An aerosol generating system

Abstract

An aerosol generating system (1) is described. The aerosol generating system includes: a device housing (50), wherein the device housing (50) is elongate along a housing longitudinal axis; an airflow path between an airflow inlet (6) and an airflow outlet; and an airflow lock (60) located along the airflow path. The airflow lock includes a lock chassis (65) through which an airflow lock aperture (66) is formed. The airflow lock aperture (66) has an upstream opening (66a) and a downstream opening (66b). The airflow lock includes a button (70) movably connected to the chassis (65). The button (70) is movable to selectively open the airflow path in an unlocked configuration by uncovering the upstream airflow opening (66a) and to close the airflow path in a locked configuration by sealing the upstream opening (66b). A secure method of locking and unlocking the system is thereby provided.

Description

[0001] P01807

[0002] 1

[0003] AN AEROSOL GENERATING SYSTEM

[0004] This application claims priority from EP25166402.5 filed 26 March 2025, the contents and elements of which are herein incorporated by reference for all purposes.

[0005] FIELD

[0006] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating system including an airflow lock.

[0007] BACKGROUND

[0008] An electronic vapour product (EVP), also known as a vaping apparatus or a vape, is a type of aerosolgenerating system in which an aerosol precursor (e.g. a liquid or gel) is aerosolised by an aerosolgenerating unit, such as a heating element or ultrasonic element.

[0009] A heat-not-burn (HNB) device, also known as a heated tobacco device, is a type of aerosol-generating system in which an aerosol precursor (e.g., a solid precursor such as tobacco) is heated by a heating system to produce an aerosol that can be inhaled by the user.

[0010] Examples of both categories of aerosol generating system have an airflow path through the system. One way to prevent use of the system is to block the airflow path. Mechanisms for blocking and unblocking the airflow path should be secure, and inadvertent changes of state of the blocking / unblocking mechanism should be avoided.

[0011] It is against this background that the present invention has been developed.

[0012] SUMMARY

[0013] The present disclosure provides according to a first aspect, an aerosol generating system including: a device housing, wherein the device housing is elongate along a housing longitudinal axis; an airflow path between an airflow inlet and an airflow outlet.

[0014] Optionally the system includes an airflow lock located along the airflow path. Optionally the airflow lock includes: a lock chassis through which an airflow lock aperture is formed. Optionally the airflow lock aperture has an upstream opening and a downstream opening.

[0015] Optionally the airflow lock is located between the airflow inlet and the airflow outlet. Optionally the outlet is in a mouthpiece of the system. In some embodiments the outlet / mouthpiece is permanently connected to a device body (for example in a “disposable” type EVP system). In other embodiments the outlet is formed in an aerosol generating unit, for example a consumable or pod. The aerosol generating unit is engageable with the device body by a user. The aerosol generating unit may be replaceable.

[0016] Optionally the system includes a button movably connected to the chassis. Optionally the button is movable to selectively open the airflow path in an unlocked configuration by uncovering the upstream airflow opening and to close the airflow path in a locked configuration by sealing the upstream opening.

[0017] 008915845P01807

[0018] 2

[0019] As such, by using the button, the user is able to control whether airflow can pass through the airflow path. As such, the user can control, with the airflow lock, whether the system is operable to deliver aerosol or not. In some examples, the button is a mechanical button.

[0020] Optionally the button is configured to move rotationally back and forth between open and closed configurations.

[0021] By sealing the upstream opening of the airflow lock aperture, any attempt to puff on the system in the locked configuration acts to pull the sealing unit into tighter engagement with the upstream airflow aperture. Sealing the upstream aperture therefore leads to a reliably locked airflow lock.

[0022] Optionally the button is rotationally connected to the housing to be rotatable about the housing longitudinal axis. As such, system unlocking / locking is made more secure. In the pocket of a user for example, a rotation is less likely to occur inadvertently.

[0023] Optionally, the button in the unlocked state is flush with the surrounding chassis. Optionally the button is recessed relative to the surrounding chassis in the unlocked state. Either option mitigates the risk of inadvertent button movement.

[0024] Optionally the button is rotationally fastened when the airflow lock is in the locked configuration. Optionally the button is rotationally fastened when the airflow lock is in the locked configuration via friction with the chassis. As such, inadvertent unlocking of the airflow lock can be mitigated, since the user must take some action to move out of the rotationally fastened state. This action is unlikely to be taken inadvertently. Optionally the button is released from rotational fastening by overcoming friction between the button and the chassis.

[0025] Optionally the button is movably connected to the chassis via a threaded connection. As such, rotation can draw the button towards the chassis and into sealing engagement with the upstream opening of the airflow lock aperture.

[0026] Optionally the button includes a button thread for threaded connection to the chassis (68). Optionally the button thread is located on a button pillar.

[0027] Optionally the chassis includes a chassis thread for threaded engagement with the button thread. Optionally the chassis includes a chassis collar, wherein the chassis thread is formed on the chassis collar.

[0028] Optionally the chassis includes a wall through which the airflow lock aperture is formed, wherein the chassis collar upstands from the wall towards an upstream direction.

[0029] Optionally the airflow lock includes a resilient blocking unit, wherein the blocking unit seals the upstream airflow opening in the locked configuration. As such, the blocking unit can effectively seal the upstream opening when brought into contact with the upstream opening.

[0030] 008915845P01807

[0031] 3

[0032] Optionally the blocking unit (68) seals the upstream airflow opening (66a) with a blocking surface (68a) of the blocking unit, wherein optionally the blocking surface is flat. As such there is no preferred rotational position between upstream airflow opening and blocking unit. As such, any inadvertent misalignment between button and blocking unit is inconsequential. Manufacture is also simplified since no particular rotational alignment of button and blocking unit is required.

[0033] Optionally the resilient blocking unit is formed of an elastomeric material. For example, the blocking unit may be formed of silicone.

[0034] Optionally the blocking unit has a toroidal structure. Optionally the blocking surface is rotationally symmetric housing longitudinal axis. Optionally the blocking unit is rotationally symmetric housing longitudinal axis.

[0035] Optionally the blocking surface includes a mount opening, wherein the button is connected to the chassis via the mount opening. Optionally the blocking unit includes a mount opening, wherein the button is connected to the chassis via the mount opening. As such, the blocking unit can be reliably located and held within the airflow lock.

[0036] Optionally the chassis includes a pair of rotational stops, wherein the rotational stops limit the rotational travel of the button between the rotational stops. Optionally the button has a limited range of rotational travel. Optionally, for a majority of the rotational travel, the airflow lock is in the unlocked configuration. Optionally, for a minority of the rotational travel, the airflow lock is in the locked configuration.

[0037] Optionally the chassis includes defines a button surface for user activation of the button, wherein, in the unlocked configuration, the button surface is flush with the button wall. Optionally the button surface includes tactile features to aid user engagement with the button surface.

[0038] Optionally the aerosol-generating system is an electronic vapour product (EVP) configured to produce an aerosol from a liquid or gel aerosol-forming material.

[0039] Optionally the system includes an inhalation sensor located to detect airflow along the airflow path. Optionally the inhalation sensor is located between the airflow lock and the airflow outlet. In some examples the inhalation sensor is a pressure sensor. In some examples, the inhalation sensor is configured to detect a reduction in air pressure within the airflow channel caused by a user inhaling on the device. When in the locked configuration, the inhalation sensor is prevented from activating. In some embodiments, aerosol is generated (for example by activating an aerosol generator) in response to detecting an inhalation.

[0040] Optionally the aerosol-generating system is aerosol-generating system in which an aerosol precursor (e.g., a solid precursor such as tobacco) is heated by a heating system to produce an aerosol that can be inhaled by the user.

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[0043] The heating system may be arranged as an outside-in heater arrangement in which a heating element is arranged in or on a side wall of the cavity of the aerosol-generating system into which the consumable in inserted. In this way, the heating element heats an outer surface of the consumable when inserted into the cavity.

[0044] The heating system may be arranged as an inside-out heater arrangement in which a heating element is positioned in the consumable. In this way, the heat from the heating element radiates out radially from within the consumable.

[0045] The heating element may be provided in several forms. The heating element may comprise a cylindrical or rod-shaped heating element configured for insertion into an end of the consumable. The heating element may comprise a blade-shaped heating element defining a generally planar heating element configured for insertion into an end of the consumable. The heating element may comprise a helically wound heating element (coil heating element), a mesh heater element comprising a plurality of interconnected cells that together define a heating area, e.g. formed by a perforated sheet or network of interleaved wires, or a heater track in the form of a conductive channel formed on a substrate. The heating element may comprise a susceptor formed of a material configured to absorb electromagnetic energy and convert it into heat. The heating element may comprise an annulus (e.g. tube) into which the consumable is insertable.

[0046] It will be appreciated that many of these terms overlap. For example, a rod heater element may comprise heater tracks or a coil that generate the heat radiated by the rod heater element, or a tube heater may be heated by a heater track formed thereon.

[0047] The heating element may have a length that is less than, or substantially the same as, an axial length of an aerosol-forming material, such that the heating element may only extend across and / or penetrate the aerosol-forming material, rather than other components of the consumable. The heating element may be between 8 mm and 40 mm long, preferably between 10 mm and 18mm, and more preferably between 12 mm and 16mm.

[0048] The heating system may generate heat via one or more of several modes. Heat may be generated by resistive heating in which a current is passed through the resistive material of the heating element (e.g. the material of a wire, coil, mesh or track). Heat may be generated by microwave heating in which microwaves are directed towards a material to be heated. Heat may be generated by inductive heating in which an electromagnetic field is generated by an inductor. The electromagnetic field generates electrical currents in a conductive material (susceptor) that induce eddy currents to heat up the conductive material. The susceptor may be positioned about the consumable (an outside-in heating arrangement) or positioned in the consumable (an inside-out heating arrangement). Heat may be generated by infrared heating in which infrared radiated in directed towards a material to be heated.

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[0050] 5

[0051] A resistive heating element may be formed from a variety of suitable materials that include, but not limited to metals, metal alloys, ceramics, ceramic metals, carbon-based materials, and composites thereof.

[0052] Examples of suitable metals and metal alloys include: silver, copper, nickel, titanium, tungsten, zirconium, tantalum, platinium group metals, stainless steel, nickel-, cobalt-, chromium-, aluminiumtitanium- zirconium-, hafnium-, niobium-, molybdenum-, tantalum-, tungsten-, tin-, gallium-, manganese- and iron-containing alloys, and super-alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, and iron-manganese-aluminium based alloys.

[0053] The resistive heating element may comprise one or more electrically conductive tracks formed of the abovementioned metal and metal alloys.

[0054] Examples of suitable ceramics include silicon carbide, molybdenum disilicide, aluminium oxide, silicon nitride, titanium carbide. The ceramic may be doped or undoped.

[0055] In some embodiments, the heating element may be formed on or comprise an electrically insulating substrate. The electrically insulating substrate may be a ceramic (e.g. aluminum oxide or zirconia), polymer (e.g. polyimide), fibrous material (e.g. paper or cardboard), or other like material suitable for providing electrical insulation and mechanical support to the heating element.

[0056] The electrically insulating substrate may have a thermal conductivity of less than 40 W / mK, a thermal conductivity of less than 30 W / mK a thermal conductivity of less than 20 W / mK a thermal conductivity of less than 10 W / mK.

[0057] The heating system may comprise a susceptor configured to generate heat in the presence of an electromagnetic field. The susceptor may be formed in the shape of a rod, sheet, band, or like shape. Suitable materials include metals, ceramics, and carbon-based materials such as graphite. The metal may be a ferromagnetic metal, such as iron, stainless steel, nickel, or cobalt. The metal may be a nonferromagnetic metal, such as aluminium, copper or gold. Suitable ceramic materials include zirconia, aluminium oxide, and silicon carbide. The susceptor may be formed of at least 50% ferro- or paramagnetic material, or at least 70% ferro- or para- magnetic material.

[0058] The present disclosure provides according to a third aspect, an aerosol generating system including: a device housing, wherein the device housing is elongate along a housing longitudinal axis; and an airflow path between an airflow inlet and an airflow outlet.

[0059] Optionally an airflow lock is located along the airflow path. Optionally the airflow lock is located between the airflow inlet and the airflow outlet. Optionally the outlet is in a mouthpiece of the system. In some embodiments the outlet / mouthpiece is permanently connected to a device body (for example in a “disposable” type EVP system). In other embodiments the outlet is formed in an aerosol generating unit, for example a consumable or pod. The aerosol generating unit is engageable with the device body by a user. The aerosol generating unit may be replaceable.

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[0062] Optionally the airflow lock includes a button to selectively open the airflow path in an unlocked configuration and close the airflow path in a locked configuration. In the locked configuration, the airflow lock substantially prevents airflow along the airflow path. In the unlocked configuration, the airflow lock substantially permits airflow along the airflow path. As such, by using the button, the user is able to control whether airflow can pass through the airflow path. As such, the user can control, with the airflow lock, whether the system is operable to deliver aerosol or not. In some embodiments, the button is a mechanical button.

[0063] Optional features outlined for the first aspect may incorporated into the second and third aspects. The preceding summary is provided for purposes of summarizing some examples to provide a basic understanding of aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, the above-described features should not be construed to narrow the scope of the subject matter described herein in any way. Moreover, the above and / or following examples may be combined in any suitable combination to provide further examples, except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following text and the accompanying figures.

[0064] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0065] Aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of examples in reference to the appended figures in which like numerals denote like elements.

[0066] Figure 1 shows an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment;

[0067] Figure 2 shows a cross section of an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment;

[0068] Figure 3 shows a cross section of an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment;

[0069] Figure 4 shows a cross section of a portion of an aerosol generating system according to an embodiment;

[0070] Figure 5 shows an airflow lock according to an embodiment;

[0071] Figure 6 shows an exploded view of an airflow lock according to an embodiment;

[0072] Figure 7 shows a portion of an airflow lock according to an embodiment;

[0073] Figure 8 shows cross section of an airflow lock according to an embodiment;

[0074] Figure 9 shows a portion of an airflow lock according to an embodiment, and;

[0075] Figures 10A, 10B and 10C show an airflow lock in three positions according to an embodiment.

[0076] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

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[0079] It is to be understood that the present disclosure, which includes the specification and claim(s), is not limited by specific construction details or process steps. Rather, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein can be embodied and practiced in various alternative ways without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0080] Unless defined otherwise, scientific and technical terms used herein have their meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art and that known techniques and procedures may be performed according to conventional methods.

[0081] In the present disclosure, the terms “a” and “an” may mean “one”, “one or more”, “at least one”, and “one or more than one” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Likewise, plural terms shall include the singular unless otherwise required by context.

[0082] In the present disclosure, the term “or” means an inclusive “and / or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or unless the alternatives are mutually exclusive.

[0083] In the present disclosure, the terms “comprising, “having,” “including,” or “containing” (and any forms thereof, such as “comprise” and “comprises,” “have” and “has,” “includes” and “include,” or “contains” and “contain,” respectively) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0084] Unless stated otherwise, the features of examples disclosed herein, and of the claims, may be integrated together in any suitable arrangement such that combinations of features are not limited by the described forms, particularly the form (e.g. numbering) of example(s), embodiment(s), or dependency of claim(s). This also applies to the phrase “in one example”, “according to an example” and the like, which are merely a stylistic form of wording not to be construed as limiting the features to a separate embodiment. This is to say, a reference to ‘an,’ ‘one,’ or ‘some’ examples(s) may be a reference to any one or more, and / or all examples, or combination(s) thereof, disclosed. Also, similarly, reference to “the” example may not be limited to the immediately preceding embodiment. Further, all references to one or more embodiments or examples are to be construed as non-limiting to the claims. The present disclosure may be better understood in view of the following explanations, wherein the terms used that are separated by “or” may be used interchangeably.

[0085] Figure 1 shows an example of an aerosol-generating system 1. In this example, the aerosolgenerating system 1 is an electronic vapour product (EVP) configured to produce an aerosol from an aerosol-forming material 10 (e.g. a liquid or gel precursor), although it will be appreciated that the invention may be similarly applicable to a heat-not-burn product (HNB) configured to produce an aerosol from heating an aerosol-forming material (e.g. a solid precursor such as tobacco) to a temperature below its combustion temperature.

[0086] The term “aerosol-forming material” refers to a substrate or formulation capable of releasing volatile components that can form an aerosol, e.g. by releasing volatile compounds in the aerosol-forming

[0087] 0089158458

[0088] material. An “aerosol” is a dispersion of solid particles and / or liquid droplets dispersed in a gas. The aerosol may be visible or invisible.

[0089] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the internal components of the aerosol-generating system 1. The aerosol-generating system 1 comprises an aerosol-generating unit 2 configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming material 10 held in a storage portion 3 of the aerosolgenerating system 1 (implemented here as a “tank”). In this example, the aerosol-generating unit 2 is a heating system including a heating element 2a although it will be appreciated that an aerosolgenerating unit comprising an ultrasonic element, atomiser or similar component may be provided. The aerosol-forming material 10 may be referred to as “e-liquid”. Typically, the aerosol-forming material 10 includes a base liquid and optionally nicotine and / or flavourings such that the resulting aerosol contains nicotine and / or flavourings.

[0090] The aerosol-generating system 1 includes a power source 4. In this example, the power source 4 includes a battery 4a configured to supply electrical energy to operate the aerosol-generating unit 2 and other components. The aerosol-generating system 1 may be powered, alternatively or in addition to the battery 4a, by an external power source. In an alternative example, the power source 4 may be omitted, e.g. an aerosol aerosol-generating unit implemented as an atomiser with flow expansion may not require a power supply.

[0091] The aerosol-generating system 1 includes an aerosol-delivery system 5 for delivery of the aerosol to a user. In this example, the aerosol-delivery system 5 comprises an air inlet 6, a mouthpiece 8, and an air passageway 7 extending therebetween via a region in proximity to the aerosol-generating unit 2. The aerosol-generating unit 2 includes a wick 2b having at least one end that extends into the storage portion 3 and is configured to draw aerosol-forming material 10 out from the storage portion 3. In this example, the heating element 2a is in the form of a heating filament wrapped around a portion of the wick 2b. In this manner, the heating element 2a can heat up the aerosol-forming material 10 drawn out of the storage portion 3 by the wick 2b to produce the aerosol, which is then drawn through the air passageway 7 to the mouthpiece 8. In other examples, the heating element 2a may be a mesh heater, ceramic heater, or other means of generating heat. The heating element 2a may be part of an induction heater having a susceptor configured to produce heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field.

[0092] The aerosol-generating system 1 may be a two-part construction comprising a device body 20 and an article 30 (alternatively referred to as a “pod” or “cartomizer”) configured to be releasably connected / disconnected by an end user. The device body 20 and article 30 are each configured to house respective components of the aerosol-generating system 1. In some examples, the aerosolgenerating system may be a of a single-part construction, in which components are not intended to be separated or replaced by the end user.

[0093] 0089158459

[0094] In some examples, the article 30 may be configured to be disposed of upon depletion of aerosolforming material 10 from the storage portion, in which case the article 30 may referred to as a “consumable”. Alternatively, the article 30 may be configured for reuse, such that it is configured to be refillable upon depletion of the aerosol-forming material 10 from the storage portion.

[0095] In this example, the device body 20 comprises the power source 4, and the article 30 comprises the aerosol-generating unit 2 and storage portion 3, although it will be appreciated that the device body 20 and article 30 may house any respective set of components. The device body 20 and article 30 are configured to physically interlock to secure the article 30 relative to the device body 20.

[0096] Upon connection, electrical connectors 40 of the device body 20 and article 30 may establish an electrical connection between the device body 20 and the article 30. In this way, electrical power can be supplied from the power source 4 to the aerosol-generating unit 2 (or other components of the article 30) without the article 30 needing to have its own power supply.

[0097] The device body 20 may include any one or more of electrical circuitry, a memory, a wireless interface, and one or more other components. The device body 20 may include a printed circuit board (PCB) 25 on which components of the electrical circuitry, memory, wireless interface, and other components may be mounted.

[0098] The aerosol-generating system 1 may comprise one or more input and / or output elements. In this example, the aerosol-generating system 1 includes an input element in the form of a pressure sensor 15 arranged to detect a “puff of the user, and particularly the resultant change in air pressure, i.e. a vacuum pressure generated by the user. Alternatively, or in addition, the aerosol-generating system 1 may include other means of detecting airflow, such as a flowmeter or microphone. The user can thereby activate the aerosol-generating unit 2 when inhaling through the mouthpiece 8. The aerosolgenerating unit 2 creates an aerosol which is carried by the flow through the air passageway 7 and out of the mouthpiece 8.

[0099] The input and / or output elements may form part of a user interface (Ul) of the aerosol-generating system 1. For instance, figure 2 shows an output element in the form of a light (e.g. an LED) 17. The light 17 is configured to convey information to the user regarding the state of the system 1. It will be appreciated that the input element(s) may be provided in various forms, such as touch screens, switches, and sensors, and the output element(s) may be provided in various forms, such as display screens, speakers, or a haptic output generated by a vibration generator.

[0100] Figure 3 shows an embodiment of an aerosol generating system 1 according to the present invention. The embodiment of system 1 shown in Fig 3 is a single part construction, for example a so-called “disposable” system. In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating system 1 may be a two-part construction comprising a device body 20 and an article 30 (alternatively referred to as a “pod” or “cartomizer”) configured to be releasably connected / disconnected by an end user. The device body

[0101] 00891584510

[0102] 20 and article 30 are each configured to house respective components of the aerosol-generating system 1.

[0103] The system 1 is generally elongate along a longitudinal axis (up the page, in Fig. 3). The system 1 includes an airflow inlet 6. In the embodiment of Fig 3, the airflow inlet 6 is located at lower end of the system 1. The system 1 includes a mouthpiece 8. In the embodiment of Fig. 3, the mouthpiece is located at an upper end of the system 1. The mouthpiece 8 and the airflow inlet 6 are located at opposite ends of the system 1. The mouthpiece 8 includes an outlet for aerosol for user inhalation. The system 1 includes an airflow path between airflow inlet 6 and the outlet in the mouthpiece 8. Along the airflow path, there is an aerosol-generating unit 2 (not visible in Fig. 3). The aerosolgenerating unit 2 creates vapour / aerosol, which is introduced to the airflow path. The action of user inhalation draws the vapour / aerosol to the outlet in the mouthpiece 8. In the embodiment of Fig.3, the aerosol-generating unit 2 is powered by a battery 4a.

[0104] The system includes a pressure sensor 15 located along the airflow path. The pressure sensor 15 is not shown in Fig. 3. The pressure sensor 15 is used to detect a reduced air pressure within the airflow path. The reduced air pressure is caused by user inhalation. The aerosol-generating unit 2 is controlled in response to the detection of an inhalation using the pressure sensor 15.

[0105] At the lower, inlet 6, end of the system 1 is an airflow lock 60. The airflow lock 60 is configured to open and to close the airflow path. When the airflow path is closed, a user inhalation is not possible because the airflow path is closed. As such, the pressure sensor 15 does not detect a reduced pressure, and consequently the aerosol generating unit 2 is not activated. This is the closed or locked configuration of the airflow lock 60. Conversely, when the airflow path is open, a user inhalation is possible because the path is open. As such, the pressure sensor 15 does detect a reduced pressure, and consequently the aerosol generating unit 2 can be activated in response. This is the open or unlocked configuration of the airflow lock 60. Opening and closing the airflow path using the airflow lock 60 provides a means to lock the device from being activated (in the form of allowing or preventing the activation of the aerosol generating unit 2). In other embodiments, the pressure sensor 15 may be omitted, and the locking of the system 1 is achieved by preventing airflow through the system 1 by the airflow lock 60.

[0106] In the embodiment, the system 1 includes a housing 50. The airflow lock 60 is connected to the housing 50 at the inlet 6 end of the system 1. The airflow lock 60 during manufacture is partially received in an otherwise open end of the housing 50. The airflow lock 60 is retained with a friction fit in the housing 50. Other means of attachment are possible. In some other embodiments, the airflow lock 60 and the housing 50 may be integrally formed.

[0107] Figure 4 shows the airflow lock 60. The airflow lock 60 includes a frame 60a and a cap 60b. The frame 60a directly engages with the housing 50 in the manner described above. The cap 60b is engaged with the frame 60a. The cap 60b is user-removable from the frame 60a. Removal of the cap

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[0110] 60b makes battery 4a removal possible, e.g. for recycling purposes. The cap 60b is connected to the frame 60a with a bayonet fitting. Other attachment mechanisms are possible. In other embodiments, the cap 60b may not be removable from the frame 60a. In some embodiments the frame 60a and the cap 60b may be a single unit.

[0111] Figure 5 shows the cap 60b in isolation. The cap 60b includes a chassis 65 and a button 70. The airflow inlet 6 is formed between the chassis 65 and the button 70. In the embodiments, the inlet 6 is generally ring shaped. The chassis 65 is, in use as an aerosol generating system, rigidly connected to the housing 50 via the frame 60a. The button 70 is mounted to the chassis 65. The button 70 is rotationally mounted to the chassis 65 via threaded engagement.

[0112] The button 70 is used to transition the airflow lock 60 between the open (unlocked) and closed (locked) configurations. The movement of the button 70 is performed by the user of the system 1. The button 70 includes tactile features 75 to aid user engagement with the button 70. In the embodiment of Fig. 5, the tactile features 75 are radial, raised spokes. The rotational position of the button 70 relative to the chassis 65 defines whether the airflow path is open or closed and thus whether the airflow lock 60 is in the open or closed configuration. The button 70 includes a lock symbol and an unlock symbol. The chassis 65 includes an arrow. Alignment of the lock / unlock symbol with the arrow permits the user to identify whether the system 1 is in the open (aerosol generating) configuration or the closed (non-aerosol generating) configuration.

[0113] Figure 6 shows the cap 60b of the airflow lock 60 in an exploded view. The chassis 65 includes a pair of airflow lock apertures 66. The airflow lock apertures 66 are formed through an end wall 67 of the chassis 65. The airflow lock 60 includes a blocking unit 68. The blocking unit 68 has a toroidal or ring shape. The blocking unit 68, when the airflow lock 60 in the open configuration, leaves the airflow lock apertures 66 uncovered thus permitting airflow through the airflow lock apertures 66. The blocking unit 68, when the airflow lock 60 is in the closed configuration, seals the airflow lock apertures 66 thus substantially preventing airflow through the airflow apertures 66. The blocking unit 68 is formed from a resilient material, for example silicone.

[0114] The chassis 65 includes central aperture 80. An internal wall of the central aperture 80 is threaded with chassis threads 82. The chassis 65 includes an upstanding collar 84. The upstanding collar 84 upstands from the end wall 67 of the chassis 65. The collar 84 upstands towards the button 68.

[0115] Figure 7 shows the button 70 and the blocking unit 68. The button 70 includes an upstanding pillar 90. The pillar 90 upstands from the button 70 along the longitudinal axis of the system 1. In particular, the pillar 90 extends from an upstream position to a downstream position. An external surface of the upstanding pillar 90 includes button threads 92. The button threads 92 engage with the chassis threads 82 to form the threaded engagement of the button 70 and the chassis 65. The pitch of the button threads 92 is 4 millimetres per one revolution. In other embodiments, the pitch may be different. The angle of the button threads is 100 degrees to the vertical. In other embodiments, the

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[0118] angle may be different. The button threads 92 are right-handed. Alternative threading interconnection architecture are possible between the button 70 and the chassis 65.

[0119] The toroidal blocking unit 68 is received over and around the pillar 90 through a mounting aperture through the blocking unit 68. The button 70 comprises a button cup 94. The button cup 94 partially receives the blocking unit 68. See also Figure 8. In a relaxed state, the blocking unit 68 protrudes out from the cup 94 by a protrusion distance. The protrusion distance is less than 1 millimetre.

[0120] A collar clearance 96 is formed between the pillar 90 and the blocking unit 68. The collar clearance 96 provides a space into which the collar 84 is received. For example, when the airflow lock is in the locked configuration.

[0121] The blocking unit 68 includes a blocking surface 68a. The blocking surface 68a is, during rotation of the button 70, brought into and out of contact with the end wall 67 to seal and unseal the upstream airflow opening 66a. The blocking surface 68a is flat, or planar. There are no protrusions or indentations in the blocking surface 68a. This helps the blocking surface 68a to slide across the end wall 67 as the blocking unit 68 is brought into / out of contact with the end wall 67. The blocking surface 68a of the blocking unit 68 is rotationally symmetric. As such, any relative movement between blocking unit 68a and button 68 does not affect the ability of the blocking unit 68 to seal the airflow lock apertures 66.

[0122] Figure 8 shows the cap 60b in cross section. The airflow lock apertures 66 are visible. Each airflow lock aperture 66 is formed by an airflow lock channel between an upstream airflow opening 66a and a downstream airflow opening 66b. The passage of airflow when a user draws on the system 1 is from the upstream airflow opening 66a to the downstream airflow opening 66b. The upstream airflow opening 66a is formed on / through end wall 67. The airflow lock channel passes through the end wall 67. The blocking unit 68 is located on an upstream side of the chassis 65. The blocking unit 68 is located on an upstream side of the end wall 67. The blocking unit 68 is located on an upstream side of the airflow lock apertures 66.

[0123] In Figure 8, the airflow lock is shown in the open / unlocked configuration. As such the blocking unit 68 is not engaged with end wall 67 and nor is the blocking unit 68 sealing the upstream airflow openings 66a. When the button 70 is turned to move to the locked configuration, the button 70 is drawn towards the chassis 65 (upwards in Figure 7) under the action of the threaded connection. The blocking unit 68 is pushed upwards in Figure 7 by the button 70. The blocking surface 68a of the blocking unit 68 is brought into contact with the end wall 67 and with the upstream airflow openings 66a. Thus, the upstream airflow openings 66a are sealed by the blocking unit 68, and the airflow lock is in the locked / closed configuration. The airflow lock is retained in the closed / locked configuration. The airflow lock is retained in the closed / locked configuration by friction between the chassis threads 82 and the button threads 92. The airflow lock is retained in the closed / locked configuration by friction between the end wall 67 and the blocking unit 68 (and in particular the blocking surface 68a).

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[0126] For the user to unlock the airflow lock, the user overcomes this friction and turns / rotates the button 70. This frictional retention in the locked configuration may mitigate the risk of inadvertent unlocking of the airflow lock 60.

[0127] The airflow blocking unit 68 is formed of a resilient material, for example silicone. The airflow blocking unit 68 is formed of a substantially incompressible material, for example silicone. When the airflow blocking unit 68 is pushed by the button 70 against the end wall 67 and upstream airflow openings 66a, the airflow blocking unit 68 is squeezed between the button 68 and the chassis 65. The button includes an expansion area around the blocking unit 68 into which the blocking unit 68 can be protrude when squeezed. In an unlocked / open state (as shown in Figure 8), the blocking unit 68 is relaxed. In the relaxed state, the blocking unit 68 protrudes from the button by a protrusion distance. The protrusion distance is of the embodiment of Figure 7 is 0.05 millimetres. In other examples, the protrusion distance is less than 1mm, for example less than 0.5mm, for example less than 0.1mm. Referring to Figure 7, the button 70 includes a pair of lugs 80a, b. The lugs 80a, b protrude from an outer circumferential surface of the button 70. The lugs 80a, b are integrally formed with the button 70, for example in moulding.

[0128] Figure 9 shows the chassis 65 in isolation. The chassis 65 includes two pairs of lug stops 100a, 100b. Each pair of lug stops 100a, b limits the rotational travel of one of the lugs 80a, b, thus limiting the rotational travel of the button 70 relative to the chassis 65. The rotational travel may be between 180 and 30 degrees. The rotational travel may be less than 90 degrees. The rotational travel may be between 90 and 30 degrees. The rotational travel may be substantially 90 degrees. In the embodiment of Figure 9, the rotational travel is 74 degrees. For a majority of the rotational travel, the airflow lock 60 is in the unlocked configuration; for a minority of the rotational travel, the airflow lock 60 is in the locked configuration. For example, the airflow lock 60 may be in the locked configuration for less than 50% of the rotational travel, for example less than 25%, for example less than 10%. For example, when the full rotational travel is 74 degrees, the airflow lock may be in the locked configuration for 4 degrees and in the unlocked configuration for 70 degrees.

[0129] The button 70 is configured to move back and forth rotationally but is prevented from full rotation, or rotation beyond the extent of rotational travel defined by the lugs stops 100a, b. The lugs 80a, b and the lug stops 100a, b prevent the button 70 from being entirely disconnected (e.g. unscrewed) from the chassis 65 in normal use. The lugs 80a, b and the lug stops 100a, b define the position of the button 70 in the locked and unlocked configurations.

[0130] Figures 10A to 10C show the airflow lock mechanism. In Figure 10A, the air upstream airflow openings 66a are blocked by the blocking unit 68. The blocking surface 68a of the blocking unit is pushed against the upstream airflow openings 66a thus sealing the upstream airflow openings 66a. The ring shape and flat blocking surface 68a of the blocking unit 68 allows it to block the upstream airflow openings 66a at any rotational position. Figure 10A represents the end stop of the rotation in

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[0133] the locked configuration. As the user rotates (Figure 10B) the button 70, the button threads 92 engage with the chassis threads 82, causing the button 70 to move downward. In the configuration of Figure 10B, there is enough clearance between airflow blocking unit 68 and the upstream airflow openings 66a to allow airflowthrough. In the configuration of Figure 10C, there is clearance between the airflow blocking unit 68 and the upstream airflow openings 66a and airflow through the upstream openings 66a is permitted. Figure 10C represents the end stop of the rotation the unlocked configuration. The system can be actuated to generate aerosol.

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Claims

P0180715CLAIMS1. An aerosol generating system (1) including:a device housing (50), wherein the device housing (50) is elongate along a housing longitudinal axis;an airflow path between an airflow inlet (6) and an airflow outlet;an airflow lock (60) located along the airflow path, wherein the airflow lock (60) includes:a lock chassis (65) through which an airflow lock aperture (66) is formed, the airflow lock aperture (66) having an upstream opening (66a) and a downstream opening (66b) and;a button (70) movably connected to the chassis (65), wherein the button (70) is movable to selectively open the airflow path in an unlocked configuration by uncovering the upstream airflow opening (66a) and to close the airflow path in a locked configuration by sealing the upstream opening (66b).

2. An aerosol generating system (1) according to claim 1 , wherein the button (70) is movably connected to the chassis (65) via a threaded connection.

3. An aerosol generating system (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the button (70) is rotationally fastened when the airflow lock (60) is in the locked configuration.

4. An aerosol generating system (1) according to claim 3, wherein the button (70) is released from rotational fastening by overcoming friction between the button (70) and the chassis (68).

5. An aerosol generating system (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the button (70) includes a button thread (92) for threaded connection to the chassis (68).

6. An aerosol generating system (1) according to claim 5, wherein the button thread (92) is located on a button pillar (90).

7. An aerosol generating system (1) according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the chassis (65) includes a chassis thread (82) for threaded engagement with the button thread (92).

8. An aerosol generating system (1) according to claim 7, wherein the chassis (65) includes a chassis colllar (84), wherein the chassis thread (82) is formed on the chassis collar (84).

9. An aerosol generating system (1) according to claim 8, wherein the chassis (65) includes a wall (67) through which the airflow lock aperture (66) is formed, wherein the chassis collar (84) upstands from an upstream to downstream direction from the wall (67).008915845P018071610. An aerosol generating system (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the airflow lock (60) includes a resilient blocking unit (68), wherein the blocking unit (68) seals the upstream airflow opening (66a) in the locked configuration.

11. An aerosol generating system (1) according to claim 10 wherein the blocking unit (68) seals the upstream airflow opening (66a) with a blocking surface (68a) of the blocking unit (68), wherein optionally the blocking surface (68a) is flat.

12. An aerosol generating system (1) according to claim 10 or claim 11 , wherein the resilient blocking unit (68) is formed of an elastomeric material.

13. An aerosol generating system (1) according to any one of claims 11 or 12, wherein the blocking surface (68a) includes a mount opening, wherein the button (70) is connected to the chassis (65) via the mount opening.

14. An aerosol generating system (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the aerosolgenerating system (1) is an electronic vapour product (EVP) configured to produce an aerosol from a liquid or gel aerosol-forming material (10).

15. An aerosol generating system (1) according to any preceding claim, including an inhalation sensor located to detect airflow along the airflow path, wherein optionally the inhalation sensor is located between the airflow lock and the airflow outlet.008915845

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