Charging device for an aerosol-generating system

Abstract

There is provided a charging device (1000) for an aerosol-generating system (10) and an aerosol-generating system (10). The charging device (1000) comprises a primary housing portion (1040) defining a docking cavity (1012) having a longitudinal axis for engagement with an elongated aerosol-generating device (100), the docking cavity (1012) open on a front side (1024) and configured to receive from the front side (1024) the aerosol-generating device (100). The charging device (1000) further comprises a primary power source (1090) and electrical circuitry (1080) within the primary housing portion (1040), the electrical circuitry (1080) configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source (1090) to the aerosol-generating device (100) when the aerosol-generating device (100) is received in the docking cavity (1012). The docking cavity (1012) comprises a longitudinal perimeter at least partially defined by side walls (1042) extending from the primary housing portion (1040) substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the docking cavity (1012). The charging device (1000) further comprises a secondary housing portion (1050) comprising an external surface portion of the charging device (1000), the secondary housing portion (1050) attached to the primary housing portion (1040) to surround the longitudinal perimeter of the docking cavity (1012). The charging device housing further comprises a cover (1060) coupled to the secondary housing portion (1050), the cover (1060) operable between a covered position in which the docking cavity (1012) is covered by the cover (1060), and an uncovered position in which the docking cavity (1012) is open on the front side (1024).

Description

[0001] FTR3949 / EP (P / 90693.EP01)

[0002] 1

[0003] CHARGING DEVICE FOR AN AEROSOL-GENERATING SYSTEM

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

[0005] It is known to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating 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 aerosolforming substrate may comprise tobacco material. In some examples, the aerosol-generating 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 aerosolforming 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] The ability to securely retain the aerosol-generating device in the charging device is desirable. For example, when the aerosol-generating system is transported, decoupling of the aerosolgenerating device from the charging device would result in the charging device unable to charge the aerosol-generating device, or even in loss of the aerosol-generating device. Furthermore, it would be desirable to ensure that manufacturing may be made more efficient in order to meet this ability, whilst ensuring that the ability to securely retain the aerosol-generating device in the charging device is not compromised.

[0008] It is therefore desirable to provide a charging device and an aerosol-generating system which improves retention of the aerosol-generating device in the charging device whilst ensuring efficient manufacturing.

[0009] According to the present disclosure, there is provided a charging device for an aerosolgenerating system. The charging device may comprise a primary housing portion defining a docking cavity having a longitudinal axis for engagement with an elongated aerosol-generating device. The docking cavity may be configured to receive the aerosol-generating device from a front side of the docking cavity. The charging device may comprise a primary power source and electrical circuitry within the primary housing portion. The electrical circuitry may be configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the aerosol-generating device when the aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity. The docking cavity may comprise a longitudinal perimeter at least partially defined by side walls extending from the primary housing portion substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the docking cavity. The charging device may further comprise a secondary housing portion comprising an external surface portion of the charging device. The secondary housing portion may be attached to the primary housing portion to surround the longitudinal perimeter of the docking cavity. The charging device housing may further comprise a cover coupled to the secondary housing portion, the cover operable between a covered position in which the docking cavity is covered by the cover, and an uncovered position in which the docking cavity is open on the front side.

[0010] According to a first aspect, there is provided a charging device for an aerosol-generating system, the charging device comprising a primary housing portion defining a docking cavity having a longitudinal axis for engagement with an elongated aerosol-generating device, the docking cavity configured to receive the aerosol-generating device from a front side of the docking cavity, a primary power source and electrical circuitry within the primary housing portion, the electrical circuitry configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the aerosol-generating device when the aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity, wherein the docking cavity comprises a longitudinal perimeter at least partially defined by side walls extending from the primary housing portion substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the docking cavity, wherein the charging device further comprises a secondary housing portion comprising an external surface portion of the charging device, the secondary housing portion attached to the primary housing portion to surround the longitudinal perimeter of the docking cavity, and wherein the charging device housing further comprises a cover coupled to the secondary housing portion, the cover operable between a covered position in which the docking cavity is covered by the cover, and an uncovered position in which the docking cavity is open on the front side.

[0011] Advantageously, the cover ensures a more secure retention of the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity. By providing the cover coupled to the secondary housing portion, manufacture of the charging device is also made efficient. The cover and secondary housing portion can be manufactured separately to the rest of the charging device, and variations in the cover and secondary housing portion can be made, whilst still being compatible with the rest of the charging device. For example, different materials may be used to manufacture different cover and secondary housing portions depending on the physical demands desired by a user. For example particularly hard-wearing materials such as metals may be desirable to users who value such attributes of their charging device. The present charging device allows for charging devices to be modularly constructed to meet these different demands. Furthermore, as the secondary housing portion is attached to the primary housing portion to surround the longitudinal perimeter of the docking cavity, and the cover is attached to the secondary housing portion, this eliminates a manufacturing step of attaching a cover to the rest of a charging device, which would include the potentially complex step of creating a hinge between two separate components. Additionally, the secondary housing portion ensures a secure connection to the primary housing portion to support rotational forces when the user operates the cover between the uncovered and covered positions.

[0012] Optionally, the docking cavity is completely covered by the cover in the covered position. Optionally, the cover comprises a mechanical latching means for retaining the cover in the covered position. This may prevent the cover from unintentionally transitioning from the covered to the uncovered position. Optionally, the cover comprises a magnetic latching means for retaining the cover in the covered position. This may also prevent the cover from unintentionally transitioning from the covered to the uncovered position.

[0013] Optionally, the cover comprises an attachment portion configured to contact an outer surface of the outer member in the covered position. Optionally, the attachment portion is integrally formed with a portion of the rest of the cover. Optionally, the attachment portion comprises a magnet configured to provide a magnetic retaining force for retaining the cover in the covered position.

[0014] Optionally, the cover comprises a first layer of material on an outer surface of the cover, and a second layer of material on an innersurface of the cover. Optionally, the coverfurther comprises a central layer between the first layer of material and the second layer of material. Advantageously, this may reduce the material cost of the cover. Optionally, the first layer of material and the second layer of material comprise the same material. Optionally, the attachment portion is integrally formed with the first layer of material on the outer surface of the cover.

[0015] Optionally, the secondary housing portion is an exchangeable secondary housing portion. By providing the exchangeable secondary housing portion to surround the longitudinal perimeter of the docking cavity, the user is also able to swap or replace different secondary housing portions which may provide different degrees of access to the docking cavity. For example, the user may be able to swap a secondary housing portion which comprises a docking cavity cover for more secure transportation, for a secondary housing portion which does not comprise a docking cavity cover, for faster access to the docking cavity. Furthermore, this arrangement allows for user information to be provided on the side walls, which are accessible to a user only when necessary, but otherised covered during normal use.

[0016] Optionally, the secondary housing portion comprises an inner member configured to be attached to the primary housing portion to surround the longitudinal perimeter of the docking cavity. Optionally, the secondary housing portion further comprises an outer member comprising an external surface portion of the charging device, the outer member configured to be arranged concentrically about the inner member.

[0017] Different outer members may comprise different materials having different thicknesses. However, it would be desirable to provide a continuous external surface from the secondary housing portion to the primary housing portion. Therefore, for each outer member, a complementary inner member, of a complementary thickness, is provided. This means different secondary housing portions comprising different outer members have the same thickness, irrespective of the thickness of the outer member. Furthermore, the inner member may comprise a different material to the outer member. This may reduce the material cost of the secondary housing portion.

[0018] The cover may be coupled to the outer member. Optionally, at least a portion of the cover is integrally formed with the outer member. Optionally, the first layer of material on the outer surface of the cover and the second layer of material on the inner surface of the cover are integrally formed with the outer member. Optionally, the cover is integrally formed with the outer member. By integrally forming the cover with the outer member, a hinge may be integrally formed between the cover and the outer member.

[0019] The cover may be coupled to the inner member. Optionally, at least a portion of the cover is integrally formed with the inner member. Optionally, the central layer of the cover is integrally formed with the inner member. Optionally, the cover is integrally formed with the inner member. By integrally forming the cover with the outer member, a hinge may be integrally formed between the cover and the inner member.

[0020] Optionally, the secondary housing portion comprises an outer member comprising an external surface portion of the charging device. Optionally, the secondary housing portion further comprises an inner member arranged within the outer member, such that the inner member is not visible from outside the secondary housing portion. Similar advantages to those recited above are also realised in this embodiment. However, by completely covering, for example wrapping, the inner member with the outer member, the inner member may be more securely fixed to the outer member. Furthermore, the outer member may comprise a different material to the inner member, the outer having more beneficial properties, such as scratch resistance.

[0021] Optionally, an inner surface of the outer member engages with an outer surface of the inner member. Optionally, the inner surface of the outer member is sleeved on the outer surface of the inner member. Optionally, an inner surface of the inner member engages with an outer surface of the side walls. Optionally, the inner surface of the inner member is sleeved on the outer surface of the side walls.

[0022] The inner member and the outer member may be irreversibly secured to one another. In other words, the inner member and the outer member are not configured to be separated by a user.

[0023] Optionally, the outer member covers a front face of the inner member. The front face of the inner member may therefore not be visible when the secondary housing portion is attached to the primary housing portion.

[0024] Optionally, a front face of the outer member comprises a curved surface. Optionally, a front face of the outer member comprises a flat surface. Optionally, the flat surface is angled inwards towards the docking cavity. The front face may form part of the external surface portion. Optionally, a front face of the outer member comprises a material or surface finish different to the material or surface finish of the rest of the external surface portion.

[0025] Optionally, the depth of the secondary housing portion in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is greater than the depth of the docking cavity in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls. Advantageously, this may provide a greater surface area on which to position at least one user interface element, and greater volume in which to position electronic connections for said user interface element. Optionally, the depth of the secondary housing portion in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is approximately equal to the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls. Optionally, the depth of the secondary housing portion in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is less than the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0026] Optionally, the depth of the secondary housing portion in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is greater than 50%, preferably greater than 60%, of the depth of the primary housing portion in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls. Advantageously, this may provide a greater surface area on which to position at least one user interface element, and greater volume in which to position electronic connections for said user interface element. Advantageously, this may also provide a greater surface area for protection of the primary housing portion.

[0027] Optionally, the depth of the secondary housing portion in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is less than 50%, preferably less than 40%, of the depth of the primary housing portion in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0028] Optionally, the depth of the inner member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is greater than the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls. Optionally, the depth of the outer member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is greater than the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0029] Optionally, the depth of the inner member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is approximately equal to the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls. Optionally, the depth of the outer member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is approximately equal to the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0030] Optionally, the depth of the inner member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is less than the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls. Optionally, the depth of the outer member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is less than the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0031] Optionally, the primary housing portion comprises at least one of anodized aluminum, plastics, or titanium. Optionally, the outer member comprises at least one of anodized aluminum, brushed aluminum, brushed stainless steel, ceramics, titanium, textiles, leather, polyurethane leather, wood, laminates, forged carbon, silicone.

[0032] Optionally, the inner member is removably attached to the primary housing portion. Optionally, the secondary housing portion is removably attached to the primary housing portion by a mechanical or magnetic latching means. Optionally, the inner member is removably attached to the primary housing portion by a mechanical or magnetic latching means. The latching means may therefore provide a secure but reversible attachment means for the exchangeable secondary housing portion to be attached to the primary housing portion.

[0033] Optionally, the inner member is press-fit on to the primary housing portion. Optionally, the outer member is press-fit on to the inner member. Optionally, the primary housing portion comprise at least one user interface element, the user interface element covered by the exchangeable secondary housing portion when the secondary housing portion is attached to the primary housing portion. The user interface element may comprise a button, such as a reset button. The user interface element may comprise and information panel, or a display panel. Advantageously, by providing a user interface element covered by the exchangeable secondary housing portion, accidental interaction with the user interface element by the user is prevented, whilst still allowing a user access to the user interface element when desired.

[0034] Optionally, an outer surface of the external surface portion of the secondary housing portion forms a continuous, or flush, surface with an outer surface of the primary housing portion. Advantageously, this may reduce snagging of the secondary housing portion or the primary housing portion.

[0035] Optionally, the outer surface of the external surface portion of the secondary housing portion protrudes by a distance from the outer surface of the primary housing portion. The outer surface of the external surface portion of the secondary housing portion may therefore not form a continuous, or flush, surface with the outer surface of the primary housing portion. Advantageously this may provide greater protection to the primary housing portion in the event the charging device is dropped.

[0036] Optionally, the secondary housing portion comprises a single integrally formed element. The secondary housing portion may consist of the single integrally formed element. The single integrally formed element may be configured to be attached to the primary housing portion to surround the longitudinal perimeter of the docking cavity. The single integrally formed element may comprise an external surface portion of the charging device. Advantageously, a single integrally formed element may be more straightforward to manufacture, and require fewer assembly steps, whilst still allowing the charging device to meet a variety of physical demands.

[0037] Optionally, an inner surface of the single integrally formed element engages with an outer surface of the side walls. Optionally, the inner surface of the single integrally formed element is sleeved on the outer surface of the side walls.

[0038] Optionally, a front face of the single integrally formed element comprises a curved surface. Optionally, a front face of the single integrally formed element comprises a flat surface. Optionally, the flat surface is angled inwards towards the docking cavity. The front face may form part of the external surface portion. Optionally, a front face of the single integrally formed element comprises a material or surface finish different to the material or surface finish of the rest of the external surface portion.

[0039] Optionally, the depth of the single integrally formed element in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is greater than the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls. Optionally, the depth of the single integrally formed element in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is approximately equal to the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls. Optionally, the depth of the single integrally formed element in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is less than the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0040] Optionally, the secondary housing portion comprises at least one of anodized aluminum, brushed aluminum, brushed stainless steel, ceramics, titanium, textiles, leather, polyurethane leather, wood, laminates, forged carbon, silicone. Optionally, the single integrally formed element comprises at least one of anodized aluminum, brushed aluminum, brushed stainless steel, ceramics, titanium, textiles, leather, polyurethane leather, wood, laminates, forged carbon, silicone.

[0041] Optionally, the single integrally formed element is removably attached to the primary housing portion. Optionally, the single integrally formed element is removably attached to the primary housing portion by a mechanical or magnetic latching means. The latching means may therefore provide a secure but reversible attachment means for the single integrally formed element to be attached to the primary housing portion.

[0042] Optionally, the secondary housing portion is press-fit on to the primary housing portion. Optionally, the single integrally formed element is press-fit on to the primary housing portion.

[0043] The cover may be coupled to the single integrally formed element. Optionally, at least a portion of the cover is integrally formed with the single integrally formed element. Optionally, the central layer of the cover is integrally formed with the single integrally formed element. Optionally, the cover is integrally formed with the single integrally formed element. By integrally forming the cover with the single integrally formed element, a hinge may be integrally formed between the cover and the single integrally formed element. Optionally, an inner surface of the docking cavity is defined by the side walls and a rear wall opposite to the front side. The side walls may comprise: first and second side walls, and first and second longitudinal end walls. The second side wall may be spaced from and fixed relative to the first side wall. Each of the rear wall, first side wall and second side wall may extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the docking cavity.

[0044] Optionally, 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. The inner surface may engage with an aerosol-generating device when an aerosol-generating device is received within the docking cavity.

[0045] Optionally, the rear wall of the charging device comprises a pivot structure configured to allow the aerosol-generating device to pivot about the pivot structure to transition the aerosolgenerating system from a docked configuration in which the aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity, to an undocked configuration in which the aerosol-generating device is disengaged from at least a portion of the inner surface of the docking cavity.

[0046] 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 dis-engagement between the aerosol-generating device and the docking cavity.

[0047] Optionally, during transition of the aerosol-generating system from the docked configuration to the undocked configuration the pivot structure is configured to directly contact the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device between a proximal end and a distal end of the aerosolgenerating device. Contact between the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device and the pivot structure may therefore allow for the aerosol-generating device to pivot about the pivot structure.

[0048] Optionally, transition of the aerosol-generating system from the docked configuration to the undocked configuration is effected by movement of either the proximal end or distal end of the aerosol-generating device perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0049] Optionally, the rear wall further comprises a pivot cavity adjacent to the pivot structure, the pivot cavity for receiving the distal end or the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device therein in the undocked configuration. The pivot cavity may be defined in a portion of the rear wall at an opposite end of the docking cavity to a docking portion of the rear wall.

[0050] Optionally, the charging device comprises at least one primary charging contact configured to contact a corresponding secondary charging contact on the aerosol-generating device when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration. This arrangement may therefore allow for power to be supplied from the primary power source to the secondary power source via the charging contacts. Optionally, each primary charging contact is 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

[0051] Optionally, the pivot cavity is defined in a portion of the rear wall at an opposite end of the docking cavity to a docking portion of the rear wall.

[0052] Optionally, the docking portion of the rear wall extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction. Advantageously, the docking portion of the rear wall extending substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction may provide a particularly suitable contact surface for a corresponding surface on the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device which extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device.

[0053] Optionally, the docking portion of the rear wall is substantially flat. Optionally, the docking portion of the rear wall is curved about the longitudinal direction. The docking portion of the rear wall may comprise a protrusion or a cut-out to match a corresponding cut-out or protrusion on the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device to locate the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity.

[0054] Optionally, the docking portion of the rear wall extends at least 50 % of a longitudinal length of the docking cavity, preferably at least 70 % of the longitudinal length of the docking cavity. Advantageously, such an arrangement may ensure that when the aerosol-generating device pivots about the pivot structure, the proximal or distal end of the aerosol-generating device protrudes a further distance out of the docking cavity than the distance the other of the proximal or distal end of the aerosol-generating device moves deeper into the docking cavity. This arrangement may therefore expose more of the surface of the aerosol-generating device to the user in the undocked configuration, allowing the user easier access to fully remove the aerosolgenerating device from the docking cavity.

[0055] Optionally, the pivot structure is a pivot surface defined in the rear wall. As used herein, the term “pivot surface” may mean a surface on which the aerosol-generating device or the charging device may pivot. The pivot surface may comprise a curved surface. The pivot surface may be curved about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The pivot structure may be a pivot edge defined in the rear wall. As used herein, the term “pivot edge” may mean an edge on which the aerosol-generating device or the charging device may pivot. Transition of the aerosolgenerating system from the docked configuration to the undocked configuration may be effected by pivoting the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device on the curved pivot surface or the pivot edge.

[0056] Optionally, the docking cavity is configured such that the aerosol-generating 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.

[0057] Optionally, the charging device is configured such that when the aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity, neither a proximal end or a distal end of the aerosol-generating device are exposed. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating 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.

[0058] Optionally, the at least one primary charging contact is arranged on the inner surface of the docking cavity. Optionally, the at least one primary charging contact is arranged on the rear wall 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 aerosol-generating device when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration.

[0059] Optionally, the charging device comprises a latching means to releasably retain the aerosolgenerating device in the docking cavity, to releasably retain the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating device may be secured in the docking cavity. Optionally, the latching means is a mechanical latching means. Optionally, the mechanical latching means comprises a latching projection extending from the charging device to engage with the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device.

[0060] Optionally, the latching means is a magnetic latching means. Optionally, the latching means is positioned in the docking portion of the rear wall. Advantageously, the magnetic latching structure may provide a retaining force between the docking portion of the rear wall and the docking face.

[0061] Optionally, the magnetic latching means comprises the at least one primary charging contact. Advantageously, the aerosol-generating system may therefore not need additional latching components.

[0062] According to the present disclosure, there is also provided an aerosol-generating system. The aerosol-generating system may comprise a charging device according to the present disclosure. 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 device may comprise a secondary power source. The electrical circuitry may be configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the secondary power source in a docked configuration when the aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity.

[0063] According to a second aspect, there is also provided an aerosol-generating system comprising: a charging device according to the first aspect, and an aerosol-generating device comprising an elongate body extending between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a secondary power source, and wherein the electrical circuitry is configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the secondary power source in a docked configuration when the aerosolgenerating device is received in the docking cavity.

[0064] The advantages of an aerosol-generating system according to the second aspect are outlined above with respect to the first aspect.

[0065] Optionally, 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.

[0066] Optionally, the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device comprises one or more of anodized aluminum, brushed aluminum, brushed stainless steel, ceramics, titanium, textiles, leather, polyurethane leather, wood, laminates, forged carbon or silicone.

[0067] Optionally, a front face of the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device comprises one or more of polycarbonate or glass. Such materials may be particularly scratch resistant.

[0068] Optionally, a front face of the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device comprises a material prepared with in-mold decoration, physical vapor deposition, or tint. Optionally, the aerosol-generating device comprises an article cavity configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate. Optionally, the article cavity is defined in the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0069] Optionally, the solid aerosol-forming substrate comprises tobacco. Alternatively or in addition, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco containing aerosol-forming material. Optionally, the aerosol-generating device comprises an atomiser configured to heat a liquid or gel aerosol-forming substrate.

[0070] If the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate, the solid aerosol- forming 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.

[0071] 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.

[0072] 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.

[0073] 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.

[0074] 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] 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.

[0077] 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.

[0078] 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 “elongated” may refer to any such component having a length greater than a width and a thickness.

[0079] 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 airflows 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. 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. Aerosolgenerating 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 aerosol-generating 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.

[0080] Optionally, the aerosol-generating system is configured such that in the docked configuration, a 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 aerosolgenerating device from the charging device due to snagging of either the aerosol-generating device or the charging device.

[0081] Optionally, the aerosol-generating system is configured such that in the docked configuration, the front face of the aerosol-generating device forms a continuous surface with the outer member. Optionally, the aerosol-generating system is configured such that in the docked configuration, the front face of the aerosol-generating device forms a continuous surface with the front face of the outer member. Such arrangements may reduce the risk of accidental undocking of the aerosolgenerating device from the charging device due to snagging of either the aerosol-generating device or the charging device.

[0082] Optionally, the aerosol-generating system is configured such that in the docked configuration, the front face of the aerosol-generating device forms a continuous surface with the single integrally formed element. Optionally, the aerosol-generating system is configured such that in the docked configuration, the front face of the aerosol-generating device forms a continuous surface with the front face of the single integrally formed element. Such arrangements 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.

[0083] Optionally, the aerosol-generating device is 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 further power source to the heater for heating an aerosolforming 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 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.

[0084] 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.

[0085] Example Ex1 . A charging device for an aerosol-generating system, the charging device comprising: a primary housing portion defining a docking cavity having a longitudinal axis for engagement with an elongated aerosol-generating device, the docking cavity configured to receive the aerosol-generating device from a front side of the docking cavity, a primary power source and electrical circuitry within the primary housing portion, the electrical circuitry configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the aerosolgenerating device when the aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity, wherein the docking cavity comprises a longitudinal perimeter at least partially defined by side walls extending from the primary housing portion substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the docking cavity, wherein the charging device further comprises a secondary housing portion comprising an external surface portion of the charging device, the secondary housing portion attached to the primary housing portion to surround the longitudinal perimeter of the docking cavity, and wherein the charging device housing further comprises a cover coupled to the secondary housing portion, the cover operable between a covered position in which the docking cavity is covered by the cover, and an uncovered position in which the docking cavity is open on the front side.

[0086] Example Ex2. A charging device according to Example Ex1 , wherein the docking cavity is completely covered by the cover in the covered position.

[0087] Example Ex3. A charging device according to Example Ex1 or Ex2, wherein the cover comprises a mechanical latching means for retaining the cover in the covered position.

[0088] Example Ex4. A charging device according to Example Ex1 or Ex2, wherein the cover comprises a magnetic latching means for retaining the cover in the covered position.

[0089] Example Ex5. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the cover comprises an attachment portion configured to contact an outer surface of the secondary housing portion in the covered position.

[0090] Example Ex6. A charging device according to Example Ex5, wherein the attachment portion comprises a magnet configured to provide a magnetic retaining force for retaining the cover in the covered position.

[0091] Example Ex7. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the cover comprises a first layer of material on an outer surface of the cover, and a second layer of material on an inner surface of the cover.

[0092] Example Ex8. A charging device according to Example Ex7, wherein the cover further comprises a central layer between the first layer of material and the second layer of material.

[0093] Example Ex9. A charging device according to Example Ex7 or Ex8, wherein the first layer of material and the second layer of material comprise the same material.

[0094] Example Ex10. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the cover is integrally formed with the secondary housing portion.

[0095] Example Ex11 . A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the secondary housing portion comprises an inner member attached to the primary housing portion to surround the longitudinal perimeter of the docking cavity, and wherein the secondary housing portion further comprises an outer member comprising the external surface portion of the charging device, the outer member arranged concentrically about the inner member.

[0096] Example Ex12. A charging device according to Example Ex11 , wherein the cover is coupled to the outer member. Example Ex13. A charging device according to Example Ex11 or Ex12, wherein the cover comprises an attachment portion configured to contact an outer surface of the outer member in the covered position.

[0097] Example Ex14. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex13, wherein an inner surface of the outer member engages with an outer surface of the inner member.

[0098] Example Ex15. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex14, wherein the inner surface of the outer member is sleeved on the outer surface of the inner member.

[0099] Example Ex16. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex15, wherein an inner surface of the secondary housing portion engages with an outer surface of the side walls.

[0100] Example Ex17. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex16, wherein the innersurface of the secondary housing portion is sleeved on the outersurface of the side walls.

[0101] Example Ex18. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex17, wherein an inner surface of the inner member engages with an outer surface of the side walls.

[0102] Example Ex19. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex18, wherein the inner surface of the inner member is sleeved on the outer surface of the side walls.

[0103] Example Ex20. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex19, wherein the outer member covers a front face of the inner member.

[0104] Example Ex21 . A charging device according to Example Ex20, wherein a front face of the outer member comprises a curved surface.

[0105] Example Ex22. A charging device according to Example Ex20, wherein a front face of the outer member comprises a flat surface.

[0106] Example Ex23. A charging device according to Example Ex22, wherein the flat surface is angled inwards towards the docking cavity.

[0107] Example Ex24. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex23, wherein the depth of the inner member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is greater than the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0108] Example Ex25. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex24, wherein the depth of the outer member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is greater than the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0109] Example Ex26. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex23, wherein the depth of the inner member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is approximately equal to the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0110] Example Ex27. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex23 or Ex26wherein the depth of the outer member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is approximately equal to the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0111] Example Ex28. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex23, wherein the depth of the inner member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is less than the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0112] Example Ex29. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex23 or Ex28, wherein the depth of the outer member in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls is less than the depth of the docking cavity in the direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls.

[0113] Example Ex30. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex29, wherein the outer member comprises at least one of anodized aluminum, brushed aluminum, brushed stainless steel, ceramics, titanium, textiles, leather, polyurethane leather, wood, laminates, forged carbon, silicone.

[0114] Example Ex31. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex30, wherein the cover comprises a same material as the outer member.

[0115] Example Ex32. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex31 , wherein the inner member is reversibly attachable to the primary housing portion.

[0116] Example Ex33. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex32, wherein the inner member is reversibly attachable to the primary housing portion by a mechanical or magnetic latching means.

[0117] Example Ex34. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex33, wherein the inner member is press-fit on to the primary housing portion.

[0118] Example Ex35. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex34, wherein the outer member is removably attached to the inner member.

[0119] Example Ex36. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex35, wherein the outer member is removably attached to the inner member by a mechanical or magnetic latching means.

[0120] Example Ex37. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex11 to Ex36, wherein the outer member is press-fit on to the inner member.

[0121] Example Ex38. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the secondary housing portion is an exchangeable secondary housing portion.

[0122] Example Ex39. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the cover comprises at least one of anodized aluminum, brushed aluminum, brushed stainless steel, ceramics, titanium, textiles, leather, polyurethane leather, wood, laminates, forged carbon, silicone.

[0123] Example Ex40. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the secondary housing portion comprises at least one of anodized aluminum, brushed aluminum, brushed stainless steel, ceramics, titanium, textiles, leather, polyurethane leather, wood, laminates, forged carbon, silicone

[0124] Example Ex41. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the primary housing portion comprises at least one of anodized aluminum, plastics, or titanium.

[0125] Example Ex42. A charging device according to Example Ex1 , wherein the secondary housing portion comprises a single integrally formed element.

[0126] Example Ex43. A charging device according to Example Ex27, wherein the single integrally formed element comprises an external surface portion of the charging device, and wherein an inner surface of the single integrally formed element engages with an outer surface of the side walls.

[0127] Example Ex44. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the primary housing portion comprises at least one user interface element, the user interface element covered by the exchangeable secondary housing portion when the exchangeable secondary housing portion is attached to the primary housing portion.

[0128] Example Ex45. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein an inner surface of the docking cavity is defined by the side walls and a rear wall opposite to the front side, wherein the side walls comprise: first and second side walls, and first and second longitudinal end walls, wherein the second side wall is spaced from and fixed relative to the first side wall, and each of the rear wall, first side wall and second side wall extend substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the docking cavity.

[0129] Example Ex46. A charging device according to Example Ex45, 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.

[0130] Example Ex47. A charging device according to Example Ex45 or Ex46, wherein the rear wall of the charging device comprises a pivot structure configured to allow the aerosolgenerating device to pivot about the pivot structure to transition the aerosol-generating system from the docked configuration in which the aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity, to an undocked configuration in which the aerosol-generating device is dis-engaged from at least a portion of the inner surface of the docking cavity.

[0131] Example Ex48. A charging device according to Example Ex47, wherein during transition of the aerosol-generating system from the docked configuration to the undocked configuration the pivot structure is configured to directly contact the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device between a proximal end and a distal end of the aerosolgenerating device.

[0132] Example Ex49. A charging device according to Example Ex47 or Ex 48, wherein transition of the aerosol-generating system from the docked configuration to the undocked configuration is effected by movement of either the proximal end or distal end of the aerosol-generating device perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0133] Example Ex50. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex47 to Ex49, wherein the rear wall further comprises a pivot cavity adjacent to the pivot structure, the pivot cavity for receiving the distal end or the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device therein in the undocked configuration.

[0134] Example Ex51. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex47 to Ex50, wherein the charging device comprises at least one primary charging contact configured to contact a corresponding secondary charging contact on the aerosol-generating device when the aerosol-generating system is in the docked configuration.

[0135] Example Ex52. A charging device according to Example Ex51 , wherein each primary charging contact is configured to not contact the corresponding secondary charging contact when the aerosol-generating system is in the undocked configuration.

[0136] Example Ex53. A charging device according to Example Ex50, wherein the pivot cavity is defined in a portion of the rear wall at an opposite end of the docking cavity to a docking portion of the rear wall.

[0137] Example Ex54. A charging device according to Example Ex53, wherein the docking portion of the rear wall extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal direction

[0138] Example Ex55. A charging device according to Example Ex53 or Ex54, wherein the docking portion of the rear wall is substantially flat.

[0139] Example Ex56. A charging device according to Example Ex53 or Ex54, wherein the docking portion of the rear wall is curved about the longitudinal direction.

[0140] Example Ex57. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex53 to Ex56, wherein the docking portion of the rear wall extends at least 50 % of a longitudinal length of the docking cavity, preferably at least 70 % of the longitudinal length of the docking cavity.

[0141] Example Ex58. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex47 to Ex57, wherein the pivot structure is a pivot surface defined in the rear wall.

[0142] Example Ex59. A charging device according to Example Ex58, wherein the pivot surface comprises a curved surface.

[0143] Example Ex60. A charging device according to Example Ex58, wherein the pivot structure is a pivot edge defined in the rear wall.

[0144] Example Ex61. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the docking cavity is configured such that the aerosol-generating device may be received in the docking cavity in two different longitudinal orientations. Example Ex62. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the charging device is configured such that when the aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity, neither a proximal end or a distal end of the aerosol-generating device are exposed.

[0145] Example Ex63. A charging device according to any preceding Example, wherein the at least one primary charging contact is arranged on the inner surface of the docking cavity.

[0146] Example Ex64. A charging device according to Example Ex63, wherein the at least one primary charging contact is arranged on the rear wall of the docking cavity.

[0147] Example Ex65. A charging device according to any preceding Example,, wherein the charging device comprises a latching means to releasably retain the aerosol-generating device in the docking cavity.

[0148] Example Ex66. A charging device according to Example Ex65, wherein the latching means is a mechanical latching means.

[0149] Example Ex67. A charging device according to Example Ex66, wherein the mechanical latching means comprises a latching projection extending from the charging device to engage with the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device.

[0150] Example Ex68. A charging device according to Example Ex65, wherein the latching means is a magnetic latching means.

[0151] Example Ex69. A charging device according to any one of Examples Ex65 to Ex68, wherein the latching means is positioned in the docking portion of the rear wall.

[0152] Example Ex70. A charging device according to Example Ex63, wherein the magnetic latching means comprises the at least one primary charging contact.

[0153] Example Ex71 . An aerosol-generating system comprising: a charging device according to any preceding Example, and an aerosol-generating device comprising an elongate body extending between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a secondary power source, and wherein the electrical circuitry is configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the secondary power source in a docked configuration when the aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity

[0154] Example Ex72. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex71 , 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.

[0155] Example Ex73. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex71 or Ex72, wherein the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device comprises one or more of anodized aluminum, brushed aluminum, brushed stainless steel, ceramics, titanium, textiles, leather, polyurethane leather, wood, laminates, forged carbon or silicone. Example Ex74. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex71 to Ex73, wherein a front face of the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device comprises one or more of polycarbonate or glass,

[0156] Example Ex75. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex71 to Ex74, wherein a front face of the elongate body of the aerosol-generating device comprises a material prepared with in-mold decoration, physical vapor deposition, or tint.

[0157] Example Ex76. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex71 to Ex75, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises an article cavity configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate

[0158] Example Ex77. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex76, wherein the article cavity is defined in the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0159] Example Ex78. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex76 or Ex77, wherein the solid aerosol-forming substrate comprises tobacco.

[0160] Example Ex79. An aerosol-generating system according to Example Ex any one of Examples Ex71 to Ex75,, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises an atomiser configured to heat a liquid or gel aerosol-forming substrate.

[0161] Example Ex80. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex71 to Ex79, wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured such that in the docked configuration, a portion of the aerosol-generating device extends beyond a peripheral boundary of the charging device housing.

[0162] Example Ex81 . An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex71 to Ex80, wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured such that in the docked configuration, the front face of the aerosol-generating device forms a continuous surface with the outer member.

[0163] Example Ex82. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex71 to Ex81 , wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured such that in the docked configuration, the front face of the aerosol-generating device forms a continuous surface with the front face of the outer member.

[0164] Example Ex83. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Examples Ex71 to Ex82, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to generate aerosol in the docked configuration of the aerosol-generating system.

[0165] The invention is further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0166] Figure 1 shows an exploded perspective schematic of an aerosol-generating system according to the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating system comprising a charging device and an aerosol-generating device.

[0167] Figure 2 shows cross-section of the aerosol-generating system shown in Figure 1.

[0168] Figures 3a, 3b and 3c show side, front and top views respectively of the charging device shown in Figures 1 and 2; Figures 3d, 3e and 3f show side, front and top views respectively of the charging device shown in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, but with the cover in a covered position;

[0169] Figure 4 shows cross-section of an alternative embodiment of an aerosol-generating system comprising a charging device and an aerosol-generating device.

[0170] Figure 5a shows cross-section of the aerosol-generating system of Figures 1 and 2 in a docked configuration;

[0171] Figure 5b shows cross-section of the aerosol-generating system of Figures 1 and 2 in an undocked configuration;

[0172] Figures 6a, 6b and 6c show top cross-sectional views of three alternative embodiments of the charging device shown in Figures 1 and 2; and

[0173] Figures 7a and 7b show top cross-sectional views of two further alternative embodiments of the charging device shown in Figures 1 and 2.

[0174] Figure 8 shows an exploded perspective schematic of an alternative embodiment of an aerosol-generating system according to the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating system comprising a charging device and an aerosol-generating device.

[0175] Figure 9 shows a cross-section of the aerosol-generating system shown in Figure 8.

[0176] Figure 1 shows an exploded perspective schematic of an aerosol-generating system 10 according to the present disclosure, the aerosol-generating system 10 comprising a charging device 1000 and an aerosol-generating device 100. Figure 2 shows cross-section of the aerosolgenerating system shown in Figure 1. Figures 3a, 3b and 3c show side, front and top views respectively of the charging device 1000 shown in Figures 1 and 2, and Figures 3d, 3e and 3f show side, front and top views respectively of the charging device shown in Figures 3a, 3b and 3c, but with the cover 1060 in a covered position.

[0177] The charging device 1000 comprises a primary housing portion 1040 and a secondary housing portion 1050. The secondary housing portion 1050 is removable and replaceable from the primary housing portion 1040, and may be secured to the primary housing portion 1040 by a range of different means, such as press fit, or a latching means. The secondary housing portion 1050 comprises two separate components; an inner member 1055 and an outer member 1051. The inner member comprises an outer surface 1056 and an inner surface 1057. Similarly, the outer member 1051 comprises an outer surface 1052 and an inner surface 1053. In the present embodiment, the outer member 1051 is sleeved onto and press fit to the inner member 1055, such that the inner surface 1053 of the outer member 1051 engages with the outer surface 1056 of the inner member 1055. The secondary housing portion 1050 is configured such that a user cannot remove the outer member 1051 from the inner member 1055. In other words, the outer member 1051 is irreversibly sleeved onto and press fit to the inner member 1055. However, it can be understood that in other embodiments the secondary housing portion 1050 can be configured such that a user can remove the outer member 1051 from the inner member 1055, and the outer member 1051 can be reversibly sleeved onto and press fit to the inner member 1055. The primary housing portion 1040 comprises side walls 1042 which extend from the primary housing portion 1040 and partially define a docking cavity 1012 for the aerosol-generating device.

[0178] The inner member 1055 is sleeved onto the primary housing portion 1040 such that inner surface 1057 of the inner member 1055 is sleeved onto and engages with the side walls 1042. The secondary housing portion 1050 is configured that a user can remove the secondary housing portion 1050 from the primary housing portion 1040. In other words, the secondary housing portion 1050 is reversibly sleeved onto the side walls 1042.

[0179] In the assembled configuration shown in Figure 2, the outer surface 1052 of the outer member 1051 forms a continuous surface with an outer surface of the primary housing portion 1040. Furthermore, the outer member 1051 covers a front face of the inner member 1055. The front face of the inner member 1055 is therefore not visible when the exchangeable secondary housing portion 1050 is attached to the primary housing portion 1040, when in the assembled configuration.

[0180] The charging device 1000 further comprises a user interface element 1043 located on the side walls 1042. The user interface element 1043 may comprise a reset button for example, the reset button configured to reset the charging device 1000 and / or the aerosol-generating device 100. In the assembled configuration, the secondary housing portion 1050 covers the user interface element 1043, such that the user interface element 1043 is not visible to a user unless the user removes the secondary housing portion 1050 from the primary housing portion 1040.

[0181] The charging device 1000 further comprises a cover 1060 coupled to the secondary housing portion 1050. The cover 1060 is integrally formed with the outer member 1051 , and is connected to the outer member 1051 by a hinge along the longitudinal length of one longitudinal side of the outer member 1051. The cover 1060 is operable between an uncovered position in which the docking cavity 1012 is exposed, and a covered position in which the cover 1060 covers the docking cavity 1012. The cover 1060 therefore has a substantially identical size and shape as the opening on the front side of the docking cavity in order to completely cover the docking cavity 1012 in the covered position. In the covered position, the cover 1060 contacts the front face of the outer member 1051 around the entire circumference of the outer member 1051.

[0182] The cover 1060 further comprises an attachment portion 1061 in the form of a flap. The attachment portion 1061 is integrally formed with the cover 1060, and is connected to the cover 1060 by a hinge along the longitudinal length of one longitudinal side of the cover 1060. The attachment portion 1061 is configured to secure the cover 1060 in the closed position. As is illustrated in Figures 3a to 3f, the secondary housing portion 1050 comprises a magnet 1054 embedded within the secondary housing portion 1050. The attachment portion 1061 also comprises a corresponding magnet 1062 embedded within the attachment portion 1061. The two magnets are configured to align when the cover 1060 is in the covered position, and the attachment portion 1061 contacts an outer surface of the outer member 1051 . The two magnets 1054, 1062 therefore form a magnetic latching means configured to secure the cover 1060 in the covered position. It can be understood that other latching means are also possible, such as mechanical latching means.

[0183] In the present embodiment, the cover 1060 comprises the same material as the outer member 1051. The cover 1060 also comprises a sandwiched construction, with the same material as the outer member 1051 as inner and outer layers of the cover 1060, and a central layer element between the two inner and outer layers. The attachment portion 1061 comprises a single layer of the same material as the outer member 1051.

[0184] The docking cavity 1012 is configured to receive therein 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 longitudinal end 1016 and a second longitudinal end 1014 in a longitudinal direction, and is substantially identical in size and shape to the aerosol-generating device 100.

[0185] The docking cavity 1012 is partially defined by a rear wall 1018. The rear wall 1018 comprises a flat docking portion 1019, which extends parallel to the longitudinal direction. The docking portion 1019 is adjacent to the second longitudinal end 1014 of the docking cavity 1012. The rear wall 1018 further comprises a recessed portion 1020, which extends at an angle to the longitudinal direction. The recessed portion 1020 is adjacent to the first longitudinal end 1016 of the docking cavity 1012, and defines a pivot cavity 1022 in the rear wall 1018. The docking portion 1019 extends around 70% of the longitudinal length of the docking cavity 1012 from the second longitudinal end 1014 towards the first longitudinal end 1016. The recessed portion 1020 therefore extends around 30% of the longitudinal length of the docking cavity 1012 from the first longitudinal end 1016 towards the second longitudinal end 1014.

[0186] Although in Figure 1 the recessed portion 1020 is illustrated as forming a sharp edge with the docking portion 1019, it can be understood that the recessed portion 1020 may instead form a smooth continuous curve with the docking portion 1019, ora step with the docking portion 1019, to define the pivot cavity 1022.

[0187] The docking cavity 1012 is open at a front side 1024 to receive therethrough the aerosolgenerating device 100.

[0188] The charging device 1000 further comprises primary electrical contacts 1070 defined on a 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 longitudinal end 1016 and the second longitudinal end 1014.

[0189] 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 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. 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.

[0190] The primary electrical contacts 1070 and the secondary electrical contacts 170 also comprise magnetic components, 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 structure 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 aerosol-generating device 100 in the docking cavity 1012.

[0191] The aerosol-generating device 100 is comprises an elongate body 110 which is substantially cylindrical 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. The elongate body 110 comprises a rear face 118, a front face 124 and two opposing side faces, all extending longitudinally between the proximal end 114 and a distal end 116.

[0192] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises an open 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 cavity 160 for heating at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosolgenerating article is received in the 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 cavity 160 of the device and a length longer than the cavity 160, such that when the article is received in the cavity 160 of the device, the filter extends out of the cavity 160 and may be drawn on by a user, similarly to a conventional cigarette.

[0193] 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 aerosolgenerating device 100 further comprises electrical circuitry 180 configured to control the supply of power from the secondary power source 190 to the electric heater. 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.

[0194] Figure 4 shows cross-section of an alternative embodiment of an aerosol-generating system 10 comprising a charging device 1000 and an aerosol-generating device 100. The aerosol-generating system 10 is similar to the aerosol-generating system 10 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, so will be described with respect to its differences only.

[0195] Rather than the outer member 1051 being sleeved onto the inner member 1055, instead the outer member 1051 completely surrounds the inner member 1055. The inner member 1055 may for example be wrapped in a material which forms the outer member 1051 , or coated in a different manner to form the outer member 1051 on the inner member 1055. When the secondary housing portion 1050 is sleeved onto the side walls 1042, it is therefore the outer member 1051 which contacts, or is itself sleeved onto, the side walls 1042. The inner member 1055 is therefore not visible to a user from any orientation, even when the secondary housing portion 1050 is removed from the primary housing portion 1040.

[0196] Figure 5a shows cross-section of the aerosol-generating system 10 of Figures 1 and 2 in a docked configuration. In the docked configuration, the aerosol-generating device 100 is received within the docking cavity 1012, such that the primary charging contacts 1070 are in physical and electrical contact with the secondary charging contacts 170. The elongate body 110 of the aerosol-generating device 100 contacts and is flush with the docking portion 1019 of the rear wall 1018. The pivot cavity 1022 remains defined between the elongate body 110 of the aerosol-generating device 100 and the recessed portion 1020 of the rear wall 1018. In the 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 contacts 1070 and the secondary charging contacts 170. Such a supply of power is controlled by at least one of the charging device electrical circuitry 1080 and the electrical circuitry 180 within the aerosol-generating device 100. In the docked configuration illustrated by Figure 5a, the proximal end 114 of the aerosol-generating device 100 is located at the second end 1014 of the docking cavity 1012. The cavity 160 of the aerosol-generating device 100 is therefore exposed, as the proximal end 114 of the aerosol-generating device 100 is not covered.

[0197] Figure 5b shows cross-section of the aerosol-generating system 10 of Figures 1 and 2 in an undocked configuration. To transition from the docked configuration shown in Figure 5a to the undocked configuration shown in Figure 5b, the user applies a force by pressing on a section of the elongate body 110 of the aerosol-generating device 100 adjacent to the distal end 116 of the elongate body 110 and adjacent to the first end 1016 of the docking cavity 1012. This force pivots the aerosol-generating device 100 about the edge defined between the recessed portion 1020 and the docking portion 1019 of the rear wall 1018. In the undocked configuration, a section of the elongate body 110 of the aerosol-generating device 100 moves into the pivot cavity 1022. 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.

[0198] Figures 6a, 6b and 6c show top cross-sectional views of three alternative embodiments of the charging device 1000 shown in Figures 1 and 2. The charging devices 1000 are similar to the charging device 1000 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, so will be described with respect to their differences only.

[0199] Figures 6a, 6b and 6c illustrate three different depths of the secondary housing portion 1040. The depth of the secondary housing portion 1040 and the depth of the docking cavity 1012 are both measured in a direction parallel to the direction of extension of the side walls 1042 from the rest of the primary housing portion 1040. The depth of the secondary housing portion 1040 and the depth of the docking cavity 1012 are also both measured in a direction parallel to the direction from the rear wall 1018 of the docking cavity 1012 to the open front side 1024 of the docking cavity 1012.

[0200] Figure 6a shows an embodiment in which the depth of the secondary housing portion 1040 is greater than the depth of the docking cavity 1012. Figure 6b shows the embodiment illustrated above in Figures 1 and 2, in which the depth of the secondary housing portion 1040 is substantially equal to the depth of the docking cavity 1012. Figure 6a shows an embodiment in which the depth of the secondary housing portion 1040 is less than the depth of the docking cavity 1012.

[0201] Figures 7a and 7b show top cross-sectional views of two further alternative embodiments of the charging device 1000 shown in Figures 1 and 2. The charging devices 1000 are similar to the charging device 1000 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, so will be described with respect to their differences only. Figure 7a shows an embodiment in which a front face of the outer member 1051 comprises a curved surface. The cover 1060 is shaped to correspond to the curved surface of the front face of the outer member 1051. The cover 1060 therefore comprises a curvature perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the docking cavity 1012, extending convexly from the outer member 1051 when in the covered position.

[0202] Figure 7b also shows an embodiment in which a front face of the outer member 1051 comprises a flat surface angled inwards towards the docking cavity 1012. The cover 1060 is shaped to correspond to the angled surface of the front face of the outer member 1051 . The cover 1060 therefore comprises a tapered cross section to engage with the angled surface of the front face of the outer member 1051.

[0203] Figure 8 shows an exploded perspective schematic of an alternative embodiment of an aerosol-generating system 10 comprising a charging device 1000 and an aerosol-generating device 100.

[0204] Figure 9 shows a cross-section of the aerosol-generating system shown in Figure 8.

[0205] The aerosol-generating system 10 is similar to the aerosol-generating system 10 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, so will be described with respect to its differences only.

[0206] Rather than the secondary housing portion 1050 comprising an inner member and an outer member, the secondary housing portion 1050 instead comprises a single integrally formed element 1059. The single integrally formed element 1059 is sleeved onto and engages with the side walls 1042 which extend from the primary housing portion 1040 and partially define the docking cavity 1012. The single integrally formed element 1059 is configured that a user can remove the single integrally formed element 1059 from the primary housing portion 1040. In other words, the single integrally formed element 1059 is reversibly sleeved onto the side walls 1042.

[0207] The single integrally formed element 1059 also comprises the external surface portion which forms part of the external surface of the charging device 1000. An outer surface of the external surface portion of the single integrally formed element 1059 does not form a continuous, flush, surface with an outer surface of the primary housing portion 1040. Rather, the outer surface of the external surface portion of the single integrally formed element 1059 protrudes from the outer surface of the primary housing portion 1040 by a distance.

[0208] The depth of the single integrally formed element 1059 is greater than the depth of the docking cavity 1012. In particular, the depth of the single integrally formed element 1059 is approximately equal to two thirds of the total depth of the primary housing portion 1040.

[0209] It can be understood however that the depth of the single integrally formed element 1059 may vary from what is illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, similar to the variations in depth illustrated in Figure 6. The front face of the single integrally formed element 1059 may also vary from what is illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, similar to the variations in front face illustrated in Figure 7.

Claims

28Claims1 . A charging device for an aerosol-generating system, the charging device comprising: a primary housing portion defining a docking cavity having a longitudinal axis for engagement with an elongated aerosol-generating device, the docking cavity configured to receive the aerosol-generating device from a front side of the docking cavity, a primary power source and electrical circuitry within the primary housing portion, the electrical circuitry configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the aerosol-generating device when the aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity, wherein the docking cavity comprises a longitudinal perimeter at least partially defined by side walls extending from the primary housing portion substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the docking cavity, wherein the charging device further comprises a secondary housing portion comprising an external surface portion of the charging device, the secondary housing portion attached to the primary housing portion to surround the longitudinal perimeter of the docking cavity, and wherein the charging device housing further comprises a cover coupled to the secondary housing portion, the cover operable between a covered position in which the docking cavity is covered by the cover, and an uncovered position in which the docking cavity is open on the front side.

2. A charging device according to claim 1 , wherein the docking cavity is completely covered by the cover in the covered position.

3. A charging device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover comprises a magnetic latching means for retaining the cover in the covered position.

4. A charging device according to any preceding claim, wherein the cover comprises an attachment portion configured to contact an outer surface of the secondary housing portion in the covered position.

5. A charging device according to any preceding claim, wherein the cover comprises a first layer of material on an outer surface of the cover, and a second layer of material on an inner surface of the cover.

6. A charging device according to claim 5, wherein the cover further comprises a central layer between the first layer of material and the second layer of material.

7. A charging device according to claim 5 or 6 wherein the first layer of material and the second layer of material comprise the same material.

8. A charging device according to any preceding claim wherein the cover is integrally formed with the secondary housing portion.

9. A charging device according to any preceding claim, wherein the secondary housing portion comprises an inner member attached to the primary housing portion to surround the longitudinal perimeter of the docking cavity, and wherein the secondary housing portion further comprises an outer member comprising the external surface portion of the charging device, the outer member arranged concentrically about the inner member.

10. A charging device according to claim 9, wherein the cover is coupled to the outer member.11 . A charging device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the inner surface of the outer member is sleeved on the outer surface of the inner member.

12. A charging device according to any one of claims 9 to 11 , wherein the inner surface of the inner member is sleeved on the outer surface of the side walls.

13. A charging device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the secondary housing portion comprises an outer member comprising an external surface portion of the charging device, and wherein the secondary housing portion further comprises an inner member arranged within the outer member, such that the inner member is not visible from outside the secondary housing portion.

14. A charging device according to any preceding claim, wherein the secondary housing portion is an exchangeable secondary housing portion.

15. An aerosol-generating system comprising: a charging device according to any preceding claim, and an aerosol-generating device comprising an elongate body extending between a proximal end and a distal end along a longitudinal axis, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a secondary power source, and wherein the electrical circuitry is configured to control a supply of power from the primary power source to the secondary power source in a docked configuration when the aerosol-generating device is received in the docking cavity

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