A two part aerosol-generating system comprising a seamless docked configuration

Abstract

There is provided 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 (100) comprising a charging device housing and a docking cavity within the charging device housing. The docking cavity (1012) is open on a front side and configured to receive from the front side the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device (100) is received in the docking cavity when the system is in a docked configuration. The docking cavity is defined between a first end portion of the housing and an opposing second end portion of the housing spaced from and fixed relative to the first end portion, the docking cavity accommodating a longitudinal dimension of the aerosol-generating device such that the first end portion and the second end portion of the docking cavity at least partially overlap the proximal and distal ends of the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration. At least a portion of the aerosol-generating device remains exposed in a docked configuration, the at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device that remains exposed forming a continuous surface with the charging device housing (1010).

Description

[0001] FTR3887 / PCT - P / 90301 .WO01

[0002] A TWO PART AEROSOL-GENERATING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SEAMLESS DOCKED CONFIGURATION

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising a charging device and an aerosol-generating device.

[0004] 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 aerosol-generating article is received within a chamber of the aerosolgenerating 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.

[0005] 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.

[0006] Aerosol-generating systems of this type are typically portable, including the charging device. So the charging device and the aerosol-generating device need to be easy to couple and uncouple from each other, but at the same time they need to remain securely coupled together in a user’s pocket or bag without becoming accidently uncoupled so that charging ceases.

[0007] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosolgenerating device and a charger that is easy for the user to couple and uncouple, but which is also mitigates against accidental uncoupling.

[0008] According to 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 comprising a charging device housing and a docking cavity within the charging device housing . The docking cavity may be open on a front side and configured to receive from the front side the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity when the system is in a docked configuration.

[0009] The charging device may comprise a primary power source and the aerosol-generating device may comprise a secondary power source. The aerosol-generating system may further comprise electrical circuitry configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the secondary power source in the docked configuration. The docking cavity may be defined between a first end portion of the housing and an opposing second end portion of the housing spaced from and fixed relative to the first end portion, the docking cavity accommodating a longitudinal dimension of the aerosolgenerating device such that the first end portion and the second end portion of the docking cavity at least partially overlap the proximal and distal ends of the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration. At least a portion of the aerosol-generating device may remain exposed in a docked configuration, the at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device that remains exposed forming a continuous surface with the charging device housing.

[0010] In a first aspect of the 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 comprising a charging device housing and a docking cavity within the charging device housing, the docking cavity open on a front side and configured to receive from the front side an aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device being received in the docking cavity when the system is in a docked configuration, wherein the charging device comprises a primary power source and the aerosolgenerating device comprises a secondary power source, and 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, the docking cavity being defined between a first end portion of the housing and an opposing second end portion of the housing spaced from and fixed relative to the first end portion, the docking cavity accommodating a longitudinal dimension of the aerosolgenerating device such that the first end portion and the second end portion of the docking cavity at least partially overlap the proximal and distal ends of the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration, wherein at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device remains exposed in a docked configuration, the at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device that remains exposed forming a continuous surface with the charging device housing.

[0011] By arranging the aerosol-generating device and the charging device so that in a docked configuration at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device remains exposed, the user can easily access and uncouple the aerosol-generating device from the charging device when required. By arranging the aerosol-generating device and the charging device so that in a docked configuration they provide a continuous outer surface, the possibility of the aerosol-generating device and the charging device becoming accidently uncoupled is reduced, because the chance of another object or surface become snagged on a join between the aerosol-generating device and the charging device is reduced. As used herein, the exposed portion of the aerosol-generating device forming a continuous surface with the charging device housing means that the outer surface of the coupled system does not have a sudden change in curvature or have significant cracks or cavities where an outer surface of the charging device and an outer surface of the aerosol - generating device meet.

[0012] The arrangement that the first end portion and the second end portion of the docking cavity at least partially overlap the first and second ends of the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration also reduces the possibility of the aerosol-generating device and the charging device becoming accidently uncoupled. The partially overlapping ends prevent unwanted relative longitudinal movement between the charging device and the aerosol - generating device. Uncoupling can then only occur with some lateral relative movement. The first end portion and the second end portion of the docking cavity may fully cover the first and second ends of the aerosol-generating device. This reduces the chance of accidental undocking of the aerosol-generating device.

[0013] Preferably, the aerosol-generating device has a side surface extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The side surface may be curved. The side surface may have a constant curvature. The side surface have a varied curvature. For example, a first portion of the side surface may have a different curvature to a second portion of the side surface.

[0014] A first portion of the side surface of the aerosol-generating device remains exposed in a docked configuration. Exposed in this context means accessible to a user. The first portion may be convex. The first portion has a first radius of curvature where it meets the charging device housing in a docked configuration. Advantageously the charging device housing adjacent to the first portion has a radius of curvature substantially equal to the first radius of curvature. In some embodiments, the first radius of curvature may be between 3mm and 25mm, more preferably between 5mm and 10mm. With this arrangement, in the docked configuration, the aerosol-generating device and charging device can provide a smooth, continuous outer surface that reduces potential snagging and uncoupling of the system and is also pleasurable to hold and to look at.

[0015] The side surface of the aerosol-generating device may have a second portion extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the side surface that is hidden within the docking cavity in the docked configuration. Hidden in this context means inaccessible to a user. The second portion may be concave. The first portion may have a greater radius of curvature than the second portion. The first portion may have an equal radius of curvature to the second portion. The second portion may have a second radius of curvature where it meets the first portion. The second radius of curvature may be between 3mm and 25mm, more preferably between 5mm and 10mm. The aerosol-generating device may be generally cylindrical. The aerosol-generating device may have a substantially constant cross-section along the longitudinal axis. The elongate body of the aerosol-generating device may comprises a substantially circular, elliptical, triangular, square, rhomboidal, trapezoidal, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal cross-section 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 aerosol-generating device may have a largely circular cross-section with a flat face transverse to the longitudinal axis. The aerosolgenerating device may have a cross-section of any suitable polygon transverse to the longitudinal axis. The aerosol-generating device may have a cross-section of any suitable polygon with rounded corners transverse to the longitudinal axis.

[0016] The docking cavity of the charging device may be shaped to match the cross-section of the aerosol-generating device. The docking cavity of the charging device may be shaped to match a portion of a cross-section of the aerosol-generating device. Advantageously, this allows for a snug fit in the docked configuration. For example, a docking cavity can match the external dimensions of the side surface of the aerosol-generating device.

[0017] The first end portion may only partially cover the proximal or distal end of the aerosolgenerating device in a docked configuration. Advantageously, this may allow access to part of the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration, for example an aerosol-forming substrate receiving cavity, allowing the system to be used to generate aerosol in a docked configuration.

[0018] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a substrate receiving cavity for receiving an aerosol-generating article. Advantageously, the user can choose to partially cover the substrate receiving cavity in one docked configuration and expose the substrate receiving cavity in another docked configuration. The substrate receiving cavity may be located on the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device. The user may be able to cover the proximal end in a first docked configuration. The user may be able to cover the distal end in a second docked configuration. The user may be able to expose the proximal end in a second docked configuration. Advantageously, the user is able to use the aerosol-generating device to generate aerosol in a docked configuration.

[0019] The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that in the docked configuration, neither of the proximal end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating device are exposed. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating device may be configured to prevent aerosol generation in any docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system.

[0020] 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. 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 aerosol-generating device or the charging device. The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that in the undocked configuration, at least a portion of the aerosolgenerating device extends beyond the peripheral boundary of the charging device housing.

[0021] Engagement between the aerosol-generating device and the docking arrangement may be effected by relative movement of the aerosol- generating device and the charging device in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol -generating device. By using substantially perpendicular movement, less distance needs to be travelled to engage the aerosol-generating device and the charging device than would be the case in a typical system in which the aerosol-generating device is inserted into a charging device in a longitudinal direction. For example, either a proximal end or a distal end of the aerosolgenerating device may initially be inserted into engagement with the charging device in the docking cavity. The opposite end may then be pivoted into the docking cavity such that the aerosol-generating device is fully engaged with the charging device. In another example, both the proximal end and distal end may be urged towards the docking arrangement together, in a parallel motion.

[0022] An inner surface of the docking cavity is defined at least by a rear wall opposite to the front side, a first side wall and a second side wall of the charging device housing, the second side wall spaced from and fixed relative to the first side wall, each of the rear wall, first side wall and second side wall extending in a longitudinal direction. Advantageously, with this arrangement the aerosol-generating device is secure in the docking cavity. The first and second side walls provide coverage to mitigate the aerosol-generating device being accidentally disengaged from the docking arrangement.

[0023] The first side wall and the second side wall may cover the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration such that the aerosol-generating device cannot be directly gripped by a user. Advantageously, with this arrangement the aerosol-generating device is secure in the docked configuration. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating device is unlikely to be accidently uncoupled from the charging device in the docked configuration. The first and second side walls may extend outwardly from the cavity by the width of the aerosolgenerating device. This means that the second, hidden portion of the side surface is larger than the first, exposed portion of the side surface. So there is a lower likelihood of the aerosolgenerating device being contacted accidentally, for example in a user’s pocket, causing it to disengage from the docking cavity.

[0024] At least one of the rear wall of the charging device and the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device may comprise a pivot structure configured to allow the aerosolgenerating device or the charging device to pivot about the pivot structure to transition the aerosol-generating system from a docked configuration to an undocked configuration in which the aerosol-generating device is disengaged from at least a portion of the docking cavity.

[0025] Advantageously, disengagement between the aerosol-generating device and the docking cavity may be achieved by a movement of the aerosol-generating device relative to the charging device perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol -generating device, wherein a start of the movement is effected by an external pressure applied to the proximal end or the distal end of the aerosol-generating device. This may allow for a user of the aerosol-generating system to easily disengage the aerosol-generating device from the docking cavity by pressing with a single finger or thumb, such that disengagement may be achieved using a single hand which is simultaneously holding the aerosol-generating system. Such an arrangement therefore provides for an enhanced user experience of disengagement between the aerosol-generating device and the docking cavity.

[0026] The first side wall and the second side wall may not cover the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration such that the aerosol-generating device can be directly gripped by a user. The first side wall and the second side wall may partially cover the aerosolgenerating device in a docked configuration such that the aerosol-generating device can be directly gripped by a user. This makes disengaging the aerosol-generating device from the docking cavity straightforward for a user. A magnetic latching arrangement or mechanical latching arrangement may be used to reduce the likelihood of accidental disengagement. In some examples, the first side wall and the second side wall may cover between 5% and 10% of the side surface of the aerosol-generating device to reduce the likelihood of accidental disengagement. In the same examples, the first end portion and the second end portion of the docking cavity may overlap between 5% and 10% of the area of the first and second ends of the aerosol-generating device to reduce the likelihood of accidental disengagement.

[0027] The aerosol-generating system may comprise a first docked configuration. In the first docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system, the open end of the substrate receiving cavity may be at least partially covered by the charging device. In the first docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system, at least a portion of an external surface of the elongate body may be exposed.

[0028] The aerosol-generating system may comprise a second docked configuration. In the second docked configuration, the open end of the substrate receiving cavity may be exposed. In the second docked configuration, at least a portion of the external body may be exposed .

[0029] The substrate receiving cavity may be at least partially covered in the first docked configuration and the second docked configuration.

[0030] The system may be configured such that the aerosol-generating device can be received in the docking cavity in a first orientation and a second orientation different to the first orientation, wherein in a first docked configuration the aerosol-generating device is in the first orientation and in a second docked configuration the aerosol-generating device is in the second orientation different to the first orientation. Advantageously, the user can easily pick which docked configuration they desire simply by orienting the aerosol-generating device. For example, the first and second orientations may be 180 degrees different to one another, the user can flip the aerosol-generating device when it is disengaged from the docking arrangement and then engage the aerosol-generating device with the docking arrangement once they have selected an orientation.

[0031] The aerosol-generating device may comprise an atomiser. The atomiser may be 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. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a heater. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to heat tobacco in an aerosol-generating article.

[0032] The charging device may comprise the electrical circuitry. Advantageously, this may simplify manufacturing of the aerosol-generating device.

[0033] The charging device may comprise a plurality of primary charging or data contacts within the docking cavity and wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a corresponding plurality of secondary charging or data contacts configured to engage the primary charging or data contacts when in a 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 or data contact may be configured to not contact the corresponding secondary charging or data contact when the aerosol-generating system is in the undocked configuration. Advantageously, power may therefore be prevented from being supplied using the charging or data contacts from the primary power source to the secondary power source in the undocked configuration.

[0034] The aerosol-generating device may be configured to generate aerosol in the docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system. The electrical circuitry may be configured to control the supply of power from the secondary power source to the atomiser 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 atomiser for heating an aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration. Advantageously, a user may be able to generate aerosol using the aerosol-generating device without having to remove the aerosol-generating device from the charging device.

[0035] The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that the charging device can supply power directly to the atomiser. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating system is then operable to generate aerosol in the docked configuration when the aerosol-generating device is on low power. For example, when the secondary power source is on low power, the primary power source can provide power directly to the atomiser when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration.

[0036] The plurality of primary charging or data contacts may be positioned centrally and symmetrically within the docking cavity so that the secondary charging or data contacts can engage the primary charging or data contacts in a first docked configuration and in a second docked configuration. Advantageously, each secondary charging or data contact may therefore be configured to contact a corresponding primary charging or data contact in both first and second orientations of the aerosol-generating device when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration.

[0037] 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 pivot cavity may be positioned at an opposite end of the docking cavity to said predetermined end. This may be particularly beneficial as this may ensure that to transition the aerosol-generating system from the docked configuration to the undocked configuration, the user does not need to press on a portion of the aerosol-generating device adjacent to the proximal end, which may be hot due to heating of an aerosol-generating article.

[0038] The charging device may comprise a plurality of primary charging or data contacts and the aerosol-generating device may comprise a plurality of secondary charging or data contacts. For example, the charging device may comprise four primary charging or data contacts and the aerosol-generating device may comprise four secondary charging or data contacts. The plurality of primary charging or data contacts and the plurality of secondary charging or data contacts may be each arranged in a square formation. The plurality of primary charging or data contacts and the plurality of secondary charging or data contacts may be each arranged in a straight line. The plurality of primary charging or data contacts and the plurality of secondary charging or data contacts may comprise a plurality of concentric rings.

[0039] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a user interface and wherein the user interface is exposed in at least one docking configuration. Advantageously, the user can interact with the user interface while the aerosol-generating device is engaged with the docking configuration.

[0040] 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 latch to releasably retain the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating device may be secured in the docking cavity.

[0041] The latch may be a mechanical latch. The mechanical latch may comprise a latching projection extending from the charging device to engage with the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device.

[0042] The elongate body of the aerosol-generating device, or the charging device housing, or the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device and the charging device housing 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 or the charging device.

[0043] The docking arrangement may comprise a magnetic latch to releasably retain the aerosol-generating device in engagement with the docking cavity. Advantageously, the magnetic latching structure may provide a retaining force between the docking portion of the rear wall and the docking face.

[0044] The magnetic latch 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.

[0045] 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 aerosol-generating 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises nicotine. More preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises tobacco. Alternatively or in addition, the aerosolforming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco containing aerosol-forming material.

[0048] 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. 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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.

[0054] As used herein when referring to an aerosol-generating device, an aerosolgenerating 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.

[0055] 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” may refer to any such component having a length greater than a width and a thickness.

[0056] 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.

[0057] 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 comprising a charging device housing and a docking cavity within the charging device housing, the docking cavity open on a front side and configured to receive from the front side an aerosol-generating device, the aerosolgenerating device being received in the docking cavity when the system is in a docked configuration, wherein the charging device comprises a primary power source and the aerosol-generating device comprises a secondary power source, and 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, the docking cavity being defined between a first end portion of the housing and an opposing second end portion of the housing spaced from and fixed relative to the first end portion, the docking cavity accommodating a longitudinal dimension of the aerosol-generating device such that the first end portion and the second end portion of the docking cavity at least partially overlap the first and second ends of the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration, wherein at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device remains exposed in a docked configuration, the at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device that remains exposed forming a continuous surface with the charging device housing.

[0058] Example Ex2: An aerosol-generating system according to Example 1 , wherein the aerosol-generating device has a side surface extending between a proximal end and a distal end, wherein a first portion of the side surface of the aerosol-generating device remains exposed in a docked configuration, wherein the first portion has a first radius of curvature adjacent the charging device and wherein the charging device housing adjacent to the first portion has a radius of curvature substantially equal to the first radius of curvature.

[0059] Example Ex3: An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding Example, wherein the side surface comprises a second portion extending between the proximal end and the distal end of the side surface that is hidden within the docking cavity in the docked configuration.

[0060] Example Ex4: An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex3, wherein the first portion has a greater radius of curvature than the second portion.

[0061] Example Ex5: An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex3, wherein the first portion has an equal radius of curvature to the second portion.

[0062] Example Ex6: An aerosol-generating system according to any one of the preceding Examples Ex1 , wherein the aerosol-generating device is cylindrical.

[0063] Example Ex7: An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex3, wherein the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device comprises a substantially circular, elliptical, triangular, square, rhomboidal, trapezoidal, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal cross-section transverse to the longitudinal axis.

[0064] Example Ex8: An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex7, wherein the docking cavity comprises a corresponding shape to the cross-section of the aerosolgenerating device.

[0065] Example Ex9: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex2 to Ex8, wherein the side surface is curved.

[0066] Example Ex10: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex2 to Ex8, wherein the side surface has a constant curvature.

[0067] Example Ex11 : An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex2 to Ex8, wherein the side surface has a varied curvature.

[0068] Example Ex12: Example Ex9: An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the docking cavity is shaped to match a portion of a cross-section of the aerosol-generating device.

[0069] Example Ex13: An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex12, wherein the first end portion and the second end portion of the docking cavity fully cover the first and second ends of the aerosol-generating device.

[0070] Example Ex14: An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex12, wherein the first end portion only partially covers the first or second end of the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration.

[0071] Example Ex15: An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex14, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a substrate receiving cavity for receiving a consumable aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol forming substrate, the substrate receiving cavity being open at a first end of the aerosol-generating device, the substrate receiving cavity being exposed in a first docked configuration.

[0072] Example Ex16: An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex15, wherein the substrate receiving cavity is located on the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0073] Example Ex17: An electrically operable aerosol-generating system according to any preceding Example, in which engagement between the aerosol-generating device and the docking arrangement is effected by relative movement of the aerosolgenerating device and the charging device in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

[0074] Example Ex18: An electrically operable aerosol-generating system according to any preceding Example, wherein an inner surface of the docking cavity is defined at least by a rear wall opposite to the front side, a first side wall and a second side wall of the charging device housing, the second side wall spaced from and fixed relative to the first side wall, each of the rear wall, first side wall and second side wall extending in a longitudinal direction.

[0075] Example Ex19: An electrically operable aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex18, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall cover the aerosolgenerating device in a docked configuration such that the aerosol-generating device cannot be directly gripped by a user.

[0076] Example Ex20: An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding Example, wherein no portion of the aerosol-generating device extends beyond a peripheral boundary of the charging device housing in the docked configuration.

[0077] Example Ex21 : An electrically operable aerosol-generating device according to either Example Ex18 or Ex19, wherein at least one of the rear wall of the charging device and the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device comprises a pivot structure configured to allow the aerosol-generating device or the charging device to pivot about the pivot structure to transition the aerosol-generating system from a docked configuration to an undocked configuration in which the aerosol-generating device is dis-engaged from at least a portion of the docking cavity.

[0078] Example Ex22: An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex18, wherein the aerosol-generating device extends beyond a peripheral boundary of the charging device housing in the docked configuration.

[0079] Example Ex23: An electrically operable aerosol-generating device according to claim 7, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall do not cover the aerosolgenerating device in a docked configuration such that the aerosol-generating device can be directly gripped by a user. Example Ex24: An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex23, wherein the system comprises a first docked configuration where the open end of the substrate receiving cavity is at least partially covered by the charging device.

[0080] Example Ex25: An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex15 to Ex24, wherein the system comprises a second docked configuration where the open end of the substrate receiving cavity is exposed.

[0081] Example Ex26: An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding Example, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises an atomiser.

[0082] Example Ex27: An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding Example, wherein the system is configured such that the aerosol-generating device can be received in the docking cavity in a first orientation and a second orientation different to the first orientation, wherein in a first docked configuration the aerosol-generating device is in the first orientation and in a second docked configuration the aerosol - generating device is in the second orientation.

[0083] Example Ex28: An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding Example, wherein the charging device comprises electrical circuitry.

[0084] Example Ex29: An electrically operable aerosol-generating device according to any preceding Example, wherein the charging device comprises a plurality of primary charging or data contacts within the docking cavity and wherein the aerosolgenerating device comprises a corresponding plurality of secondary charging or data contacts configured to engage the primary charging or data contacts when in a docked configuration.

[0085] Example Ex30: An electrically operable aerosol-generating device according to Example 29, wherein the plurality of primary charging or data contacts are positioned centrally and symmetrically within the docking cavity so that the secondary charging or data contacts can engage the primary charging or data contacts in a first docked configuration and in a second docked configuration.

[0086] Example Ex31 : An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex27 to Ex30, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to generate aerosol in the docked configuration.

[0087] Example Ex32: An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex30, wherein the electrical circuitry is configured to control the supply of power from the secondary power source to the atomiser for heating an aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration.

[0088] Example Ex33: An aerosol-generating system according to either Example Ex31 or Ex32, wherein the electrical circuitry is configured to control supply of power from the primary source to the atomiser for heating an aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration.

[0089] Example Ex34: An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Example Ex31 to Ex33, wherein the charging device can supply power directly to the atomiser.

[0090] Example Ex35: An electrically operable aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding Example, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a user interface and wherein the user interface is exposed in at least one docking configuration.

[0091] Example Ex36: An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding Example, wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured such that the aerosol-generating device is snap-fit in the docking cavity.

[0092] Example Ex37: An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding Example, further comprising a latch to releasably retain the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity.

[0093] Example Ex38: An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex37, wherein the latch is a mechanical latch.

[0094] Example Ex39: An electrically operable aerosol-generating system according to Example 37, in which the docking arrangement comprises a magnetic latch to releasably retain the aerosol- generating device in engagement with the docking cavity.

[0095] Embodiments in accordance with the disclosure will now be described in detail, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0096] Figure 1 is a schematic of a cross-section of an aerosol-generating system according to a first embodiment in an undocked configuration, the aerosol-generating system comprising a charging device and an aerosol-generating device;

[0097] Figures 2a, 2b, 2c show side, front and top views respectively of the charging device shown in Figure 1 ;

[0098] Figure 3a shows the aerosol-generating system of Figure 1 in a first docked configuration;

[0099] Figure 3b shows the aerosol-generating system of Figure 1 in a second docked configuration;

[0100] Figure 3c shows the aerosol-generating system of Figure 1 in an undocked configuration;

[0101] Figure 4a shows an isometric view of the aerosol-generating system shown in Figure 1 in an undocked configuration;

[0102] Figure 4b shows an isometric view of the aerosol-generating system shown in Figure 1 , in a docked configuration;

[0103] Figure 5 is a schematic of a cross-section of an aerosol-generating system according to a second embodiment in an undocked configuration; Figures 6a, 6b, 6c show side, front, and top views respectively of the charging device shown in Figure 5;

[0104] Figure 7 shows the aerosol-generating system shown in Figure 5 in a docked configuration;

[0105] Figure 8a shows an isometric view of the aerosol generating system shown in Figure 5 in an undocked configuration;

[0106] Figure 8b shows an isometric view of the aerosol-generating system 10 shown in Figure 5 in a docked configuration;

[0107] Figure 9a, 9b, 9c show a top view of different embodiments of the aerosol-generating devices.

[0108] Figure 1 is a schematic of a cross-section of an aerosol-generating system 10 according to a first embodiment in an undocked configuration, the aerosol-generating system 10 comprising a charging device 1000 and an aerosol-generating device 100.

[0109] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises an elongate body which is substantially cylindrical and has dimensions similar to a conventional cigar. The elongate body 110 extends along the longitudinal axis between a proximal end 114 and a distal end 116. The elongate body comprises a side surface 124, the side surface comprises a rear face 118. The side surface 124 extends between the proximal end 114 and the distal end 116 and extends around a circumference of the aerosol-generating device.

[0110] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises a substrate receiving cavity 160 located at the proximal end 114 for receiving an aerosol-generating article 161 . The aerosolgenerating device 100 further comprises an atomiser, for example an electric heater (not shown), arranged surrounding the substrate receiving cavity 160 for heating at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is received in the substrate receiving cavity 160. The aerosol-generating article 161 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 aerosolgenerating article 161 has a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the substrate receiving cavity 160 of the device and a length longer than the cavity 160, such that when the aerosol-generating article 161 is received in the substrate receiving cavity 160 of the device, the filter extends out of the substrate receiving cavity 160 and may be drawn on by a user, similarly to a conventional cigarette.

[0111] The aerosol-generating device 100 further 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 atomiser. The aerosol-generating device 100 further comprises secondary electrical contacts 170 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.

[0112] The charging device 1000 comprises a charging device housing 1010 and a docking cavity 1012. The docking cavity 1012 is configured to receive the aerosol-generating device 100, the aerosol-generating device 100 being received in the docking cavity 1012 when the aerosol-generating system 10 is in a docked configuration. The docking cavity 1012 extends between a first end portion 1014 and a second end portion 1016 in a longitudinal direction, and is substantially identical in size and shape to the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0113] The docking cavity 1012 is partially defined by a rear wall 1018. The rear wall 1018 comprises a docking portion 1019, which extends in the longitudinal dimension between the first longitudinal end 1034 and the second longitudinal end 1036.

[0114] The docking cavity 1012 is further partially defined by two opposing sidewalls (not shown), a first end portion 1014 at the first longitudinal end 1034, and a second end portion 1016 located at a second longitudinal end 1036. The docking cavity 1012 is open at a front side 1024 to receive therethrough the aerosol-generating device 100. The two opposing sidewalls, and the first and second end portions 1014, 1016 extend from the rear wall 1018 by a distance substantially equal to the width of the aerosol-generating device 100. Thus docking cavity 1012 is substantially identical in size and shape to the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0115] The rear wall 1018 further comprises a recessed portion 1044, which extends at an angle to the longitudinal dimension. The recessed portion 1044 is adjacent to the second end portion 1016 of the docking cavity 1012, and defines a pivot cavity 1042. The docking portion 2019 extends around 70% of the longitudinal length of the rear wall 1018. The recessed portion 1044 therefore extends around 30% of the longitudinal length of the rear wall 1018. There may be embodiments where the ratio of the docking portion and the recessed portion is different.

[0116] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 , the two opposing sidewalls extend to the dotted line. The first end portion 1014 and the second end portion 1016 also extend to the dotted line. When the aerosol-generating device 100 is in the docked configuration the first and second end portions 1014, 1016 substantially overlap the proximal and distal ends 114, 116 of the aerosol-generating device 100. A portion of the aerosol-generating device 100 remains exposed in a docked configuration, the portion of the aerosol-generating device 100 that remains exposed forming a continuous surface with the charging device housing 1010. The charging device 1000 further comprises primary electrical contacts 1070 defined on the rear wall 1018 of the charging device 1000. The primary electrical contacts 1070 are arranged symmetrically about a midpoint of the rear wall 1018 between the first end portion 1014 and the second end portion 1016.

[0117] Although in Figure 1 the charging device 1000 and the aerosol-generating device 100 are illustrated as each comprising two charging contacts 170, 1070, 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 aerosolgenerating 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.

[0118] 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.

[0119] The primary electrical contacts 1070 and the secondary electrical contacts 170 also comprise magnetic components, such that a magnetic attraction force is provided between the primary electrical contacts 1070 and the secondary electrical contacts 170. This magnetic force helps to retain the aerosol-generating device 100 in the docking cavity 1012. Alternative or additional latching structures 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 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 aerosolgenerating device 100 in the docking cavity 1012.

[0120] Figure 2a, 2b and 2c show side, front and top views respectively of the charging device 1000 shown in Figure 1.

[0121] The two opposing side walls 1038 extend the same distance from the rear wall 1018 as the first end portion 1014 and the second end portion 1016.

[0122] Figure 2a and 2c include a dotted line which shows the location of the rear wall 1018 in the docking cavity 1012. Figure 2b shows the position of primary charging or data contacts 1070 which are located symmetrically about a midpoint of the rear wall 1018 between the first end portion 1014 and the second end portion 1016 of the charging device 1000. Figure 3a shows the aerosol-generating system 10 of Figure 1 in a first docked configuration. Figure 3b shows the aerosol-generating system 10 of Figure 1 in a second docked configuration. Both Figures 3a and 3b show a cross-section of the aerosol-generating device 100 to indicate the orientation of the device 100.

[0123] In a docked configuration, the aerosol-generating device 100 is engaged with the docking arrangement, such that the primary charging and data contacts 1070 are in physical and electrical contact with the secondary charging and data contacts 170. The docking surface 118 of the aerosol-generating device 100 contacts and is flush with the rear wall 1018.

[0124] In a docked configuration, the aerosol-generating system 10 is configured such that power is supplied from the primary power source 1090 to the secondary power source 190 using the primary charging and data contacts 1070 and the secondary charging and data contacts 170. Such a supply of power is controlled by at least one of the charging device electrical circuitry 1080 and the control circuitry 180 within the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0125] In the first docked configuration illustrated by Figure 3a, the proximal end 114 of the aerosol-generating 100 is located at the first end portion 1014 of the docking cavity 1012. In the first docked configuration, the open end of the substrate receiving cavity 160 of the aerosol-generating device is covered, as the proximal end 114 of the aerosol-generating device is partially covered by the first end portion 1014. In the docked configuration, the aerosol-generating device 100 cannot receive an aerosol-generating article. The aerosolgenerating device is therefore prevented from generating aerosol whilst in the first docked configuration. In other embodiments, the first end portion 1014 substantially covers the proximal end 114 of the aerosol-generating device 100 when the aerosol-generating device 100 is received in the docking cavity 1012 in a first orientation.

[0126] In the second docked configuration illustrated by Figure 3b, the distal end 116 of the aerosol-generating 100 is located at the second end portion 1016 of the docking cavity 1012. In the second docked configuration, the open end of the substrate receiving cavity 160 of the aerosol-generating device is covered, as the distal end 116 of the aerosol-generating device is partially covered by the second end portion 1016. In the docked configuration, the aerosolgenerating device 100 cannot receive an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device is therefore prevented from generating aerosol whilst in the second docked configuration. In other embodiments, the second end portion 1014 substantially covers the proximal end 114 of the aerosol-generating device 100. The aerosol-generating device 100 is received in the docking cavity 1012 in a second orientation. The second orientation is rotated 180 degrees relative to the first orientation.

[0127] Figure 3c shows a cross-section of the aerosol-generating system 10 of Figure 1 in an undocked configuration. To transition from the docked configuration shown in Figure 3b to the undocked configuration in Figure 3c, the user applies a force by pressing on a section of the first portion 125 of the aerosol-generating device 100 adjacent to the pivot cavity 1042. This force pivots the aerosol-generating device 100 about an edge defined between the recessed portion 1044 and the docking portion 1019.

[0128] In the undocked configuration, a section of the elongate body 110 of the aerosolgenerating device 100 moves into the pivot cavity 1042. Additionally, in the undocked configuration the elongate body 110 of the aerosol-generating device 100 is separated from the docking portion 1019 of the rear wall 1018, and the secondary charging contacts 170 are separated from the primary charging contacts 1070. In the undocked configuration, power is therefore prevented from being supplied from the primary power source 1090 to the secondary power source 190. The undocked configuration provides a greater exposed surface of the elongate body 110 of the aerosol-generating device 100 to a user, such that the user may subsequently grasp the aerosol-generating device 100 to fully remove the aerosol-generating device 100 from the docking cavity 1012.

[0129] Figure 4a shows an isometric view of the aerosol-generating system 10 shown in Figure 1 in an undocked configuration, so that the aerosol-generating device 100 is not engaged with the docking arrangement of the charging device 1000.

[0130] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises a user interface 175. The user interface 175 is a screen configured to display information to a user. The user interface 175 is located on the side surface 124 of the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0131] The docking cavity 1012 is partially defined by a rear wall 1018. The docking cavity 1012 is further defined by a first sidewall 1037 and a second sidewall 1038 which extend outwardly from the rear wall 1018.

[0132] Figure 4b shows an isometric view of the aerosol-generating system 10 shown in Figure 1 , wherein the system 10 is in the docked configuration.

[0133] In this embodiment, when the aerosol-generating device 100 is in the docked configuration the first and second end portions 1014, 1016 overlap the proximal and distal ends 114, 116 of the aerosol-generating device 100 so only a portion of the aerosolgenerating device 100 remains exposed in a docked configuration, the portion of the aerosolgenerating device 100 that remains exposed forming a continuous surface with the charging device housing 1010.

[0134] In the docked configuration, a first portion 125 of the side surface 124 is exposed. The user interface 175 is located on the first portion 125 so the user can access it when the aerosol-generating device 100 is engaged with the docking cavity 1012.

[0135] The first sidewall 1037 and the second sidewall 1038 cover a substantial portion of the aerosol-generating device 100 in the docked configuration. The open end of the substrate receiving cavity 160 is substantially covered in the docked configuration. This reduces the risk of the ingress of dirt and dust into the substrate receiving cavity 160.

[0136] Figure 5 is a schematic of a cross-section of an aerosol-generating system 20 according to a second embodiment, the aerosol-generating system 20 comprising a charging device 2000 according to a second embodiment and an aerosol-generating device 200 according to a second embodiment. The charging device 2000 according to a second embodiment is substantially similar to the charging device 1000 according to the first embodiment in Figure 1. The aerosol-generating device 200 according to a second embodiment is substantially similar to the aerosol-generating device 200 according to the first embodiment in Figure 1. So, the differences between the aerosol-generating system 20 of the second embodiment will be described with respect to the differences.

[0137] The charging device 2000 comprises a docking cavity 2012. The docking cavity 2012 is partially defined by a rear wall 2018. The rear wall 2018 comprises a docking portion 2019, which extends in the longitudinal dimension between the first longitudinal end 2034 and the second longitudinal end 2036.

[0138] The docking cavity 2012 is further partially defined by two opposing sidewalls (not shown), a first end portion 2014 at the first longitudinal end 2034, and a second end portion 2016 located at a second longitudinal end 2036. The docking cavity 2012 is open at a front side 2024 to receive therethrough the aerosol-generating device 200.

[0139] The aerosol-generating device 200 comprises an elongate body which is substantially cuboid and has dimensions similar to a conventional cigar. The aerosol-generating device 200 comprises a first chamfered edge 244 at the proximal end 214. Chamfered edges 244 are provide don two sides of the proximal end 214. The aerosol-generating device 200 comprises corresponding second chamfered edges 246 at the distal end 216. Similar chamfered edges can be provided between adjacent sidewalls of the aerosol-generating device.

[0140] The docking cavity has a corresponding shape to receive the chamfered edges. As shown in Figure 5, the first end portion 2014 is shaped to correspond to the shape of the first chamfered edge 244, so the first chamfered edge 244 fits flush with the first end portion 2014 when the aerosol-generating device 200 is engaged with the docking arrangement. The first end portion 2014 partially overlaps with the proximal end 214 of the aerosol -generating device 200 so a portion of the aerosol-generating device 200 remains exposed in a docked configuration, the portion of the aerosol-generating device 200 that remains exposed forms a continuous surface with the charging device housing 2010. In this example, the proportion of the aerosol-generating device 200 that remains exposed in a docked configuration may be around 90% of the volume of the aerosol-generating device. The second end portion 2016 is shaped to correspond to the shape of the second chamfered edge 244, so the second chamfered edge 246 fits flush with the second portion 2016 when the aerosol-generating device 200 is engaged with the docking arrangement. The second end portion 2016 partially overlaps with the distal end 216 of the aerosol-generating device 200. The side walls of the docking cavity are also shaped to correspond to the chamfers between the side walls of the aerosol-generating device so that a portion of the aerosol-generating device is surrounded on four sides by the charging device.

[0141] Figures 6a, 6b, and 6c show side, front and top views respectively of the charging device 2000 shown in Figure 5. As shown in Figure 6a, the first end portion 2014 and the second end portion 2016 extend outwardly from the rear wall at an angle. The angle and the distance in which the first end portion 2014 extends from the rear wall 2018 corresponds to the dimensions of the first chamfered edge 244 of the aerosol-generating device 200. The angle and distance in which the second end portion 2016 extends from the rear wall 2018 corresponds to the dimensions of the second chamfered edge 246 of the aerosol-generating device 200.

[0142] Figure 7 shows the aerosol-generating system 20 shown in Figure 5 in a docked configuration. Figure 7 shows a cross-section of the aerosol-generating device 200 to indicate the orientation of the device 200. When the aerosol-generating device 200 in the docking cavity 2012, a portion of the side surface 224 is exposed. The portion of the side surface 224 that is left exposed is the first portion 225. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, a majority of the side surface 224 is exposed, this makes it easier for a user to grasp the aerosol-generating device 200 in the docked configuration. A magnetic latching arrangement may be used to retain the system in the docked configuration.

[0143] Figure 7 shows the aerosol-generating system 20 in a first docked configuration where the aerosol-generating device 200 is in a first orientation. In the first docked configuration, the first end portion 2014 only partially covers the proximal end 214 of the aerosol-generating device 200, leaving an opening to the substrate receiving cavity 260 exposed. This allows the user to use the aerosol-generating system 20 as a single unit. In the first docked configuration, the second end portion 2016 only partially covers the distal end 216 of the aerosol-generating device 200.

[0144] Like the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the aerosol-generating system 20 has a second docked configuration where the aerosol-generating device 200 is in a second orientation. In the second docked configuration, the first end portion 2014 only partially covers the distal end 216 and the second end portion 2016 only partially covers the proximal end 214.

[0145] The first chamfered edge 244 fits flush with the first end portion 2014 when the aerosol-generating device 200 is engaged with the docking arrangement in the first docked configuration. The first end portion 2014 partially overlaps with the proximal end 214 of the aerosol-generating device 200 so a portion of the aerosol-generating device 200 remains exposed, the portion of the aerosol-generating device 200 that remains exposed forms a continuous surface with the charging device housing 2010.

[0146] The second chamfered edge 246 fits flush with the second end portion 2016 when the aerosol-generating device 200 is engaged with the docking arrangement in the first docked configuration. The second end portion 2016 partially overlaps with the distal end 216 of the aerosol-generating device 200 so portion of the aerosol-generating device 200 remains exposed, the portion of the aerosol-generating device 200 that remains exposed forms a continuous surface with the charging device housing 2010.

[0147] The skilled person will appreciate that the corresponding components fit flush in the second docked configuration where the aerosol-generating device 200 is in a second orientation.

[0148] Figure 8a shows an isometric view of the aerosol-generating system 20 shown in Figure 5, where the aerosol-generating device 200 is not engaged with the docking arrangement of the charging device 2000.

[0149] The aerosol-generating device 200 comprises a user interface 275. The user interface 275 is a screen configured to display information to a user. The user interface 275 is located on the side surface 224 of the aerosol-generating device 200.

[0150] The docking cavity 2012 is partially defined by a rear wall 2018. The first end portion 2014 extends from the rear wall 2018 and corresponds to the dimensions of the first chamfered edge 244 of the aerosol-generating device 200. The second end portion 2016 extends from the rear wall 2018 and corresponds to the dimensions of the second chamfered edge 244 of the aerosol-generating device. Side portions are also provided to correspond to chamfered edges provided between the side walls od the aerosol-generating device. The first portion 2014 also corresponds to the dimensions of the second chamfered edge 244 and the second portion 2016 also corresponds to the dimensions of the first chamfered edge 244, thus allowing the aerosol-generating device 200 to be engaged with the docking cavity 2012 in two different orientations.

[0151] Figure 8b shows an isometric view of the aerosol-generating system 10 shown in Figure 5, wherein the system 10 is in the docked configuration.

[0152] In this embodiment, when the aerosol-generating device 200 is in the docked configuration the first and second end portions 2014, 2016 at least partially overlap the proximal and distal ends 214, 216 of the aerosol-generating device 200 so a portion of the aerosol-generating device 200 remains exposed in a docked configuration, the portion of the aerosol-generating device 200 that remains exposed forming a continuous surface with the charging device housing 2010. In the embodiment shown in Figure 8b, a substantial portion of the side surface remains exposed in the docked configuration. The exposed surface in the docked configuration is the first portion 225. The user interface 275 is located on the first portion 225 so the user can access it when the aerosol-generating device 200 is engaged with the docking cavity 2012.

[0153] The open end of the substrate receiving cavity 260 is exposed in the docked configuration. An aerosol-forming article 261 can be inserted into the substrate receiving cavity 260. The aerosol-generating system 20 can be configured to generate aerosol in the docked configuration by heating the aerosol forming substrate in the aerosol -forming article 261 when it is inserted into the substrate receiving cavity 160. The electrical circuitry 280 is configured to control supply of power from the secondary power source 290 to the heater (not shown) for heating the aerosol-forming substrate. When the secondary power source 290 has limited available power, the charging device electrical circuitry 2080 can be configured to control the supply of power from the primary power source 2090 to the heater for heating an aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-generating system 20 is in the docked configuration.

[0154] Figure 9a, 9b, 9c show a top view of different embodiments of the aerosol-generating devices 300, 400, 500. In this view, the proximal end 314, 414, 514 and the aerosolgenerating cavity 360, 460, 560 are visible. For each embodiment, the corresponding charging device housing is curved appropriately to form a continuous surface with an exposed portion of the aerosol-generating device 300, 400, 500 in the docked configuration.

[0155] Figure 9a shows an aerosol-generating device 300 with a circular cross-section. The docking cavity will of the charging device will be shaped to accommodate the circular elongate body of the charging device 300. The charging device housing will be curved to correspond with the external curvature of the aerosol-generating device 300, so that in the docked configuration, at least a portion of the aerosol generating device 300 remains exposed forming a continuous surface with the charging device housing.

[0156] Figure 9b shows an aerosol-generating device 400 which has a cross-section with a first surface having a first radius of curvature 402 and a second surface having a second radius of curvature 401 , wherein the first radius of curvature 402 is different to the second radius of curvature 401 . The first and second surfaces 402, 401 define the side surface 424. In one embodiment, the second surface 401 defines a second end portion 426 that is hidden within the docking cavity in the docked configuration. This means the docking cavity substantially overlaps the aerosol-generating device 400 in the docked configuration, covering the open end of the substrate receiving cavity 460. The first surface 402 defines the first portion 425 which is exposed when the aerosol-generating device 400 is engaged with the docking cavity in the docked configuration. A user cannot directly grasp the aerosol- generating device 400 in the docked configuration. A pivot mechanism as described in Figure 3c can be provided. In another embodiment, it may be the first surface 402 that defines the first portion 425 which is exposed when the aerosol-generating device 400 is engaged with the docking cavity in the docked configuration and second surface 401 that define the second portion. In that case, a user can directly grasp the aerosol-generating device 400 in the docked configuration.

[0157] Figure 9c shows an aerosol-generating device 500 with a substantially square crosssection with curved vertices. In the docked configuration, the docking cavity of the charging device partially overlaps with the proximal end 514 of the aerosol-generating device 500, leaving the open end of the substrate receiving cavity 560 exposed. The aerosol-generating device 500 can receive an aerosol-forming article in the docked configuration.

Claims

26Claims1. 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 comprising a charging device housing and a docking cavity within the charging device housing, the docking cavity open on a front side and configured to receive from the front side an aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device being received in the docking cavity when the system is in a docked configuration, wherein the charging device comprises a primary power source and the aerosol-generating device comprises a secondary power source, and 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, the docking cavity being defined between a first end portion of the housing and an opposing second end portion of the housing spaced from and fixed relative to the first end portion, the docking cavity accommodating a longitudinal dimension of the aerosol-generating device such that the first end portion and the second end portion of the docking cavity at least partially overlap the proximal and distal ends of the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration, wherein at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device remains exposed in a docked configuration, the at least a portion of the aerosol-generating device that remains exposed forming a continuous surface with the charging device housing.

2. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 wherein the aerosol-generating device has a side surface extending between a proximal end and a distal end, wherein a first portion of the side surface of the aerosol-generating device remains exposed in a docked configuration, wherein the first portion has a first radius of curvature and wherein the charging device housing adjacent to the first portion has a radius of curvature substantially equal to the first radius of curvature.

3. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first end portion and the second end portion of the docking cavity fully cover the proximal and distal ends of the aerosol-generating device.

4. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first end portion only partially covers the proximal or distal end of the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration.

5. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 4, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a substrate receiving cavity for receiving a consumable aerosolgenerating article comprising an aerosol forming substrate, the substrate receiving cavity being open at a proximal end of the aerosol-generating device, the substrate receiving cavity being exposed in a first docked configuration.

6. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, in which engagement between the aerosol-generating device and the docking arrangement is effected by relative movement of the aerosol- generating device and the charging device in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

7. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein an inner surface of the docking cavity is defined at least by a rear wall opposite to the front side, a first side wall and a second side wall of the charging device housing, the second side wall spaced from and fixed relative to the first side wall, each of the rear wall, first side wall and second side wall extending in a longitudinal direction.

8. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 7, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall cover the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration such that the aerosol-generating device cannot be directly gripped by a user.

9. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 7, wherein the first side wall and the second side wall do not cover the aerosol-generating device in a docked configuration such that the aerosol-generating device can be directly gripped by a user.

10. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 7, 8 or 9, wherein at least one of the rear wall of the charging device and the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device comprises a pivot structure configured to allow the aerosol-generating device or the charging device to pivot about the pivot structure to transition the aerosol-generating system from a docked configuration to an undocked configuration in which the aerosol-generating device is disengaged from at least a portion of the docking cavity.

11. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the system is configured such that the aerosol-generating device can be received in the docking cavity in a first orientation and a second orientation different to the first orientation, wherein in a first docked configuration the aerosol-generating device isin the first orientation and in a second docked configuration the aerosol-generating device is in the second orientation.

12. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the charging device comprises a plurality of primary charging or data contacts within the docking cavity and wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a corresponding plurality of secondary charging or data contacts configured to engage the primary charging or data contacts when in a docked configuration.

13. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of primary charging or data contacts are positioned centrally and symmetrically within the docking cavity so that the secondary charging or data contacts can engage the primary charging or data contacts in a first docked configuration and in a second docked configuration.

14. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a user interface and wherein the user interface is exposed in at least one docking configuration.

15. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the docking arrangement comprises a magnetic latch to releasably retain the aerosol- generating device in engagement with the docking cavity.

Images