall of the main housing has a corrugated outer surface, and one or more first air channels include one or more gaps defined between the corrugated outer surface and the outer cap of the removal mechanism when the removal mechanism is held in the main housing during use.

[0045] Optionally, the outer surface of the corrugated material is provided with a plurality of longitudinally extending ridges.

[0046] Optionally, multiple longitudinally extending ridges have ridge spacings of <0.5 mm, 0.5-1.0 mm, 1.0-2.0 mm, 2.0-3.0 mm, 3.0-4.0 mm, 4.0-5.0 mm, or >5.0 mm. In another embodiment, an aerosol supply device, A heating chamber for receiving an aerosol product, wherein the aerosol product is inserted into the heating chamber in a first longitudinal direction when in use, One or more air inlets are arranged to guide air into the aerosol supply device toward the inlet, One or more first air channels arranged to guide air from one or more air inlets in a circumferential direction, An aerosol supply device is provided that includes the following features.

[0047] Optionally, the aerosol supply device further comprises a heating element for heating the aerosol product.

[0048] Optionally, the aerosol supply device is an elongated aerosol supply device having a longitudinal axis, where the first longitudinal direction is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0049] Optionally, one or more air inlets are located away from the opening.

[0050] Optionally, one or more air inlets are located distal to the heating chamber.

[0051] Optionally, the entrance direction is radial.

[0052] Optionally, one or more first air channels are located radially outward from the heating chamber.

[0053] Optionally, one or more first air channels overlap the heating chamber longitudinally.

[0054] Optionally, one or more first air channels extend proximal to the heating element.

[0055] Optionally, one or more first air channels are located in a common plane perpendicular to the first direction.

[0056] Optionally, one or more first air channels include a circulation chamber.

[0057] Optionally, the circulation chamber is annular.

[0058] Optionally, the aerosol supply device further comprises one or more air outlets arranged to direct air out of one or more first air channels.

[0059] Optionally, one or more air outlets are displaced circumferentially from one or more air inlets.

[0060] Optionally, one or more air outlets and one or more air inlets are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction.

[0061] Optionally, the aerosol supply device further comprises one or more second air channels arranged to guide air from one or more air outlets in a second longitudinal direction, the second longitudinal direction being substantially opposite to the first longitudinal direction.

[0062] Optionally, one or more second air channels are arranged to guide air into the heating chamber from one or more air outlets.

[0063] Optionally, one or more second air channels are provided with one or more openings within the distal end of the heating chamber.

[0064] Optionally, the second longitudinal direction is parallel to the first longitudinal direction. According to another embodiment, Charging unit and The aerosol supply device described above, An aerosol generation system is provided that includes the following features.

[0065] Optionally, the aerosol generation system further comprises aerosol products. According to another embodiment, To provide an aerosol supply device equipped with a heating chamber for receiving aerosol products, The aerosol product is inserted into the heating chamber in the first longitudinal direction, The process involves directing air towards the inlet through one or more inlets within the aerosol supply device, The method includes directing air from one or more air inlets through one or more first air channels in a second longitudinal direction, wherein the second longitudinal direction is opposite to the first longitudinal direction. A method for generating aerosols is provided. According to another embodiment, To provide an aerosol supply device equipped with a heating chamber for receiving aerosol products, The aerosol product is inserted into the heating chamber in the first longitudinal direction, The aerosol supply device guides air towards the inlet through one or more air inlets, Guide air from one or more air inlets circumferentially through one or more first channels, A method for generating an aerosol, including [a specific component], is provided.

[0066] Next, various embodiments will be described as mere examples, with reference to the attached drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0067] [Figure 1] This shows the aerosol supply device located within the charging unit. [Figure 2] A cross-sectional view of aerosol generation is shown. [Figure 3] This diagram shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of an aerosol supply device according to one embodiment, and also shows an L-shaped airflow path passing through the aerosol supply device. [Figure 4] This shows the corrugated surface on the outer surface of the tubular wall of the main housing of the aerosol supply device. [Figure 5] Different diagrams of the corrugated surface on the outer surface of the tubular wall of the main housing of the aerosol supply device are shown. [Figure 6] A portion of the main housing of an aerosol supply device according to one embodiment is shown, along with the channel through which the removal mechanism passes. [Figure 7] This shows a channel formed within the removal mechanism. [Figure 8] Different diagrams of the airflow channels formed within the removal mechanism are shown. [Figure 9] The longitudinal channel formed within the removal mechanism is shown along with the channel formed in the removal mechanism. [Figure 10]This shows the base portion of the removal mechanism that contacts the distal end of the aerosol product, and the base portion of the removal mechanism is provided with four radial airflow channels. [Figure 11A] A cross-sectional view of an aerosol supply device according to another embodiment is shown, along with a C-shaped airflow path passing through the aerosol supply device. [Figure 11B] A cross-sectional view showing an annular airflow path is shown. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0068] According to this disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol supply system is a system in which the aerosol-generating materials (or their components) that make up the aerosol supply system are not burned or incinerated in order to facilitate the delivery of at least one substance to the user.

[0069] In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol supply system.

[0070] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol delivery system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), but it should be noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol-generating material is not a requirement.

[0071] In some embodiments, the non-combustion aerosol supply system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustion heating system. An example of such a system is a cigarette heating system.

[0072] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system is a hybrid system that generates an aerosol using a combination of one or more aerosol-generating materials, each of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol-generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. The solid aerosol-generating material may, for example, include tobacco or non-tobacco products.

[0073] Typically, a non-combustible aerosol supply system may comprise a non-combustible aerosol supply device and consumables for use with the non-combustible aerosol supply device.

[0074] In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising an aerosol-generating material and configured for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device. These consumables may be referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

[0075] In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol supply system, such as a non-combustible aerosol supply device, may include a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, a power supply or a heat-generating power source. In some embodiments, the heat-generating power source includes a carbon substrate to which energy can be supplied to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol-generating material or heat-transferring material adjacent to the heat-generating power source.

[0076] In some embodiments, a non-combustion aerosol supply system may include an area for receiving consumables, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0077] In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-combustible aerosol supply device may include aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, packaging material, a filter, a suction nozzle, and / or an aerosol modifier.

[0078] Aerosol-generating materials are materials that can generate aerosols when heated, irradiated, or given energy by any other means. Aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of a solid, liquid, or semi-solid (such as a gel), which may or may not contain active substances and / or flavorings.

[0079] The aerosol-generating material may include a binder and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, an activator and / or filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent such as water may also be present, and one or more other components of the aerosol-generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant-based materials. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

[0080] The aerosol-generating material may include, or may be, an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may be formed by combining a binder, such as a gelling agent, with a solvent, such as water, an aerosol-forming agent, and one or more other components, such as an active substance, to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to volatilize at least a portion of the solvent to form the aerosol-generating film. The slurry may be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, or 90 wt% of the solvent. The aerosol-generating film may be a continuous film or a discontinuous film, such as an arrangement of individual parts of the film on a support. The aerosol-generating film may not substantially contain tobacco.

[0081] The aerosol-generating film may include a sheet that can be selectively shredded to form shredded sheets, or a sheet that can be selectively shredded to form shredded sheets.

[0082] The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and / or flavorings, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

[0083] An aerosol generator is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to supply thermal energy to the aerosol-generating material so that it releases one or more volatile substances from the material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to supply one or more of the following to the aerosol-generating material: vibration, pressure increase, or electrostatic energy.

[0084] Consumables are articles comprising or consisting of aerosol-generating material, some or all of which are intended to be consumed during use by the user. Consumables may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, packaging material, a mouthpiece, a filter, and / or an aerosol modifier. Consumables may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which generates heat during use to cause the aerosol-generating material to produce an aerosol. The heater may comprise, for example, a flammable material, an electrically conductive material, or a susceptor.

[0085] A susceptor is a heating material that can be heated by penetration by a fluctuating magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be a conductive material, and as a result, penetration of the conductive material by a fluctuating magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material, and as a result, penetration of the magnetic material by a fluctuating magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both conductive and magnetic, and as a result, the susceptor can be heated by both heating mechanisms. An aerosol supply device configured to generate a fluctuating magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

[0086] A non-combustible aerosol supply system may comprise a modular assembly that includes both a reusable aerosol supply device and replaceable aerosol products. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may include a power source and a controller (or control circuit). The power source may be a power source such as a battery or rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol supply device may also include an aerosol generating component. However, in other implementations, the aerosol product may comprise the aerosol generating component partially or entirely.

[0087] Induction heating is the process by which a conductive object called a susceptor is heated by passing a fluctuating magnetic field through it. This process is described by Faraday's law and Ohm's law. An induction heater may comprise an electromagnet and a device for passing a fluctuating current, such as an alternating current, through the electromagnet. The electromagnet and the object to be heated are preferably positioned relative to each other so that one or more eddy currents are generated within the object when the resulting fluctuating magnetic field, generated by the electromagnet, passes through the object. The object has resistance to the flow of current, and when such eddy currents are generated within the object, the flow of eddy currents against the object's electrical resistance heats the object. This process is called Joule heating, Ohm heating, or resistance heating.

[0088] Magnetic hysteresis heating is the process by which an object made of a magnetic material is heated when a fluctuating magnetic field is passed through it. A magnetic material can be thought of as containing many atomic-scale magnets, or magnetic dipoles. When a magnetic field passes through such a material, the magnetic dipoles align with the field. Therefore, when a fluctuating magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field generated by an electromagnet, passes through a magnetic material, the orientation of the magnetic dipoles changes with the fluctuating applied magnetic field. Such reorientation of magnetic dipoles causes the generation of heat within the magnetic material.

[0089] When an object is both conductive and magnetic, a fluctuating magnetic field passing through it can induce both Joule heating and magnetic hysteresis heating within the object. Furthermore, the use of magnetic materials can strengthen the magnetic field, which can enhance Joule heating.

[0090] Next, various embodiments will be described in more detail.

[0091] Figure 1 shows an aerosol generation system according to one embodiment, comprising an aerosol supply device 100 positioned and shown within a cavity of a charging unit 101. The aerosol supply device 100 is configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol product that can be inserted into the aerosol supply device 100 when in use.

[0092] The aerosol supply device 100 is an elongated structure extending along its longitudinal axis. Furthermore, the aerosol supply device has a proximal end that is closest to the user (e.g., the user's mouth) when the user uses the aerosol generated by the aerosol supply device 100 for inhalation, and a distal end that is furthest from the user during use. The proximal end may also be called the "mouthpiece end". Thus, the aerosol supply device 100 also defines a proximal direction directed toward the user during use, i.e., a direction from the distal end to the proximal end. Furthermore, the aerosol supply device 100 also similarly defines a distal direction directed away from the user during use, i.e., a direction from the proximal end to the distal end.

[0093] The aerosol supply device 100 can be removably inserted into a charging unit 101 for charging. The charging unit 101 has a cavity for receiving the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol supply device 100 can be inserted into the cavity through an opening. The cavity may also have a longitudinal opening. A portion of the aerosol supply device 100 may have a first side surface. One or more user-operable control elements, such as a button 106 that can be used to operate the aerosol supply device 100, may be provided on the first side surface of the aerosol supply device 100. The first side surface of the aerosol supply device 100 can be received into a longitudinal opening provided in the charging unit 101.

[0094] According to one embodiment, the cavity of the charging unit 101 may have a cross-sectional profile that allows the aerosol supply device 100 to be inserted into the charging unit 101 in only one orientation. According to one embodiment, the outer profile of the aerosol supply device 100 may include curved portions and straight portions. The cross-sectional profile of the cavity provided within the charging unit 101 may also include similar curved portions and straight portions. The straight portions of the cavity's cross-sectional profile may correspond to longitudinal openings.

[0095] The aerosol supply device 100 has an opening leading to a heating chamber. A rod-shaped aerosol product comprising an aerosol-generating material may be inserted through the opening or held within the heating chamber of the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol product may be heated by a heating element, which may result in the generation of an aerosol or other inhalable medium, which can then be inhaled by a user of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0096] The charging unit 101 may include a sliding lid 103. When the aerosol supply device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 for recharging, the sliding lid 103 can be closed to cover the opening to the aerosol supply device 100. The charging unit 101 may include a user interface such as a display 108.

[0097] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of an aerosol supply device 100 according to one embodiment. The aerosol supply device 100 comprises a main housing 200 that forms a heating chamber 201. The main housing 200 may have a wall 200a which is a tubular wall 200a that extends along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100 and surrounds the heating chamber 201. The wall 200a can define the heating chamber 201 of the aerosol supply device 100 as a volume enclosed within the tubular wall 200a, at least in part. The wall 200a may have a shape other than tubular and may be any shape that surrounds (e.g., encloses) and defines the heating chamber 201 inside. The heating element 202 may be provided within a portion of the main housing 200, and the heating element 202 may extend into the heating chamber 201 or protrude into the heating chamber 201. The heating element 202 may include a base portion 202a that can be positioned within a recess provided in a part of the main housing 200.

[0098] The heating element 202 may include a resistance heating element. According to one embodiment, the heating element 202 includes a pin that can be inserted into the distal end of the aerosol product received in the heating chamber 201 during use in order to heat the aerosol product internally.

[0099] Other embodiments may include a resistance blade heating element having a planar portion and a pointed portion. The pointed portion of the resistance blade heating element may be positioned to be inserted into the distal end of the aerosol product during use in order to heat the aerosol product internally.

[0100] Further embodiments may include an induction heating element that can be configured to internally heat the aerosol product. The induction heating element may similarly comprise pins or blades. In further embodiments, the heating element of the aerosol supply system may be part of the aerosol product rather than part of the aerosol supply device 100.

[0101] The aerosol supply device 100 further comprises a removal mechanism 204 that can be detachably held in the main housing 200 of the aerosol supply device 100. The removal mechanism 204 can be held in the main housing 200 such that at least a portion of the removal mechanism 204 extends into the heating chamber 201. The removal mechanism 204 may comprise a longitudinal portion such as a tubular portion 207a and a base portion 207b. The base portion 207b may have an aperture 206 through which the heating element 202 may protrude. To hold the removal mechanism 204 in the main housing 200, the removal mechanism 204 is pushed distally, i.e., toward the distal end of the main housing 200, to engage with the main housing 200 until the removal mechanism 204 can no longer move distally. In the following description, when the removal mechanism 204 is referred to as "held" by the main housing 200, this means that the removal mechanism 204 is engaged with the main housing 200 and cannot move any further distally.

[0102] The tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b together may define and enclose an article chamber for receiving an aerosol product. The article chamber has an inner surface configured to contact the aerosol product, the inner surface comprising a longitudinally extending portion provided by the tubular portion 207a and an end portion provided by the base portion 207b. When the aerosol product is received in the heating chamber, the aerosol product may come into contact with both the longitudinally extending portion and the end portion of the inner surface. In particular, the article chamber (i.e., the tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b) may be configured to receive at least a portion of an aerosol product in the form of a longitudinally extending, cylindrical rod such that the longitudinal axis of the article is parallel to (and optionally aligned in a line with) the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100 when the article is received in the article chamber.

[0103] The article chamber may also be called the receiving portion. When the removal mechanism 204 is held in the main housing 200 during use, the article chamber of the removal mechanism 204 is at least partially located within the heating chamber 201. The heating element 202 may be positioned to protrude into the article chamber through an aperture 206 provided within the base portion 207b of the removal mechanism 204. Thus, the removal mechanism 204 is configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol product during use.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the removal mechanism 204 may include a first magnet or magnetizable material 208. The main housing 200 may include a second magnet or magnetizable material 209. When in use, the removal mechanism 204 may be magnetically held to the main housing 200 by the interaction between the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209.

[0105] According to various embodiments, the removal mechanism 204 is completely separable from the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 may be magnetically held to the main housing 200 by the magnetic attraction between the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209. The removal mechanism 204 may be separated from the main housing 200 by overcoming the magnetic force between the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209. Alternatively, the removal mechanism 204 may be removably held to the main housing 200 by other means. For example, the removal mechanism 204 may be configured to be removably held to the main housing 200 by an interlocking fit with the main housing.

[0106] The first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and / or the second magnet or magnetizable material 209 may include neodymium iron boron (NdFeB), samarium cobalt (SmCo), alnico, ceramic, or ferrite magnets.

[0107] Other embodiments are conceivable that include magnetizable components or temporary magnets in which the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and / or the second magnet or magnetizable material 209 may be composed of iron, iron alloy, nickel, nickel alloy, cobalt, cobalt alloy, gadolinium, gadolinium alloy, dysprosium, or dysprosium alloy.

[0108] Further embodiments are conceivable in which the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and / or the second magnet or magnetizable material 209 may include an electromagnet.

[0109] The removal mechanism 204 may comprise an internal element (comprising a tubular portion 207a and a base portion 207b) and an outer cap portion 210, and when held in the main housing 200, the outer cap portion 210 encloses (e.g., covers) at least a portion of the main housing 200, such as the wall 200a of the main housing. The tubular portion 207a, the base portion 207b, and the outer cap portion 210 may comprise an integrated (e.g., single) component (e.g., formed by molding). Alternatively, the tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b may comprise a first component, and the outer cap portion 210 may comprise a second separate component. In this case, the first and second components may be fixed to each other.

[0110] Figure 3 shows a partial cross-sectional view of an aerosol supply device 100 according to one embodiment, and shows a main housing 200 having a heating element 202 extending into a heating chamber 201, with a removal mechanism 204 being removably held in the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 surrounds the heating element 202. An aerosol product 300 is shown, at least partially within the article chamber, and therefore further positioned by the heating chamber 201 so that the aerosol product 300 is positioned on the heating element 202.

[0111] The outer cap portion 210, when held in the main housing 200, forms part of the outer housing of the aerosol supply device 100. The outer cap portion 210 may radially surround the tubular element 207a, and a gap is provided between the internal element (e.g., the tubular element 207a) and the outer cap 210, the gap extending along part of the length of the removal mechanism 204 and configured to receive part of the main housing 200, e.g., the wall 200a. The removal mechanism 204 may define an opening 203 to the article chamber, and the aerosol product 300 must be inserted through a first direction in order to be inserted into the article chamber. This first direction is distal and may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. In this embodiment, the opening 203 is configured to contact the aerosol product 300 so as to substantially prevent air from passing through the opening 203 when the aerosol product 300 is inserted into the article chamber through the opening 203.

[0112] The first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209 may be positioned within the main housing 200 and within the removal mechanism 204, respectively, so that the removal mechanism 204 is magnetically held in the main housing 200, and so that they are close enough to each other to generate an attractive force between them when the removal mechanism 204 is held in the main housing 200. For example, the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 may be positioned at the proximal end of a portion of the main housing 200, for example, at the proximal end of a wall 200a that is inserted into a gap within the removal mechanism 204 (i.e., between the outer cap 210 and the internal elements 207a, 207b) when the removal mechanism 204 is held in the main housing 200, and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209 may be positioned at a corresponding location within the removal mechanism 204, for example, so that the second magnet or magnetizable material 209 is sufficiently close to the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 when the removal mechanism 204 engages with the main housing 200, and the attractive force between the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209 keeps the removal mechanism 204 held in the main housing 200.

[0113] Figure 4 shows one embodiment of the main housing 200, in particular the wall 200a. As shown, the wall 200a is tubular and has a corrugated outer surface 240, i.e., a corrugated outer surface 240 located on the radially outer surface of the wall 200a. The main housing 200 also includes a shelf 241 located distal to the corrugated outer surface 240, the shelf 241 being configured to contact the outer cap 210 of the removal mechanism 204 (e.g., the distal end of the outer cap 210) when the removal mechanism 204 is held in the main housing 200. The corrugated outer surface 240 extends around the circumferential portion of the wall 200a, and in other embodiments, it may extend around the entire circumference of the wall 200a. The outer surface 240 of the corrugated surface has lengths such as <10mm, 10-20mm, 20-30mm, 30-40mm, 40-50mm, 50-60mm, 60-70mm, 70-80mm, 80-90mm, 90-100mm, 100-110mm, 110-120mm, 120-130mm, 130-140mm, 140-150mm, and 150mm. It comprises multiple longitudinally extending ridges having lengths of ~160mm, 160~170mm, 170~180mm, 180~190mm, 190~200mm, or >200mm, and furrow spacing of <0.5mm, 0.5~1.0mm, 1.0~2.0mm, 2.0~3.0mm, 3.0~4.0mm, 4.0~5.0mm, or >5.0mm.

[0114] Furthermore, the main housing 200 includes one or more projections 242, for example, of a shelf 241, which extend proximally and are configured to be received by one or more corresponding retaining elements (not shown) within the removal mechanism 204. These one or more projections 242 may provide a rotational lock of the removal mechanism 204 relative to the main housing 200 when the removal mechanism 204 is held in the main housing 200. The one or more projections 242 may include a plurality of projections 242, which are arranged at different circumferential positions and are configured to be received by one or more corresponding retaining elements within the removal mechanism 204.

[0115] Figure 5 shows an embodiment of the main housing 200 of Figure 4 from a different angle, showing the non-circular portion 250 of the wall 200a. Referring to both Figures 3 and 5, the non-circular portion 250 is configured to receive the corresponding non-circular portion of the internal elements of the removal mechanism 204 so as to prevent relative rotational movement between the removal mechanism 204 and the main housing 200 when the removal mechanism 204 is held in the main housing 200.

[0116] During use, the user can insert or partially insert the aerosol product 300 into the aerosol supply device 100 through the opening 203. The aerosol product 300 is received in the tubular portion 207a of the removal mechanism 204, and thus the aerosol product 300 is received in the article chamber defined by the tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b, and further received in the heating chamber 201. The heating element 202 may be positioned to pierce the distal end of the aerosol product 300, thereby positioning the heating element 202 within the aerosol product 300 and arranging to heat the aerosol product 300 by internal heating.

[0117] Referring back to Figure 3, once the aerosol product 300 is inserted into the aerosol supply device 100, the user may perform a session. During the session, the aerosol product 300 may be heated by the heating element 202. It will be understood that a session may last for several minutes. For example, according to various embodiments, a session may last 2-3 minutes, 3-4 minutes, or 4-5 minutes.

[0118] At the end of a usage session, the user may wish to remove the used aerosol product 300 from the aerosol supply device 100 and optionally replace the used aerosol product 300 with an unused aerosol product 300. According to one embodiment, in order to remove the used aerosol product 300 after a usage session, the user may separate the removal mechanism 204 from the main housing 200 by applying force to the removal mechanism 204 to overcome the magnetic attraction between a first magnet 208 located in the removal mechanism 204 and a second magnet located in the main housing 200.

[0119] The aerosol supply device 100 includes a channel 220 configured to support airflow. The channel 220 extends through one or more air inlets 221 of the aerosol supply device 100, positioned on the side of the aerosol supply device 100 at a distance from the proximal end of the aerosol supply device 100, the side of the aerosol supply device 100 being the outer surface of the aerosol supply device 100, which extends between the proximal and distal ends of the aerosol supply device 100 and may face outward in a direction away from the longitudinal axis of the device. The one or more air inlets 221 allow air surrounding the device to be drawn into the channel 220, that is, the one or more air inlets 221 are optionally arranged to guide air from the peripheral area of ​​the aerosol supply device 100 into the aerosol supply device 100 in an inlet direction which is radial toward the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. These one or more air inlets 221 may be located distal to the heating chamber 201.

[0120] Furthermore, one or more air inlets 221 may be located distal to the removal mechanism 204. In embodiments, one or more air inlets 221 comprise one or more openings defined between the distal end of the outer cap 210 of the removal mechanism 204 and the main housing 200, the one or more openings being present when the removal mechanism 204 is held in the main housing 200. In particular, one or more air inlets 221 may comprise one or more openings defined between one or more protrusions 242 (see Figures 4 and 50, and one or more stoppers in the outer cap of the removal mechanism). Alternatively or additionally, one or more air inlets 221 may correspond to one or more openings through the outer cap 210 or one or more openings in the main housing 200.

[0121] The flow path 220 begins at one or more air inlets 221 and then extends in a second direction toward the proximal end of the device through one or more first air channels 222 (see Figures 4 and 5). This second direction can be the proximal direction, and one or more first air channels 222 may extend to the proximal end of the main housing 200, i.e., the proximal end of the wall 200a. Thus, one or more first air channels 222 are arranged to guide air from one or more air inlets 221 in the second direction, optionally to the proximal end of the main housing 200. In embodiments, one or more first air channels 222 longitudinally overlap the heating element 202 and optionally extend beyond the proximal end of the heating element 202. One or more first air channels 222 are located radially outward of the article chamber and the heating chamber 201.

[0122] The second direction is at an angle to the inlet direction, for example, perpendicular to the inlet direction, and thus the air is arranged to follow an L-shaped path through one or more air inlets 221 and along one or more first air channels 222. As will be described in more detail below, by guiding the air through the aerosol product from the distal end along this L-shaped path, the air is drawn out from the region distal to the proximal end of the device, i.e., the “inhalation end,” and thus the warmth may be reduced and the possibility of containing user exhaled breath may be reduced. Furthermore, by drawing this air along the L-shaped path through the aerosol supply device 100, the air may become cooler and cleaner, and therefore, particularly in the region adjacent to the heating element 202 and the heating chamber 201, the air can act to provide a cooling effect within the aerosol supply device 100.

[0123] In embodiments, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, one or more first air channels 222 may include a gap defined between the wall 200a of the main housing 200 and the outer cap 210 of the removal mechanism 204, which is formed when the removal mechanism 204 is held in the main housing 200. By defining one or more first air channels 222 using this corrugated outer surface 240, resistance to suction and a pressure drop can be added to the air flowing along the air path. Furthermore, the high surface area of ​​the corrugated outer surface 240 can act to provide effective heat exchange, enabling cooling of the removal mechanism 204.

[0124] Alternatively or additionally, one or more first air channels 222 (see Figure 3) may extend within the main housing 200 or within a removal mechanism, for example, within the outer cap 210.

[0125] Referring to Figure 3, the flow path extends through one or more first air channels 222, and then extends in a third direction through one or more second air channels 223. These one or more second air channels 222 extend in a third direction radially inward and are arranged to guide air from one or more first air channels 222 in a third direction toward the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. In embodiments, one or more second air channels 222 extend to the article cavity, but one or more second air channels 222 may extend to the heating chamber 201, or optionally to a position radially outward of the heating chamber 201.

[0126] Figure 6 shows one embodiment of the aerosol supply device 100, including a main housing 200 and a removal mechanism 204. In particular, the outer cap 210 of the removal mechanism is shown in wireframe so that the internal portion (having a tubular portion 207a) can be seen. The tubular portion 207a of the removal mechanism extends into a heated cavity defined by the wall 200a of the main housing 200 as described above, and includes a radially extending portion 261 at the proximal end of the tubular portion 207a, which is configured to abut against the proximal end of the main housing 200, i.e., the proximal end of the wall 200a, when the removal mechanism 204 is held in the main housing 200.

[0127] One or more second air channels 223 have one or more openings within the removal mechanism 204. In particular, one or more second air channels 223 have one or more openings defined between the internal portion 207a of the removal mechanism 204 and the outer cap 210 of the removal mechanism 204. Defining these one or more openings between the internal portion 207a of the removal mechanism 204 and the outer cap 210 makes the manufacture of the removal mechanism 204 easier. One or more openings may include one, two, three, four, five, six, or more openings. These one or more openings may be arranged equidistant from each other to allow a uniform circumferential airflow through one or more openings. One or more openings extend radially inward from one or more first air channels 222 to the article chamber.

[0128] Alternatively or additionally, one or more second air channels 223 may extend within the main housing 200 or within a removal mechanism, for example, within the outer cap 210.

[0129] The airflow path extends through one or more second air channels 223, and then extends in a fourth direction through one or more third air channels 224. The one or more third air channels 224 are arranged to guide air from one or more second air channels 223 in the fourth direction and optionally extend distally in the fourth direction toward the distal end of the aerosol supply device 100. This fourth direction may be opposite to the second direction and may be parallel to the second direction. These one or more third air channels 224 are arranged to guide air toward the distal end of the aerosol supply device 100, to the distal end of the article chamber, to the distal end of the heating chamber 201, or distally beyond the heating chamber 201.

[0130] One or more third air channels 224 include a gap defined between the inner surface of the article chamber and the aerosol product 300, for example between the tubular portion 207a and the aerosol product 300, when the aerosol product 201 is received by the inner surface of the article chamber. Figures 7 and 8 show one embodiment of the aerosol supply device 100, showing the tubular portion 207a and base portion 207b defining the article chamber. Similar to Figure 6, the outer cap 210 of the removal mechanism is shown in wireframe so that the internal portion (including the tubular portion 207a and base portion 207b) can be seen. The inner surface of the article chamber (in particular the tubular portion 207a) includes one or more longitudinal recesses 271 that extend distally along the inner surface of the article chamber and extend along the length of the tubular portion 207a from the proximal end of the tubular portion 207a to the base portion 207b. These longitudinal recesses 271 may, but are not required to, extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. Each of the one or more longitudinal recesses 271 is configured to receive air from the corresponding one or more second air channels 223.

[0131] When the aerosol product 300 is received by the inner surface of the article chamber, the aerosol product 300 engages with the inner surface by covering each of the one or more longitudinal recesses 271 such that the aerosol product 300 and one or more longitudinal recesses 271 together define one or more third air channels 224, i.e., one or more third air channels 224 include a gap between the one or more longitudinal recesses 271 of the inner surface and the aerosol product 300. The one or more longitudinal recesses 271 may include one, two, three, four, five, six, or more longitudinal recesses 271. These one or more longitudinal recesses 271 may be arranged equidistant from each other to allow a uniform circumferential airflow through the one or more longitudinal recesses 271. The inner surface also includes one or more longitudinal projections 272 positioned on the inner surface of the tubular portion 207a and configured to engage with the aerosol product 300 received in the article chamber, thereby compressing the article and holding the aerosol product 300 in place within the article chamber.

[0132] Alternatively or additionally, one or more third air channels 224 may extend within the main housing 200 or within the removal mechanism 204.

[0133] The flow path extends through one or more third channels 224, then reaches the distal end of the aerosol product 201, and optionally extends in a fifth direction through one or more fourth channels arranged to guide air from one or more third channels 224 in a fifth direction. The fifth direction is radially inward toward the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. The aerosol product 300, such as a rod, may be configured so that air enters and exits the article at its proximal and distal ends. Thus, the flow path then extends through the article into the distal end of the aerosol product 300 and exits the article for inhalation by the user (optionally through the proximal end). While air is guided along the flow path through the article, vapor or aerosol generated by heating the aerosol product 300 using a heating element 202 may enter the device through one or more air inlets 221 and be carried together with the air guided along the flow path, thereby being delivered to the user along with the air.

[0134] Figures 8 and 9 show one embodiment of the aerosol supply device 100, including a main housing 200 and a removal mechanism 204. Similar to Figure 6, the outer cap 210 of the removal mechanism is shown in wireframe so that the internal portion (comprising a tubular portion 207a and a base portion 207b) can be seen. The base portion 207b of the removal mechanism comprises one or more radial recesses 281 defined between one or more stepped projections 282 within the base portion 207b. The one or more radial recesses 281 are arranged to be in fluid communication with one or more corresponding longitudinal recesses 271, where the tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b intersect, and the one or more radial recesses 281 extend radially inward from the radial range of the base portion 207b, i.e., from the tubular portion 207a. Optionally, each of the one or more radial recesses 281 extends from the radial range of the base portion 207b toward the longitudinal axis of the article chamber. One or more stepped projections 282 extend proximal to cover one or more radial recesses 281 so as to contact one or more stepped projections 282 and form one or more fourth air channels when the aerosol product 300 is inserted into the article chamber.

[0135] Figure 10 shows one embodiment of the removal mechanism 204, in which both the tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b are shown in wireframe to allow viewing of one or more longitudinal recesses 271 and one or more radial recesses 281. When the aerosol product 300 is inserted into the article chamber, the one or more longitudinal recesses 271 and one or more radial recesses 281 are surrounded to form one or more third air channels and one or more fourth air channels, respectively. The one or more third air channels are arranged to guide air toward the distal end of the aerosol supply device 100 to the distal end of the article chamber (i.e., the base portion 207b), and the one or more fourth air channels are arranged to guide this air radially inward toward the longitudinal axis 100 of the aerosol supply device.

[0136] Therefore, the flow path 220 in the embodiment shown in Figure 3 is arranged to guide air into the aerosol supply device 100 in the inlet direction through one or more air inlets 221, in a second direction toward the proximal end of the aerosol supply device 100 through one or more first channels 222, in a third direction toward the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100 through one or more second channels 223, then in a fourth direction toward the distal end of the aerosol supply device 100 through one or more third channels 224, and then in a fifth direction toward the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100 through one or more fifth air channels. The flow path 220 is then arranged to guide air from the distal end of the aerosol product 300 through the aerosol product 300 to the user for inhalation.

[0137] Therefore, this channel 220 passing through the aerosol supply device 100 is meandering and can extend longitudinally beyond the heating element 202 both when extending along a second direction through one or more first air channels 222 and when extending along a fourth direction as it passes through one or more third air channels 224. Thus, this channel can be suitable both for providing a high pressure drop and resistance to user suction, and for providing cooling and ventilation within the heating chamber 201, particularly in the area of ​​the device adjacent to the heating element 202.

[0138] The channel 220 is described in the context of an aerosol supply device 100 having both a main housing 200 and a removal mechanism 204 detachably held by the main housing 200, but it should be noted that this is not mandatory. Rather, the channel 220 may be applied to a configuration in which the aerosol supply device 100 does not have a removal mechanism 204 detachably held by the housing. In such a configuration, the article chamber may correspond to a heating chamber 201 such that the inner surface in contact with the aerosol-generating material is the inner surface of the heating chamber 201, and the heating chamber 201 may have all the same characteristics as the inner surface of the article chamber. More generally, the channel 220 may be applied to any aerosol supply device 100 having a heating element 202 and a heating chamber 201 configured to receive an aerosol product 300.

[0139] Another embodiment is shown in Figures 11A and 11B. In this case, the aerosol supply device 100 comprises a heating chamber 401 for receiving the aerosol product 300 and a heating element 402 for heating the aerosol product 300, each of which may have any of the features described above with respect to Figures 2 and 3. Furthermore, the aerosol supply device 100 may also comprise a main housing 400 having any of the features described above and a removal mechanism 404.

[0140] All features of the aerosol supply device 400 shown in Figures 11A and 11B may be the same as those described above with respect to Figures 1, 2, and 3, except for the flow path, which is arranged differently in this embodiment, and this aerosol supply device 100 also includes a flow path 420 configured to support airflow. In the embodiments shown in Figures 11A and 11B, the aerosol supply device 100 includes one or more air inlets 421 which may have the same features as the one or more air inlets 221 described with respect to Figures 2 and 3. In particular, one or more inlets 421 are positioned on the side of the aerosol supply device 100 at a distance from the proximal end of the aerosol supply device 100, and the side of the aerosol supply device 100 is the outer surface of the aerosol supply device 100 which extends between the proximal and distal ends of the aerosol supply device 100 and may face outward in a direction away from the longitudinal axis of the device 100. One or more air inlets 421 allow air surrounding the device 100 to be drawn into the flow path 420; that is, one or more air inlets 421 are optionally positioned to guide air from the area surrounding the aerosol supply device 100 into the aerosol supply device 100 in the inlet direction, which is radial toward the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. These one or more air inlets 421 may be located distal to the heating chamber 401.

[0141] The flow path begins at one or more air inlets 421 and then reaches one or more first channels 411. These one or more first channels 411 may include a circulation chamber 411. One or more first channels 411 may extend radially outward beyond the radial range of the heating chamber 401 and may extend circumferentially around the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. In embodiments in which one or more first channels 411 include a circulation chamber 411, the circulation chamber 411 may be annular.

[0142] One or more first channels 411 may be in fluid communication with one or more air outlets 422 arranged to guide air out of one or more first channels 411. Thus, one or more first channels 411 are arranged to guide air from one or more air inlets 421 to one or more air outlets 422, for example, in a circumferential direction. In other words, the flow path 420 extends from one or more air inlets 421 through one or more first channels 411 to one or more air outlets 422. Just as one or more air inlets 421 may be arranged to guide air toward the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100, one or more air outlets 422 may also be configured to guide air toward the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. Furthermore, one or more air outlets 422 may be arranged radially inward of one or more air inlets 421.

[0143] In the embodiment shown in Figure 11A, the circulation chamber 411 is annular, extends longitudinally, overlaps longitudinally with the heating element 402, and extends beyond the proximal range of the heating element 402. Thus, the air reaching the circulation chamber 411 can circulate longitudinally, enabling a cooling effect within the region of the aerosol supply device 100 adjacent to the heating element 402 and the heating chamber 401.

[0144] Alternatively, in the embodiment shown in Figure 11B, one or more first channels 411 do not substantially extend in the longitudinal direction, for example, they do not overlap longitudinally with the heating chamber 401, and thus the airflow through the circulation chamber 411 is restricted in the longitudinal direction. This may make it possible to provide high resistance to suction.

[0145] One or more air inlets 421 and one or more air outlets 422 are arranged such that air flows circumferentially at substantially all circumferential positions within the circulation chamber 411 when air is guided along the flow path. This can be achieved by arranging one or more air outlets 422 such that each of the one or more air outlets 422 is circumferentially displaced from each of the one or more air inlets 421. For example, this may be achieved by arranging one or more air inlets 421 and one or more air outlets 422 so that they are rotationally symmetric about the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. By providing a circumferential distance for the airflow to pass through, resistance to suction and pressure drop can be increased.

[0146] One or more air inlets 421 and one or more air outlets 422 may be arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, one or more air inlets 421 may be evenly distributed in the circumferential direction such that, for example, the angle between each air inlet 421 and an adjacent air inlet 421 in the circumferential direction is the same around the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. Similarly, one or more air outlets 422 may be evenly distributed in the circumferential direction such that, for example, the angle between each air outlet 422 and an adjacent air outlet 422 in the circumferential direction is the same around the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device 100. Furthermore, each of the one or more air outlets 422 may be optionally positioned at a circumferential distance from any one of the one or more air inlets 421 so as to be equidistant from one or more adjacent air inlets 421 in the circumferential direction.

[0147] The airflow path may pass through one or more air outlets 422, and then through one or more second air channels corresponding to one or more base openings 423 in the base of the heating chamber, to reach the heating chamber 401 and the article chamber. The one or more base openings 423 may be evenly distributed within the base of the article chamber and may be positioned to guide air proximally into the article chamber.

[0148] Therefore, the flow path extends through one or more base openings 423 and then reaches the distal end of the aerosol product 300. The aerosol product 300, such as a rod, may be configured to allow air to enter and exit the article 300 at its proximal and distal ends. Thus, the flow path then extends through the article into the distal end of the aerosol product 300 and exits the article for inhalation by the user (optionally through the proximal end). While air is guided along the flow path through the article 300, vapor or aerosol generated by heating the aerosol product 300 using the heating element 202 may enter the device through one or more air inlets 221 and be carried together with the air guided along the flow path, thereby being delivered to the user with the air.

[0149] As the removal mechanism 404 is separated from the main housing 400 and then withdrawn from the main housing 400, the base portion 207b of the removal mechanism engages with the distal end face of the aerosol product 300, thereby causing the base portion 207b of the removal mechanism 204 to pull the aerosol product 300 away from the heating element 402. As a result, the aerosol product 300 can be completely removed from the aerosol supply device 100 by the removal mechanism 404. In particular, the aerosol product 300 can be removed from the aerosol supply device 100 while substantially reducing the risk of the aerosol product 300 being shattered or any part of the aerosol product remaining attached to the heating element 402.

[0150] Furthermore, if any other part of the used aerosol-generating material or aerosol product 300 is separated or pulverized, the base portion 207b of the removal mechanism 404 may be configured to capture any fragments or other parts of the aerosol product 300, ensuring that the fragments are collected by the base portion 207b and therefore removed by the removal mechanism 204.

[0151] Once the removal mechanism 404 is removed from the aerosol supply device 100, the removal mechanism 404 can then be emptied and / or cleaned. Removal of the removal mechanism 404 from the body 400 of the aerosol supply device 100 also facilitates access to the heating element 402, in particular allowing the heating element 402 to be cleaned with a cleaning tool.

[0152] The various embodiments described herein are presented solely to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and / or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and / or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations to the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or to equivalents of the claims, and it should be understood that other embodiments may be used and modified without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may preferably include, consist of, or essentially consist of, appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. Furthermore, this disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims

1. An aerosol supply device, wherein the aerosol supply device is an elongated aerosol supply device that extends along a longitudinal axis from the mouthpiece end to the distal end, and the aerosol supply device is A main housing forming a heating chamber for receiving an aerosol product, wherein the aerosol product is inserted into the heating chamber in a first longitudinal direction when in use, and the main housing comprises walls surrounding the heating chamber. A removal mechanism that is removably held in the main housing, An article chamber for receiving and contacting the aerosol product, the article chamber being at least partially located within the heating chamber when the removal mechanism is held in the main housing, A removal mechanism comprising: an outer cap configured to cover at least a portion of the wall of the main housing when the removal mechanism is held in the main housing; One or more air inlets arranged to guide air into the aerosol supply device toward the inlet, wherein one or more air inlets have one or more openings defined between the distal end of the outer cap of the removal mechanism and the main housing, The system comprises one or more first air channels arranged to guide air from one or more air inlets in a second longitudinal direction, wherein the second longitudinal direction is opposite to the first longitudinal direction. Aerosol supply device.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol supply device has an opening into which the aerosol product is inserted when in use, and one or more air inlets are separated from the opening.

3. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one or more air inlets are located distal to the heating chamber.

4. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the inlet direction is radial with respect to the longitudinal axis.

5. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one or more first air channels overlap longitudinally with the heating chamber.

6. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one or more first air channels are arranged radially outward of the heating chamber with respect to the longitudinal axis.

7. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising one or more second air channels arranged to guide air from one or more first air channels in a third direction.

8. The aerosol supply device according to claim 7, further comprising one or more third air channels arranged to guide air from one or more first air channels in a fourth direction.

9. The chamber further comprises an inner surface for contact with the aerosol product when the aerosol product is inserted into the heating chamber during use, The aerosol supply device according to claim 8, wherein the inner surface comprises a longitudinally extending portion that faces radially inward with respect to the longitudinal axis, and an end portion at the distal end of the longitudinally extending portion.

10. The aerosol supply device according to claim 9, wherein the inner surface comprises one or more longitudinal recesses extending toward the distal end of the heating chamber.

11. The aerosol supply device according to claim 10, wherein the longitudinally extending portion of the inner surface comprises one or more longitudinal recesses.

12. The aerosol supply device according to claim 11, wherein the one or more third air channels include one or more gaps defined between the aerosol product and the one or more longitudinal recesses when the aerosol product is inserted into the heating chamber during use.

13. A step of providing an aerosol supply device, wherein the aerosol supply device is an elongated aerosol supply device extending along a longitudinal axis from the mouthpiece end to the distal end, and the aerosol supply device is A main housing forming a heating chamber for receiving aerosol products, wherein the main housing comprises a wall surrounding the heating chamber, A removal mechanism that is removably held in the main housing, An article chamber for receiving and contacting the aerosol product, the article chamber being at least partially located within the heating chamber when the removal mechanism is held in the main housing, A removal mechanism comprising: an outer cap configured to cover at least a portion of the wall of the main housing when the removal mechanism is held in the main housing; It has steps, The steps include inserting the aerosol product into the heating chamber in the first longitudinal direction, A step of directing air into the aerosol supply device through one or more inlets toward the inlet, wherein the one or more air inlets comprises one or more openings defined between the distal end of the outer cap of the removal mechanism and the main housing, The process includes the step of directing air from one or more air inlets through one or more first air channels in a second longitudinal direction, wherein the second longitudinal direction is opposite to the first longitudinal direction. A method for generating aerosols.

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