CN115397276A

CN115397276A - Cleaning tool for aerosol-generating device

Info

Publication number: CN115397276A
Application number: CN202180025239.2A
Authority: CN
Inventors: M·博洛格纳; S·克南德里斯
Original assignee: Philip Morris Products SA
Current assignee: Philip Morris Products SA
Priority date: 2020-04-21
Filing date: 2021-04-19
Publication date: 2022-11-25
Also published as: EP4138593A1; US20230157374A1; WO2021214635A1; JP2023523188A; KR20230002369A

Abstract

A tool for cleaning an aerosol-generating device having a heating chamber, the tool comprising a tool base, a first elongate member, a second elongate member and a pivot member. A first elongated member extends from the tool base. The first elongate member includes a first distal end distal from the tool base. A second elongated member extends from the tool base. The second elongate member includes a second distal end distal from the tool base. A slot is defined between the first elongated member and the second elongated member. The pivot member is disposed between the base and both the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member. The pivoting member is configured to allow the first and second elongated members to pivot in a preferred direction transverse to the extension of the first elongated member, and the pivoting member is configured to limit the first and second elongated members from pivoting in a non-preferred direction.

Description

Cleaning tool for aerosol-generating device

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a cleaning implement for an aerosol-generating device. In particular, the invention relates to a cleaning tool for cleaning at least a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device.

Background

Aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol-forming substrate for generating an inhalable aerosol is heated rather than combusted are known in the art. Typically, in such heated aerosol-generating articles, an aerosol is generated by transferring heat from a heat source to a physically separate aerosol-forming substrate or material. The aerosol-forming substrate may be located within, around or downstream of the heat source. During use, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and entrained in air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compound cools, the compound condenses to form an aerosol.

International patent publication WO2013/102614 discloses an example of an electrically operated aerosol-generating device in which an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article is heated in direct contact with a heating element to form an inhalable aerosol. The heating element is in the form of a sheet extending from a bottom chamber wall of the heating chamber. The heating element is inserted into an aerosol-forming substrate segment of an aerosol-generating article.

When an aerosol-forming substrate (e.g. a tobacco substrate) is heated, volatile compounds are released. Volatile compounds and aerosols evolved by heat from the heating element may become deposited on the aerosol-generating device, and in particular on the base chamber walls of the heating chamber, particularly because residues on the side walls of the heating chamber may be at least partially removed by insertion and removal of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-forming substrate particles themselves may also adhere to the heating element, particularly where the heating element is in direct contact with the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, when using the device described in WO2013/102614, the heating sheet heats the tobacco substrate to a temperature between 200 and 350 degrees celsius to release volatile compounds, nicotine and glycerin which can form an aerosol. After the use of multiple aerosol-generating articles, residue and dust can still collect inside the heating chamber in the device.

Residue and dust accumulation on the chamber floor wall can block the airflow path of the aerosol-generating device. Moreover, if an improper tool or object is used to clean the heating chamber, the heating element is easily damaged.

Disclosure of Invention

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a tool for cleaning an aerosol-generating device having a heating chamber. The tool may include a tool base. The tool may include a first elongated member and a second elongated member extending from a tool base. The first elongate member may include a first distal end distal from the tool base. The second elongate member may include a second distal end distal from the tool base. The slot may be defined between the first and second elongated members. The tool may include a pivot member. The pivot member may be disposed between the base and both the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member. The pivot member may be configured to allow the first and second elongated members to pivot. For example, the pivoting member may allow the first and second elongated members to pivot in a preferred direction transverse to the extension of the first elongated member. The pivot member may be configured to limit the first and second elongated members from pivoting in a non-preferred direction. The non-preferred direction may be any direction that is not the preferred direction. For example, the non-preferred direction may be any direction that includes a component orthogonal to the preferred direction.

Advantageously, the first and second elongate members may allow the tool to clean the heating chamber at a bottom wall near the base of the chamber. If the aerosol-generating device has a heating element extending from the base of the heating chamber, the pivot member may advantageously prevent movement of the first and second elongate members within the heating chamber which could damage the heating element.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a system comprising an aerosol-generating device comprising a heating chamber and a heating sheet having a substantially rectangular cross-section extending from a bottom chamber wall of the heating chamber into the heating chamber. The system further comprises means for cleaning the aerosol-generating device. The tool may include a tool base, a first elongated member extending from the tool base, and a second elongated member extending from the tool base. The first elongate member may include a first distal end distal from the tool base. The second elongate member may include a second distal end distal from the tool base. The slot may be defined between the first elongated member and the second elongated member. The first and second elongated members may be configured to be received in the heating chamber such that the heat patch is at least partially received in the slot. The first and second elongated members may be configured to be received in the heating chamber such that at least one of the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member extends to the bottom chamber wall. The reciprocating movement of at least one of the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member within the heating chamber may be configured to scrape against the bottom chamber wall.

As used herein, the term "reciprocating" refers to angular movement that is generally parallel to a plane in which the heat patch lies, in the context of one or both of the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member being within a heating chamber having the heat patch extending into the heating chamber. The angular movement may be induced by moving the tool base in a direction parallel to the heat patch and slot. In response, the first and second elongated members are movable in a direction opposite the movement of the tool base such that one or both of the first and second distal ends scrape against the chamber bottom wall.

Advantageously, the system comprising the cleaning tool provided with the first and second elongate members defining the slot therebetween allows the tool to scrape or clean a chamber floor wall of the aerosol-generating device near the base of the heating element. Preferably, cleaning the heating chamber with the tool does not damage the heating blade. The tool may also be used to clean the heat patch.

The tool base, the first elongated member and the second elongated member may be integrally formed. The first and second elongated members may be coupled to the tool base. The tool base, first elongate member and second elongate member may be formed from any suitable material. For example, one or more of the tool base, the first elongated member, and the second elongated member may be formed of a metallic material, a plastic material, or a combination of a metallic material and a plastic material.

The tool base may include a handle. The handle may extend in a direction away from the first distal end of the first elongated member. For example, the handle may extend away from the first distal end of the first elongate member along a longitudinal axis of the tool.

One or both of the first distal end and the second distal end may have a tapered shape. For example, one or both of the first and second distal ends may be narrower than a portion of the one or both of the first and second distal ends closest to the tool base. The tapered shape may facilitate scraping of the chamber bottom wall.

The tool may include a pivot member disposed between the base and both the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member. The pivoting member may be configured to allow the first and second elongated members to pivot in a preferred direction transverse to the extension of the first elongated member. The pivot member may be configured to limit the first and second elongated members from pivoting in a non-preferred direction. Non-preferred directions may include: including any direction that includes a component orthogonal to the preferred direction. Preferably, the pivot member is configured to prevent movement of the first and second elongate members within the heating chamber which could damage the heat patch in the event that the tool is used to clean a device having a heat patch extending into the heating chamber.

The pivoting member or a portion of the pivoting member may define an outer periphery having one or more channels configured to receive a rib of the heating chamber when the pivoting member is inserted into the heating chamber. When the rib is received in the channel, axial rotation of the first and second elongated members within the heating chamber may be limited. One or more channels may be flared at the receiving end. Providing one or more channels with flared receiving ends may advantageously facilitate alignment of the tool and insertion of the tool into the heating chamber.

The exterior shape and size of the pivoting member or a portion of the pivoting member may be similar to the interior shape and size of the heating chamber into which the pivoting member may be inserted. Having such similar shapes and sizes may facilitate insertion of the pivoting member into the heating chamber. Having such types of shapes and sizes may facilitate alignment of the pivot member with the heating chamber. If the device has a heat patch, proper alignment of the pivot member with the heating chamber can result in proper alignment of the slot defined between the first elongated member and the second elongated member with the heat patch.

The pivot member may include an elliptical member defining an outer circumference having at least one channel configured to receive a rib of the heating chamber. The engagement of the ribs with the channels may prevent axial rotation of the first and second elongated members within the heating chamber. The elliptical member may comprise a disc or a cylinder. The elliptical member may be elliptical in shape. The elliptical shape may include a circular shape. At least one channel may be flared at the receiving end. Providing at least one channel having a flared receiving end may advantageously facilitate alignment of the tool and insertion of the tool into the heating chamber.

The pivot member may be integrally formed with the tool base, the first elongated member, and the second elongated member. The pivot member may be fixedly coupled between the base and both the first and second distal ends. The pivot member may be formed from any suitable material. For example, the pivot material may be formed of a metal material, a plastic material, or a combination of a metal material and a plastic material.

The tool may include bristles extending from the first elongate member, the second elongate member, or both the first elongate member and the second elongate member. The bristles advantageously increase the effective cleaning area of the tool. Preferably, the bristles are stiff enough to clean the surfaces of the heating chamber, but not stiff enough to damage the heat patch extending into the heating chamber. When the tool is used to clean a heating chamber, the bristles will preferably contact the surface and deflect from the surface of the heating chamber or heat patch.

Bristles may extend radially outward from one or both of the first and second elongated members. The bristles extending radially outward advantageously clean the inner circumferential surface of the heating chamber.

The bristles may be formed from any suitable material. For example, the bristles may be formed of metal wires, plastic wires, or wires comprising metal materials and plastic materials.

The first elongate member may include a first planar surface facing the slot, and the second elongate member may include a second planar surface facing the slot, the first planar surface extending through a first plane and the second planar surface extending through a second plane, wherein the first plane and the second plane are parallel planes, and the first planar surface and the second planar surface extend parallel to each other. Providing a tool having first and second elongated members with such flat inner surfaces may prevent the first and second elongated members from damaging the heating element when scraping the bottom wall of the chamber with the tool. Such an arrangement of the flat inner surfaces of the first and second elongated members may be particularly useful in preventing damage if the tool is configured to prevent axial rotation when the chamber bottom wall is being scratched. For example, axial rotation may be inhibited by providing a channel along an outer periphery of the pivot member, wherein the channel is configured to receive a rib of the heating chamber.

At least one of the first and second elongate members may include one or more ridges on a surface facing the slot. The one or more ridges may be configured to collapse at a threshold torque or deflection level. One or more of the ridges may be formed of an elastically deformable material. The one or more ridges may advantageously clean the surface of the heat patch when the bottom compartment wall is being scraped or cleaned. Moreover, ridges configured to collapse or be formed of an elastically deformable material may provide additional protection against damage to the heat patch.

The tool may include a cap. The cap may be configured to couple with an aerosol-generating device. The tool may be configured such that one or both of the first elongate member and the second elongate member contact the bottom wall when the cap is coupled with the aerosol-generating device. At least a portion of the lid may be configured to receive a portion of the aerosol-generating device when the first elongate member and the second elongate member are received in the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device.

The cover may be formed of any suitable material. For example, the cover may be formed of a metal material, a plastic material, or a metal material and a plastic material.

The tool may include a rod operatively coupling the first and second elongated members to the cap. The rod may allow for reciprocal movement of the first and second elongated members. The rod may prevent axial rotation of the first and second elongated members. For example, the rod may operatively couple the first and second elongated members to the cover such that the first and second elongated members may pivot about the rod. Providing the tool with a cover and wand may advantageously provide controlled and consistent cleaning of the chamber bottom wall in the vicinity of the heating element. The cover and rod may also inhibit damage to the heat patch if the device includes a heat patch that extends into the heating chamber, as the cover and rod may inhibit axial rotation of the first and second elongated members. If the device comprises a heat patch, the lid or another element of the tool preferably comprises a feature configured to cooperate with a corresponding feature of the aerosol-generating device to facilitate proper alignment of the first and second elongate members relative to the heat patch.

The rod may be formed of any suitable material. For example, the rod may be formed of a metal material, a plastic material, or a metal material and a plastic material.

The tool base may comprise a cleaning head for cleaning the aerosol-generating device. The cleaning head may be positioned at an opposite end of the tool relative to the first distal end of the first elongate member. The distal end of the first elongate member extends away from the bottom wall when the cleaning head is inserted into the heating chamber towards the bottom wall. Preferably, the cleaning head is configured to clean areas of the bottom surface of the heating chamber not accessible by the first distal end of the first elongate member and the second distal end of the second elongate member. The cleaning head may include a scraping surface for cleaning a bottom surface of the heating chamber. A tool having a cleaning head opposite the first distal end of the first elongate member and the second distal end of the second elongate member may advantageously be used to better clean the heating chamber than a tool not having a cleaning head.

The first and second distal ends are laterally movable relative to each other to adjust a width or shape of a slot formed between the first and second elongated members. The tool may include one or more bearings configured to engage at least one of the first and second elongate members to limit a width of the slot between the first and second distal ends. The one or more bearings may be configured to limit the width of the slot between the first distal end and the second distal end to less than 3 mm, preferably less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1.5 mm. The one or more bearings may be configured to limit the width of the slot between the first distal end and the second distal end to a width between 0.2 mm and 1 mm wider than the thickness of the heat patch, preferably between 0.3 mm and 0.5 mm wider than the thickness of the heat patch. The tool may further include one or more resilient members positioned adjacent the first or second elongated members to provide lateral resiliency to lateral movement of the first and second elongated members. The one or more resilient members may each comprise a resilient ring. For example, the one or more resilient members may each comprise an O-ring, such as a silicon O-ring.

Preferably, the first and second elongate members are laterally movable during and after insertion of the tool into the heating chamber to adjust the width of the slot at the distal end of the tool. For example, the first and second elongated members may be moved during insertion of the tool into the heating chamber to increase the slot width at the distal end of the tool and may be moved after insertion to decrease the slot width at the distal end of the tool. This lateral adjustment of the width of the slot may allow the first and second elongated members to be inserted into the heating chamber over the heat patch during insertion without damaging the patch. Thus, the tool can easily receive the heater chip during insertion and move into position to scrape or clean the chamber wall near the heater chip after insertion. Preferably, the one or more bearings limit lateral movement of the first and second elongate members beyond the extent to which the first and second elongate members can be inserted into the heating chamber.

The tool may include a motor coupled to the first elongated member and the second elongated member. The motor may be configured to provide reciprocating movement of the first and second elongated members. The motor may be coupled to the tool base via a rod. A switch may be operably coupled to the motor to turn the motor on and off. The motor may be powered. The motor may advantageously provide controlled and consistent cleaning of the chamber bottom wall.

The tool may comprise a cleaning station body configured to receive an aerosol-generating device. The cleaning station body may be mechanically coupled to the first and second elongated members to allow for reciprocal movement of the first and second elongated members. The rod may be mechanically coupled to the tool base to control the reciprocating movement of the first and second elongated members. The rod is operable to control the reciprocating movement of the first and second elongated members. The cleaning station may advantageously provide controlled and consistent cleaning of the chamber bottom wall.

The tool may include three or more elongate members extending from a tool base. Additional slots may be defined between adjacent elongated members. One or more of the elongated members may be configured to flex or bend to allow the heat patch to penetrate into at least one of the additional slots. Providing three or more elongated members may increase the surface area that the tool can scrape or clean. Furthermore, if the aerosol-generating device comprises more than one heating element, the additional slot may advantageously accommodate additional heating elements or sheets.

The elongated member may include tapered sides. The tapered sides may advantageously allow the heating element to pass more easily between the elongate members to provide additional protection against damage to the heating element during reciprocation. The distal end of the elongate member may be tapered. The tapered distal ends may allow the heating element to more easily pass between the distal ends during insertion of the tool into the heating chamber to provide additional protection against damage to the heating element.

The tool may include a freewheel attached to the tool base. The freewheel is rotatable independently of the tool base and the elongate member. The freewheel may provide additional protection against axial rotation of the elongated member in the heating chamber. The freewheel may be coupled to the cleaning head. When coupled together, the freewheel can allow the cleaning head and tool to rotate independently of one another.

The tool may include a consumable component. The consumable member may include a recess. The recess may be configured to receive an elongated member. The consumable member may take any suitable shape. For example, the consumable member may have a cylindrical shape, a rectangular shape, or a swab-like shape. The consumable member may be formed from any suitable material. For example, the consumable member may be formed from a cotton material, a foam material, or other material for cleaning. The consumable member may advantageously increase the effective cleaning area of the tool.

The tool may comprise one or more protruding elements. The first projecting element may extend from the first elongate member and the second projecting element may extend from the second elongate member. The first and second projecting elements may be arranged 180 degrees from each other around the circumference of the tool. The first and second projecting elements may be arranged to project from the tool in a direction away from the slot.

The protruding elements may provide additional protection against movement of the first and second elongated members in non-preferred directions. The first and second projecting members may be resiliently deflectable. The first and second projecting members may exert an outward force when resiliently deflected by one or more walls of the heating chamber. The outward force may be sufficient to resist movement in a non-preferred direction. According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a kit comprising an aerosol-generating device comprising a heating chamber and a heating sheet having a substantially rectangular cross-section extending from a bottom compartment wall of the heating chamber into the heating chamber, and a tool as described herein.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method comprising inserting a tool comprising an elongate member into a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device, the elongate member defining a slot between the elongate members such that a sheet of the aerosol-generating device is received into the slot and an end of the elongate member contacts a bottom chamber wall of the heating chamber. The method also includes scraping the end of the elongated member against the bottom chamber wall with the end of the elongated member by moving the end of the elongated member using a reciprocating motion.

Preferably, scraping or cleaning of the bottom chamber wall with the end of the elongated member may be achieved without damaging the heating sheet of the aerosol-generating device. Damage to the heat patch may be prevented if the tool and device are configured to interact to prevent axial rotation of the first and second elongated members when the elongated members are received in the heating chamber. For example, axial rotation of the first and second elongate members may be inhibited by providing a channel along an outer periphery of the pivot element, wherein the channel is configured to receive a rib of the heating chamber. As another example, axial rotation of the first and second elongated members may be inhibited by providing a cap configured to align with the device and a rod operatively coupling the first and second elongated members to the cap.

The method may include widening a slot defined by the first and second elongated members prior to inserting the tool into the heating chamber and narrowing the slot after inserting the tool into the heating chamber and prior to scraping the bottom chamber wall. Widening the slot during insertion may allow the elongated member to be inserted over the heat patch without damaging the patch.

The method may include moving a rod of the cleaning station in a reciprocating manner to move an end of the elongate member. Advantageously, moving the wand of the cleaning station provides for controlled and consistent cleaning of the chamber bottom wall adjacent the heating element with the elongate member.

The method may include moving a tool about a rod coupling the cap to the elongate member to move an end of the elongate member using a reciprocating movement. Advantageously, moving the tool around the rod coupling the cover to the elongate member may provide controlled and consistent cleaning of the chamber bottom wall in the vicinity of the heating element.

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

Example Ex1: a tool for cleaning an aerosol-generating device having a heating chamber, the tool comprising a tool base; and a first elongate member extending from the tool base, the first elongate member including a first distal end distal from the tool base; and a second elongate member extending from the tool base, the second elongate member including a second distal end distal from the tool base, wherein a slot is defined between the first elongate member and the second elongate member; and a pivot member disposed between the base and both the first distal end of the first elongate member and the second distal end of the second elongate member, wherein the pivot member is configured to allow the first elongate member and the second elongate member to pivot in a preferred direction transverse to the extension of the first elongate member, and wherein the pivot member is configured to restrict the first elongate member and the second elongate member from pivoting in a non-preferred direction.

Example Ex2: a system comprising an aerosol-generating device and means for cleaning the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating device comprising a heating chamber and a heating sheet having a substantially rectangular cross-section, the heating sheet extending from a bottom chamber wall of the heating chamber into the heating chamber; the tool includes a tool base; and a first elongate member extending from the tool base, the first elongate member including a first distal end distal from the tool base; and a second elongated member extending from the tool base, the second elongated member including a second distal end distal from the tool base, wherein a slot is defined between the first elongated member and the second elongated member, wherein the first elongated member and the second elongated member are configured to be received in the heating chamber such that the heat patch is at least partially received in the slot and at least one of the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member extends to the bottom chamber wall such that reciprocal movement of the at least one of the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member within the heating chamber is configured to scrape the bottom chamber wall.

Example Ex3: the system of example Ex2, wherein the tool further comprises a pivoting member disposed between the base and both the first distal end of the first elongate member and the second distal end of the second elongate member, wherein the pivoting member is configured to allow the first elongate member and the second elongate member to pivot in a preferred direction transverse to the extension of the first elongate member, and wherein the pivoting member is configured to limit the first elongate member and the second elongate member from pivoting in a non-preferred direction.

Example Ex4: the tool according to Ex1 or the system according to Ex3, wherein the pivoting member comprises an elliptical member defining an outer circumference having a channel configured to engage with a rib of the heating chamber to prevent axial rotation of the first and second elongated members within the heating chamber.

Example Ex5: the tool or system of example Ex4, wherein the elliptical member comprises a disc or cylinder.

Example Ex6: the tool or system of any of examples Ex 1-Ex 5, wherein the tool further comprises bristles extending from the first and second elongated members.

Example Ex7: the tool or system of example Ex6, wherein the bristles extend radially outward from the first and second elongate members.

Example Ex8: the tool or system of any of examples Ex 1-Ex 7, wherein the first elongate member comprises a first planar surface facing the slot and the second elongate member comprises a second planar surface facing the slot, the first planar surface being coextensive with the first planar surface and the second planar surface being coextensive with the second planar surface, wherein the first planar surface and the second planar surface are parallel planes and the first planar surface and the second planar surface extend parallel to each other.

Example Ex9: the tool or system of any of examples Ex 1-Ex 7, wherein at least one of the first elongate member and the second elongate member comprises one or more ridges on a surface facing the slot.

Example Ex10: the tool or system of any of examples Ex 1-Ex 9, wherein the tool further comprises a cap configured to couple with the aerosol-generating device, the first elongate member and the second elongate member configured to contact the bottom wall when the cap is coupled with the aerosol-generating device; and a rod coupling the first and second elongated members to the cap to allow reciprocal movement of the first and second elongated members.

Example Ex11: the tool or system of any of examples Ex1 to Ex9, wherein the tool base comprises a cleaning head for cleaning a heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device.

Example Ex12: the tool or system of any of examples Ex 1-Ex 11, wherein the tool comprises three or more elongate members extending from the tool base.

Example Ex13: the tool or system of any of examples Ex 1-Ex 9, wherein the first distal end and the second distal end are laterally movable relative to each other to adjust a width or shape of the slot.

Example Ex14: the tool or system of example Ex13, further comprising one or more bearings configured to engage at least one of the first elongate member and the second elongate member to limit a width of the slot between the first distal end and the second distal end.

Example Ex15: the tool or system according to example Ex14, wherein the one or more bearings are configured to limit a width of the slot between the first distal end and the second distal end to less than 3 millimeters.

Example Ex16: the tool or system of any of examples Ex 13-Ex 15, further comprising one or more resilient members positioned adjacent to the first or second elongate members to provide lateral resilience to lateral movement of the first and second elongate members.

Example Ex17: the tool or system according to any one of examples Ex 1-Ex 16, further comprising a motor coupled to the first and second elongated members, the motor configured to provide reciprocating movement of the first and second elongated members.

Example Ex18: the tool or system according to any one of examples Ex 1-Ex 17, further comprising a cleaning station body configured to receive the aerosol-generating device, the cleaning station body being mechanically coupled to the first and second elongate members to allow reciprocating movement of the first and second elongate members; and a rod mechanically coupled to the tool base to control the reciprocal movement of the first and second elongated members.

Example Ex19: a kit comprising an aerosol-generating device comprising a heating chamber and a heat patch having a substantially rectangular cross-section extending from a bottom chamber wall of the heating chamber into the heating chamber, and a tool according to any of examples Ex1 and Ex4 to Ex 18.

Example Ex20: a method, comprising: inserting a tool comprising an elongate member into a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device, the elongate member defining a slot between the elongate members such that a sheet of the aerosol-generating device is received into the slot and an end of the elongate member contacts a bottom chamber wall of the heating chamber; and scraping the bottom chamber wall with the end of the elongated member by moving the end of the elongated member in a reciprocating manner.

Example Ex21: the method of example Ex20, further comprising widening a slot defined by the elongated member prior to inserting the tool into the heating chamber; and narrowing the slot after inserting the tool into the heating chamber and before scraping the bottom chamber wall.

Example Ex22: the method of example Ex20, further comprising moving a rod in a reciprocating manner to move an end of the elongated member.

Example Ex23: the method of example Ex20, further comprising pivoting the elongate member relative to a rod operatively coupling the elongate member to a cap to move an end of the elongate member in the reciprocating manner.

Drawings

Several embodiments will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

figure 1 shows a system comprising a tool for cleaning an aerosol-generating device;

FIG. 2 shows the tool of FIG. 1;

figure 3 shows a cross-section of the system of figure 1 with the tool in position for cleaning the aerosol-generating device;

FIG. 4 shows another cross-section of the system of FIG. 3 rotated 90 degrees;

FIG. 5 shows a modification of the tool of FIGS. 1-4, wherein the tool base of the tool comprises a cleaning head;

FIG. 6 shows another modification of the tool, wherein the tool includes a cap;

FIG. 7 shows another variation of the tool, wherein the tool is a cleaning station body and wand;

FIG. 8 shows the tool of FIG. 7 with the cleaning station body in an open position;

FIG. 9 shows another variation of a tool, wherein the tool includes a motor;

FIG. 10 shows another variation of a tool, wherein the tool includes bristles;

FIG. 11 shows a bottom view of an embodiment of the tool in which the surface facing the groove is flat;

fig. 12 shows an isometric exploded view of a first elongate member and a second elongate member of the tool of fig. 11;

FIG. 13 shows a bottom view of another embodiment of a tool wherein the groove-facing surface includes ridges;

fig. 14 shows an isometric exploded view of a first elongate member and a second elongate member of the tool of fig. 13;

figure 15 shows an embodiment of a system comprising an implement for cleaning prior to insertion into an aerosol-generating device;

figure 16 shows the system of figure 15 with the tool partially inserted into the aerosol-generating device;

figure 17 shows the system of figures 15 and 16 with the tool fully inserted into the aerosol-generating device;

FIG. 18 shows another variation of a tool, wherein the tool comprises a plurality of elongate members;

FIG. 19 illustrates a front view of the plurality of elongate members of FIG. 18;

FIG. 20 illustrates a top view of the plurality of elongated members of FIGS. 18 and 19;

FIG. 21 shows a side view of an additional modification of the tool including a projecting member and a freewheel; and

FIG. 22 shows a side view of the tool of FIG. 21 with the freewheel attached to the cleaning head;

figure 23 shows an isometric view of a cover configured to couple with the cleaning head of figure 23; and

fig. 24 illustrates a partial view of a tool having a consumable component according to embodiments herein.

Detailed Description

Figures 1-4 show a tool 110 for cleaning an aerosol-generating device. Fig. 1 shows a system 100 comprising an aerosol-generating device 102 and a tool 110. Fig. 2 shows a tool 110. Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the system 100 with the tool 110 in position to clean the aerosol-generating device 102. Fig. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the system 100 rotated 90 degrees from the view of fig. 3, with the tool 110 in position to clean the aerosol-generating device 102.

The aerosol-generating device 102 comprises a heating chamber 104, a heating element 106, a chamber bottom wall 108 and ribs 134 (see fig. 4). The heating chamber 104 defines a cavity in the aerosol-generating device 102. The chamber bottom wall 108 is an inner surface of the heating chamber 104. Heating element 106 extends from chamber bottom wall 108 into heating chamber 104. As shown, the heating element 106 is a sheet.

The tool 110 includes a tool base 118, a first elongated member 112-1, a second elongated member 112-2 (collectively, elongated members 112), and a pivot member 120. The elongated member 112 extends from a tool base 118. The first elongate member 112-1 includes a first distal end 114-1 distal to the tool base 118, and the second elongate member 112-2 includes a second distal end 114-2 (collectively referred to as distal ends 114) distal to the tool base 118. Slots 116 are defined between the elongated members 112. The pivot member 120 is disposed between the tool base 118 and the two distal ends 114. The pivot member 120 includes a channel 122 configured to receive and engage a rib 134 of the heating chamber 104 to prevent axial rotation of the elongate member 112 within the heating chamber.

The pivoting member 120 is configured to allow the elongated member 112 to pivot in a preferred direction transverse to the extension of the elongated member. The pivoting member 120 is also configured to limit the elongated member 112 from pivoting in a non-preferred direction.

As shown in fig. 3 and 4, the elongated member 112 is configured to be received in the heating chamber 104 such that the heat patch 106 is received in the slot 116. In addition, the distal end 114 extends to the bottom chamber wall 108 such that reciprocating movement of the distal end within the heating chamber scrapes the bottom chamber wall. In particular, the reciprocating movement may cause distal end 114 to scrape against a bottom chamber wall adjacent the base of heat patch 106.

The reciprocating movement is shown by dashed arrows 130-1, 130-2, 132-1 and 132-2. As tool base 118 moves in the direction of dashed arrow 130-1, distal end 114 moves in the direction of dashed arrow 130-2. As tool base 118 moves in the direction of dashed arrow 132-1, distal end 114 moves in the direction of dashed arrow 132-2. The reciprocating movement allows the heat patch 106 to pass through the slot 116 as the chamber bottom wall 108 is scraped by the distal end 114. The pivoting member 120 is configured to limit movement of the elongate member 112 and the distal end 114 in directions that include components orthogonal to dashed arrows 130-1, 130-2, 132-1, and 132-2. Such restrictions on movement including components orthogonal to dashed arrows 130-1, 130-2, 132-1, and 132-2 are configured to prevent tool 110 from damaging heat patch 106 during cleaning.

Fig. 5 shows a modification of the tool of fig. 1-4, in which the tool base 218 of the tool 200 includes the cleaning head 202.

Tool 200 includes a tool base 218, a first elongated member 212-1, a second elongated member 212-2 (collectively, elongated members 212), and a pivot member 220. The elongated member 212 extends from a tool base 218. The first elongate member 212-1 includes a first distal end 214-1 distal to the tool base 218, and the second elongate member 212-2 includes a second distal end 214-2 (collectively referred to as distal ends 214) distal to the tool base 218. Slots 216 are defined between the elongated members 212. The pivot member 220 is disposed between the tool base 218 and the two distal ends 214.

The tool base 218 includes the cleaning head 202. The cleaning head 202 extends in a direction away from the distal end 214. The cleaning head 202 is configured to be inserted into a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device and to clean areas of a bottom chamber wall of the heating chamber that are inaccessible to the distal end 214. The tool 200 is configured to fit within a housing formed by two end portions or caps 204-1 and 204-2.

Fig. 6 shows another modification of the tool according to embodiments described herein, wherein the tool 300 comprises a cover 302.

The tool 310 includes a tool base 318, a first elongated member 312-1, a second elongated member 312-2 (collectively, elongated members 312), a cap 302, and a rod 304. The elongated member 312 extends from the tool base 318. The first elongate member 312-1 includes a first distal end 314-1 distal from the tool base 318, and the second elongate member 312-2 includes a second distal end 314-2 (collectively referred to as distal ends 314) distal from the tool base 318. Slots 316 are defined between the elongated members 312. The rod 304 extends from the tool base 318 and couples the elongate member 312 to the cap 302. The rod 304 is rotatably coupled to the cap 304 to allow the elongated member 312 to move in a reciprocating manner.

The reciprocating movement is illustrated by dashed arrows 330-1, 330-2, 332-1 and 332-2. As tool base 318 moves in the direction of dashed arrow 330-1, distal end 314 moves in the direction of dashed arrow 330-2. As tool base 318 moves in the direction of dashed arrow 332-1, distal end 314 moves in the direction of dashed arrow 332-2. The reciprocating movement allows the heating element 306 to pass through the slot 316 as the chamber bottom wall 308 is scraped by the distal end 314. The rod 304 acts as a rotational axis configured to allow the elongated member 312 and the distal end 314 to move in the directions of the dashed arrows 330-1, 330-2, 332-1, and 332-2, and to restrict the elongated member 312 and the distal end 314 from moving in directions that include components orthogonal to the dashed arrows 330-1, 330-2, 332-1, and 332-2. Such a restriction on movement including components orthogonal to dashed arrows 330-1, 330-2, 332-1, and 332-2 may prevent tool 310 from damaging heating element 306 during cleaning.

The cap 302 is configured to be coupled to an aerosol-generating device. When the cap 302 is coupled to the aerosol-generating device, the elongate member 312 may extend into the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device, and the distal end 314 is configured to engage with a chamber bottom wall of the aerosol-generating device. The cap 302 is configured to align the slot 316 with the heating element when coupled to the aerosol-generating device.

Fig. 7 and 8 show another modification of the tool according to the embodiments described herein. The tool 400 includes a cleaning station body 404 and a stem 402. In fig. 7, the cleaning station body 404 is closed and ready to receive or couple to an aerosol-generating device. In fig. 8, the cleaning station body 404 is opened to expose the tool base 418 and the rest of the stem 402 of the tool 400.

The tool 400 includes a tool base 418, a first elongated member 412-1, a second elongated member 412-2 (collectively, elongated members 412), a cleaning station body 404, a stem 402. The elongated member 412 extends from a tool base 418. The first elongate member 412-1 includes a first distal end 414-1 distal from the tool base 418, and the second elongate member 412-2 includes a second distal end 414-2 (collectively referred to as distal ends 414) distal from the tool base 418. Slots 416 are defined between the elongated members 412. The rod 402 is mechanically coupled to the tool base 418 to control the reciprocating movement of the tool 400. The lever 402 may be manipulated by a user to control the reciprocating movement of the tool 400.

The cleaning station body 404 is mechanically coupled to the elongated member 412. The mechanical coupling allows for reciprocating movement of the elongated member 412. The cleaning station body 404 is configured to receive an aerosol-generating device. The cleaning station body 404 includes a receptacle 406. The receptacle 406 may be shaped to receive the aerosol-generating device and align the slot 416 with a heating element of the aerosol-generating device.

Fig. 9 shows another modification of the tool according to the embodiments described herein, in which the tool 500 comprises a motor 506.

Tool 500 includes a tool base 518, a first elongated member (not shown), a second elongated member (not shown), a cleaning station body 504, a lever 502, a motor 506, and a switch 508. The rod 502 is mechanically coupled to the tool base 518 to control the reciprocating movement of the tool 500. The rod 402 is mechanically coupled to a motor 506 to allow the motor to control the reciprocating movement of the tool 500. The motor may be operably coupled to the switch 508. The switch 508 allows the motor 506 to be turned on or off. The motor 506 may be electric.

Fig. 10 shows another modification of the tool according to embodiments described herein. The tool 600 includes bristles 602.

The tool 600 includes a tool base 618, a first elongate member 612-1, a second elongate member 612-2 (collectively referred to as elongate members 612), and bristles 602. The elongate member 612 extends from a tool base 618. The first elongate member 612-1 includes a first distal end 614-1 distal to the tool base 618, and the second elongate member 612-2 includes a second distal end 614-2 (collectively referred to as distal ends 614) distal to the tool base 618. Slots 616 are defined between the elongated members 612. Bristles 602 extend from the elongate member 612. The bristles 602 may extend radially from the elongate member 612.

Fig. 11 and 12 show a tool 700 according to embodiments described herein, wherein the planar surface 702 faces the slot 716. Fig. 11 shows a bottom view of the tool 700. Fig. 12 shows an isometric exploded view of the elongated member 712.

The tool 700 includes a tool base (not shown), a pivot member 720, a first elongated member 712-1, and a second elongated member 712-2 (collectively referred to as elongated members 712). An elongated member 712 extends from the tool base. The first elongate member 712-1 includes a first distal end 714-1 distal to the tool base 718, and the second elongate member 712-2 includes a second distal end 714-2 (collectively referred to as distal ends 714) distal to the tool base 718. A slot 716 is defined between the elongate members 712.

The elongated members 712 each include a planar surface 702-1, 702-2 (collectively planar surfaces 702) facing the slot 716. The planar surfaces 712 each extend along one of the planes 704-1, 704-2 (collectively referred to as planes 704).

The elongated members 712 each include a planar surface 702-1, 702-2 (collectively planar surfaces 702) facing the slot 716. The planar surfaces 712 each extend along one of the planes 704-1, 704-2 (collectively referred to as planes 704). The planes 704 are each parallel to one another.

The pivoting member may include a plurality of channels 722. At least one of the channels 722 may be configured to engage a rib of the heating chamber to prevent axial rotation of the tool 700 in the heating chamber.

Fig. 13 and 14 show a tool 800 according to embodiments described herein, wherein the flat surface 802 faces the groove 816. Fig. 13 shows a bottom view of the tool 800. Fig. 13 shows an isometric exploded view of the elongated member 812.

The tool 800 includes a tool base (not shown), a pivoting member 820, a first elongate member 812-1, a second elongate member 812-2 (collectively referred to as elongate member 812), and a pivoting member 820. An elongated member 812 extends from the tool base. The first elongate member 812-1 includes a first distal end 814-1 distal to the tool base 818, and the second elongate member 812-2 includes a second distal end 814-2 (collectively referred to as distal ends 814) distal to the tool base 818. Slots 816 are defined between the elongate members 812.

The elongated members 812 each include ridges 802-1, 802-2 (collectively referred to as ridges 802). Ridge 802 extends into groove 816. The ridge 802 may be configured to contact the heating element when received in a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device. Ridge 802 may be configured to rub against the heating element during reciprocating motion of tool 800. The ridge 802 may be formed of a material that does not damage the heating element during reciprocating movement.

The pivoting member may include a plurality of channels 822. At least one of the channels 822 may be configured to engage a rib of the heating chamber to prevent axial rotation of the tool 800 in the heating chamber.

Fig. 15-17 illustrate an embodiment of a system 900 that includes a tool 910 having an adjustable slot 916. Fig. 15 shows the system 900 prior to insertion of the tool 910 into the aerosol-generating device 902.

Fig. 16 shows a system 900 in which a tool 910 is partially inserted into an aerosol-generating device 902.

Fig. 17 shows a system 900 in which a tool 910 is fully inserted into an aerosol-generating device 902.

The aerosol-generating device 902 comprises a heating chamber 904, a heating element 906, and a chamber bottom wall 908. The heating chamber 904 defines a cavity in the aerosol-generating device 902. The chamber bottom wall 908 is an interior surface of the heating chamber 904. The heating element 906 extends from the chamber bottom wall 908 into the heating chamber 904.

The tool 910 includes a tool base 918, a first elongate member 912-1, a second elongate member 912-2 (collectively referred to as elongate member 912), a pivot member 920, a bearing 930, and a resilient member 932. The elongate member 912 extends from the tool base 918. The first elongate member 912-1 includes a first distal end 914-1 distal to the tool base 918, and the second elongate member 912-2 includes a second distal end 914-2 (collectively referred to as distal ends 914) distal to the tool base 918. Slots 916 are defined between the elongate members 912.

A pivot member 920 is disposed between the tool base 918 and the two distal ends 914. The pivot member 920 may include channels (not shown, see, e.g., fig. 2 and 4) configured to engage ribs (not shown, see, e.g., fig. 2 and 4) of the heating chamber 904 to prevent axial rotation of the elongate member 912 within the heating chamber. The pivot member 920 includes a bearing window 931 that allows the bearing 930 to engage from outside the pivot member 920.

As shown, the tool base 918 can be clamped or manipulated to adjust the width of the slot between the distal ends 916. The bearings 930 are each configured to engage one of the elongate members 912 to limit the width of the slot between the distal ends 916. The bearings 930 are configured to engage the sidewalls of the elongate member 912 and the pivot member 920 to limit the width of the slot between the distal ends 916. Prior to insertion of the tool 910 into the heating chamber 904, the slot between the distal ends 916 is limited in width such that the elongate member 912 can be inserted into the heating chamber 904. In other words, the bearings 930 limit the width of the slot between the distal ends 916 such that the distance between the outer edges of the distal ends 914 is less than the diameter of the heating chamber 904. When the tool 910 is inserted into the heating chamber 904, the bearings 930 are configured to engage the inner wall of the heating chamber 904 because at least a portion of each of the bearings 930 is configured to extend through its respective bearing window 931. As shown in fig. 17, such engagement further limits the width of the slot between the distal ends 916 to place the distal ends in a position to scrape against the bottom chamber wall 908 when the tool 910 is fully inserted into the heating chamber 904.

The resilient member 932 is positioned adjacent to the elongate member 912 to provide lateral resiliency to lateral movement of the first and second elongate members 912. The resilient member 932 may limit the width of the slot 916 when the tool base 918 is not manipulated. The elastic member 932 may be an elastic ring.

Fig. 18 illustrates an embodiment of a tool 1000 having a plurality of elongate members 1012. The tool 1000 includes a tool base 1018, an elongate member 1012, a distal end 1014, and a slot 1016. The elongate member 1012 extends from a tool base 1018. Each of the elongate members 1012 includes a distal end of the distal end 1014. Slots 1016 are defined between adjacent elongate members 1012. The elongated member 1012 may be flexible to allow any of the slots 1016 to accommodate a heating element.

Fig. 19 illustrates a modification of the elongate member 1012 of fig. 18, according to embodiments described herein. The elongate member 1012-1 includes tapered sides 1022. Fig. 20 illustrates another modification of the elongate member 1012 of fig. 18 in accordance with embodiments described herein. The elongate member 1012-2 includes a distal end 1014-2 having a tapered shape.

Fig. 21-22 illustrate a tool 1100 having one or more protruding elements 1122 and a free wheel 1124. Fig. 21 shows the tool 1100 with nothing attached. Fig. 22 shows the tool 1100 coupled to a cleaning head. Fig. 23 shows the cover 1130 configured to engage the cleaning head 1102 and tool 1122 of fig. 22.

Tool 1100 includes a tool base 1118, a first elongate member 1112-1, a second elongate member 1112-2 (collectively, elongate member 1112), and a pivot member 1120. An elongated member 1112 extends from the tool base 1118. The first elongate member 1112-1 includes a first distal end 1114-1 distal to the tool base 1118 and the second elongate member 1112-2 includes a second distal end 1114-2 (collectively referred to as distal ends 1114) distal to the tool base 1118. Slots 1116 are defined between elongate members 1112. The pivot member 1120 is disposed between the tool base 1118 and the two distal ends 1114.

Tool base 1118 is coupled to freewheel 1124. Free wheel 1124 rotates independently of tool base 1118 and elongate member 1112. The free wheel 1124 may prevent axial rotation of the elongate member 1112 in the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device. As depicted in fig. 22, the freewheel 1124 can be configured to couple to the cleaning head 1102. The freewheel 1124 can allow the cleaning head 1102 and the tool 1100 to rotate independently of each other when coupled together.

The cleaning head 1102 includes a wiping surface 1104 and an embossing member 1106. The scraping surface 1104 may be configured to clean a surface of a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device. The embossing member 1106 may be coupled to the cover 1130.

The cover 1130 may be configured to be coupled to the cleaning head 1102. When coupled to the cleaning head 1102, the cover 1130 can receive the tool 1100 within the interior volume 1132. The cover may include a recessed member 1134. The recessed member 1134 may be configured to engage with the embossing member 1106 to couple the cover 1134 to the cleaning head 1102.

Fig. 24 illustrates a partial view of a tool 1200 having a consumable component 1202 according to embodiments herein.

The tool 1200 includes a tool base 1218, an elongate member 1212, and a pivot member 1220. An elongate member 1212 extends from the tool base 1218. Slots 1216 are defined between the elongate members 1212. The pivoting member 1220 is disposed between the tool base 1218 and the two distal ends 1214.

The pivot member 1220 can include one or more channels 1222. Channel 1222 is flared at receiving end 1224. The receiving end 1224 of each channel 1222 is configured to receive a rib.

The tool 1200 may include a consumable component 1202. The consumable member 1202 may include a recess 1204. The recess 1204 may be configured to receive an elongate member 1212.

For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, amounts, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about". Further, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges therein that may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood as A. + -. 10% A. In this context, the number a may be considered to comprise values within a general standard error for the measurement of the property modified by said number a. In some instances, as used in the appended claims, the number a may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount by which a deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. Further, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed, and include any intermediate ranges therein that may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

1. A tool for cleaning an aerosol-generating device having a heating chamber, the tool comprising:

a tool base; and

a first elongate member extending from the tool base, the first elongate member including a first distal end distal from the tool base; and

a second elongate member extending from the tool base, the second elongate member including a second distal end distal from the tool base,

wherein a slot is defined between the first and second elongated members; and

a pivot member disposed between the tool base and both the first distal end of the first elongate member and the second distal end of the second elongate member, wherein the pivot member is configured to allow the first elongate member and the second elongate member to pivot in a preferred direction transverse to the extension of the first elongate member, and wherein the pivot member is configured to restrict the first elongate member and the second elongate member from pivoting in a non-preferred direction.

2. The tool of claim 1, wherein the pivot member comprises an oblong member defining an outer circumference having a channel configured to engage with a rib of the heating chamber to prevent axial rotation of the first and second elongated members within the heating chamber.

3. The tool of claim 2, wherein the elliptical member comprises a disk or cylinder.

4. The tool of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tool further comprises bristles extending from the first and second elongated members.

5. The tool or system of claim 4, wherein the bristles extend radially outward from the first and second elongated members.

6. The tool of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first elongate member includes a first planar surface facing the slot and the second elongate member includes a second planar surface facing the slot, the first planar surface extending through a first plane and the second planar surface extending through a second plane, wherein the first plane and the second plane are parallel planes and the first planar surface and the second planar surface extend parallel to each other.

7. The tool of any one of claims 1-5, wherein at least one of the first and second elongate members comprises one or more ridges on a surface facing the groove.

8. The tool of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tool further comprises:

a lid configured to couple with the aerosol-generating device, wherein the first elongate member and the second elongate member are configured to contact a bottom wall when the lid is coupled with the aerosol-generating device; and

a rod operatively coupling the first and second elongated members to the cap to allow reciprocal movement of the first and second elongated members.

9. A tool according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the tool base comprises a cleaning head for cleaning a heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device, the cleaning head comprising one or more scraping surfaces.

10. The tool of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the first and second distal ends are laterally movable relative to each other to adjust a width of the slot between the first and second distal ends.

11. The tool or system of claim 10, further comprising one or more bearings configured to engage at least one of the first and second elongate members to limit a width of the slot between the first and second distal ends.

12. The tool of any of the preceding claims, further comprising a motor coupled to the first and second elongated members, the motor configured to provide reciprocating movement of the first and second elongated members.

13. The tool of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tool further comprises:

a cleaning station body configured to receive the aerosol-generating device, the cleaning station body being mechanically coupled to the first and second elongate members to allow reciprocating movement of the first and second elongate members; and

a rod mechanically coupled to the tool base to control reciprocating movement of the first and second elongated members.

14. A system, comprising:

an aerosol-generating device comprising a heating chamber and a heating sheet having a substantially rectangular cross-section, the heating sheet extending into the heating chamber from a bottom chamber wall of the heating chamber; and

the tool of any one of the preceding claims.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein first and second elongated members are configured to be received in the heating chamber such that the heater chip is at least partially received in the slot, and at least one of the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member extends to the bottom chamber wall such that reciprocal movement of the at least one of the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member within the heating chamber is configured to scrape against the bottom chamber wall.

16. A system, comprising:

a tool for cleaning the aerosol-generating device, the tool comprising:

a tool base; and

wherein a slot is defined between the first and second elongated members,

wherein the first and second elongated members are configured to be received in the heating chamber such that the heater chip is at least partially received in the slot and at least one of the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member extends to the bottom chamber wall such that reciprocal movement of the at least one of the first distal end of the first elongated member and the second distal end of the second elongated member within the heating chamber is configured to scrape against the bottom chamber wall.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the tool further comprises a pivoting member disposed between the base and both the first distal end of the first elongate member and the second distal end of the second elongate member, wherein the pivoting member is configured to allow the first elongate member and the second elongate member to pivot in a preferred direction transverse to the extension of the first elongate member, and wherein the pivoting member is configured to limit the first elongate member and the second elongate member from pivoting in a non-preferred direction.