Aerosol-generating system

Abstract

An aerosol-generating system (10) comprising an aerosol-generating device (100) comprising an elongate body (110) extending between a proximal end (114) and a distal end (116) along a longitudinal axis, and a charging device (1000) defining a docking cavity (1012) for receiving the aerosol-generating device (100) in a docked configuration. The charging device (1000) comprises a cover (1100). The cover is flexible between a covering position, in which the cover covers a portion of the docking cavity (1012), and a non- covering position, in which the portion of the docking cavity (1012) is exposed. When the aerosol-generating device (100) is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover wraps around the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device to enclose the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity (1012). The cover defines an opening (1105) in a covering surface of the cover (1100).

Description

[0001] FTR3886 / PCT - P / 90298. WO01

[0002] 1

[0003] AEROSOL-GENERATING SYSTEM

[0004] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating system, a charging device, and an aerosol-generating device.

[0005] It is known to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosolgenerating article by the application of heat to the substrate of the article, without burning or combustion of the substrate. In the field of aerosol generation of an aerosol containing nicotine for human inhalation, the aerosol-generating article may be cylindrical, like a cigarette, and the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco material. In some examples, the aerosolgenerating article is received within a chamber of the aerosol-generating device. It is known to use a heating arrangement that is external to the aerosol-generating article, or use a heating arrangement located within the interior of the aerosol-forming substrate. The article may have a solid aerosol-forming substrate, or the article may be in the form of a cartridge or container for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0006] It is also known to provide a charging device for such an aerosol-generating device, the charging device and the aerosol-generating device configured to be coupled together to form an aerosol-generating system.

[0007] Some aerosol-generating devices can be scratched or otherwise damaged if not protected from the external environment. Protecting the aerosol-generating device when it is not in use is important for users of such systems.

[0008] Some aerosol-generating devices comprise a user interface such as a button, or a display for displaying information to a user.

[0009] It would be desirable to provide aerosol-generating system which allows the aerosolgenerating device to be charged and protected, whilst also allowing a user to easily access a user interface of the device.

[0010] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating system. The aerosol-generating system may comprise an aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise an elongate body extending between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis. The aerosol-generating system may comprise a charging device. The charging device may define a docking cavity. The aerosol-generating device may be accommodated in the docking cavity when the aerosol-generating system is in a docked configuration. The charging device may comprise a cover. The cover may be flexible between a covering position, in which the cover covers a portion of the docking cavity, and a non-covering position, in which the portion of the docking cavity is exposed. When the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover may wrap around the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device to enclose the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity. The cover may define an opening in a covering surface of the cover. According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device comprising an elongate body extending between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis, and a charging device defining a docking cavity for receiving the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration. The charging device comprises a cover. The cover is flexible between a covering position, in which the cover covers a portion of the docking cavity, and a non-covering position, in which the portion of the docking cavity is exposed. When the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover wraps around the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device to enclose the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity. The cover defines an opening in a covering surface of the cover.

[0011] When the cover is in the covering position, the cover covers at least a portion of the docking cavity. When the cover is in the covering position, substantially the whole docking cavity may be covered, for example, the entire docking cavity may be covered. Thus, when the cover is in the covering position and an aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration, the cover may cover and protect the aerosol-generating device which is accommodated in the docking cavity. Advantageously, the cover may enclose the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity, which reduces the risk of accidental undocking of the aerosol-generating device due to snagging of either the aerosol-generating device or the charging device.

[0012] Advantageously, a portion of the aerosol-generating device may remain exposed when the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration. The opening may provide user access to a portion of the aerosol-generating device when it is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position. Thus, a portion of the aerosol-generating device may remain exposed through the opening when the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position.

[0013] When the cover is in the non-covering position, at least a portion of an aerosol-generating device accommodated in the docking cavity may be exposed. The non-covering position may be any position in which the docking cavity is covered to a lesser degree than in the covering position. There may be a plurality of positions that the cover can be arranged in that can be designated non-covering positions. When the cover is in the non-covering position, a user may be able to access an aerosol-generating device accommodated in the docking cavity. The cover may be moveable between the covering position and the non-covering position by a user. The cover may be flexible. Thus, the cover may be flexed or bent between the covering position and the noncovering position by a user.

[0014] Advantageously, a user may therefore be able move the cover to the covering position to protect an aerosol-generating device accommodated in the docking cavity, for example during transit, and can move the cover to the non-covering position when full access to the device is desired. The cover may conform to the shape of an aerosol-generating device when in the covering position. The cover may be flexible around a surface of an aerosol-generating device. Thus, the cover may be flexed or bent around a surface of an aerosol-generating device as it moves between the covering position and the non-covering position. Advantageously, the cover conforming to the shape of an aerosol-generating device may provide a more compact and spaceefficient charging device. The cover conforming to the shape of an aerosol-generating device may reduce the movement of the aerosol-generating device within the charging device and thus, reduce the likelihood of damage to the aerosol-generating device.

[0015] The charging device may comprise a primary power source. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a secondary power source. The aerosol-generating system may comprise electrical circuitry configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the secondary power source in the docked configuration.

[0016] The aerosol-generating device may be configured to generate aerosol in the docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system. The aerosol-generating device may comprise electrical circuitry. The electrical circuitry may be configured to control the supply of power from the secondary power source to a heater for heating an aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration. The electrical circuitry may be configured to control the supply of power from the primary power source to the heater for heating an aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration. Advantageously, a user may therefore be able to generate aerosol using the aerosol-generating device without having to remove the aerosol-generating device from the charging device.

[0017] A user may be able to urge the aerosol-generating device into the docking cavity by relative movement of the aerosol-generating device and the docking cavity in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device. Advantageously, by using substantially perpendicular movement, the aerosol-generating device travels less distance to be engaged and disengaged in the docking cavity than in a charging device where the device is inserted into and removed from a docking cavity in a longitudinal direction.

[0018] The docking cavity and aerosol-generating device may be configured such that the aerosolgenerating device may be received in the docking cavity in two different longitudinal orientations. Advantageously, such a configuration may ensure the system is straightforward for a user to operate.

[0019] The longitudinal length of the docking cavity may be substantially equal to a longitudinal length of the aerosol-generating device. Advantageously, the proximal and distal ends of the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device may therefore sit flush in the docking cavity when in the docked configuration. Such an arrangement may reduce the risk of accidental undocking of the aerosol-generating device from the charging device due to snagging of either the aerosolgenerating device or the charging device when the cover is in the non-covering position. The charging device may comprise the electrical circuitry configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the secondary power source in the docked configuration. Advantageously, this may simplify manufacturing of the aerosol-generating device.

[0020] The charging device may comprise at least one primary charging contact and the aerosolgenerating device may comprise at least one secondary charging contact. Each primary charging contact may be configured to contact a corresponding secondary charging contact when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration. Advantageously, power may therefore be supplied using the charging contacts from the primary power source to the secondary power source in the docked configuration. Each primary charging contact may be configured to not contact the corresponding secondary charging contact when the aerosol-generating system is in the undocked configuration. Advantageously, power may therefore be prevented from being supplied using the charging contacts from the primary power source to the secondary power source in the undocked configuration.

[0021] The at least one primary charging contact may be arranged on an inner surface of the docking cavity. The at least one primary charging contact may be arranged on a rear wall of the docking cavity. The at least one primary charging contact may be arranged symmetrically about a midpoint of the docking cavity between a first and second longitudinal end of the docking cavity. Advantageously, each primary charging contact may therefore be configured to contact a corresponding secondary charging contact in both longitudinal configurations of the aerosolgenerating device when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration.

[0022] The at least one secondary charging contact may be arranged on the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device. The at least one secondary charging contact may be arranged symmetrically about a midpoint of the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device between the proximal and distal ends of the aerosol-generating device. Advantageously, each secondary charging contact may therefore be configured to contact a corresponding primary charging contact in both longitudinal configurations of the aerosol-generating device when the aerosolgenerating system is in the docked configuration.

[0023] The at least one primary charging contact may be arranged closer to one of the first and second longitudinal ends of the docking cavity than the other of the first and second longitudinal ends of the docking cavity. The at least one secondary charging contact may be arranged closer to one of the proximal and distal ends of the aerosol-generating device than the other of the proximal and distal ends of the aerosol-generating device. Such an arrangement may ensure that each primary charging contact may therefore be configured to contact a corresponding secondary charging contact in only one of the two longitudinal configurations of the aerosol-generating device when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration. This may ensure that the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device is at a predetermined end of the docking cavity during charging. The charging device may comprise a plurality of primary charging contacts and the aerosolgenerating device may comprise a plurality of secondary charging contacts. For example, the charging device may comprise four primary charging contacts and the aerosol-generating device may comprise four secondary charging contacts. The plurality of primary charging contacts and the plurality of secondary charging contacts may be each arranged in a square formation. The plurality of primary charging contacts and the plurality of secondary charging contacts may be each arranged in a straight line. The plurality of primary charging contacts and the plurality of secondary charging contacts may comprise a plurality of concentric rings.

[0024] The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that the aerosol-generating device is snap-fit in the docking cavity. The aerosol-generating system may comprise a latching means to releasably retain the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating device may be secured in the docking cavity.

[0025] The latching means may be a mechanical latching means. The mechanical latching means may comprise a latching projection extending from the charging device to engage with the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device.

[0026] The latching means may be a magnetic latching means. Advantageously, the magnetic latching means may provide a retaining force between the docking cavity and the aerosolgenerating device.

[0027] The magnetic latching means may comprise the at least one primary charging contact or the at least one secondary charging contact, or both the at least one primary charging contact and the at least one secondary charging contact. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating system may therefore not need additional latching components.

[0028] The cover may be moveable to a position in which the cover is substantially planar. This position may be termed a substantially planar position of the cover. In the substantially planar position, the cover may have a length, a height, and a thickness which is less than 10% of the length, or less than 10% of the height, or less than 10% of the length and less than 10% of the height. In the substantially planar position, the cover may have a cuboid or cuboid-like shape.

[0029] For example, in the substantially planar position, the thickness may be less than 5% of the length, or less than 5% of the height, or less than 5% of the length and less than 5% of the height.

[0030] In the substantially planar position, the thickness may be between around 0.5 mm and around 4.5 mm. For example, the thickness may be between 1 mm and 3 mm, for example between 1.25 mm and 2 mm. In the substantially planar position, the height may be between around 50 mm and around 200 mm. For example, the height may be between 75 mm and 150 mm. In the substantially planar position, the length may be between around 40 mm and around 180 mm. For example, the length may be between 50 mm and 150 mm.

[0031] The cover may resist curving around an axis extending in the direction of the height of the cover less than curving around an axis extending in the direction of the length of the cover. That is, the cover may preferentially curve around an axis extending in the direction of the height of the cover. The cover may preferentially curve around an axis substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of an aerosol-generating device located within the docking cavity.

[0032] The cover may resist curving around an axis extending in the direction of the height of the cover less than curving around an axis extending in the direction of the thickness of the cover.

[0033] The cover may be more flexible in a first direction than in a second direction. Advantageously, this may give the cover some rigidity whilst allowing a user to easily curve the cover around an axis extending in the direction of the height of the cover, for example an axis substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the docking cavity or an axis substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of an aerosol-generating device located within the docking cavity.

[0034] In the non-covering position of the cover, all or substantially all of the docking cavity may be exposed. Alternatively, in the non-covering position of the cover, a portion of the docking cavity may be exposed.

[0035] When the elongate aerosol-generating device is accommodated in the docking cavity and the cover is in the covering position, a first curve, defined by a first portion of the cover, may curve around the longitudinal axis of the elongate aerosol-generating device. The radius of curvature of the first curve may be substantially the same as a radius of the aerosol-generating device.

[0036] When the elongate aerosol-generating device is accommodated in the docking cavity and the cover is in the non-covering position, a second curve may be defined by a first portion of the cover. A radius of curvature of the second curve may be greater than a radius of curvature of the first curve.

[0037] When an elongate aerosol-generating device is accommodated in the docking cavity and the cover is in the non-covering position, at least 80% or 90% or 95% or substantially all of the length of the elongate aerosol-generating device may be exposed.

[0038] Advantageously, this may allow a user to easily grip the device to remove the device from the docking cavity. Further, this may allow a user to see a user interface, such as a screen, on a device accommodated in the docking cavity. The user interface may, for example, allow a user to ascertain whether a device is fully charged without removing the device from the socking space.

[0039] The cover may comprise a first attachment portion. The charging device may comprise a first surface having a first attachment portion. The housing of the charging device may comprise the first surface. The first attachment portion may comprise a recess in the first surface to accommodate a thickness of the cover. The first attachment portion of the cover may be attachable to, and detachable from, the first attachment portion of the first surface.

[0040] The first attachment portion of the cover may be located at or towards a first side of the cover.

[0041] An attachment between the first attachment portion of the first surface and the first attachment portion of the cover may be termed a first attachment. The first attachment may be or comprise a magnetic attachment. The first attachment may be, or comprise, a mechanical attachment, for example made by a mechanical fastening.

[0042] The first attachment portion of the cover may be, or may comprise, one or more of a magnet, a magnetic material, a component of a hook-and-loop fastener such as Velcro ®, a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0043] The first attachment portion of the first surface may be, or may comprise, one or more of a magnet, a magnetic material, a component of a hook-and-loop fastener such as Velcro ®, a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0044] The first attachment portion of the cover may comprise an elongate magnet or an elongate strip of magnetic material. The elongate magnet or elongate strip of magnetic material may be located at or towards a first side of the cover. The elongate magnet or elongate strip of magnetic material may extend along at least 80% or 90% or 95% of the height of the cover.

[0045] The first attachment portion of the first surface may comprise a corresponding magnet, such as a corresponding elongate magnet, or a corresponding strip of magnetic material, such as a corresponding elongate strip of magnetic material. The term magnetic material relates to a material that interacts with a magnet, for example a ferritic material such as iron or stainless steel that is attracted to a magnet.

[0046] When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnet or corresponding magnetic material of the first attachment portion of the first surface may align with the elongate magnet or the elongate strip of magnetic material of the first attachment portion of the cover. When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnet or corresponding magnetic material of the first attachment portion of the first surface may contact the elongate magnet or the elongate strip of magnetic material of the first attachment portion of the cover.

[0047] Advantageously, this may provide a sturdy but reversible attachment between the first attachment portion of the cover to the first attachment portion of the first surface. Such an attachment may reliably retain the cover in the covering position but allow a user to easily move the cover from the covering position to the non-covering position.

[0048] The first attachment portion of the cover may comprise a protruding element, for example a protruding element comprising a magnet or magnetic material, or a protruding element forming a mechanical fastener. The protruding element may be a polymeric material and may resiliently deform or have a resiliently deformable portion for mechanical engagement with a corresponding slot, recess, or socket. The protruding element may protrude in the direction of the thickness of the cover.

[0049] The first surface may comprise a groove. The protruding element of the cover may be configured to be received in the groove of the first surface when the cover is in the covering position. The groove may comprise a corresponding magnet or corresponding magnetic element. Thus, when the cover is in the covering position, the protruding element may align with, or contact, the corresponding magnet or corresponding magnetic element of the groove. The groove may be a socket and may mechanically interact with the protruding element to form an attachment between the first attachment point of the cover and the first attachment point of the first surface.

[0050] The first surface may comprise one or more groove or socket. The each of the one or more groove or socket may engage with a corresponding protruding element extending from a portion of the cover to form the first attachment.

[0051] Advantageously, this may provide a sturdy but reversible attachment between the first attachment portion of the cover to the first attachment portion of the first surface.

[0052] The cover may comprise a second attachment portion. The charging device may comprise a second surface having a second attachment portion. The housing of the charging device may comprise the second surface. The second attachment portion may comprise a recess in the first surface to accommodate a thickness of the cover. The second attachment portion of the cover may be attachable to, and detachable from, the second attachment portion of the first surface.

[0053] The second attachment portion of the cover may be located at or towards a second side of the cover.

[0054] An attachment between the second attachment portion of the second surface and the second attachment portion of the cover may be termed a second attachment. The second attachment may be or comprise a magnetic attachment. The second attachment may be, or comprise, a mechanical attachment, for example made by a mechanical fastening.

[0055] The second attachment portion of the cover may be, or may comprise, one or more of a magnet, a magnetic material, a component of a hook-and-loop fastener such as Velcro ®, a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0056] The second attachment portion of the second surface may be, or may comprise, one or more of a magnet, a magnetic material, a component of a hook-and-loop fastener such as Velcro ®, a button, a hook, a recess, and a clip.

[0057] The second attachment portion of the cover may comprise a stiffener, for example a nonmagnetic stiffener. The stiffener may extend along at least 80% or 90% or 95% of the height of the cover.

[0058] The second attachment portion of the cover may comprise a magnet or a magnetic element. For example, the second attachment portion of the cover may comprise a plurality of magnets or magnetic elements. The plurality of magnets or magnetic elements may be spaced along the height of the cover. For example, the plurality of magnets or magnetic elements may be evenly spaced along the height of the cover. The plurality of magnets or magnetic elements may be spaced along the stiffener. For example, the plurality of magnets or magnetic elements may be evenly spaced along the stiffener.

[0059] The second attachment portion of the second surface may comprise one or more corresponding magnets or corresponding magnetic elements. When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnets or corresponding magnetic elements of the second attachment portion of the second surface may align with the magnets or magnetic elements of the second attachment portion of the cover. When the cover is in the covering position, the corresponding magnets or corresponding magnetic elements of the second attachment portion of the second surface may contact the magnets or magnetic elements of the second attachment portion of the cover.

[0060] The cover may comprise a first attachment point, a second attachment point, or both a first attachment point and a second attachment point, comprising a magnetic attachment member, the magnetic attachment member comprising a magnet or a magnetic material configured to magnetically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing.

[0061] The cover may comprise a first attachment point, a second attachment point, or both a first attachment point and a second attachment point, comprising a mechanical attachment member, the mechanical attachment member comprising a deformable protrusion configured to engage with a protrusion receiving slot to mechanically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing, or the mechanical attachment member comprising a protrusion receiving slot configured to engage with a deformable protrusion to mechanically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing. The deformable protrusion may comprise a deformable lip or hook to engage with the protrusion receiving slot.

[0062] When the aerosol-generating device is accommodated in the docking cavity and the cover is in the covering position, the aerosol-generating device may be enclosed by the charging device. For example, the cover and the housing may enclose a device accommodated in the docking cavity when the cover is in the covering position.

[0063] Advantageously, this may protect an aerosol-generating device accommodated in the docking cavity and may reduce an amount of dust or other debris entering the docking cavity when the cover is in the covering position.

[0064] When the aerosol-generating device is accommodated in the docking cavity and the cover is in the covering position, the aerosol-generating device may be enclosed by the charging device. That is, the device may be completely surrounded by the charging device. For example, the cover and the housing may enclose, or completely surround, a device accommodated in the docking cavity when the cover is in the covering position.

[0065] Advantageously, this may protect an aerosol-generating device accommodated in the docking cavity and may substantially prevent dust or other debris from entering the docking cavity when the cover is in the covering position.

[0066] The cover may comprise a plurality of stiffening elements. Each stiffening element may be formed from, or may comprise, one or more of a plastic or a metal. For example, stiffening elements may be formed from a polymer such as a polycarbonate (PC), or a microfiber plastic, or a composite such as glass fibre composite. Each stiffening element may extend along a height of the cover. For example, each stiffening element may extend along at least 80% or 90% of the height of the cover. The plurality of stiffening elements may be a plurality of elongate stiffening elements. The longest dimension of each elongate stiffening element may extend along the height of the cover, for example along at least 80% or 90% of the height of the cover. The plurality of elongate stiffening elements may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0067] The cover may comprise a first layer. The cover may comprise a second layer. The first layer may comprise a textile material, such as a fabric or a felt, or leather, or synthetic leather, or a bioplastic, or a recycled plastic. The second layer may comprise a textile material such as a fabric or a felt, or leather, or synthetic leather, or a bioplastic, or a recycled plastic.

[0068] The plurality of stiffening elements may be sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer. The first attachment portion of the cover may be sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer. The second attachment portion of the cover may be sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer.

[0069] Each stiffening element may be fixed to the first layer or the second layer, or both the first layer and the second layer.

[0070] The plurality of stiffening elements may be substantially evenly spaced from each other.

[0071] When an elongate aerosol-generating device is accommodated in the docking cavity and the cover is in the covering position, the elongate aerosol-generating device and the plurality of elongate stiffening elements may be substantially parallel.

[0072] Advantageously, this may allow the cover to provide adequate protection to the device whilst allowing the cover to easily curve around the docking cavity, or around a device accommodated in the docking cavity.

[0073] The opening in the cover may be a visible opening through the cover, for example a transparent window. The opening may comprise a transparent layer. Advantageously, the transparent layer may protect the aerosol-generating device in the docked configuration, while allowing a user to view the device through the opening. Alternatively, the opening may be a through hole through the cover.

[0074] At least a portion of the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device may comprise a transparent material, such as a transparent plastic. Advantageously, a user may therefore be able to visualize the internal components of the aerosol-generating device.

[0075] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a protruding portion, wherein the protruding portion protrudes in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The opening in the cover may be substantially the same shape as the protruding portion of the aerosolgenerating device. The protruding portion may be exposed through the opening when the cover is in the covering position and the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration. Thus, when the cover is in the covering position, the protruding portion may be surrounded by an inner edge of the opening. The protruding portion may protrude into or through the opening. Advantageously, a user may be able to access the protruding portion of the device more easily through the opening than if the device did not have a protruding portion.

[0076] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a user interface. The user interface may be located on the protruding portion. The user interface may be one or more of a button, a screen or a display. For example, the user interface may be a touchscreen. The user interface may display information to a user such as a battery percentage. Alternatively, or in addition, a user may interact with the user interface to operate the device. For example, the user interface may be a physical button or a button on a touchscreen that a user may press to control the device.

[0077] The opening in the cover may be substantially the same shape as the user interface of the aerosol-generating device. Thus, when the cover is in the covering position, the user interface may be surrounded by an inner edge of the opening. The user interface may be exposed when the cover is in the covering position. A user may be able to interact with the user interface through the opening. Advantageously, this may reduce the portion of the aerosol-generating device which is exposed through the opening, while ensuring a user can easily access the user interface.

[0078] The cover may define a plurality of openings in a covering surface of the cover. The aerosolgenerating device may comprise a plurality of user interfaces. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a plurality of protruding portions. For example, the aerosol-generating device may comprise a touchscreen located on a first protruding portion and a button located on a second protruding portion. The first protruding portion and second protruding portion may be colinear along the longitudinal axis. In this example, the cover may define two openings. A first opening may be substantially the same shape as the touchscreen and a second opening may be substantially the same shape as the button. When the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position, the first protruding portion may protrude through the first opening and the second protruding portion may protrude through the second opening. The touchscreen may be exposed through the first opening. The button may be exposed through the second opening.

[0079] The charging device may comprise a first end. The charging device may comprise a second end. The second end may oppose the first end. The docking cavity may be defined between the first end and the second end. The first end and the second end may be substantially parallel to each other. The first end may be spaced from, and fixed relative to, the second end. The docking cavity may be configured to accommodate a longitudinal dimension of the aerosol-generating device between the first end and the second end.

[0080] The docking cavity may be partially defined by a rear wall extending between the first end and the second end. The docking cavity may be at least partially defined by the first end, the second end, and the rear wall.

[0081] The docking cavity may be further defined by a first side wall and a second side wall extending between the first end and the second end. The inner surface of the docking cavity may comprise a single continuous surface formed by the rear wall, the first side wall and the second side wall. The second side wall may be spaced from, and fixed relative, to the first side wall. The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that in the docked configuration, both the proximal end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating device are exposed. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating device may be configured to generate aerosol in the docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system in either longitudinal orientation of the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity.

[0082] The aerosol-generating device may have a first side and second side. The first side of the aerosol-generating device may align with the first side wall of the docking cavity. The second side of the aerosol-generating device may align with the second side wall of the docking cavity. The first side and second side may be opposing sides of the aerosol-generating device.

[0083] The first side and second side of the aerosol-generating device may be exposed when the aerosol-generating device is docked in the docking cavity and the cover is in the non-covering position. The first side and second side of the aerosol-generating device being exposed may make the aerosol-generating device easier to grip to insert into and remove from the charging device.

[0084] The first end and the second end may be located on projections extending from a housing of the charging device. The first end may be a first end wall or member defined by, or projecting from, the charging device. The second end may be a second end wall or member defined by, or projecting from, the charging device. Advantageously, this may reduce the amount material required between the first end and second end, such that the charging device may be lighter.

[0085] The inner surface of the docking cavity may be further defined by the first end wall of the charging device housing, the first end wall extending between the first side wall and the second side wall at a first longitudinal end of the docking cavity. The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that in the docked configuration, either the proximal end or the distal end of the aerosol-generating device is exposed. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating device may be configured to generate aerosol in the docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system in only one longitudinal orientation of the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity, and prevented from generating aerosol in the docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system in the other longitudinal orientation of the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity. Alternatively, the aerosol-generating system may be configured such that in the docked configuration, both the proximal end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating device are exposed. The inner surface may comprise a single continuous surface formed by the rear wall, the first side wall, the second side wall and the first end wall.

[0086] The first side wall and the second side wall may comprise cut out portions such that opposing faces of the aerosol-generating device are partially exposed when the aerosolgenerating system is in the docked configuration. Such an arrangement may make removal of the aerosol-generating device from the docking cavity easier for a user. For example, the first side wall and the second side wall may be tapered. The first side wall and the second side wall may extend from substantially zero width at the second longitudinal end of the docking cavity, to extending the full width between the rear wall and the front side at the first longitudinal end of the docking cavity. The cut out portions may be covered by the cover when the cover is in the covering position.

[0087] The inner surface of the docking cavity may be further defined by a second end wall of the charging device housing, the second end wall extending between the first side wall and the second side wall at a second longitudinal end of the docking cavity opposite to the first longitudinal end. The inner surface may comprise a single continuous surface formed by the rear wall, the first side wall, the second side wall, the first end wall and the second end wall. The aerosolgenerating system may be configured such that in the docked configuration, neither the proximal end nor the distal end of the aerosol-generating device is exposed. Advantageously, the aerosolgenerating device may be configured to prevent aerosol generation in the docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system in either longitudinal orientation of the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity.

[0088] The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that in the docked configuration, no portion of the aerosol-generating device extends beyond a peripheral boundary of the charging device housing. The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that in the undocked configuration, at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device extends beyond the peripheral boundary of the charging device housing. Such an arrangement may ensure that the cover does not snag on the aerosol-generating device in the covering position when the device is in the docked configuration.

[0089] The aerosol-generating device may comprise an article cavity configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The article cavity may be defined in the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate comprising tobacco.

[0090] The aerosol-generating device may comprise the heater for heating the solid aerosolforming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may comprise an atomiser configured to heat a liquid or gel aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a reservoir configured to store the liquid or gel aerosol-forming substrate.

[0091] The elongate body of the aerosol-generating device may comprise a substantially circular, elliptical, triangular, square, rhomboidal, trapezoidal, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal crosssection transverse to the longitudinal axis. The docking cavity may comprise a corresponding cavity shape, to ensure a secure fit of the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity in the docked configuration. The charging device may comprise a slidable cover element. The slidable cover element may be configured to slidably cover and uncover a portion of the first end. The slidable cover element may be configured to slidably and uncover cover a portion of the second end. An end wall opening may be defined in one or both of the first and second end. The slidable cover element may configured to cover the end wall opening in a first sliding position and uncover the end wall opening in a second sliding position. The end wall opening may be a through hole such that the docking cavity is exposed through the end wall opening when the slidable cover element is in the second sliding position.

[0092] When the aerosol-generating article is in the docked configuration, the slidable cover element may be configured to slidably cover the article cavity in the first sliding position. Advantageously, this may prevent dust and debris from entering the article cavity. When the aerosol-generating article is in the docked configuration, the slidable element may be configured to uncover the article cavity in the second sliding position. Advantageously, an aerosol-generating article may be insertable through the end wall opening into the article cavity when the aerosolgenerating device is in the docked configuration and the slidable element is in the second sliding position. A filter of the aerosol-generating article may extend out of the end wall opening when the aerosol-generating article is accommodated in the article cavity such that a user may draw on the filter of the aerosol-generating article, similar to a conventional cigarette, when the aerosolgenerating device is in the docked configuration.

[0093] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a charging device for suppling power to an aerosol-generating device. The charging device may comprise a cover. The charging device may define a docking cavity for accommodating the aerosol-generating device. The cover may be flexible between a covering position, in which the cover covers a portion of the docking cavity, and a non-covering position, in which the portion of the docking cavity is exposed. When the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover may be configured to wrap around a longitudinal axis of the docking cavity to cover the portion of the docking cavity. The cover may define an opening in a covering surface of the cover.

[0094] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a charging device for suppling power to an aerosol-generating device, the charging device comprising a cover and defining a docking cavity for accommodating the aerosol-generating device. The cover is flexible between a covering position, in which the cover covers a portion of the docking cavity, and a noncovering position, in which the portion of the docking cavity is exposed. When the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover is configured to wrap around a longitudinal axis of the docking cavity to cover the portion of the docking cavity. The cover defines an opening in a covering surface of the cover.

[0095] The charging device may comprise any features of the charging device as described with respect to the first aspect. As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating device” is used to describe a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. Preferably, the aerosolgenerating device is a smoking device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol that is directly inhalable into a user’s lungs thorough the user's mouth.

[0096] As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate consisting of or comprising an aerosol-forming material that is capable of releasing volatile compounds upon heating to generate an aerosol.

[0097] Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises nicotine. More preferably, the aerosolforming substrate comprises tobacco. Alternatively, or in addition, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco containing aerosol-forming material.

[0098] If the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate, the solid aerosolforming substrate may comprise, for example, one or more of: powder, granules, pellets, shreds, strands, strips, or sheets containing one or more of: herb leaf, tobacco leaf, tobacco ribs, expanded tobacco and homogenised tobacco.

[0099] Optionally, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavour compounds, which are released upon heating of the solid aerosol-forming substrate. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may also contain one or more capsules that, for example, include additional tobacco volatile flavour compounds or non-tobacco volatile flavour compounds and such capsules may melt during heating of the solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0100] Optionally, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on or embedded in a thermally stable carrier. The carrier may take the form of powder, granules, pellets, shreds, strands, strips, or sheets. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the surface of the carrier in the form of, for example, a sheet, foam, gel, or slurry. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the entire surface of the carrier, or alternatively, may be deposited in a pattern in order to provide a non-uniform flavour delivery during use.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises homogenised tobacco material. As used herein, the term “homogenised tobacco material” refers to a material formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco.

[0102] Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises a gathered sheet of homogenised tobacco material. As used herein, the term “sheet” refers to a laminar element having a width and length substantially greater than the thickness thereof. As used herein, the term “gathered” is used to describe a sheet that is convoluted, folded, or otherwise compressed or constricted substantially transversely to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises an aerosol former. As used herein, the term “aerosol former” is used to describe any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, in use, facilitates formation of an aerosol and that is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating article. Suitable aerosol-formers are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyhydric alcohols, such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1 ,3-butanediol and glycerine; esters of polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Preferred aerosol formers are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof, such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1 ,3-butanediol and, most preferred, glycerine.

[0103] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a single aerosol former. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a combination of two or more aerosol formers.

[0104] As used herein when referring to an aerosol-generating device, an aerosol-generating article, and a docking cavity, the term “longitudinal” may refer to the longest direction of any such component of an aerosol-generating system. The term “longitudinal” may refer to the direction of extension of the component from a proximal end of the component to a distal end of the component.

[0105] As used herein when referring to an aerosol-generating device, a body of an aerosolgenerating device, an aerosol-generating article, and a docking cavity, the term “elongate” or “elongated” may refer to any such component having a length greater than a width and a thickness.

[0106] As used herein when referring to an aerosol-generating device, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used to describe the relative positions of components, or portions of components, of the aerosol-generating device in relation to the direction in which air flows through the aerosol-generating device during use thereof. Aerosol-generating devices according to the invention may comprise a proximal end through which, in use, an aerosol exits the device. The proximal end of the aerosol-generating device may also be referred to as the mouth end or the downstream end. The mouth end is downstream of the distal end. The distal end of the aerosolgenerating device may also be referred to as the upstream end. Components, or portions of components, of the aerosol-generating device may be described as being upstream or downstream of one another based on their relative positions with respect to the airflow path of the aerosol-generating device.

[0107] As used herein when referring to an aerosol-generating article, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are used to describe the relative positions of components, or portions of components, of the aerosol-generating article in relation to the direction in which air flows through the aerosol-generating article during use thereof. Aerosol-generating articles according to the invention may comprise a proximal end through which, in use, an aerosol exits the article. The proximal end of the aerosol-generating article may also be referred to as the mouth end or the downstream end. The mouth end is downstream of the distal end. The distal end of the aerosolgenerating article may also be referred to as the upstream end. Components, or portions of components, of the aerosol-generating article may be described as being upstream or downstream of one another based on their relative positions between the proximal end of the aerosol-generating article and the distal end of the aerosol-generating article. The front of a component, or portion of a component, of the aerosol-generating article is the portion at the end closest to the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The rear of a component, or portion of a component, of the aerosol-generating article is the portion at the end closest to the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

[0108] As used herein, the term “aerosol” refers to a dispersion of solid particles or liquid droplets or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets in a gas. The aerosol may be visible or invisible. The aerosol may include vapours of substances that are ordinarily liquid or solid at room temperature as well as solid particles or liquid droplets or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets.

[0109] As used herein, the term “longitudinal” is used to describe a direction between a downstream, proximal or mouth end of the device (or article) and an opposed, upstream or distal end of the device (or article).

[0110] As used herein, the term “transverse” is used to describe a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0111] As used herein, with reference to an aerosol-generating device (or article), the term “length” is used to describe a maximum longitudinal dimension between the distal or upstream end of the device (or article) and the proximal or downstream end of the device (or article).

[0112] As used herein, the term “docked configuration” is used to describe a configuration in which the aerosol-generating device is accommodated in the docking cavity of the charging device.

[0113] As used herein, the term “flexible” is used to indicate that a portion of a feature or component is easily bendable between different positions.

[0114] As used herein, the term “exposed” is used to indicate that a portion of a feature or component is visibly or haptically accessible by a user.

[0115] As used herein, with reference to the aerosol-generating device, the term “protruding” is used to describe a feature which extends from an external surface of the device in a direction perpendicular to the external surface of the device.

[0116] The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0117] Example Ex1. An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device comprising an elongate body extending between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis, and a charging device defining a docking cavity for receiving the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration, wherein the charging device comprises a cover; wherein the cover is flexible between a covering position, in which the cover covers a portion of the docking cavity, and a non-covering position, in which at least a portion of the docking cavity is exposed, wherein when the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover wraps around the longitudinal axis of the aerosolgenerating device to enclose the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity, and wherein the cover defines an opening in a covering surface of the cover.

[0118] Example Ex2. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device remains exposed when the aerosolgenerating device is in the docked configuration.

[0119] Example Ex3. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example, wherein the charging device comprises electrical circuitry.

[0120] Example Ex4. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the charging device comprises a primary power source and the aerosol-generating device comprises a secondary power source, wherein the aerosol-generating system further comprises electrical circuitry configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the secondary power source in the docked configuration.

[0121] Example Ex5. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein a user is able to urge the aerosol-generating device into the docking cavity by relative movement of the aerosol-generating device and the docking cavity in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension of the aerosol-generating device.

[0122] Example Ex6. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the charging device comprises at least one primary charging contact and the aerosolgenerating device comprises at least one secondary charging contact, wherein each primary charging contact is configured to contact a corresponding secondary charging contact when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration.

[0123] Example Ex7. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex6 wherein the at least one primary charging contact is arranged on an inner surface of the docking cavity.

[0124] Example Ex8. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex6 or Ex7 wherein the at least one primary charging contact is arranged symmetrically about a midpoint of the docking cavity between a first and second longitudinal end of the docking cavity.

[0125] Example Ex9. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex6 to Example Ex8 wherein the at least one secondary charging contact is arranged on the body of the aerosol-generating device.

[0126] Example Ex10. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex6 or Ex9 wherein the at least one secondary charging contact is arranged symmetrically about a midpoint of the body of the aerosol-generating device between the proximal and distal ends of the aerosolgenerating device.

[0127] Example Ex11. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex6 to Example Ex10 wherein the charging device comprises a plurality of primary charging contacts and the aerosol-generating device comprises a plurality of secondary charging contacts.

[0128] Example Ex12. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex11 wherein the charging device comprises four primary charging contacts and the aerosol-generating device comprises four secondary charging contacts.

[0129] Example Ex13. An aerosol-generating system according to Examples Ex11 or Ex12 wherein the plurality of primary charging contacts and the plurality of secondary charging contacts are each arranged in a square formation.

[0130] Example Ex14. An aerosol-generating system according to Examples Ex11 or Ex12 wherein the plurality of primary charging contacts and the plurality of secondary charging contacts are each arranged in a straight line.

[0131] Example Ex15. An aerosol-generating system according to Examples Ex11 or Ex#12 wherein the plurality of primary charging contacts and the plurality of secondary charging contacts each comprise a plurality of concentric rings.

[0132] Example Ex16. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example, wherein the aerosol-generating system in configured such that the aerosol-generating device is snap-fit in the docking cavity.

[0133] Example Ex17. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises a latching means to releasably retain the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity.

[0134] Example Ex18. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex17 wherein the latching means is a mechanical latching means.

[0135] Example Ex19. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex18 wherein the mechanical latching means comprises a latching projection extending from the charging device to engage with the body of the aerosol-generating device.

[0136] Example Ex20. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex17 wherein the latching means is a magnetic latching means.

[0137] Example Ex21. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex20 wherein the magnetic latching means comprises the at least one primary charging contact and the at least one secondary charging contact.

[0138] Example Ex22. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol-generating device has a length, and when the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the non-covering position, at least 80% of the length of the aerosol-generating device is exposed. Example Ex23. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the cover is moveable to a position in which the cover is substantially planar and has a length, a height, and a thickness, wherein the thickness is less than 10% of the length, or less than 10% of the height, or less than 10% of the length and less than 10% of the height.

[0139] Example Ex24. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the cover comprises a first attachment portion and the charging device comprises a first surface having a first attachment portion, and wherein the first attachment portion of the cover is engageable and disengageable with the first attachment portion of the first side wall.

[0140] Example Ex25. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the cover comprises a second attachment portion and the charging device comprises a second surface having a second attachment portion, and wherein the second attachment portion of the cover is attachable to, and detachable from, the second attachment portion of the second side wall.

[0141] Example Ex26. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the cover comprises a first attachment point, a second attachment point, or both a first attachment point and a second attachment point, comprising a magnetic attachment member, the magnetic attachment member comprising a magnet or a magnetic material configured to magnetically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing.

[0142] Example Ex27. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the cover comprises a first attachment point, a second attachment point, or both a first attachment point and a second attachment point, comprising a mechanical attachment member, the mechanical attachment member comprising a deformable protrusion configured to engage with a protrusion receiving slot to mechanically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing, or the mechanical attachment member comprising a protrusion receiving slot configured to engage with a deformable protrusion to mechanically latch a portion of the cover to a portion of the housing.

[0143] Example Ex28. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the cover comprises a plurality of stiffening elements.

[0144] Example Ex29. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex28 wherein the cover comprises a first layer and a second layer, and the plurality of stiffening elements are sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer.

[0145] Example Ex30. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex28 or Ex29 wherein the plurality of stiffening elements is a plurality of elongate stiffening elements.

[0146] Example Ex31 . An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex28 to Example Ex30 wherein the plurality of elongate stiffening elements is substantially parallel to each other. Example Ex32. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex28 to Example Ex31 wherein, when the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration, the aerosol-generating device and the plurality of elongate stiffening elements are substantially parallel.

[0147] Example Ex33. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex28 to Example Ex32 wherein each stiffening element extends along at least 80% of a height of the cover.

[0148] Example Ex34. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex29 wherein the first layer or the second layer or both the first layer and the second layer comprise a textile material.

[0149] Example Ex35. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex28 to Example Ex34 wherein the cover is flexible about each of the plurality of stiffening elements.

[0150] Example Ex36. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein when the cover is in the covering position, the first portion of the cover defines a first curve, and when the cover is in the non-covering position, the first portion of the cover defines a second curve, a radius of curvature of the second curve being greater than a radius of curvature of the first curve.

[0151] Example Ex37. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex36 wherein the radius of curvature of the first curve has a substantially the same as a radius of the aerosolgenerating device.

[0152] Example Ex38. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the charging device comprises a first end and a second end opposing the first end, and the docking cavity is defined between the first end and the second end.

[0153] Example Ex39. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex38 wherein the first end is spaced from, and fixed relative to, the second end.

[0154] Example Ex40. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex38 or Ex39 wherein the docking cavity is configured to accommodate a longitudinal dimension of the aerosolgenerating device between the first end and the second end.

[0155] Example Ex41 . An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex38 to Example Ex40 wherein the docking cavity is further defined by a rear wall extending between the first end and the second end.

[0156] Example Ex42. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex38 to Example Ex41 wherein the docking cavity is further defined by a first side wall and a second side wall extending between the first end and the second end, in which the second side wall is spaced from and fixed relative to the first side wall.

[0157] Example Ex43. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex42 wherein an inner surface of the docking cavity comprises a single continuous inner surface formed by the rear wall, the first side wall and the second side wall. Example Ex44. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured such that aerosol-generating device may be received in the docking cavity in two different longitudinal orientations.

[0158] Example Ex45. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex38 to Example Ex44 wherein, the first end and the second end are located on projections extending from a housing of the charging device.

[0159] Example Ex46. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex38 to Example Ex45 wherein the first end is a first end wall or member defined by, or projecting from, the charging device and the second end is a second end wall or member defined by, or projecting from, the charging device.

[0160] Example Ex47. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured such that the in the docked configuration, both the proximal end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating device are exposed.

[0161] Example Ex48. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex43 to Example Ex47 wherein the inner surface of the docking cavity is further defined by the first end wall of the charging device, the first end wall extending between the first side wall and the second side wall at a first longitudinal end of the docking cavity.

[0162] Example Ex49. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex48 wherein the inner surface comprises a single continuous surface formed by the rear wall, the first side wall, the second side wall and the first end wall.

[0163] Example Ex50. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured such that the in the docked configuration, either the proximal end or the distal end of the aerosol-generating device is exposed.

[0164] Example Ex51 . An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex42 to Example Ex50 wherein the first side wall and the second side wall comprise cut outs such that opposing sides of the aerosol-generating device are partially exposed when the aerosolgenerating system is in the docked configuration.

[0165] Example Ex52. An aerosol-generating system according to one of Examples Ex43 to Example Ex51 wherein the inner surface of the docking cavity is further defined by a second end wall of the charging device housing, the second end wall extending between the first side wall and the second side wall at a second longitudinal end of the docking cavity opposite to the first longitudinal end.

[0166] Example Ex53. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex52 wherein the inner surface comprises a single continuous surface formed by the rear wall, the first side wall, the second side wall, the first end wall and the second end wall. Example Ex54. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured such that the in the docked configuration, neither the proximal end nor the distal end of the aerosol-generating device is exposed.

[0167] Example Ex55. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured such that the in the docked configuration, no portion of the aerosol-generating device extends beyond a peripheral boundary of the charging device housing.

[0168] Example Ex56. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol generating device comprises an article cavity for receiving an aerosolgenerating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0169] Example Ex57. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex56 wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate comprising tobacco.

[0170] Example Ex58. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a heater for heating the solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0171] Example Ex59. An aerosol-generating system according to any of Examples Ex56 to Example Ex58 wherein the article cavity is defined in the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0172] Example Ex60. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises an atomiser configured to heat a liquid or gel aerosol-forming substrate.

[0173] Example Ex61 . An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the charging device comprises a slidable cover element configured to slidably cover the article cavity in a first sliding position and uncover the article cavity in a second sliding position when the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration.

[0174] Example Ex62. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex61 wherein the slidable cover element is configured to cover an end wall opening in a first sliding position and uncover the end wall opening in a second sliding position.

[0175] Example Ex63. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein a portion of the aerosol-generating device remains exposed through the opening when the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position.

[0176] Example Ex64. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a protruding portion, wherein the protruding portion protrudes in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0177] Example Ex65. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex64 wherein the protruding portion is exposed through the opening when the cover is in the covering position. Example Ex66. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a user interface.

[0178] Example Ex67. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex66 wherein the user interface is located on the protruding portion.

[0179] Example Ex68. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex66 or Ex67 wherein the opening in the cover is substantially the same shape as the user interface of the aerosolgenerating device.

[0180] Example Ex69. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex66 to Example Ex68 wherein when the cover is in the covering position, the user interface is surrounded by an inner edge of the opening.

[0181] Example Ex70. An aerosol-generating system according to one of Examples Ex66 to Example Ex69 wherein the user interface comprises a screen, for example a touchscreen.

[0182] Example Ex71. An aerosol-generating system according to one of Examples Ex66 to Example Ex70 wherein the user interface comprises a button.

[0183] Example Ex72. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex66 to Example Ex71 wherein the user interface is exposed when the cover is in the covering position.

[0184] Example Ex73. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the opening is a visible opening through the cover, for example a transparent window.

[0185] Example Ex74. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the opening comprises a transparent layer.

[0186] Example Ex75. An aerosol-generating system according to any of Ex1 to Example Ex73 wherein the opening is a through hole through the cover.

[0187] Example Ex76. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein a user is able to interact with the user interface through the opening.

[0188] Example Ex77. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a substantially circular, elliptical, triangular, square, rhomboidal, trapezoidal, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal cross-section transverse to the longitudinal axis.

[0189] Example Ex78. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to generate aerosol in the docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system.

[0190] Example Ex79. A charging device for an electrically operated aerosol-generating system as defined in any of Ex1 to Example Ex78.

[0191] Example Ex80. An aerosol-generating device for an electrically operated aerosolgenerating system as defined in any of Ex1 to Example Ex78. Example Ex81 . A charging device for suppling power to an aerosol-generating device, the charging device comprising a cover and defining a docking cavity for accommodating the aerosolgenerating device, wherein the cover is flexible between a covering position, in which the cover covers a portion of the docking cavity, and a non-covering position, in which at least a portion of the docking cavity is exposed, wherein when the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover is configured to wrap around a longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device to enclose the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity, and wherein the cover defines an opening in a covering surface of the cover.

[0192] Examples will now be further described with reference to the figures in which:

[0193] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol-generating system according to a first embodiment;

[0194] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the aerosol-generating system of Figure 1 in a different configuration;

[0195] Figure 3 shows a top view of a charging device according to the first embodiment;

[0196] Figure 4 shows a cross sectional side view of the aerosol-generating system of Figure 1 in a different configuration;

[0197] Figure 5 shows a top view of the charging device of Figure 3 in a different configuration;

[0198] Figure 6 shows a side view of the aerosol-generating system of Figure 2;

[0199] Figure 7 shows a perspective view of an aerosol-generating system and an aerosolgenerating article according to a second embodiment;

[0200] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the aerosol-generating system of Figure 7 in a different configuration; and

[0201] Figure 9 shows a cross sectional view of a cover according to an embodiment.

[0202] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol-generating system 10 according to a first embodiment, the aerosol-generating system 10 comprising a charging device 1000 according to a first embodiment and an aerosol-generating device 100 according to a first embodiment.

[0203] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises an elongate body 110 which is substantially cuboidal and has the general dimensions of a conventional cigar. The elongate body 110 extends along a longitudinal axis between a proximal end 114 and a distal end 116.

[0204] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises a user interface 150. In this embodiment, the user interface is a screen configured to display information to a user. The user interface is location on a protruding portion 155 of the aerosol-generating device 100. The protruding portion 155 and user interface 150 have a rounded rectangular shape.

[0205] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises an open article cavity 160 at a proximal end 114 for receiving an aerosol-generating article (not shown). The aerosol-generating device 100 further comprises an electric heater (not shown), such as a resistive heater, arranged surrounding the article cavity 160 for heating at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received in the article cavity 160. A suitable aerosol-generating article may for example include an aerosol-forming substrate comprising a gathered, crimped sheet of tobacco, and a filter arranged back to back with the aerosol-forming substrate in the form of a rod. The aerosol-generating article would have a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the article cavity 160 of the device and a length longer than the article cavity 160, such that when the article is received in the article cavity 160 of the device, the filter extends out of the article cavity 160 and may be drawn on by a user, similarly to a conventional cigarette.

[0206] The charging device 1000 comprises a charging device housing 1010 and a docking cavity 1012. The docking cavity 1012 is configured to accommodate the aerosol-generating device 100, the aerosol-generating device 100 being accommodated in the docking cavity 1012 when the aerosol-generating system 10 is in a docked configuration.

[0207] The charging device 1000 comprises a cover 1100. In Figure 1 , the cover is in a noncovering position, such that the docking cavity 1012 is exposed to an external environment. In the non-covering position in Figure 1 , the cover is substantially planar. The cover is flexible between the non-covering position and a covering position (shown in Figure 2), in which the cover covers the docking cavity 1012.

[0208] The cover 1100 defines an opening 1105 in a covering surface 1103 of the cover 1100. The opening 1105 is substantially the same shape as the user interface 150 of the aerosol-generating device 100. In this embodiment, the opening 1105 is a through hole through the cover, such that when the aerosol-generating system 10 is in the docked configuration, the user interface 150 is exposed through the opening 1105 and a user may view and interact with the user interface 150 through the opening 1105.

[0209] The cover 1100 comprises a first cover attachment portion 1101 comprising a first magnetic attachment member. The first magnetic attachment member is an elongate magnet located on the covering surface 1101. The charging device 1000 further comprises a first surface 1002 having a first attachment portion 1001 comprising a second magnetic attachment member. The second magnetic attachment member is an elongate strip of magnetic material. The first magnetic attachment member is magnetically engageable with second magnetic attachment member. Thus, the first cover attachment portion 1101 is magnetically engageable with, and disengageable from, the first attachment portion 1001 of the first surface 1002 by engaging and disengaging the first magnetic attachment member and second magnetic attachment member.

[0210] The charging device 1000 comprises a first end member 1013 and a second end member 1015. The first end member 1013 and second end member 1015 project from the charging device housing 1010 in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the charging device 1000. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the same aerosol-generating system 10 of Figure 1 in a different configuration. In Figure 2, the aerosol-generating device 100 is in the docked configuration. The cover 1100 is in the covering position such that the cover 1100 wraps around the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device 100 to enclose the aerosol-generating device 100 in the docking cavity (not shown). As such, the device 100 is protected from the external environment. To move the cover from the position shown in Figure 1 to the position shown in Figure 2, a user has simply wrapped the cover 1100 around an outer portion of the first end member 1013 and an outer portion of the second end member 1015 about the longitudinal axis of the charging device 1000. The cover 1100 is held in place as the first cover attachment portion (not shown) is magnetically engaged with the first attachment portion (not shown). In this embodiment, the user interface 150 is surrounded by an inner edge of the opening 1105. The protruding portion 155 has a thickness which is substantially the same as a cover thickness. Thus, the user interface 150 is flush with an outer surface 1104 of the cover when the aerosol-generating device 100 is in the docked configuration and the cover 1100 is in the covering position.

[0211] Figure 3 shows a top view of the charging device 1000 of Figure 1 with the cover 1100 in a non-covering position. The first cover attachment portion 1101 is disengaged from the first attachment portion 1001.

[0212] Figure 4 shows a cross sectional side view of the aerosol-generating system 10 of Figure 1 , with the cover 1100 in a non-covering position but with the aerosol-generating device 100 in the docked configuration. In this configuration, the aerosol-generating device 100 is exposed.

[0213] The docking cavity 1012 extends between a first end wall 1014 and a second end wall 1016 in a longitudinal direction, and is substantially identical in size and shape to the aerosol-generating device 100. The first end wall 1014 is a lower surface of the first end member 1013. The second end wall 1016 is an upper surface of the second end member 1015. The docking cavity 1012 is further partially defined by two opposing side walls (not shown), and is open at a front side 1024 to receive the aerosol-generating device 100. Thus, a user is able to urge the aerosol-generating device 100 into the docking cavity 1012 by relative movement of the aerosol-generating device 100 and the docking cavity 1012 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension of the aerosol-generating device 100. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, the docking cavity 1012 is closed at the first end wall 1014 and second end wall 1016.

[0214] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises a power source 190, herein referred to as a secondary power source 190, housed in the elongate body 110 of the device. The secondary power source 190 is a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery. The aerosol-generating device 100 further comprises electrical circuitry 180 configured to control the supply of power from the secondary power source 190 to the electric heater (not shown).

[0215] The aerosol-generating device 100 further comprises secondary electrical contacts 170 defined on a rear face 118 of the aerosol-generating device 100. The secondary electrical contacts 170 are arranged symmetrically about a midpoint of the rear face 118 of the aerosolgenerating device 100 between the proximal end 114 and the distal end 116. The secondary electrical contacts 170 are electrically connected to the secondary power source 190 and electrical circuitry 180.

[0216] The charging device 1000 further comprises a power source 1090, herein referred to as a primary power source 1090, within the charging device housing 1010. The primary power source 1090 is a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery. The charging device housing 1010 further contains charging device electrical circuitry 1080. The primary electrical contacts 1070 are electrically connected to the primary power source 1090 and charging device electrical circuitry 1080. The charging device electrical circuitry 1080 is configured to control the supply of power from the primary power source 1090 to the secondary power source 190 using the primary electrical contacts 1070 and the secondary electrical contacts 170.

[0217] The charging device 1000 further comprises primary electrical contacts 1070 defined on a rear wall 1018 of the docking cavity 1012. The rear wall 1018 partially defines the docking cavity 1012. The primary electrical contacts 1070 are arranged symmetrically about a midpoint of the rear wall 1018 between a first end wall 1014 and a second end wall 1016.

[0218] The primary electrical contacts 1070 and the secondary electrical contacts 170 comprise magnetic latching means, such that a magnetic force is provided between the primary electrical contacts 1070 and the secondary electrical contacts 170. This magnetic force ensures retention of the aerosol-generating device 100 in the docking cavity 1012. It can be understood that alternative or additional latching means are also possible. For example, at least one of the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device 100 and the charging device housing 1010 may comprise mechanical latching means, such as protrusions configured to engage with the other of the aerosol-generating device 100 and the charging device housing 1010 to provide a force for retaining the aerosol-generating device 100 in the docking cavity 1012.

[0219] Although the charging device 1000 and the aerosol-generating device 100 are illustrated as each comprising two charging contacts 170, 1070 in Figure 4, the skilled person would understand that they may instead each comprise alternative numbers and arrangements of charging contacts 170, 1070. For example, the charging device 1000 and the aerosol-generating device 100 may each comprise four charging contacts arranged in a line or a square configuration. The charging device 1000 and the aerosol-generating device 100 may each comprise charging contacts arranged in a concentric circle configuration.

[0220] Figure 5 shows a top view of the charging device 1000 of Figure 3 with the cover 1100 in a covering position. The first cover attachment portion 1101 is magnetically engaged with the first attachment portion 1001 to retain the cover 1100 in the covering position, such that an aerosolgenerating device 100 (not shown) may be enclosed in the docking cavity 1012 of the charging device 1000. When the cover is in the covering position shown in Figure 5, the cover 1100 defines a first curve having a radius of curvature. When the cover is in the non-covering position shown in Figure 3, the cover 1100 defines a second curve having a radius of curvature. As can be seen from Figures 3 and 5, the radius of curvature of the second curve is greater than the radius of curvature of the first curve.

[0221] Figure 6 shows a side view of the aerosol-generating system 10 of Figure 2. The configuration of the aerosol-generating system 10 in Figure 6 is similar to the configuration of Figure 4, but with cover 1100 in a covering position instead of a non-covering position. Features with dotted outlines are covered by the cover 1100.

[0222] Figure 7 shows a perspective view of an aerosol-generating system 70 according to a second embodiment, the aerosol-generating system 70 comprising a charging device 7000 according to a second embodiment and an aerosol-generating device 700 according to a second embodiment. The aerosol-generating system 70 according to the second embodiment is similar to the aerosol-generating system 10 according to the first embodiment shown in Figure 1 , so will be described with respect to its differences only.

[0223] In contrast to the aerosol-generating device 700 of the first embodiment, the aerosolgenerating device 700 of the second embodiment has an elongate body 710 which is substantially cylindrical. The user interface 750 and protruding portion 755 are substantially elliptical.

[0224] An aerosol-generating article 75 is accommodated in an article cavity 760 of the aerosolgenerating device 700. The article 75 extends out of the article cavity 160 and may be drawn on by a user, similarly to a conventional cigarette.

[0225] The charging device 7000 of the second embodiment further comprises a slidable cover element 7200 integrated into a first end member 7013. In Figure 7, the slidable cover element 7200 is located in a recessed slot 7205 in the first end member 7013. The slidable cover element 7200 is slidable between a first sliding position (shown in Figure 8) and a second sliding position. The slidable cover element 7200 is shown in a second sliding position, in which an end wall opening 7210 is uncovered. The end wall opening 7210 is a through hole through the first end member 7013. The end wall opening 7210 is configured to align with the article cavity 760 of the aerosol-generating device 700 when the aerosol-generating device 700 is in the docked configuration such that the aerosol-generating article 75 may be inserted through the end wall opening 7210 into the article cavity 760. Thus, the slidable cover element 7200 is configured to slidably cover the article cavity 760 in the first sliding position and uncover the article cavity 760 in the second sliding position when the aerosol-generating device 700 is in the docked configuration. Thus, the aerosol-generating device 700 is able to generate aerosol from the aerosol-generating article 75 in the docked configuration.

[0226] Similar to the aerosol-generating device 700, the opening 7100 in the cover is substantially elliptical to correspond to the shape of the user interface 750. Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the aerosol-generating system 70 of Figure 7 in a different configuration. The aerosol-generating system 70 of Figure 8 is similar to the aerosolgenerating system 10 of Figure 2. The aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration and is enclosed by the cover 7100. The user interface 750 is exposed through the opening 7100 and is flush with an outer surface 7104 of the cover. The slidable cover element 7200 is in the first sliding position, in which the slidable cover element covers the end wall opening 7210.

[0227] Figure 9 is a cross sectional view of a cover 9100. The cover comprises an opening 9105. The opening 9105 is a through hole through the cover. The cover 9100 comprises a first attachment portion 9102 located towards a first side of the cover and a second attachment portion 9104 located towards a second side of the cover.

[0228] The first attachment portion 9102 comprises an elongate magnet 9103. The elongate magnet 9104 extends along substantially the entire height of the cover 9100. The first attachment portion 9102 also comprises a magnetic protruding element 9106. The protruding element protrudes in the direction of the thickness of the cover 9100.

[0229] The second attachment portion 9104 comprises a stiffener 9108. The second attachment portion 9104 comprises four magnets 9110, 9112, 9114, 9116. The four magnets 9110, 9112, 9114, 9116 are in contact with, and spaced evenly along, the stiffener 9108.

[0230] The cover comprises a plurality of stiffening elements 9118. The stiffening elements are preferably formed from a suitable polymer material such as polycarbonate (PC). The plurality of stiffening elements 9118 are elongate. The longest dimension of each elongate stiffening element extends along substantially the entire height of the cover 9100. The plurality of elongate stiffening elements 9118 are substantially parallel to each other.

[0231] The cover 9100 comprises a first layer and a second layer. Since Figure 9 is a cross sectional view of the cover 9100, the first layer and the second layer cannot be seen in Figure 9. Both the first layer and the second layer are formed from a textile material. The first attachment portion 9102, the second attachment portion 9104, and the plurality of stiffening elements 9118 are sandwiched between the first layer and the second layer.

[0232] For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. In this context, therefore, a number A is understood as A ± 10% of A. Within this context, a number A may be considered to include numerical values that are within general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies. The number A, in some instances as used in the appended claims, may deviate by the percentages enumerated above provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

32CLAIMS1. An aerosol-generating system comprising, an aerosol-generating device comprising an elongate body extending between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis, and a charging device defining a docking cavity for receiving the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration, wherein the charging device comprises a cover; wherein the cover is flexible between a covering position, in which the cover covers a portion of the docking cavity, and a non-covering position, in which the portion of the docking cavity is exposed, wherein when the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover wraps around the longitudinal axis of the aerosolgenerating device to enclose the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity, and wherein the cover defines an opening in a covering surface of the cover.

2. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 wherein the aerosol-generating device is operable to generate aerosol in the docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system.

3. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the charging device comprises a primary power source and the aerosol-generating device comprises a secondary power source, wherein the aerosol-generating system further comprises electrical circuitry configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the secondary power source in the docked configuration.

4. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim wherein the charging device comprises at least one primary charging contact and the aerosol-generating device comprises at least one secondary charging contact, wherein each primary charging contact is configured to contact a corresponding secondary charging contact when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration.

5. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim wherein the aerosolgenerating system is configured such that aerosol-generating device may be received in the docking cavity in two different longitudinal orientations.

6. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim wherein a portion of the aerosol-generating device remains exposed through the opening when the aerosolgenerating device is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position.

337. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim wherein the aerosolgenerating device comprises a user interface, in which the user interface is exposed through the opening when the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration and the cover is in the covering position.

8. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 7 wherein the opening in the cover is substantially the same shape as the user interface of the aerosol-generating device.

9. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 7 or 8 wherein when the cover is in the covering position, the user interface is surrounded by an inner edge of the opening.

10. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim wherein the aerosolgenerating device comprises a protruding portion, wherein the protruding portion protrudes in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.11 . An aerosol-generating system according to claim 10 wherein the protruding portion is exposed through the opening when the cover is in the covering position.

12. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 10 or 11 wherein the user interface is located on the protruding portion.

13. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim wherein the aerosol generating device comprises an article cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

14. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 13 wherein the charging device comprises a slidable cover element configured to slidably cover the article cavity in a first sliding position and uncover the article cavity in a second sliding position when the aerosol-generating device is in the docked configuration.

15. A charging device for suppling power to an aerosol-generating device, the charging device comprising a cover and defining a docking cavity for accommodating the aerosol-generating device wherein the cover is flexible between a covering position, in which the cover covers a portion of the docking cavity, and a non-covering position, in which the portion of the docking cavity is exposed, whereinwhen the cover is in the covering position, a first portion of the cover is configured to wrap around a longitudinal axis of the docking cavity to cover the portion of the docking cavity, and wherein the cover defines an opening in a covering surface of the cover.

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