Aerosol-generating device with improved ergonomics

Abstract

There is provided an aerosol-generating device (100) having an x-axis defining a width direction, a y-axis defining a thickness direction and a z-axis defining a height direction The aerosol-generating device (100) comprises a device body (110) defining a first major outer face (102) of the aerosol-generating device (100) and a second major outer face (104) of the aerosol-generating device (100). The second major outer face (104) is located opposite the first major outer face (102) and is spaced from the first major outer face (102) in the thickness direction. Each of the first major outer face (102) and the second major outer face (104) has a convex curvature in any x / y plane of at least a portion of the height of the device body (110). The at least a portion of the height of the device body (110) having a height of at least 75 percent of the height of the device body (110). The device body (110) has a device body maximum thickness and a device body maximum width. A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width is between 0.20 and 0.80.

Description

[0001] FTR4026 / EP (P / 91289.EP01)

[0002] AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICE WITH IMPROVED ERGONOMICS

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating device. In particular, the present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosolgenerating article.

[0004] Aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a tobaccocontaining substrate, is heated rather than combusted, are known in the art. Such articles typically generate an aerosol by the transfer of heat from a heat source to a physically separate aerosolgenerating substrate or material, which is arranged in thermal contact with the heat source. During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in air drawn through the aerosolgenerating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol.

[0005] Aerosol-generating devices for use with aerosol-generating articles described above are also known. For example, such devices include electrically heated aerosol-generating devices that are configured to receive the aerosol-generating article and comprise an electrical heating means for heating the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article. Typically, aerosolgenerating devices require a user to hold the aerosol-generating device whilst the aerosolgenerating substrate is being heated, and also hold the aerosol-generating device whilst puffing on the aerosol-generating article or the aerosol-generating device.

[0006] It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating device that is capable of dissipating the excess heat generated by the device during use. It would also be desirable to provide such an aerosol-generating device that has improved ergonomics compared to some known aerosolgenerating devices.

[0007] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating device having an x-axis defining a width direction, a y-axis defining a thickness direction and a z-axis defining a height direction. The aerosol-generating device comprises a device body defining a first major outer face of the aerosol-generating device and a second major outer face of the aerosolgenerating device. The second major outer face is located opposite the first major outer face and is spaced from the first major outer face in the thickness direction. Each of the first major outer face and the second major outer face has a convex curvature in any x / y plane of at least a portion of the height of the device body. The at least a portion of the height of the device body having a height of at least 75 percent of the height of the device body. The device body has a device body maximum thickness and a device body maximum width. A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width is between 0.20 and 0.80.

[0008] Advantageously, during use, a user can grip the aerosol-generating device such that their hand extends around the z-axis of the device and the first major outer face or the second major outer face faces towards the user’s palm. Therefore, the convex curvature of the first major outer face or the second major outer face may conform to the concave curvature of the user’s palm. This may allow the user to more securely and comfortably grip the aerosol-generating device, thereby leading to an aerosol-generating device with improved ergonomics compared to some known aerosol-generating devices. Additionally, because both of the first major outer face and the second major outer face have a convex curvature, a user may easily switch hands during use whilst still benefiting from the improved ergonomics.

[0009] Advantageously, a ratio between the maximum thickness of the device body and the maximum width of the device body is between 0.20 and 0.80. This means that the thickness is less than width. A more comfortable grip may be achieved when the user has a grip in which the distance between the base of their palm and four fingers is greater than the depth of the concave curvature of their palm. Thus, the ratio of the thickness and width of the device body of the present disclosure allow the user to use such a grip to hold the aerosol-generating device, thereby resulting in a device that is more comfortable to hold. A ratio that is less than 0.20 may prevent the first major outer face or the second major outer face from engaging with the user’s palm which could reduce stability, whilst a ratio that is greater than 0.80 may result in a less comfortable grip.

[0010] Advantageously, the convex curvature of the first major outer face and the second major outer face may increase the external surface area of the aerosol-generating device, for example relative to flat outer faces, which may assist in dissipating heat generated by the aerosolgenerating device during use. This may also allow heat to be dissipated over a larger area meaning that the average temperature of the external surface of the aerosol-generating device is reduced and hot spots close to any heating element may be reduced. This may make the aerosolgenerating device more comfortable for a user to hold during use.

[0011] The device body maximum thickness may be located within plus or minus 10 percent of the width of the device body from the midpoint of the width of the device body.

[0012] The device body maximum thickness may be located within plus or minus 10 percent of the height of the device body from the midpoint of the height of the device body.

[0013] The device body may have a device body maximum width. The device body maximum width may be located within plus or minus 10 percent of the height of the device body from the midpoint of the height of the device body.

[0014] The at least a portion of the height of the device body may have a height of at least 80 percent of the height of the device body. Preferably, the at least a portion of the height of the device body may have a height of at least 90 percent of the height of the device body. More preferably, the at least a portion of the height of the device body may have a height of 100 percent of the height of the device body. That is, each of the first major outer face and the second major outer face may have a convex curvature in any x / y plane of the device body.

[0015] The convex curvature of the first major outer face in each x / y plane may be smooth. Thus, the first major outer face may form a curve in each x / y plane that is continuously differentiable. The convex curvature of the second major outer face in each x / y plane may be smooth. Thus, the second major outer face may form a curve in each x / y plane that is continuously differentiable. The device body may have a first side and a second side spaced from the first side in the width direction. The thickness of each x / y plane may continuously increase in the width direction from the first side to the location of the respective x / y plane maximum thickness. The thickness of each x / y plane may continuously increase in the width direction from the second side to the location of the respective x / y plane maximum thickness.

[0016] Each of the first major outer face and the second major outer face may have a convex curvature in any y / z plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body. Each of the first major outer face and the second major outer face may have a convex curvature in any y / z plane of the device body.

[0017] The convex curvature of the first major outer face in each y / z plane may be smooth. Thus, the first major outer face may form a curve in each y / z plane that is continuously differentiable. The convex curvature of the second major outer face in each y / z plane may be smooth. Thus, the second major outer face may form a curve in each y / z plane that is continuously differentiable.

[0018] The thickness of each y / z plane may continuously increase in the height direction from the proximal end of device body to the location of the respective y / z plane maximum thickness. The thickness of each y / z plane may continuously increase in the height direction from the distal end of the device body to the location of the respective y / z plane maximum thickness.

[0019] The device body may further define a first minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device and a second minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device. The second minor outer face may be located opposite the first minor outer face. The second minor outer face may be spaced from the first minor outer face in the width direction. The first minor outer face may extend from the first major outer face to the second major outer face, for example in the thickness direction of the aerosol-generating device. The second minor outer face may extend from the first major outer face to the second major outer face, for example in the thickness direction of the aerosol-generating device. The first major outer face, the second major outer face, the first minor outer face and the second minor outer face may define the entire circumference of the device body.

[0020] Each of the first minor outer face and the second minor outer face may have a convex curvature in any x / y plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body. Each of the first minor outer face and the second minor outer face may have a convex curvature in any x / y plane of the device body.

[0021] The convex curvature of the first minor outer face in each x / y plane may be smooth. Thus, the first minor outer face may form a curve in each x / y plane that is continuously differentiable. The convex curvature of the second minor outer face in each x / y plane may be smooth. Thus, the second minor outer face may form a curve in each x / y plane that is continuously differentiable.

[0022] The device body may have an oval or elliptic cross-section in any x / y plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body. The device body may have an oval or elliptic crosssection in any x / y plane of the device body. Each of the first minor outer face and the second minor outer face may have a convex curvature in any x / z plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body. Each of the first minor outer face and the second minor outer face may have a convex curvature in any x / z plane of the device body.

[0023] The convex curvature of the first minor outer face in each x / z plane may be smooth. Thus, the first minor outer face may form a curve in each x / z plane that is continuously differentiable. The convex curvature of the second minor outer face in each x / z plane may be smooth. Thus, the second minor outer face may form a curve in each x / z plane that is continuously differentiable.

[0024] The device body may comprise a main portion and a lid portion. The lid portion may be moveable relative to the main portion between a closed position and an open position. In the open position, an aerosol-generating article (such as a cartridge) may be insertable into, or removable from, the device body. In the closed position, an aerosol-generating article may not be insertable into, or removable from, the device body.

[0025] The main portion may be located towards, and may preferably define, the distal end of the device body. The lid portion may be located towards, and may preferably define, the proximal end of the device body.

[0026] The main portion may define a first portion of the first major outer face of the aerosolgenerating device and a first portion of the second major outer face of the aerosol-generating device. The lid portion may define a second portion of the first major outer face of the aerosolgenerating device and a second portion of the second major outer face of the aerosol-generating device. The main portion and the lid portion may collectively define the entire first major outer face of the aerosol-generating device. The main portion and the lid portion may collectively define the entire second major outer face of the aerosol-generating device.

[0027] The main portion may define a first portion of the first minor outer face of the aerosolgenerating device and a first portion of the second minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device. The lid portion may define a second portion of the first minor outer face of the aerosolgenerating device and a second portion of the second minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device. The main portion and the lid portion may collectively define the entire first minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device. The main portion and the lid portion may collectively define the entire second minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device.

[0028] The lid portion may have an exterior shape that is shaped to conform or correspond to an exterior shape of the main portion.

[0029] The device body may comprise a latching means for releasably retaining the lid portion in the closed position.

[0030] The latching means may comprise a mechanical latch. For example, a latching projection may be configured to extend from the main portion to engage with the lid portion, or extend from the lid portion to engage with the main portion. The mechanical latch may be actuatable by a user to allow the lid portion to move from the closed position to the open positioned. For example, the device body may comprise a user-operable button that, when operated, actuates the mechanical latch to allow the lid portion to move from the closed position to the open positioned. Operation of the user-operable button may cause the lid portion to move from the closed position to the open position.

[0031] The latching means may comprise a magnetic latch. The magnetic latch may comprise one or more magnets. For example, the main portion may comprise one or more magnets and the lid portion may comprise one or more portions that are magnetically attracted to the one or more magnets. As another example, the lid portion may comprise one or more magnets and the main portion may comprise one or more portions that are magnetically attracted to the one or more magnets. Magnets for latching may be included on both the charging device and the aerosolgenerating device. The one or more magnets may comprise a first magnet on the main portion and a second magnet on the lid portion. The first magnet may present a magnetic north pole and the second magnet may present a magnetic south pole, or the first magnet may present a magnetic south pole and the second magnet may present a magnetic north pole. Preferably, the one or more magnets used are high powered magnets such as rare earth magnets, for example NdFeB magnets. High powered magnets need only be of small size to releasably retain the lid portion in the closed position.

[0032] The lid portion may be a hinged lid portion. The lid portion may be arranged to pivot about the thickness direction of the aerosol-generating device. The pivot point of the lid portion may be located within the device body. Alternatively, the lid portion may be entirely separable from the main portion.

[0033] A ratio between a height of the lid and a height of the main portion may be greater than or equal to 0.10. A ratio between a height of the lid and a height of the main portion may be greater than or equal to 0.15. A ratio between a height of the lid and a height of the main portion may be greater than or equal to 0.20.

[0034] A ratio between a height of the lid and a height of the main portion may be less than or equal to 0.40. A ratio between a height of the lid and a height of the main portion may be less than or equal to 0.35.

[0035] A ratio between a height of the lid and a height of the main portion may be between 0.10 and 0.40. A ratio between a height of the lid and a height of the main portion may be between 0.15 and 0.35. A ratio between a height of the lid and a height of the main portion may be between 0.20 and 0.35.

[0036] The lid portion may have a height of between 5 millimetres and 40 millimetres, preferably between 10 millimetres and 25 millimetres, more preferably between 15 millimetres and 20 millimetres.

[0037] The main portion may have a height of between 45 millimetres and 110 millimetres, preferably between 60 millimetres and 65 millimetres, preferably 60 millimetres. The lid portion may define a lid mouthpiece opening at a proximal end of the device body through which the, or a, mouthpiece is arranged to extend. The lid mouthpiece opening may be oval or elliptical in shape. The lid mouthpiece opening may comprise: a first straight side; a second straight side spaced from the first straight side in the thickness direction of the aerosol-generating device; a first curved side connecting the first straight side and the second straight side; and a second curved side connect the first straight side and the second straight side and spaced from the first curved side in the width direction of the aerosol-generating device.

[0038] The lid mouthpiece opening may have a width of between of between 5 millimetres and 35 millimetres, preferably between 10 millimetres and 20 millimetres, most preferably between 14 millimetres and 16 millimetres. The lid mouthpiece opening may have a thickness of between 5 millimetres and 30 millimetres, preferably between 7 millimetres and 15 millimetres, most preferably between 9 millimetres and 11 millimetres.

[0039] The lid mouthpiece opening may have a width of between 5 millimetres and 35 millimetres and a thickness of between 5 millimetres and 30 millimetres, preferably a width of between 10 millimetres and 20 millimetres and a thickness of between 7 millimetres and 15 millimetres, most preferably a width of between 14 millimetres and 16 millimetres and a thickness of between 9 millimetres and 11 millimetres.

[0040] The lid portion may have an outer surface area of between 2000 millimetres squared and 10000 millimetres squared, preferably between 3000 millimetres squared and 5000 millimetres squared, most preferably between 3800 millimetres squared and 4000 millimetres squared.

[0041] The main portion may have an outer surface area of between 3000 millimetres squared and 15000 millimetres squared, preferably between 5000 millimetres squared and 10000 millimetres squared, most preferably between 6100 millimetres squared and 6400 millimetres squared.

[0042] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may comprise a channel for passage of aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating device, for example a channel that has an opening defined in the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device such that a user can draw aerosol into their mouth by drawing on the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may define an air outlet of the aerosol-generating device. Thus, during use, aerosol may be configured to exit the aerosol-generating device via the mouthpiece.

[0043] The mouthpiece may be integrally formed with the device body. The mouthpiece may be a detachable mouthpiece that is releasably couplable to the device body.

[0044] The mouthpiece may be arranged to protrude from the device body. Preferably, the mouthpiece is located at the proximal end of the device body. Advantageously, this may facilitate cleaning of the mouthpiece. Further, a detachable mouthpiece may allow access to an internal portion of the aerosol-generating device. The mouthpiece has a proximal or mouth end. The mouthpiece has a distal end. The mouthpiece extends from the distal end to the proximal or mouth end. Preferably, the distal end of the mouthpiece is arranged adjacent to the proximal end of the device body.

[0045] The mouthpiece may comprise a first major outer face and a second major outer face. The second major outer face of the mouthpiece may be located opposite the first major outer face of the mouthpiece. The second major outer face of the mouthpiece is spaced from the first major outer face of the mouthpiece in the thickness direction.

[0046] Each of the first major outer face of the mouthpiece and the second major outer face of the mouthpiece may have a concave curvature in any y / z plane of at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece. Each of the first major outer face of the mouthpiece and the second major outer face of the mouthpiece may have a convex curvature in any x / y plane of at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece.

[0047] The mouthpiece may comprise a first minor outer face and a second minor outer face. The second minor outer face of the mouthpiece may be located opposite the first minor outer face of the mouthpiece. The second minor outer face of the mouth piece may be spaced from the first major outer face of the mouthpiece in the width direction.

[0048] Each of the first minor outer face of the mouthpiece and the second minor outer face of the mouthpiece may have a concave curvature in any x / z plane of at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece. Each of the first minor outer face of the mouthpiece and the second minor outer face of the mouthpiece may have a convex curvature in any x / y plane of at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece.

[0049] The at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece may have a height of at least 25 percent of the height of the mouthpiece. The at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece may have a height of at least 50 percent of the height of the mouthpiece. The at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece may have a height of at least 70 percent of the height of the mouthpiece. Preferably, the at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece may have a height of at least 90 percent of the height of the mouthpiece. More preferably, the at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece may have a height of 100 percent of the height of the mouthpiece.

[0050] The mouthpiece may have a constriction portion located between the distal end and the proximal or mouth end. The constriction portion may be located towards the proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece. The constriction portion may have a thickness less than the thickness of the distal end of the mouth piece, and a thickness less than the proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece. The constriction portion may have a width less than the width of the distal end of the mouthpiece, and a width less than the width of the proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece. The constriction portion define one or both of the minimum thickness of the mouthpiece and the minimum width of the mouthpiece.

[0051] The proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece may have a thickness of between 2 millimetre to 30 millimetres, preferably between 2 millimetre and 20 millimetres, more preferably between 4 millimetres and 8 millimetres. The proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece may have width of between 4 millimetres and 40 millimetres, preferably between 10 millimetres and 20 millimetres, more preferably between 12 millimetres and 16 millimetres.

[0052] The constriction portion of the mouthpiece may have a thickness of between 2 millimetre to 30 millimetres, preferably between 2 millimetre and 20 millimetres, more preferably between 4 millimetres and 8 millimetres. The constriction portion of the mouthpiece may have width of between 4 millimetres and 40 millimetres, preferably between 10 millimetres and 20 millimetres, more preferably between 12 millimetres and 16 millimetres.

[0053] The distal end of the mouthpiece may have a thickness of between 2 millimetre and 40 millimetres, preferably between 4 millimetres and 20 millimetres, more preferably between 8 millimetres and 12 millimetres. The distal end of the mouth piece may have a width of between 4 millimetres and 40 millimetres, preferably between 10 millimetres and 30 millimetres, more preferably between 14 millimetres and 18 millimetres.

[0054] The mouthpiece may have has a height of between 10 millimetres and 50 millimetres, preferably between 15 millimetres and 25 millimetres, more preferably between 20 millimetres and 22 millimetres.

[0055] The mouthpiece may have an outer surface area of between 500 millimetres squared and 500 millimetres squared and 5000 millimetres squared, preferably between 1000 millimetres squared and 2500 millimetres squared, most preferably between 1600 millimetres squared and 1800 millimetres squared.

[0056] The mouthpiece may comprise: a plastic, such as polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), copolyester plastic, or any other suitable polymer or plastic; or a metal or metal-alloy, such as aluminium or stainless steel; or a plant-based material, such as wood or bamboo.

[0057] The device body may comprise one or more user-actuatable buttons for interacting with the aerosol-generating device, such as for activating a heating mode of the aerosol-generating device. The one or more user-actuatable buttons may be located on one of the first minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device or the second minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device.

[0058] The device body may comprise a display for display information related to the operation of the aerosol-generating device, such as an operating mode of the aerosol-generating device. The display may be located on one of the first major outer face of the aerosol-generating device or the second major outer face of the aerosol-generating device.

[0059] A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width may be greater than or equal to 0.20. A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width may be greater than or equal to 0.30. A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width may be greater than or equal to 0.40. A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width may be less than or equal to 0.80. A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width may be less than or equal to 0.70. A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width may be less than or equal to 0.60. A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width may be less than or equal to 0.50.

[0060] A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width may be between 0.30 and 0.70. A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width may be between 0.40 and 0.60. A ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width may be between 0.40 and 0.50.

[0061] The device body maximum thickness may be between 5 millimetres and 50 millimetres, preferably between 15 millimetres and 35 millimetres, most preferably between 15 millimetres and 25 millimetres.

[0062] The device body maximum width may be between 10 millimetres and 80 millimetres, preferably between 30 millimetres and 50 millimetres, most preferably between 35 millimetres and 45 millimetres.

[0063] The device body maximum thickness may be between 5 millimetres and 50 millimetres and the device body maximum width may be between 10 millimetres and 80 millimetres, preferably the device body maximum thickness may be between 15 millimetres and 35 millimetres and the device body maximum width of between 30 millimetres and 50 millimetres, most preferably the device body maximum thickness may be between 15 millimetres and 25 millimetres and the device body maximum width may be between 35 millimetres and 45 millimetres.

[0064] The device body may have a height of between 50 millimetres and 150 millimetres, preferably between 70 millimetres and 90 millimetres, more preferably between 75 millimetres and 80 millimetres.

[0065] The device body, such as one or both of the main portion and the lid portion, may comprise: a plastic, such as polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), copolyester plastic, or any other suitable polymer or plastic; or a composite, such as a carbon fibre-reinforced polymer; or a metal or metal-alloy, such as aluminium, magnesium, stainless steel or an aluminium alloy; or a plant-based material, such as wood or bamboo.

[0066] The device body, such as one or both of the main portion and the lid portion, may have one or more interior surfaces comprising liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), or cyclic olefin copolymer (COC).

[0067] According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device as described in the present disclosure and a cartridge for use with the aerosol-generating device. The cartridge may comprise a housing defining a substrate compartment. The cartridge may comprise an aerosol-generating substrate received within the substrate compartment.

[0068] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a power supply.

[0069] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a device cavity configured to receive at least a part of the cartridge. The device cavity may have a closed end and an open end. The cartridge may be insertable into the device cavity via the open end. The device cavity may have substantially the same cross-sectional shape as the cartridge.

[0070] The device cavity of the aerosol-generating device may be at least partially defined by a device body. Preferably, the device cavity may be at least partially defined by the main housing. The device cavity of the aerosol-generating device may be at least partially defined by the mouthpiece. The device cavity of the aerosol-generating may be defined by the device body and the mouthpiece.

[0071] A heater element may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol. Preferably, the cartridge is configured to interact with the heater element to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol.

[0072] The aerosol-generating system may comprise the heater element. Either the cartridge or the aerosol-generating device may comprise the heater element.

[0073] The cartridge may comprise the heater element. In other words, preferably the heater element is provided as part of the cartridge. In particular, preferably the heater element is arranged in the substrate compartment.

[0074] The heater element may be an internal heater element. The internal heater element may be embedded in or at least partially surrounded by the aerosol-generating substrate. The internal heater element may be a pin or a blade.

[0075] The heater element may be a planar heater element. The heater element may comprise one or more heating surfaces for heating the aerosol-generating substrate to form an aerosol. The one or more heating surfaces may be planar heating surfaces. The heater element may be substantially or entirely planar. The heater element may be oriented so that a plane of the heater element is aligned with the width of the cartridge.

[0076] The heater element may have a serpentine shape. The heater element may comprise a plurality of segments. The heater element may comprise a plurality of parallel segments extending along the substrate compartment. The heater element may be a self-supporting track which extends through the substrate compartment.

[0077] The heater element may an external heater element. The external heater element may at least partially surround the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0078] The heater element may be a resistive heater element. The heater element may comprise an electrically resistive material.

[0079] The heater element may be formed from an iron-based alloy. The heater element may be formed from a nickel alloy. The heater element may be formed from a ceramic. The heater element may be formed from stainless steel. The heater element may be formed from SS316L stainless steel iron aluminides. The heater element may be formed from nichrome. The heater element may be formed from a ceramic coated metal.

[0080] The heater element may have a length of greater than or equal to 13 millimetres, greater than or equal to 14 millimetres, greater than or equal to 15 millimetres, or greater than or equal to 16 millimetres.

[0081] The heater element may have a length of less than or equal to 20 millimetres, less than or equal to 19 millimetres, less than or equal to 18 millimetres, or less than or equal to 17 millimetres.

[0082] For example, the heater element may have a length of between 13 millimetres and 20 millimetres, between 14 millimetres and 19 millimetres, between 15 millimetres and 18 millimetres, or between 16 millimetres and 17 millimetres.

[0083] The heater element may comprise a susceptor element.

[0084] The susceptor element may be embedded in or at least partially surrounded by the aerosolgenerating substrate.

[0085] The susceptor element may be formed from any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, the susceptor element may comprise a metal or carbon. The susceptor element may comprise or consist of a ferromagnetic material, for example a ferromagnetic alloy, ferritic iron, or a ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel. A suitable material may be, or comprise, aluminium. The susceptor element may be formed from 400 series stainless steels, for example grade 410, or grade 420, or grade 430 stainless steel.

[0086] Where a susceptor element is provided, the cartridge or an aerosol-generating device may comprise an inductor coil arranged to inductively heat the susceptor element. The inductor coil may at least partly circumscribe the susceptor element.

[0087] The heater element may comprise a dielectric heater element. In particular, the dielectric heater element may comprise a dielectric material. The dielectric heater element may be configured to use radio-frequency (RF) electric waves that cause a dipole interaction with the dielectric material to heat the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0088] The heater element may comprise an infrared heater element. The infrared heater element may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate using infrared electromagnetic radiation.

[0089] The power supply may be configured to provide power to the heater element to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol. The power supply may be a DC power supply. The power supply may a battery. The power supply may require recharging and may have a capacity that allows for the storage of enough energy for one or more user operations, for example one or more aerosol-generating experiences.

[0090] As discussed above, the cartridge is preferably configured to interact with the heater element to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-generating device may comprise the heater element. In other words, the heater element may be provided as part of the aerosol-generating device. The heater element may be configured for insertion into the substrate compartment of the cartridge.

[0091] Alternatively or in addition, the heater element may be located around the periphery of the device cavity. The heater element may circumscribe the cartridge when the cartridge is at least party received in the device cavity.

[0092] The heater element may comprise one of a resistive heater element, a susceptor element, an infrared heater element or a dielectric heater element as described herein.

[0093] Where a susceptor element is provided either as part of the cartridge or the aerosolgenerating device, the aerosol-generating device may comprise the inductor coil arranged to inductively heat the susceptor element. Where the aerosol-generating device comprises a device cavity, the inductor coil may at least partly circumscribe the device cavity. The inductor coil may be arranged to coaxially circumscribe the device cavity.

[0094] The aerosol-generating device may further comprise a controller. The controller may be configured to control the supply of power from the power supply to the heater element. The controller may be electrically connected to the power supply. The controller may be configured to control the power output from the power supply to control whether the heater element is on or off. The controller may be configured to control the power output from the power supply to control the temperature of the heater element.

[0095] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a mouthpiece according to the present disclosure. During use, a user may draw on the mouthpiece to receive aerosol generated in the cartridge.

[0096] The cartridge may be configured to be at least partially received in the device cavity and at least partially received in the mouthpiece.

[0097] The mouthpiece may be configured to move between an open position and a closed position. When the mouthpiece is in the open position, the cartridge may be inserted into or removed from the device cavity. When the mouthpiece is in the closed position, the cartridge may be secured within the aerosol-generating device. When the mouthpiece is in the closed position, the cartridge may be contained within and surrounded by the mouthpiece and the device cavity.

[0098] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a device air inlet. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a device air outlet.

[0099] The device air inlet may be disposed at a distal end of the aerosol-generating device or device body.

[0100] The mouthpiece may comprise the device air outlet. The device air outlet may be disposed at a proximal end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0101] The cartridge and the aerosol-generating device may be configured such that the one or more electrical contacts of the cartridge electrically connect to corresponding electrical contacts of the aerosol-generating device. The electrical contacts of the aerosol-generating device may be electrically connected to the power supply.

[0102] The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that, during use, air passes into the device air inlet, through the device cavity into the one or more air inlets of the cartridge, through the aerosol-generating substrate in the substrate compartment. The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that, during use, aerosol generated in the substrate compartment passes in air flow to the one or more air outlets of the cartridge, and subsequently to the device air outlet.

[0103] The cartridge housing may comprise a material selected from one or more of a metal, a metal alloy, a composite, a ceramic and a thermoplastic.

[0104] The cartridge housing may comprise a material selected from one or more of one or more of Polyetheretherketone, Polyphenylene Sulfide, Polyamide, Stainless Steel, Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer, Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer, Aluminum Oxide, Zirconium Oxide, Inconel, a nickel based alloy and an iron based alloy.

[0105] The cartridge housing may be non-porous.

[0106] The cartridge housing may comprise a first portion and a second portion. The cartridge housing may comprise a peripheral wall extending between the first portion and the second portion. The first portion may be a proximal end plug. The second portion may be a distal end plug.

[0107] In other words, the cartridge housing may comprise a proximal end plug and a distal end plug, and the cartridge housing may comprise a peripheral wall extending between the proximal end plug and the distal end plug.

[0108] The proximal end plug may define the proximal end of the cartridge housing.

[0109] The distal end plug may define the distal end of the cartridge housing.

[0110] The peripheral wall may extend from the proximal end of the cartridge housing to the distal end of the cartridge housing. The peripheral wall may surround the substrate compartment. The proximal end plug, the distal end plug and the peripheral wall may define the substrate compartment.

[0111] The proximal end plug may be received in the peripheral wall. The proximal end plug may be received in the peripheral wall by an interference fit.

[0112] The distal end plug may be received in the peripheral wall. The distal end plug may be received in the peripheral wall by an interference fit.

[0113] The cartridge housing may comprise a peripheral wall defining a first open end in which the proximal end plug is received and a second open end in which the distal end plug is received.

[0114] The proximal end plug may extend into the peripheral wall. The distal end plug may extend into the peripheral wall.

[0115] The substrate compartment may extend between the distal end plug and the proximal end plug. The peripheral wall may comprise the rough area. In other words, at least part of the external surface of the peripheral wall may comprise the rough area. The entirety of the external surface of the peripheral wall may comprise the rough area.

[0116] One or both of the proximal end plug and the distal end plug may comprise the rough area. In other words, at least part of the external surface of one or both of the proximal end plug and the distal end plug may comprise the rough area.

[0117] The peripheral wall, the proximal end plug and the distal end plug may comprise the rough area.

[0118] The heater element may be fixedly attached to the cartridge housing.

[0119] The distal end plug may comprise the heater element. Preferably, the heater element extends from the distal end plug into the substrate compartment. The heater element may be fixedly attached to the distal end plug.

[0120] The distal end plug may comprise one or more electrical contacts arranged at an external surface of the cartridge. The one or more electrical contacts may be connected to the heater element. The one or more electrical contacts may be configured to interact with an aerosolgenerating device.

[0121] The cartridge housing may comprise one or more air inlets. Preferably, the one or more air inlets are in the distal end plug. The one or more air inlets may be a single air inlet. The one or more air inlets may be a plurality of air inlets.

[0122] The cartridge housing may comprise one or more air outlets. Preferably, the one or more air outlets are in the proximal end plug. The one or more air outlets may be a single air outlet. The one or more air outlets may be a plurality of air outlets.

[0123] The substrate compartment may extend between the one or more air inlets and the one or more air outlets.

[0124] The cartridge housing may have a length of greater than or equal to 10 millimetres, preferably greater than or equal to 12 millimetres, or most preferably greater than or equal to 14 millimetres.

[0125] The cartridge housing may have a length of less than or equal to 40 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 30 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 20 millimetres.

[0126] For example, the cartridge housing may have a length of between 10 millimetres and 40 millimetres, preferably between 10 millimetres and 30 millimetres, or most preferably between 14 millimetres and 20 millimetres. The length of the cartridge housing may refer to the distance between the proximal end of the proximal end plug and the distal end of the distal end plug of the cartridge.

[0127] The cartridge housing may have a width of greater than or equal to 5 millimetres, preferably greater than or equal to 6 millimetres, or most preferably greater than or equal to 7 millimetres.

[0128] The cartridge housing may have a width of less than or equal to 20 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 15 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 12 millimetres. For example, the cartridge housing may have a width of between 5 millimetres and 20 millimetres, preferably between 5 millimetres and 15 millimetres, or most preferably between 7 millimetres and 12 millimetres. The width of the cartridge housing may be perpendicular to the length of the cartridge housing.

[0129] The cartridge housing may have a thickness of greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, preferably greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, or most preferably greater than or equal to 4 millimetres.

[0130] The cartridge housing may have a thickness of less than or equal to 15 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 10 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 8 millimetres.

[0131] For example, the cartridge housing may have a thickness of between 2 millimetres and 15 millimetres, preferably between 3 millimetres and 10 millimetres, or most preferably between 4 millimetres and 8 millimetres.

[0132] The peripheral wall of the cartridge housing may have a thickness of greater than or equal to 1 millimetre, preferably greater than or equal to 2 millimetre, or most preferably greater than or equal to 3 millimetre.

[0133] The peripheral wall of the cartridge housing may have a thickness of less than or equal to 7 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 5 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 4 millimetres.

[0134] For example, the peripheral wall of the cartridge housing may have a thickness of between 1 millimetre and 7 millimetres, preferably between 1 millimetre and 5 millimetres, or most preferably between 1 millimetre and 4 millimetres.

[0135] The proximal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, preferably greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, or most preferably greater than or equal to 4 millimetres.

[0136] The proximal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of less than or equal to 15 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 10 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 8 millimetres.

[0137] For example, the proximal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of between 2 millimetres and 15 millimetres, preferably between 3 millimetres and 10 millimetres, or most preferably between 4 millimetres and 8 millimetres.

[0138] The distal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of greater than or equal to 2 millimetres, preferably greater than or equal to 3 millimetres, or most preferably greater than or equal to 4 millimetres.

[0139] The distal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of less than or equal to 10 millimetres, preferably less than or equal to 8 millimetres, or most preferably less than or equal to 6 millimetres. For example, the distal end plug may have a length along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge of between 2 millimetres and 10 millimetres, preferably between 3 millimetres and 8 millimetres, or most preferably between 4 millimetres and 6 millimetres.

[0140] The length of the proximal end plug along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge is preferably greater than the length of the distal end plug along a longitudinal axis of the cartridge.

[0141] The aerosol-generating substrate may be a liquid aerosol-generating substrate.

[0142] Preferably, the aerosol-generating substrate is a solid aerosol-generating substrate.

[0143] The aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of one or more sheets of a solid aerosol-generating substrate. Preferably, the one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate comprise at least one aerosol former and at least one of nicotine and tobacco.

[0144] The one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may be provided on a suitable carrier element. For example, the one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may be deposited onto at least one surface a sheet of an inert carrier material, such as paper or cardboard. This may provide improved rigidity to the one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate, which may facilitate the process of filling the cartridge with the one or more sheets during production.

[0145] The one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of one or more gathered sheets.

[0146] Alternatively or in addition, the one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of one or more crimped sheets, preferably, one or more gathered crimped sheets.

[0147] The one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may comprise one or more sheets of homogenised plant material, preferably homogenised tobacco material. The aerosol former content of the homogenised tobacco material is preferably within the ranges defined above for aerosol-generating substrate having a relatively low aerosol former content.

[0148] Alternatively or in addition, the one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may comprise one or more sheets comprising an aerosol-generating film, comprising a cellulosic based film forming agent, nicotine and the aerosol former. The aerosol-generating film may further comprise a cellulose based strengthening agent. The aerosol-generating film may further comprise water, preferably 30 percent by weight of less of water.

[0149] The aerosol former content of the aerosol-generating film is within the ranges defined above for aerosol-generating substrates having a relatively high aerosol former content.

[0150] In the context of the present invention the term “cellulose based film-forming agent” is used to describe a cellulosic polymer capable, by itself or in the presence of an auxiliary thickening agent, of forming a continuous film. Preferably, the cellulose based film-forming agent is selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), methylcellulose (MC), ethylcellulose (EC), hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), and combinations thereof. In particularly preferred embodiments, the cellulose based film-forming agent is HPMC.

[0151] Suitable aerosol-generating films for use as the aerosol-generating substrate are described in WO-A-2020 / 207733 and WO-A-2022 / 074157.

[0152] Alternatively or in addition, the one or more sheets of solid aerosol-generating substrate may comprise one or more sheets comprising a gel composition that includes nicotine, at least one gelling agent and the aerosol former. The gel composition is preferably tobacco free.

[0153] Suitable gel compositions for use as the aerosol-generating substrate are described in WO-A-2021 / 170642.

[0154] In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of a shredded aerosol-generating substrate. Preferably, the shredded aerosol-generating substrate comprises at least one aerosol former and at least one of tobacco and nicotine.

[0155] The shredded aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of shredded tobacco material, such as cut filler. Alternatively, the shredded aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of a shredded sheet of homogenised plant material, such as a homogenised tobacco material. Alternatively, the shredded aerosol-generating substrate may be in the form of a shredded nontobacco material, as described in more detail below.

[0156] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating article” refers to an article that is capable of producing and delivering an inhalable aerosol to a consumer.

[0157] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating substrate” refers to a substrate capable of forming an inhalable aerosol. The aerosol-generating substrate may be capable of releasing volatile compounds to form the inhalable aerosol. Such volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0158] As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating device” refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating substrate. An aerosol-generating device may be a heated aerosol-generating device. An aerosol-generating device may be an electrically heated aerosol-generating device. For example, the aerosolgenerating device may comprise one or more components used to supply energy from a power supply to an aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol. An aerosol-generating device may be a smoking device that interacts with an aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol that is directly inhalable into a user's lungs through the user's mouth.

[0159] As used herein, the term “major” refers to the outer faces of the device body or mouthpiece which have a greater surface area than that of any of the other outer faces of the device body or mouthpiece, respectively. As used herein, the term “minor” refers to the outer faces of the device body or mouthpiece that have a surface area less than that of the major outer faces of the device body or mouthpiece, respectively. Where the device body or mouthpiece has the same height throughout its cross section, the major outer surfaces are those having a greater width than that of any of the other outer surfaces of the device body or mouthpiece, respectively. As used herein, the term “susceptor” refers to a material that is capable of being heated when penetrated by a varying magnetic field.

[0160] As used herein, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” describe the relative positions of elements, or portions of elements, of the cartridges, aerosol-generating devices or aerosolgenerating systems in relation to the direction in which the aerosol is transported through the cartridges, aerosol-generating devices and aerosol-generating systems during use.

[0161] As used herein, the term “shredded” describes an aerosol-generating substrate that is in the form of a plurality of shreds or strips. In general, the shredded aerosol-generating substrate is formed by the cutting or shredding of a larger portion of the aerosol-generating substrate, such as a sheet, leaf or other piece of plant material. The individual strips or strands are typically elongate in form, with a length that is greater than the width and thickness.

[0162] As used herein, the term “cut filler” is used to describe to a blend of shredded plant material, such as tobacco plant material, including, in particular, one or more of leaf lamina, processed stems and ribs, homogenised plant material.

[0163] As used herein, the term “solid” refers to an aerosol-generating substrate that is not a liquid or a gas and which does not flow such that it retains its shape and form at room temperature. In the context of the present invention, the term “solid” encompasses gel materials and compositions.

[0164] As used herein, the term “sheet” describes a laminar element having a width and length substantially greater than the thickness thereof.

[0165] As used herein, the term “gathered” denotes that a sheet is convoluted, folded, or otherwise compressed or constricted substantially transversely to a defined axis.

[0166] As used herein, the term “crimped” denotes a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations.

[0167] As used herein, the term “film” is used to describe a solid laminar element having a thickness that is less than the width or length thereof. The film may be self-supporting.

[0168] 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.

[0169] Example 1. An aerosol-generating device having an x-axis defining a width direction, a y-axis defining a thickness direction and a z-axis defining a height direction, the aerosol-generating device comprising: a device body defining a first major outer face of the aerosol-generating device and a second major outer face of the aerosol-generating device, the second major outer face being located opposite the first major outer face and spaced from the first major outer face in the thickness direction; wherein each of the first major outer face and the second major outer face has a convex curvature in any x / y plane of at least a portion of the height of the device body, the at least a portion of the height of the device body having a height of at least 75 percent of the height of the device body; and wherein the device body has a device body maximum thickness and a device body maximum width, a ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width being between 0.20 and 0.80.

[0170] Example 2. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 1 , wherein the at least a portion of the height of the device body has a height of at least 90 percent of the height of the device body.

[0171] Example 3. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the at least a portion of the height of the device body has a height of 100 percent of the height of the device body.

[0172] Example 4. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the device body has a first side and a second side spaced from the first side in the width direction and wherein the thickness of each x / y plane continuously increases in the width direction from the first side to the location of the respective x / y plane maximum thickness and wherein the thickness of each x / y plane continuously increases in the width direction from the second side to the location of the respective x / y plane maximum thickness.

[0173] Example 5. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein each of the first major outer face and the second major outer face have a convex curvature in any y / z plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body.

[0174] Example 6. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 5, wherein the thickness of each y / z plane continuously increases in the height direction from a proximal end of device body to the location of the respective y / z plane maximum thickness and wherein the thickness of each y / z plane continuously increases in the height direction from the distal end of the device body to the location of the respective y / z plane maximum thickness.

[0175] Example 7. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 6, wherein the device body further defines a first minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device and a second minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device, the second minor outer face being located opposite the first minor outer face and spaced from the first minor outer face in the width direction.

[0176] Example 8. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 7, wherein the first major outer face, the second major outer face, the first minor outer face and the second minor outer face define the entire circumference of the device body.

[0177] Example 9. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 7 or 8, wherein each of the first minor outer face and the second minor outer face have a convex curvature in any x / y plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body. Example 10. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 7 to 9, wherein the device body has an oval or elliptic cross-section in any x / y plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body.

[0178] Example 11. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 7 to 10, wherein each of the first minor outer face and the second minor outer face have a convex curvature in any x / z plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body.

[0179] Example 12. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 11 , wherein the device body comprises a main portion and a lid portion, the lid portion being moveable relative to the main portion between a closed position and an open position.

[0180] Example 13. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 12, wherein the main portion and the lid portion collectively define the entire first major outer face of the aerosol-generating device and the entire second major outer face of the aerosol-generating device.

[0181] Example 14. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 12 or 13, when dependent on Example 7, wherein the main portion and the lid portion collectively define the entire first minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device and the entire second minor outer face of the aerosolgenerating device.

[0182] Example 15. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 12 to 14, wherein the lid portion has an exterior shape that is shaped to conform or correspond to an exterior shape of the main portion.

[0183] Example 16. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 12 to 15, wherein a ratio between a height of the lid portion and a height of the main portion is between 0.10 and 0.40.

[0184] Example 17. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 16, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a mouthpiece.

[0185] Example 18. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 17, wherein the mouthpiece is a detachable mouthpiece that is releasably couplable to the device body.

[0186] Example 19. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 17 or 18, wherein the mouthpiece is located at the proximal end of the device body.

[0187] Example 20. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 17 to 19, wherein the mouthpiece comprises a first major outer face and a second major outer face, the second major outer face of the mouthpiece being located opposite the first major outer face of the mouthpiece and spaced from the first major outer face of the mouthpiece in the thickness direction, wherein each of the first major outer face of the mouthpiece and the second major outer face of the mouthpiece have a concave curvature in any y / z plane of at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece.

[0188] Example 21. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 20, wherein each of the first major outer face of the mouthpiece and the second major outer face of the mouthpiece have a concave curvature in any x / y plane of at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece. Example 22. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 20 or 21 , wherein the at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece has a height of at least 25 percent of the height of the mouthpiece.

[0189] Example 23. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 17 to 22, wherein the mouthpiece has a constriction portion located between a distal end and a proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece.

[0190] Example 24. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 23, wherein the constriction portion is located towards the proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece.

[0191] Example 25. An aerosol-generating device according to Example 23 or 24 wherein the constriction portion has a thickness less than the thickness of the distal end of the mouth piece, and a thickness less than the proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece.

[0192] Example 26. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 23 to 25, wherein the constriction portion has a width less than the width of the distal end of the mouthpiece, and a width less than the width of the proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece.

[0193] Example 27. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Example 23 to 26, wherein the constriction portion defines one or both of the minimum thickness of the mouthpiece and the minimum width of the mouthpiece.

[0194] Examples will now be further described with reference to the figures in which:

[0195] Figure 1 shows a front view of an aerosol-generating device;

[0196] Figure 2 shows a front view of the aerosol-generating device of Figure 1 with the lid portion in the open position;

[0197] Figure 3 shows a side view of the aerosol-generating device of Figure 1 ;

[0198] Figure 4 shows a top view of the aerosol-generating device of Figure 1 ; and

[0199] Figure 5 shows a bottom view of the aerosol-generating device of Figure 1 .

[0200] Figures 1 to 5 show various views of an aerosol-generating device 100 according to the present disclosure. The aerosol-generating device 100 has an x-axis defining a width direction, a y-axis defining a thickness direction and a z-axis defining a height direction.

[0201] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises a device body 110, made from polyetheretherketone (PEEK), that extends in the height direction between a proximal end 112 of the device body 110 and a distal end 114 of the device body 110. The device body 110 comprises a main portion 116 located towards the distal end 114 of the device body 110 and a lid portion 118 located towards the proximal end 112 of the device body 110. The lid portion 118 has an exterior shape that is shaped to conform or correspond to an exterior shape of the main portion 116.

[0202] The device body 110 defines a first major outer face 102 of the aerosol-generating device 100 and a second major outer face 104 of the aerosol-generating device 100. The second major outer face 104 is located opposite the first major outer face 104 and is spaced from the first major outer face 102 in the thickness direction. The device body 110 also defines a first minor outer face 106 of the aerosol-generating device 100 and a second minor outer face 108 of the aerosolgenerating device 100. The second minor outer face 108 is located opposite the first minor outer face 106 and is spaced from the first minor outer face 106 in the width direction. The first minor outer face 106 extends from the first major outer face 102 to the second major outer face 104 in the x / y plane, and the second minor outer face 108 extends from the first major outer face 102 to the second major outer face 104 in the x / y plane.

[0203] The device body 110 houses several internal components of the aerosol-generating device 100, including: a power supply (in the form of a battery), a resistive heater electrically connected to the power supply, and a controller for controlling the supply of power from the power supply to the resistive heater. The device body 110 comprises a plurality of user-actuatable buttons 132 on the first minor outer face 106 for interacting with the aerosol-generating device 100, such as activating a heating mode of the aerosol-generating device 100. The device body 110 also comprises a LED display 134 on the first major outer face 102 for display information related to the operating of the aerosol-generating device 100, such as an operating mode of the aerosolgenerating device 100. The device body 110 comprises a flat base at the distal end 114 defining an air inlet 140 and a power input 150 for recharging the power supply.

[0204] The lid portion 118 is movable relative to the main portion 116 between a closed position (as seen in Figure 1) and an open position (as seen in Figure 2). The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises a hinge connected to the main portion 116 and the lid portion 118 that enables the lid portion 188 to pivot about the y-axis with the pivot point being located at, or towards, the first minor outer face 106. The aerosol-generating device 100 also includes a mechanical latching member arranged to engage with an inner surface of the lid portion 118 to releasably retain the lid portion 118 in the closed position.

[0205] The device body 110 comprises cartridge receptacle 160 which is exposed when the lid portion 118 is in the open position and which is not exposed when the lid portion 118 is in the closed position. The cartridge receptacle 160 is configured to receive a cartridge comprising an aerosol-generating substrate (not shown). In more detail, the cartridge receptacle 160 defines a device cavity having an opening at a proximal end 162 of the cartridge receptacle 160 for insertion and removal of a cartridge into the device cavity. The resistive heater is located adjacent to the cavity such that the resistive heater heats the aerosol-generating substrate within the cartridge when power is supplied from the power supply to the resistive heater.

[0206] The aerosol-generating device 100 comprises a mouthpiece 170 made from polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The mouthpiece 170 has a distal end 172 configured to attach to the proximal end 112 of the device body 110 and a proximal end 174 defining an opening that forms an air outlet of the aerosol-generating device 100. When the lid portion 118 is in the closed position, the distal end 172 of the mouthpiece 170 engages with the proximal end 162 of the cartridge receptacle 160. An airflow path is thereby formed between the air inlet 140 defined in the base of the device body 110 and the air outlet defined by the mouthpiece 170. The airflow path extends through the device cavity, the received cartridge, and the mouthpiece 170.

[0207] Each of the first major outer face 102, the second major outer face 104, the first minor outer face 106 and the second minor outer face 104 have a convex curvature in any x / y plane of the aerosol-generating device 100. Additionally, the device body 110 has a width that is greater than its thickness. In more detail, the device body 110 has a width of about 40 millimetres, a thickness of about 18 millimetres and a height of about 75 millimetres. Thus, the device body 110 has a generally oval cross-section in any x / y plane. In use, a user may hold the aerosol-generating device 100 such that the proximal end 112 of the device body 110 is facing upwards, the distal end 114 of the device body 110 is facing downwards, and the second major outer face 104 of the aerosol-generating device 100 is facing the user’s palm. The convex curvature of the second major outer face 104 may, thus, conform to the concave curvature of the user’s palm as they grip the device body 110. Moreover, the user’s thumb may extend around the first minor outer face 106 of the aerosol-generating device 100 and the user’s four non-thumb fingers may extend around the second minor outer face 108 of the aerosol-generating device 100. Again, the convex curvature of the first minor outer face 106 and the second minor outer face 108 may conform to the concave curvature formed by the thumb and four non-thumb fingers. Furthermore, due the convex curvature of the first major outer face 106, a user may easily switch hands such that the first major outer face 106 is facing the palm of the user’s other hand. This leads to a particularly ergonomic aerosolgenerating device 100.

[0208] As can be seen in Figure 3, each of the first major outer face 102 and the second major outer face 104 have a convex curvature in the y / z plane of the device body 110. Thus, the thickness of the device body 110 in the y / z plane continuously increases in the height direction from the proximal end 112 of device body to the location of the y / z plane maximum thickness. Similarly, the thickness of the device body 110 in the y / z plane continuously increases in the height direction from the distal end 114 of the device body 110 to the location of the y / z plane maximum thickness.

[0209] As can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, each of the first minor outer face 106 and the second minor outer face 108 have a convex curvature in the x / z plane of the device body 110. Thus, the width of the device body in the x / z plane continuously increases in the height direction from the proximal end 112 of device body 114 to the location of the x / z plane maximum width. Similarly, the width of the device body 110 in the x / z plane continuously increases in the height direction from the distal end 114 of the device body 110 to the location of the x / z plane maximum width.

[0210] The mouthpiece 170 also has curved surfaces.

[0211] The mouthpiece 170 comprises a first major outer face 176 and a second major outer face 177. The second major outer face 177 of the mouthpiece 170 is located opposite the first major outer face 176 of the mouthpiece 170. The second major outer face 177 of the mouthpiece 170 is spaced from the first major outer face 176 of the mouthpiece 170 in the thickness direction. The mouthpiece 170 also comprises a first minor outer face 178 and a second minor outer face 179. The second minor outer face 179 of the mouthpiece 170 is located opposite the first minor outer face 178 of the mouthpiece 170. The second minor outer face 179 of the mouthpiece 170 is spaced from the first minor outer face 178 of the mouthpiece 170 in the width direction.

[0212] As seen in Figure 1 , each of the first minor outer face 178 of the mouthpiece 170 and the second minor outer face 179 of the mouthpiece 170 have a concave curvature in the x / z plane of the mouthpiece 170. As seen in Figure 3, each of the first major outer face 176 of the mouthpiece 170 and the second major outer face 177 of the mouthpiece 170 have a concave curvature in the y / z plane of the mouthpiece 170. Additionally, as seen in Figure 4, each of the first major outer face 176 of the mouthpiece 170, the second major outer face 177 of the mouthpiece 170, the first minor outer face 178 of the mouthpiece 170 and the second minor outer face 179 of the mouthpiece 179 have a convex curvature in the x / y plane of the mouthpiece 170.

[0213] In more detail, the mouthpiece 170 has a constriction portion located between the distal end 172 and the proximal end 174. The constriction portion has a thickness less than the thickness of the distal end 172 of the mouthpiece 170, and a thickness less than the proximal end 174 of the mouthpiece 170. The constriction portion also has a width less than the width of the distal end 172 of the mouthpiece 170, and a width less than the proximal end 174 of the mouth 170. The mouthpiece has a height of about 20 millimetres.

[0214] For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. In this context, therefore, a number A is understood as A ± 5% of A.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An aerosol-generating device having an x-axis defining a width direction, a y-axis defining a thickness direction and a z-axis defining a height direction, the aerosol-generating device comprising: a device body defining a first major outer face of the aerosol-generating device and a second major outer face of the aerosol-generating device, the second major outer face being located opposite the first major outer face and spaced from the first major outer face in the thickness direction; wherein each of the first major outer face and the second major outer face has a convex curvature in any x / y plane of at least a portion of the height of the device body, the at least a portion of the height of the device body having a height of at least 75 percent of the height of the device body; and wherein the device body has a device body maximum thickness and a device body maximum width, a ratio between the device body maximum thickness and the device body maximum width being between 0.20 and 0.80.

2. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the at least a portion of the height of the device body has a height of at least 90 percent of the height of the device body.

3. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the first major outer face and the second major outer face have a convex curvature in any y / z plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body.

4. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the device body further defines a first minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device and a second minor outer face of the aerosol-generating device, the second minor outer face being located opposite the first minor outer face and spaced from the first minor outer face in the width direction.

5. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 4, wherein the first major outer face, the second major outer face, the first minor outer face and the second minor outer face define the entire circumference of the device body.

6. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein each of the first minor outer face and the second minor outer face have a convex curvature in any x / y plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body.- 25 -7. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the device body has an oval or elliptic cross-section in any x / y plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body.

8. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein each of the first minor outer face and the second minor outer face have a convex curvature in any x / z plane of the at least a portion of the height of the device body.

9. An aerosol-generating device according to any one claims 1 to 8, wherein the device body comprises a main portion and a lid portion, the lid portion being moveable relative to the main portion between a closed position and an open position.

10. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 9, wherein the main portion and the lid portion collectively define the entire first major outer face of the aerosol-generating device and the entire second major outer face of the aerosol-generating device.

11. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 9 or 10, wherein a ratio between a height of the lid portion and a height of the main portion is between 0.10 and 0.40.

12. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the aerosolgenerating device comprises a mouthpiece, wherein the mouthpiece comprises a first major outer face and a second major outer face, the second major outer face of the mouthpiece being located opposite the first major outer face of the mouthpiece and spaced from the first major outer face of the mouthpiece in the thickness direction, wherein each of the first major outer face of the mouthpiece and the second major outer face of the mouthpiece have a concave curvature in any y / z plane of at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece.

13. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 12, wherein each of the first major outer face of the mouthpiece and the second major outer face of the mouthpiece have a concave curvature in any x / y plane of at least a portion of the height of the mouthpiece.

14. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the mouthpiece has a constriction portion located between a distal end and a proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece, wherein the constriction portion is located towards the proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece.

15. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 14, wherein the constriction portion has a thickness less than the thickness of the distal end of the mouth piece, and a thickness less than the proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece, and wherein the constriction portion has a width lessthan the width of the distal end of the mouthpiece, and a width less than the width of the proximal or mouth end of the mouthpiece.

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