Aerosol-generating device containing detachable housing part

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol generator.SUBSTANCE: aerosol generating device (10; 210) comprises a housing (12; 212) including a first part (14; 214) and a second part (16; 216) of the housing. The first part (14; 214) of the housing forms a chamber (32) for placing the substrate that forms the aerosol. The second part (16; 216) of the housing is designed with the possibility of removable attachment to the first part (14; 214) of the housing. The aerosol generating device (10; 210) also contains an electric heater (22) located inside the first part (14; 214) of the housing. The aerosol generating device (10; 210) also contains a power supply unit (20) located inside the second part of the housing (16; 216). The aerosol generating device (10; 210) also comprises a controller (18) located inside the first part (14; 214) of the housing, wherein the controller (18) is configured to control the power supply from the power supply unit (20) to the electric heater (22) when the second part (16; 216) of the housing is attached to the first part (14; 214) of the housing.EFFECT: possibility of selecting a device power supply unit based on its capacity and dimensions.14 cl, 18 dwg

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device comprising a first housing part and a second housing part, wherein the second housing part is configured to be detachably attached to the first housing part.

[0002] One type of aerosol-generating system is an electric smoking system. Known portable electric smoking systems typically include an aerosol-generating device containing a rechargeable battery, control electronics, and an electric heater for heating an aerosol-generating article designed specifically for use with the aerosol-generating device. In some examples, the aerosol-generating article contains an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a tobacco rod or tobacco plug, and a heater contained within the aerosol-generating device is inserted into or positioned around the aerosol-generating substrate when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating device. In an alternative electric smoking system, the aerosol-generating article may contain a capsule containing an aerosol-generating substrate, such as loose tobacco.

[0003] In conventional electric vaping systems, the number of vaping sessions the device can support before the battery requires recharging is limited by the battery's charge capacity. However, increasing the battery's charge capacity requires a physically larger battery and results in a larger and heavier aerosol-generating device, which may be undesirable for the user. Therefore, manufacturers may choose a battery size that provides a compromise between the battery's charge capacity and the physical size of the aerosol-generating device. However, this compromise may not satisfy all users, as some users may prefer larger batteries, while others may prefer smaller aerosol-generating devices.

[0004] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that alleviates or eliminates the problem associated with the capacity of the power supply.

[0005] According to the present invention, an aerosol-generating device is provided, comprising a housing comprising a first housing portion and a second housing portion. The first housing portion may form a chamber for containing an aerosol-generating substrate. The second housing portion may be configured to be detachably attached to the first housing portion. The aerosol-generating device may comprise an electric heater. The electric heater may be located within the first housing portion. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a power supply unit. The power supply unit may be located within the second housing portion. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a controller. The controller may be located within the first housing portion. The controller may be configured to control the supply of power from the power supply unit to the electric heater.The controller may be configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the electric heater when the second portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing.

[0006] According to the present invention, an aerosol-generating device is also provided, comprising a housing comprising a first housing portion and a second housing portion. The first housing portion forms a chamber for housing an aerosol-generating substrate. The second housing portion is configured for detachable attachment to the first housing portion. The aerosol-generating device also comprises an electric heater located within the first housing portion. The aerosol-generating device also comprises a power supply unit located within the second housing portion. The aerosol-generating device also comprises a controller located within the first housing portion, wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply unit to the electric heater when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

[0007] Advantageously, providing a power supply in a second housing portion that is detachable from the first housing portion can facilitate the use of a single first housing portion with multiple different power supplies. For example, when the power supply is completely discharged, the user can replace the second housing portion with an additional housing portion containing another fully charged power supply. Advantageously, this allows the user to continue using the aerosol-generating device without waiting for the power supply to recharge. In another example, the user can select a second housing portion from a range of housing portions of different sizes and containing power supplies with different charging capacities. Advantageously, this allows the user to choose a preferred compromise between the charging capacity of the power supply and the physical size of the aerosol-generating device.

[0008] Advantageously, placing the controller and electric heater within the first enclosure can reduce or minimize the number of electrical components within the second enclosure. Advantageously, reducing or minimizing the number of electrical components within the second enclosure can reduce or minimize the cost of the second enclosure. Reducing or minimizing the cost of the second enclosure may be particularly desirable for users wishing to purchase multiple enclosures, each containing a power supply for use with the first enclosure.

[0009] Preferably, the housing comprises a mating means for attaching a second portion of the housing to the first portion of the housing.

[0010] The coupling means may be configured to releasably retain the second housing portion with the first housing portion via an interference fit. Advantageously, the interference fit can provide a simple and cost-effective arrangement for attaching the second housing portion to the first housing portion.

[0011] The coupling means may comprise at least one of a bayonet connection and a screw connection. The coupling means may comprise a female bayonet connector on a first housing portion and a male bayonet connector on a second housing portion. The coupling means may comprise a male bayonet connector on the first housing portion and a female bayonet connector on the second housing portion. The coupling means may comprise an internal screw thread on the first housing portion and an external screw thread on the second housing portion. The coupling means may comprise an external screw thread on the first housing portion and an internal screw thread on the second housing portion.

[0012] The coupling means may comprise a groove configured to receive at least a portion of the first housing portion or at least a portion of the second housing portion. The groove may be configured to slide into at least a portion of the first housing portion or at least a portion of the second housing portion. The groove may be provided on the first housing portion and configured to receive at least a portion of the second housing portion. The groove may be provided on the second housing portion and configured to receive at least a portion of the first housing portion.

[0013] The coupling means may comprise a projection configured to be received within a groove. The groove may be adapted to slide the projection therein. The groove may be provided on a first portion of the housing, and the projection may be provided on a second portion of the housing. The groove may be provided on the second portion of the housing, and the projection may be provided on the first portion of the housing.

[0014] The coupling means may comprise a latching element configured to retain the second housing portion in a releasable connection with the first housing portion. Advantageously, the latching element can reduce the risk of accidentally detaching the second housing portion from the first housing portion. The latching element may comprise a locking element. The locking element may be provided on the first housing portion and configured to engage with a portion of the second housing portion when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. The locking element may be provided on the second housing portion and configured to engage with a portion of the first housing portion when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

[0015] The coupling means may comprise a releasing element configured to disengage the latch element. The releasing element may be configured to disengage the latch element from the first portion of the housing. The releasing element may be configured to disengage the latch element from the second portion of the housing. The releasing element may comprise at least one of a lever and a button. In embodiments in which the latch element comprises a lock on the first portion of the housing, the releasing element may be configured to disengage the latch element from a portion of the second portion of the housing. In embodiments in which the latch element comprises a lock on the second portion of the housing, the releasing element may be configured to disengage the lock from a portion of the first portion of the housing.

[0016] The coupling means may comprise a first magnetic element on a first portion of the housing and a second magnetic element on a second portion of the housing, wherein the second magnetic element is configured to engage with the first magnetic element when the second portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing.

[0017] In the context of this document, the term "magnetic element" is used to refer to magnets and magnetizable materials, such as ferromagnetic materials. A first magnetic element may comprise a magnet, and a second magnetic element may comprise a magnetizable material. The first magnetic element may comprise a magnetizable material, and the second magnetic element may comprise a magnet. Each of the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element may comprise a magnet.

[0018] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a first electrical contact located on a first housing portion and a second electrical contact located on a second housing portion, wherein the second electrical contact is configured to connect to the first electrical contact when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Advantageously, the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact can facilitate the transmission of at least one of power supply and data between the first housing portion and the second housing portion.

[0019] Preferably, the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the electric heater via the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

[0020] At least one of the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact may comprise a spring-loaded pin. Advantageously, the spring-loaded pin can facilitate a reliable electrical connection between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

[0021] The power supply unit may be a rechargeable power supply unit. The aerosol-generating device may include a charging circuit located within the second housing portion and configured to control the supply of power received from an external device to recharge the power supply unit. Advantageously, providing the charging circuit within the second housing portion can facilitate recharging the power supply unit when the second housing portion is separated from the first housing portion.

[0022] The aerosol generating device may include a charging electrical contact located on the second portion of the housing for receiving power supplied from an external device to recharge the power supply.

[0023] The charging contact may be located on the second housing portion so that the charging contact is accessible to the user when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. This arrangement can advantageously facilitate recharging the power supply when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Recharging the power supply when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion can be convenient for the user.

[0024] The charging electrical contact may be located on the second housing portion such that the charging electrical contact is inaccessible to the user when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. This arrangement can advantageously prevent the power supply from overcharging when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Preventing the power supply from overcharging when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion may be useful for preventing overcharging of the power supply during use of the aerosol-generating device.

[0025] In embodiments in which the aerosol generating device comprises a second electrical contact on the second portion of the housing, the charging electrical contact may comprise the second electrical contact.

[0026] The second housing portion may comprise a first end and a second end opposite the first end. A second electrical contact may be located at the first end of the second housing portion. A charging electrical contact may be located at the second end of the second housing portion.

[0027] The charging electrical contact may form part of an external plug or receptacle on the second portion of the housing. The charging electrical contact may form part of a USB-A connector, a USB-B connector, a USB-C connector, or a micro-USB connector. For example, the aerosol-generating device may include a USB plug or receptacle to enable the aerosol-generating device to be connected to another USB-equipped device. The USB plug or receptacle may enable the aerosol-generating device to be connected to a USB charger for recharging the power supply. The USB receptacle or receptacle may support data transfer to or from the aerosol-generating device, or both. The aerosol-generating device may be connectable to a computer for transmitting data, such as new heating profiles, to the aerosol-generating device.

[0028] In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating device comprises a USB plug or connector, the aerosol-generating device may further comprise a detachable cap that covers the USB plug or connector when not in use. In embodiments in which the USB plug or connector is a USB plug, the USB plug may additionally or alternatively be selectively retractable from the device.

[0029] The charging circuit may include a wireless charging circuit configured to wirelessly receive power supplied from an external device to recharge the power supply. The wireless charging circuit may be provided as an alternative to the charging electrical contact. The aerosol-generating device may include both the charging electrical contact and the wireless charging circuit to enable the power supply to be recharged via the charging electrical contact and the wireless charging circuit.

[0030] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a charge indicator located on the second portion of the housing, wherein the charge indicator is configured to provide the user with a visual indication of the amount of electrical charge stored within the power supply. Advantageously, the charge indicator can assist the user in planning when to recharge the power supply.

[0031] The charge indicator may comprise a segmented display. For example, the charge indicator may comprise a series of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), wherein the charge indicator is configured to illuminate multiple LEDs to represent the amount of electrical charge stored within the power supply.

[0032] The aerosol-generating device may require user input to activate the charging indicator. For example, the aerosol-generating device may comprise a push button located on the second portion of the housing and configured to activate the charging indicator.

[0033] The power supply may be a DC voltage source. In preferred embodiments, the power supply is a battery. For example, the power supply may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium-cobalt, lithium-iron phosphate, or lithium-polymer battery. Alternatively, the power supply may be another type of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. Preferably, the power supply is rechargeable. The power supply may have a capacity that allows it to store sufficient energy for multiple uses of the aerosol-generating device.

[0034] The power supply unit may be a first power supply unit, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises a third housing portion configured to be removably attached to the first housing portion, and a second power supply unit located inside the third housing portion.

[0035] Advantageously, the provision of first and second power supplies can allow the first housing part to be used either with a second housing part containing the first power supply, or with a third housing part containing the second power supply. This advantageously allows the user to continue using the aerosol-generating device without waiting for one of the power supplies to recharge. For example, when the first power supply has been depleted, the user can detach the second housing part from the first housing part, then attach the third housing part to the first housing part and continue using the aerosol-generating device with the second power supply. While using the aerosol-generating device, the user can recharge the first power supply inside the second power supply. The opposite procedure can be used when the second power supply has been depleted and the first power supply has been recharged.

[0036] The coupling means may be configured to attach the third housing portion to the first housing portion. The coupling means may be configured to attach only one of the second housing portion and the third housing portion to the first housing portion at a time. In other words, the coupling means may be configured such that the second housing portion and the third housing portion cannot be attached to the first housing portion simultaneously.

[0037] The coupling means may be configured to releasably retain the third housing portion with the first housing portion via an interference fit. Advantageously, the interference fit may provide a simple and economical arrangement for attaching the third housing portion to the first housing portion.

[0038] The coupling means may comprise at least one of a bayonet connection and a screw connection. The coupling means may comprise a female bayonet connector on a first housing portion and a male bayonet connector on each of the second housing portion and the third housing portion. The coupling means may comprise a male bayonet connector on the first housing portion and a female bayonet connector on each of the second housing portion and the third housing portion. The coupling means may comprise a female screw thread on the first housing portion and a male screw thread on each of the second housing portion and the third housing portion. The coupling means may comprise a male screw thread on the first housing portion and a female screw thread on each of the second housing portion and the third housing portion.

[0039] The coupling means may comprise a groove configured to receive at least a portion of the first housing portion or at least a portion of the third housing portion. The groove may be configured to slide into at least a portion of the first housing portion or at least a portion of the third housing portion.

[0040] The groove may be provided on the first part of the housing and configured to accommodate at least a portion of the second part of the housing and at least a portion of the third part of the housing. The groove may be a first groove provided on the second part of the housing, wherein the coupling means further comprises a second groove provided on the third part of the housing, and wherein each of the first groove and the second groove is configured to accommodate at least a portion of the first part of the housing.

[0041] The coupling means may comprise a projection configured to be received within a groove. The groove may be adapted to slide the projection therein. The groove may be provided on a first portion of the housing, and the projection may be a first projection provided on a second portion of the housing, wherein the coupling means further comprises a second projection provided on a third portion of the housing. The groove may be a first groove provided on the second portion of the housing, wherein the coupling means further comprises a second groove provided on the third portion of the housing, and wherein the projection may be provided on the first portion of the housing.

[0042] The latching element may be configured to retain the third portion of the housing in a releasable fastening with the first portion of the housing. The latching element may comprise a lock. The lock may be provided on the first housing and configured to engage with a portion of the second portion of the housing when the second portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing, and configured to engage with a portion of the third portion of the housing when the third portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing. The lock may be a first lock provided on the second portion of the housing and configured to engage with a portion of the first portion of the housing when the second portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing. The latching element may further comprise a second lock provided on the third portion of the housing and configured to engage with a portion of the first portion of the housing when the third portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing.

[0043] The release element may be configured to disengage the latch element from the first housing portion. The release element may be a first release element provided on the second housing portion, wherein the coupling means further comprises a second release element provided on the third housing portion.

[0044] The release element may be configured to disengage the latch element from the third housing portion. In embodiments in which the latch element comprises a lock on the first housing portion, the release element may be configured to disengage the latch element from a portion of the third housing portion. In embodiments in which the latch element comprises a second lock on the third housing portion, the second release element may be configured to disengage the second lock from a portion of the first housing portion.

[0045] The coupling means may comprise a third magnetic element on the third portion of the housing and configured to engage with the first magnetic element when the third portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing. The first magnetic element may comprise a magnet, and the third magnetic element may comprise a magnetizable material. The first magnetic element may comprise a magnetizable material, and the third magnetic element may comprise a magnet. Each of the first magnetic element and the third magnetic element may comprise a magnet.

[0046] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a third electrical contact located on a third portion of the housing, wherein the third electrical contact is configured to connect to the first electrical contact when the third portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing. Advantageously, the first electrical contact and the third electrical contact can facilitate the transmission of at least one of power supply and data between the first portion of the housing and the third portion of the housing.

[0047] Preferably, the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the second power supply to the electric heater via the first electrical contact and the third electrical contact when the second housing portion is attached to the third housing portion.

[0048] At least one of the first electrical contact and the third electrical contact may comprise a spring-loaded pin. Advantageously, the spring-loaded pin can facilitate a reliable electrical connection between the first electrical contact and the third electrical contact when the third housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

[0049] The second power supply unit may be a rechargeable power supply unit. The aerosol-generating device may include a charging circuit located within the third housing portion and configured to control the supply of power received from an external device to recharge the second power supply unit. Advantageously, providing the charging circuit within the third housing portion can facilitate recharging the second power supply unit when the third housing portion is detached from the first housing portion.

[0050] The aerosol generating device may include a charging electrical contact located on a third portion of the housing for receiving power from an external device to recharge the second power supply.

[0051] The charging electrical contact may be located on the third housing portion such that the charging electrical contact is accessible to the user when the third housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. This arrangement can advantageously facilitate recharging the second power supply when the third housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Recharging the second power supply when the third housing portion is attached to the first housing portion can be convenient for the user.

[0052] The charging electrical contact may be located on the third housing portion such that the charging electrical contact is inaccessible to the user when the third housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. This arrangement can advantageously prevent the second power supply from overcharging when the third housing portion is attached to the first housing portion. Preventing the second power supply from overcharging when the third housing portion is attached to the first housing portion may be useful for preventing the second power supply from overcharging while the aerosol-generating device is in use.

[0053] In embodiments in which the aerosol generating device comprises a third electrical contact on a third portion of the housing, the charging electrical contact may comprise the third electrical contact.

[0054] The third housing portion may comprise a first end and a second end opposite the first end. A third electrical contact may be located at the first end of the third housing portion. A charging electrical contact may be located at the second end of the third housing portion.

[0055] The charging electrical contact may form part of an external plug or receptacle on a third portion of the housing. The charging electrical contact may form part of a USB-A connector, a USB-B connector, a USB-C connector, or a micro-USB connector. For example, the aerosol-generating device may include a USB plug or receptacle to enable the aerosol-generating device to be connected to another USB-equipped device. The USB plug or receptacle may enable the aerosol-generating device to be connected to a USB charger to recharge a second power supply. The USB receptacle or receptacle may support data transfer to or from the aerosol-generating device, or both. The aerosol-generating device may be connectable to a computer to transmit data, such as new heating profiles, to the aerosol-generating device.

[0056] In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating device comprises a USB plug or connector, the aerosol-generating device may further comprise a detachable cap that covers the USB plug or connector when not in use. In embodiments in which the USB plug or connector is a USB plug, the USB plug may additionally or alternatively be selectively retractable from the device.

[0057] The charging circuit may include a wireless charging circuit configured to wirelessly receive power supplied from an external device to recharge a second power supply. The wireless charging circuit may be provided as an alternative to the charging electrical contact. The aerosol-generating device may include both the charging electrical contact and the wireless charging circuit to enable recharging of the second power supply via the charging electrical contact and the wireless charging circuit.

[0058] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a charge indicator located on a third portion of the housing, wherein the charge indicator is configured to provide the user with a visual indication of the amount of electrical charge accumulated within the second power supply. Advantageously, the charge indicator can assist the user in planning when to recharge the second power supply.

[0059] The charge indicator may comprise a segmented display. For example, the charge indicator may comprise a series of light-emitting diodes (LEDs), wherein the charge indicator is configured to illuminate a number of the LEDs to represent the amount of electrical charge stored in the second power supply.

[0060] The aerosol-generating device may require user input to activate the charging indicator. For example, the aerosol-generating device may comprise a push button located on a third portion of the housing and configured to activate the charging indicator.

[0061] The second power supply may be a DC voltage source. In preferred embodiments, the second power supply is a battery. For example, the second power supply may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium-cobalt, lithium-iron phosphate, or lithium-polymer battery. Alternatively, the second power supply may be another type of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. Preferably, the second power supply is rechargeable. The second power supply may have a capacity that allows it to store sufficient energy to repeatedly use the aerosol-generating device.

[0062] The first power supply may have a first electric charge charging capacity, and the second power supply may have a second electric charge charging capacity.

[0063] The first charging capacity of the electric charge may be the same as the second charging capacity of the electric charge.

[0064] The first electric charge capacity may differ from the second electric charge capacity. Advantageously, providing the first power supply and the second power supply with different electric charge capacities can facilitate providing the second housing and the third housing of different sizes. Advantageously, the user can choose to use the second housing or the third housing with the first housing, depending on whether the user prefers a larger electric charge capacity or a physically smaller aerosol generating device. Advantageously, if the user's preference changes, the user can choose to exchange the second housing for the third housing or exchange the third housing for the second housing.

[0065] The ratio of the first charging capacity of the electric charge to the second charging capacity of the electric charge may be from about 1.5 to about 3, optionally from about 1.5 to about 2.5, optionally from about 1.7 to about 2.3.

[0066] The size of the second part of the case may be different from the size of the third part of the case.

[0067] The shape of the second part of the case may be different from the shape of the third part of the case.

[0068] The chamber of the first housing portion may form a reservoir for containing a liquid substrate that forms an aerosol. The first housing portion may form an airflow outlet at a first end of the first housing portion.

[0069] The chamber may form a cavity for housing an aerosol-generating article. The first housing portion may form an opening at one end of the cavity, wherein the opening is located at the first end of the first housing portion.

[0070] The first housing portion may comprise a second end opposite the first end, wherein the second housing portion is configured to be removably attached to the second end of the first housing portion. In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating device comprises a third housing portion, the third housing portion may be configured to be removably attached to the second end of the first housing portion.

[0071] The first housing portion may comprise a second end opposite the first end and at least one side wall extending between the first end and the second end, wherein the second housing portion is configured to be removably attached to the at least one side wall. In embodiments in which the aerosol-generating device comprises a third housing portion, the third housing portion may be configured to be removably attached to the at least one side wall.

[0072] The aerosol-generating device may be configured such that only one of the second housing portion and the third housing portion can be attached to the first housing portion at a time. In other words, the aerosol-generating device may be configured such that the second housing portion and the third housing portion cannot be attached to the first housing portion at the same time.

[0073] The aerosol generating device may comprise a closing element configured to move between a closed position in which the closing element at least partially closes the opening, and an open position in which the opening is not closed.

[0074] The closing element may be a first closing element attached to the second housing portion. The first closing element may be adapted to rotate relative to the second housing portion between a closed position and an open position. The first closing element may be adapted to rest on top of the second housing portion when the first closing element is in the open position.

[0075] In embodiments in which the aerosol generating device comprises a third housing portion, the aerosol generating device may comprise a second closing element configured to move between a closed position in which the second closing element at least partially closes the opening, and an open position in which the opening is not closed.

[0076] A second closing element may be attached to the third housing portion. The second closing element may be adapted to rotate relative to the third housing portion between a closed position and an open position. The second closing element may be adapted to rest on top of the third housing portion when the second closing element is in the open position.

[0077] Each of the first housing part, the second housing part, and the third housing part may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composite materials containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastic materials suitable for applications in the food or pharmaceutical industries, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and non-brittle.

[0078] The electric heater can be located outside the chamber.

[0079] The electric heater can be located inside the chamber.

[0080] The electric heater may be in the form of a coil. The electric heater may be configured to heat a fluid-transfer structure. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a fluid-transfer structure, wherein the electric heater is configured to heat the fluid-transfer structure. The fluid-transfer structure may comprise a wick. The electric heater may be in the form of a coil, wherein the electric heater is wound around the fluid-transfer structure.

[0081] The chamber may form a cavity for accommodating an aerosol-generating article. An electric heater may be adapted to extend around the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article housed in the cavity. The electric heater may extend into the cavity. The electric heater may be adapted to be housed within the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity. The electric heater may be an elongated electric heater. The electric heater may be blade-shaped. The electric heater may be pin-shaped. The electric heater may be cone-shaped.

[0082] The electric heater may comprise an induction heating element. During use, the induction heating element inductively heats at least one susceptor material to heat an aerosol-generating article located in the cavity. The at least one susceptor material may form part of an aerosol-generating device. The at least one susceptor material may form part of the aerosol-generating article. The induction heating element may comprise at least one induction coil extending around at least part of the cavity so that, when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the cavity, at least part of the aerosol-generating article is located within the at least one induction coil.

[0083] The electric heater may contain a resistive heating element. During use, an electric current is applied to the resistive heating element to generate heat through resistive heating.

[0084] Suitable materials for forming a resistive heating element include, but are not limited to: semiconductors such as doped ceramics, electrically conductive ceramics (such as, for example, molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made from a ceramic material and a metallic material. Such composite materials may comprise doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbides. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-, cobalt-, chromium-, aluminum-, titanium-, zirconium-, hafnium-, niobium-, molybdenum-, tantalum-, tungsten-, tin-, gallium-, manganese-, and iron-based alloys, as well as nickel-, iron-, cobalt-, stainless steel-, Timetal®-, and iron-manganese-aluminum-based superalloys.

[0085] In some embodiments, the resistive heating element comprises one or more stamped portions made of an electrically resistive material, such as stainless steel. Alternatively, the resistive heating element may comprise a heating wire or filament, such as a wire made of Ni-Cr (nickel-chromium), platinum, tungsten, or alloys.

[0086] The electric heater may comprise an electrically insulating substrate, wherein the resistive heating element is provided on the electrically insulating substrate. The electrically insulating substrate may be a ceramic material such as zirconia or alumina. Preferably, the electrically insulating substrate has a thermal conductivity of less than or equal to approximately 2 watts per meter Kelvin.

[0087] Preferably, the controller is adapted to supply power to the electric heater according to a predetermined heating cycle when the aerosol generating device is used to heat the aerosol generating article accommodated in the cavity.

[0088] In embodiments in which the electric heater comprises a resistive heating element, the controller can be adapted to supply power to the resistive heating element according to a predetermined pyrolysis cycle to clean the electric heater when the aerosol-generating article is not located within the cavity. The pyrolysis cycle can clean the electric heater by pyrolyzing the residue remaining on the electric heater after using the aerosol-generating device to heat one or more aerosol-generating articles. Typically, the maximum temperature to which the electric heater is heated during the pyrolysis cycle is higher than the maximum temperature to which the electric heater is heated during the heating cycle for heating the aerosol-generating article. Typically, the total duration of the pyrolysis cycle is shorter than the total duration of the heating cycle.

[0089] Preferably, the aerosol generating device comprises at least one air inlet. Preferably, the at least one air inlet is in fluid communication with the cavity.

[0090] The aerosol-generating device may include a sensor for detecting airflow indicating a user puff. The airflow sensor may be an electromechanical device. The airflow sensor may be any of a mechanical device, an optical device, an optomechanical device, or a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) sensor. The aerosol-generating device may include a manually operated switch for initiating a puff by the user.

[0091] The aerosol-generating device may include a temperature sensor. The temperature sensor may detect the temperature of the electric heater or the temperature of the aerosol-generating article located in the cavity. The temperature sensor may be a thermistor. The temperature sensor may include a circuit configured to measure the resistivity of the electric heater and determine the temperature of the electric heater by comparing the measured resistivity with a calibrated curve showing the dependence of resistivity on temperature.

[0092] Advantageously, detecting the temperature of the electric heater can simplify the regulation of the temperature to which the electric heater is heated during use. The controller can be configured to regulate the power supply to the electric heater in response to changes in the measured resistivity of the electric heater.

[0093] Advantageously, detecting the temperature of an electric heater can facilitate puff detection. For example, a measured drop in the temperature of an electric heater can correspond to the user puffing or drawing on an aerosol-generating device.

[0094] Preferably, the aerosol-generating device includes an indicator to indicate when the electric heater is activated. The indicator may include a light source that is activated when the electric heater is activated.

[0095] According to the present invention, there is also provided an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device as described herein and an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0096] As used in this document, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article that contains an aerosol-generating substrate that, when heated, releases volatile compounds capable of forming an aerosol.

[0097] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco rod. The tobacco rod may comprise one or more of the following: powder, granules, beads, pieces, thin tubes, strips, or sheets containing one or more of the following: tobacco leaf, tobacco stem fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, and expanded tobacco. Optionally, the tobacco rod may comprise additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds configured to be released upon heating of the tobacco rod. Optionally, the tobacco rod may also comprise capsules, which, for example, comprise additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds. During heating of the tobacco rod, such capsules may melt. Alternatively or additionally, such capsules may be destroyed before, during, or after heating of the tobacco rod.

[0098] The aerosol-generating article may include a mouthpiece located downstream of the tobacco rod. The mouthpiece may be located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece may include a cellulose acetate filter rod.

[0099] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0100] Example Ex1: An aerosol generating device comprising:

[0101] a housing comprising a first housing portion forming a chamber for accommodating an aerosol-forming substrate and a second housing portion, wherein the second housing portion is configured to be removably attached to the first housing portion;

[0102] electric heater located inside the first part of the body;

[0103] power supply located inside the second part of the case; and

[0104] a controller located inside a first housing portion, wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the electric heater when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

[0105] Example Ex2: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex1, wherein the housing comprises a coupling means for attaching a second portion of the housing to the first portion of the housing.

[0106] Example Ex3: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex2, wherein the coupling means is configured to retain the second portion of the housing in a releasable connection with the first portion of the housing by means of an interference fit.

[0107] Example Ex4: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex2 or Ex3, wherein the coupling means comprises at least one of a bayonet connection and a screw connection.

[0108] Example Ex5: An aerosol generating device according to any of examples Ex2-Ex4, wherein the coupling means comprises a groove configured to accommodate at least a portion of the first portion of the housing or at least a portion of the second portion of the housing.

[0109] Example Ex6: An aerosol generating device according to any of examples Ex2-Ex5, wherein the coupling means comprises a latch element configured to retain the second part of the housing in a releasable fastening with the first part of the housing.

[0110] Example Ex7: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex6, wherein the coupling means further comprises a releasing member configured to release the latch member.

[0111] Example Ex8: An aerosol generating device according to any of examples Ex2-Ex7, wherein the coupling means comprises a first magnetic element on a first portion of the housing and a second magnetic element on a second portion of the housing, and wherein the second magnetic element is configured to engage with the first magnetic element when the second portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing.

[0112] Example Ex9: An aerosol generating device according to any previous example, further comprising a first electrical contact located on a first housing portion and a second electrical contact located on a second housing portion, wherein the second electrical contact is configured to connect to the first electrical contact when the second housing portion is attached to the first housing portion.

[0113] Example Ex10: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex9, wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the electric heater via the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact when the second housing part is attached to the first housing part.

[0114] Example Ex11: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex9 or Ex10, wherein at least one of the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact comprises a spring-loaded pin.

[0115] Example Ex12: An aerosol generating device according to any preceding example, wherein the power supply is a rechargeable power supply, and wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a charging circuit located inside the second portion of the housing and configured to control the supply of power received from an external device to recharge the power supply.

[0116] Example Ex13: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex12, further comprising a charging electrical contact located on the second portion of the housing for receiving power supplied from an external device for recharging the power supply.

[0117] Example Ex14: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex13 in combination with example Ex9, wherein the charging electrical contact comprises a second electrical contact.

[0118] Example Ex15: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex13 in combination with example Ex9, wherein the second electrical contact is located at the first end of the second housing portion, wherein the second housing portion comprises a second end opposite the first end, and wherein the charging electrical contact is located at the second end of the second housing portion.

[0119] Example Ex16: An aerosol generating device according to any one of examples Ex13 to Ex15, wherein the charging electrical contact forms part of a USB-A connector, a USB-B connector, a USB-C connector, or a micro-USB connector.

[0120] Example Ex17: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex12-Ex16, wherein the charging circuit comprises a wireless charging circuit configured to wirelessly receive power supplied from an external device to recharge the power supply.

[0121] Example Ex18: An aerosol generating device according to any previous example, further comprising a charge indicator located on the second portion of the housing, wherein the charge indicator is configured to provide the user with a visual indication of the amount of electrical charge accumulated in the power supply.

[0122] Example Ex19: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex18, wherein the charge indicator comprises a segmented display.

[0123] Example Ex20: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex18 or Ex19, further comprising a push button located on the second part of the housing and configured to activate a charge indicator.

[0124] Example Ex21: An aerosol generating device according to any preceding example, wherein the power supply comprises a battery.

[0125] Example Ex22: The aerosol generating device according to example Ex21, wherein the battery comprises a lithium-based battery.

[0126] Example Ex23: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex21 or Ex22, wherein the battery is a rechargeable battery.

[0127] Example Ex24: An aerosol generating device according to any previous example, wherein the power supply unit is a first power supply unit, wherein the aerosol generating device further comprises a third housing portion configured to be removably attached to the first housing portion, and a second power supply unit located inside the third housing portion.

[0128] Example Ex25: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex24 in combination with example Ex2, wherein the coupling means is configured to attach the third housing part to the first housing part.

[0129] Example Ex26: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex25, wherein the coupling means is configured to retain the third housing portion in releasable engagement with the first housing portion by means of an interference fit.

[0130] Example Ex27: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex24 or Ex25, in combination with example Ex5, wherein the groove is configured to receive at least a portion of the first housing portion or at least a portion of the third housing portion.

[0131] Example Ex28: An aerosol generating device according to any one of examples Ex25-Ex27, in combination with example Ex6, wherein the latch element is configured to retain the third housing part in releasable fastening with the first housing part.

[0132] Example Ex29: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex28 in combination with example Ex7, wherein the releasing member is configured to disengage the latch member from the third housing.

[0133] Example Ex30: An aerosol generating device according to any one of examples Ex25-Ex29, in combination with example Ex8, wherein the coupling means comprises a third magnetic element on a third part of the housing and is configured to engage with the first magnetic element when the third part of the housing is attached to the first part of the housing.

[0134] Example Ex31: An aerosol generating device according to any of examples Ex24-Ex30, further comprising a third electrical contact located on a third portion of the housing, wherein the third electrical contact is configured to be connected to the first electrical contact when the third portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing.

[0135] Example Ex32: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex31, wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the second power supply to the electric heater via the first electrical contact and the third electrical contact when the third part of the housing is attached to the first part of the housing.

[0136] Example Ex33: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex31 or Ex32, wherein at least one of the first electrical contact and the third electrical contact comprises a spring-loaded pin.

[0137] Example Ex34: An aerosol generating device according to any of examples Ex24-Ex33, wherein the second power supply is a rechargeable power supply, and wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a charging circuit located inside the third part of the housing and configured to control the supply of power received from an external device to recharge the second power supply.

[0138] Example Ex35: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex34, further comprising a charging electrical contact located on a third portion of the housing for receiving power supplied from an external device for recharging the second power supply.

[0139] Example Ex36: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex35 in combination with example Ex31, wherein the charging electrical contact comprises a third electrical contact.

[0140] Example Ex37: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex35 in combination with example Ex31, wherein the third electrical contact is located at the first end of the third housing portion, wherein the third housing portion has a second end opposite the first end, and wherein the charging electrical contact is located at the second end of the third housing portion.

[0141] Example Ex38: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex35-Ex37, wherein the charging electrical contact forms part of a USB-A connector, a USB-B connector, a USB-C connector, or a micro-USB connector.

[0142] Example Ex39: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex34, wherein the charging circuit is a wireless charging circuit configured to wirelessly receive power supplied from an external device to recharge a second power supply.

[0143] Example Ex40: An aerosol generating device according to any of examples Ex24-Ex39, further comprising a charge indicator located on a third portion of the housing, wherein the charge indicator is configured to provide the user with a visual indication of the amount of electric charge accumulated in the second power supply.

[0144] Example Ex41: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex40, wherein the charge indicator comprises a segmented display.

[0145] Example Ex42: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex40 or Ex41, further comprising a push button located on a third part of the housing and configured to activate a charge indicator.

[0146] Example Ex43: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex24 to Ex42, wherein the second power supply unit comprises a battery.

[0147] Example Ex44: The aerosol generating device according to example Ex43, wherein the battery comprises a lithium-based battery.

[0148] Example Ex45: The aerosol generating device according to example Ex43 or Ex44, wherein the battery is a rechargeable battery.

[0149] Example Ex46: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex24-Ex45, wherein the first power supply has a first electric charge charging capacity, wherein the second power supply has a second electric charge charging capacity, and wherein the first electric charge charging capacity is different from the second electric charge charging capacity.

[0150] Example Ex47: The aerosol generating device according to example Ex46, wherein the ratio of the first electric charge capacity to the second electric charge capacity is from 1.5 to 3.

[0151] Example Ex48: The aerosol generating device according to example Ex47, wherein the ratio of the first electric charge capacity to the second electric charge capacity is from 1.5 to 2.5.

[0152] Example Ex49: The aerosol generating device according to example Ex48, wherein the ratio of the first electric charge capacity to the second electric charge capacity is from 1.7 to 2.3.

[0153] Example Ex50: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex24 to Ex49, wherein the second housing portion has a size that is different from the size of the third housing portion.

[0154] Example Ex51: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples Ex24 to Ex50, wherein the second housing portion has a shape that is different from the shape of the third housing portion.

[0155] Example Ex52: An aerosol generating device according to any preceding example, wherein the chamber forms a reservoir for containing a liquid substrate that forms the aerosol, and wherein the first housing portion forms an air flow outlet at a first end of the first housing portion.

[0156] Example Ex53: An aerosol generating device according to any one of examples Ex1-Ex51, wherein the chamber forms a cavity for accommodating the aerosol generating article, wherein the first part of the housing forms an opening at an end of the cavity, and wherein the opening is located at the first end of the first part of the housing.

[0157] Example Ex54: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex52 or Ex53, wherein the first housing part comprises a second end opposite the first end, and wherein the second housing part is configured to be removably attached to the second end of the first housing part.

[0158] Example Ex55: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex54 in combination with example Ex24, wherein the third housing part is configured to be removably attached to the second end of the first housing part.

[0159] Example Ex56: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex52 or Ex53, wherein the first part of the housing comprises a second end opposite the first end and at least one side wall extending between the first end and the second end, and wherein the second part of the housing is configured to be removably attached to the at least one side wall.

[0160] Example Ex57: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex56 in combination with example Ex24, wherein the third part of the housing is designed to be removably attached to at least one side wall.

[0161] Example Ex58: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex56 or Ex57, in combination with example Ex53, further comprising a first closing element configured to move between a closed position in which the first closing element at least partially closes the opening when the second part of the housing is attached to the first part of the housing, and an open position in which the opening is not closed, wherein the first closing element is connected to the second part of the housing.

[0162] Example Ex59: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex58, wherein the first closing element is adapted to rotate relative to the second housing portion between a closed position and an open position.

[0163] Example Ex60: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex58 or Ex59, wherein the first closing element is adapted to lie over the second housing portion when the first closing element is in the open position.

[0164] Example Ex61: An aerosol generating device according to any of examples Ex58-Ex60, in combination with example Ex57, further comprising a second closing element configured to move between a closed position, in which the second closing element at least partially closes the opening when the third part of the housing is attached to the first part of the housing, and an open position in which the opening is not closed, wherein the second closing element is connected to the third part of the housing.

[0165] Example Ex62: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex61, wherein the second closing element is adapted to rotate relative to the third housing portion between a closed position and an open position.

[0166] Example Ex63: An aerosol generating device according to example Ex61 or Ex62, wherein the second closing element is adapted to lie over the third housing portion when the second closing element is in the open position.

[0167] The present invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0168] Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein the closing member is in a closed position;

[0169] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 1, wherein the closing member is in the open position;

[0170] Fig. 3 shows a front view of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 1, wherein the closing member is in the closed position;

[0171] Fig. 4 shows a front view of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 1, wherein the closing member is in the open position;

[0172] Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 1, with the closing member in the closed position;

[0173] Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 1, wherein the closing element is in the open position, and the aerosol generating article is placed in the cavity of the first part of the housing;

[0174] Fig. 7 shows a front view of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 1, wherein the closing element is in the open position, and the second part of the housing is moved relative to the first part of the housing;

[0175] Fig. 8 and 9 are perspective views of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 1, showing the second housing portion sliding relative to the first housing portion;

[0176] Fig. 10 is a perspective view of a second portion of the housing of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 1;

[0177] Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 1 showing the charging electrical contact;

[0178] Fig. 12 is a front view of the aerosol generating device according to the first embodiment in a first configuration comprising a second housing portion;

[0179] Fig. 13 is a front view of the aerosol generating device according to the first embodiment in a second configuration comprising a third housing portion;

[0180] Fig. 14 is a sectional view of an aerosol generating device according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

[0181] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 14;

[0182] Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the aerosol generating device of Fig. 14, showing the second housing portion detached from the first housing portion;

[0183] Fig. 17 is a front view of the aerosol generating device according to the second embodiment in the first configuration comprising a second housing portion; and

[0184] Fig. 18 is a front view of the aerosol generating device according to the second embodiment in a second configuration comprising a third housing portion.

[0185] Fig. 1-11 shows an aerosol generating device 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The aerosol generating device 10 comprises a housing 12 comprising a first housing portion 14 and a second housing portion 16. The second housing portion 16 is configured to be detachably attached to the first housing portion 14. A first electrical contact 52 is located on the first housing portion 14, and a second electrical contact 62 is located on the second housing portion 16. The first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62 are configured to contact each other when the second housing portion 16 is attached to the first housing portion 14.

[0186] The aerosol generating device 10 also comprises a charging circuit 19 and a first power supply unit 20 located within the second housing portion 16. The first power supply unit 20 is an electrical power supply unit containing a rechargeable battery. A charging electrical contact 49, which has the form of a USB-C connector, is located at the end of the second housing portion 16 and is configured to receive power from an external device. The charging circuit 19 is configured to control the power supply received from the external device to recharge the first power supply unit 20.

[0187] The first housing part 14 defines a chamber 32 in the form of a cavity for accommodating the aerosol-generating article 80, and an opening 34 located at the end of the cavity. The opening 34 is located at the first end of the first housing part 14. When the aerosol-generating article 80 is placed inside the cavity, the aerosol-generating article 80 and the aerosol-generating device 10 together form an aerosol-generating system.

[0188] The aerosol generating device 10 further comprises an electric heater 22 and a controller 18 located inside the first part 14 of the housing. The electric heater 22 comprises an induction coil wound around the cavity. The controller 18 is configured to control the supply of power from the first power supply unit 20 to the electric heater 22 through the first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62 when the second part 16 of the housing is attached to the first part 14 of the housing. During use, the power supplied to the induction coil of the electric heater 22 generates an alternating magnetic field that inductively heats the susceptor in the aerosol generating article 80 located inside the cavity to generate an aerosol.

[0189] The aerosol generating device 10 also comprises a closing element 42 located at the first end of the housing. The closing element 42 comprises a fixed portion 47 connected to the second portion 16 of the housing, and a movable portion 46 formed integrally with the fixed portion 47. The closing element 42 is made of a flexible material, so that the closing element 42 can be folded back onto itself. In other words, the movable portion 46 can rotate relative to the fixed portion 47. The movable portion 46 is configured to rotate relative to the fixed portion 47 between a closed position, in which the movable portion 46 covers the opening 34, and an open position, in which the movable portion 46 does not cover the opening 34. When the movable portion 46 is in the open position, the aerosol generating article 80 can be placed inside the cavity. The closed position is illustrated in Fig. 1, and the open position is illustrated in Fig.2.

[0190] A pair of magnets 70 is contained in the closing member 42 such that one magnet is located inside the movable part 46, and the other magnet is located inside the fixed part 47. The magnets 70 are adapted to hold the movable part 46 on the fixed part 47 when the movable part 46 is in the open position.

[0191] The closing element 42 also comprises a projection 43 extending from the movable part 46. The projection 43 is formed integrally with the movable part 46 and has an annular shape. The projection 43 is adapted such that when the movable part 46 is in the closed position, the projection 43 is located inside the opening 34 and engages with the opening 34 by means of an interference fit. Advantageously, when the movable part 46 is in the closed position, the projection seals the opening 34 and holds the movable part 46 in the closed position.

[0192] The housing 12 comprises a rim 44 extending around a portion of the perimeter of the first end of the housing 12. The rim 44 forms a recess in which the closing element 42 is located. Preferably, the rim 44 protects the fixed portion 47 and protects the movable portion 46 when the movable portion 46 is in the closed position. A gap 45 in the rim 44 on the first portion of the housing allows the edge of the movable portion 46 to be captured when the movable portion 46 is moved from the closed position to the open position.

[0193] The aerosol generating device 10 also comprises a coupling means for attaching the second housing part 16 to the first housing part 14. The coupling means comprises a groove 90 configured to slide into at least a portion of the first housing part 14. The groove 90 facilitates the sliding movement of the second housing part 16 relative to the first housing part 14. The second electrical contact 62 on the second housing part 16 is connected to the first electrical contact 52 on the first housing part 14 when the second housing part 16 is attached to the first housing part 14. The first housing part 14 comprises a side wall 15 extending between the first end of the first housing part 14 and the second end of the first housing part 14 opposite the first end. The coupling means is configured to removably attach the second housing part 16 to the side wall 15 of the first housing part 14.

[0194] As shown in Fig. 7-9, the second housing part 16 is configured to be detached with sliding from the first housing part 14. In order to detach the second housing part 16 from the first housing part 14, the release button 51 at the second end of the first housing part 14 is pressed to disengage the latch member from the second housing part 16. Pressing the release button 51 allows the second housing part 16 to slide relative to the first housing part 14 until the second housing part 16 is completely detached from the first housing part 14. To attach the second housing part 16 to the first housing part 14, the sliding operation is performed in the reverse order until the latch member engages with the second housing part 16. To facilitate alignment of the second part 16 of the housing with the first part 14 of the housing, the projections 91 on the first part 14 of the housing are adapted to slide in the guide grooves 90 on the second part 16 of the housing.

[0195] As shown in Fig. 9, detaching the second housing part 16 from the first housing part 14 opens the device reset button 53 provided on the first housing part 14. As shown in Fig. 10, detaching the second housing part 16 from the first housing part 14 opens the charge LED indicator 73 provided on the second housing part 16. The charge LED indicator 73 is configured to provide the user with a visual indication of the amount of electric charge accumulated in the first power supply unit 20.

[0196] Fig. 12 shows a front view of the aerosol generating device 10 in a first configuration, in which the second housing part 16 is attached to the first housing part 14. Fig. 13 shows a front view of the aerosol generating device 10 in a second configuration, in which the second housing part 16 has been replaced by a third housing part 116. The aerosol generating device 10 is configured such that only one of the second housing part 16 and the third housing part 116 can be simultaneously removably attached to the first housing part.

[0197] The third housing part 116 is similar to the second housing part 16 and has the same features that are described in relation to the second housing part 16. The third housing part 116 differs from the second housing part 16 in the charging capacity of the electric charge of the power supply and the physical size of the third housing part 116. In particular, the third housing part 116 contains a second power supply unit that has a smaller charging capacity of the electric charge than the first power supply unit 20 of the second housing part 16. Therefore, the second power supply unit has a smaller physical size than the first power supply unit 20, which results in the fact that the third housing part 116 has a smaller physical size than the second housing part 16. Advantageously, the second housing part 16 and the third housing part 116 allow the user to select between the first configuration shown in Fig. 12, in which the aerosol generating device 10 has a power supply unit having a large charging capacity of electric charge, and the second configuration of Fig.13, in which the aerosol generating device 10 has a smaller physical size.

[0198] Figs. 14-18 show an aerosol generating device 210 according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The aerosol generating device 210 is similar to the aerosol generating device 10 in Figs. 1-13, and the same reference numerals are used to indicate the same parts.

[0199] The aerosol generating device 210 comprises a housing 212 comprising a first housing portion 214 and a second housing portion 216. The second housing portion 216 is configured to be removably attached to the first housing portion 214. The first electrical contact 52 is located on the first housing portion 214, and the second electrical contact 62 is located on the second housing portion 216. The first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62 are adapted to contact each other when the second housing portion 216 is attached to the first housing portion 214.

[0200] The aerosol generating device 210 also comprises a charging circuit 19 and a first power supply unit 20, located within the second housing portion 216. The first power supply unit 20 is an electrical power supply unit containing a rechargeable battery. A charging electrical contact 49, which has the form of a USB-C connector, is located at the end of the second housing portion 216 and is configured to receive power from an external device. The charging circuit 19 is configured to control the power supply received from the external device to recharge the first power supply unit 20.

[0201] The first housing portion 214 defines a chamber 32 in the form of a cavity for accommodating the aerosol-generating article 80 therein, and an opening 34 located at the end of the cavity. The opening 34 is located at the first end of the first housing portion 214. When the aerosol-generating article is placed in the cavity, the aerosol-generating article and the aerosol-generating device 210 together form an aerosol-generating system.

[0202] The aerosol generating device 210 further comprises an electric heater 22 and a controller 18 located inside the first part 214 of the housing. The electric heater 22 comprises an induction coil wound around the cavity. The controller 18 is configured to control the supply of power from the first power supply unit 20 to the electric heater 22 through the first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62 when the second part 216 of the housing is attached to the first part 214 of the housing. During use, the power supplied to the induction coil of the electric heater 22 generates an alternating magnetic field that inductively heats the susceptor in the aerosol generating article placed in the cavity 32 to generate an aerosol.

[0203] The aerosol generating device 210 also comprises a closing element 242 located at the first end of the first housing part 214. The closing element 242 is configured to slide along the first end of the first housing part 214 between a closed position, in which the closing element 242 at least partially covers the opening 34, and an open position, in which the closing element 242 does not cover the opening 34. The rim 244 extends around the perimeter of the first end of the first housing part 214 to protect the closing element 242. When the closing element 242 is in the open position, the aerosol generating article can be inserted into the cavity 32. The closing element 242 comprises a raised handle 248 of the closing element to facilitate the grip of the closing element 242 by the user.

[0204] The aerosol generating device 210 also comprises a coupling means for attaching the second housing part 216 to the first housing part 214. The coupling means comprises a groove 290 formed by the second end of the first housing part 214 and configured to slideably accommodate a portion of the second housing part 216 therein. The second electrical contact 62 on the second housing part 216 is connected to the first electrical contact 52 on the first housing part 214 when the second housing part 216 is attached to the first housing part 214.

[0205] The coupling means also comprises a pair of first magnets 264 located on the first part 214 of the housing inside the groove 290, and a second pair of magnets 274 located on the first end of the second part 216 of the housing. The first pair of magnets 264 is configured to engage with the second pair of magnets 274 when the second part 216 of the housing is attached to the first part 214 of the housing to hold the second part 216 of the housing in the groove 290.

[0206] As shown in Fig. 16, the second housing part 216 is configured to be detached with sliding from the first housing part 214. In order to detach the second housing part 216 from the first housing part 214, the release button 51 on the first housing part 214 is pressed to disengage the latch element from the second housing part 216. Pressing the release button 51 allows the second housing part 216 to slide relative to the first housing part 214 until the second housing part 216 is completely detached from the first housing part 214. To attach the second housing part 216 to the first housing part 214, the sliding operation is performed in the reverse order until the latch element engages with the second housing part 216.

[0207] As shown in Fig. 16, detaching the second housing part 216 from the first housing part 214 reveals the LED charge indicator 73 provided on the second housing part 216. The LED charge indicator 73 is configured to provide the user with a visual indication of the amount of electric charge accumulated in the first power supply unit 20.

[0208] Fig. 17 shows a front view of the aerosol generating device 210 in a first configuration, in which the second housing part 216 is attached to the first housing part 214. Fig. 18 shows a front view of the aerosol generating device 210 in a second configuration, in which the second housing part 216 has been replaced by a third housing part 316. The aerosol generating device 210 is configured such that only one of the second housing part 216 and the third housing part 316 can be simultaneously removably attached to the first housing part.

[0209] The third housing part 316 is similar to the second housing part 216 and has the same features that are described in relation to the second housing part 216. The third housing part 316 differs from the second housing part 216 in the charging capacity of the electric charge of the power supply and the physical size of the third housing part 316. In particular, the third housing part 316 contains a second power supply that has a smaller charging capacity of the electric charge than the first power supply 20 of the second housing part 216. Therefore, the second power supply has a smaller physical size than the first power supply 20, which results in the fact that the third housing part 316 has a smaller physical size than the second housing part 216. Advantageously, the second housing part 216 and the third housing part 116 allow the user to choose between the first configuration shown in Fig. 17, in which the aerosol generating device 210 has a power supply unit having a large charging capacity of an electric charge, and the second configuration of FIG.18, in which the aerosol generating device 210 has a smaller physical size.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device comprising: a housing comprising a first housing portion forming a chamber for accommodating an aerosol-forming substrate and a second housing portion, wherein the second housing portion is configured to be removably attached to the first housing portion, wherein the chamber forms a cavity for accommodating an aerosol-generating article, wherein the first housing portion forms an opening at the end of the cavity, and wherein the opening is located at the first end of the first housing portion; an electric heater located inside the first part of the housing; a power supply unit located inside the second part of the housing; and a controller located inside the first part of the housing, wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply unit to the electric heater when the second part of the housing is attached to the first part of the housing.

2. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing comprises a coupling means for attaching a second part of the housing to the first part of the housing.

3. An aerosol generating device according to claim 2, characterized in that the coupling means comprises a groove configured to accommodate at least a portion of the first portion of the housing or at least a portion of the second portion of the housing.

4. An aerosol generating device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the coupling means comprises a latching element configured to retain the second portion of the housing in a releasable connection with the first portion of the housing, optionally wherein the coupling means further comprises a releasing element configured to release the latching element.

5. An aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs 2-4, characterized in that the coupling means comprises a first magnetic element on a first part of the housing and a second magnetic element on a second part of the housing, and wherein the second magnetic element is configured to engage with the first magnetic element when the second part of the housing is attached to the first part of the housing.

6. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first part of the housing comprises a second end opposite the first end, and wherein the second part of the housing is adapted to be removably attached to the second end of the first part of the housing.

7. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first part of the housing comprises a second end opposite the first end and at least one side wall extending between the first end and the second end, and wherein the second part of the housing is adapted to be removably attached to the at least one side wall.

8. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises a first electrical contact located on a first portion of the housing and a second electrical contact located on a second portion of the housing, wherein the second electrical contact is configured to connect to the first electrical contact when the second portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing, optionally, wherein the controller is configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the electric heater through the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact when the second portion of the housing is attached to the first portion of the housing.

9. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power supply unit is a rechargeable power supply unit, and wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a charging circuit located within the second portion of the housing and configured to control the supply of power received from an external device for recharging the power supply unit.

10. An aerosol generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the power supply unit is a first power supply unit, and the aerosol generating device further comprises a third housing portion configured to be removably attached to the first housing portion, and a second power supply unit located within the third housing portion.

11. An aerosol generating device according to claim 10, characterized in that the coupling means is designed to allow the third part of the housing to be attached to the first part of the housing.

12. An aerosol generating device according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the first power supply unit has a first charging capacity of electric charge, the second power supply unit has a second charging capacity of electric charge, wherein the first charging capacity of electric charge differs from the second charging capacity of electric charge.

13. An aerosol generating device according to claim 12, characterized in that the ratio of the first charging capacity of the electric charge to the second charging capacity of the electric charge is from 1.5 to 3, optionally from 1.5 to 2.5, optionally from 1.7 to 2.

3.

14. An aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs 10-13, characterized in that the second part of the housing has a size that differs from the size of the third part of the housing.

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