EP4079168A1 - Portable device for flavouring a shredded tobacco substrate before use - Google Patents
Portable device for flavouring a shredded tobacco substrate before use Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP4079168A1 EP4079168A1 EP21170189.1A EP21170189A EP4079168A1 EP 4079168 A1 EP4079168 A1 EP 4079168A1 EP 21170189 A EP21170189 A EP 21170189A EP 4079168 A1 EP4079168 A1 EP 4079168A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- compartment
- portable device
- tobacco substrate
- shredded tobacco
- mixing
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Withdrawn
Links
- 241000208125 Nicotiana Species 0.000 title claims abstract description 62
- 235000002637 Nicotiana tabacum Nutrition 0.000 title claims abstract description 62
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 62
- 239000000796 flavoring agent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 48
- 235000013355 food flavoring agent Nutrition 0.000 claims abstract description 27
- 235000019634 flavors Nutrition 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- 239000000443 aerosol Substances 0.000 claims description 23
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 9
- 239000002775 capsule Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000007921 spray Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 235000019504 cigarettes Nutrition 0.000 description 5
- 238000003860 storage Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 4
- 238000005096 rolling process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920000331 Polyhydroxybutyrate Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000005015 poly(hydroxybutyrate) Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000019640 taste Nutrition 0.000 description 2
- NOOLISFMXDJSKH-UTLUCORTSA-N (+)-Neomenthol Chemical compound CC(C)[C@@H]1CC[C@@H](C)C[C@@H]1O NOOLISFMXDJSKH-UTLUCORTSA-N 0.000 description 1
- NOOLISFMXDJSKH-UHFFFAOYSA-N DL-menthol Natural products CC(C)C1CCC(C)CC1O NOOLISFMXDJSKH-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 244000269722 Thea sinensis Species 0.000 description 1
- 239000000919 ceramic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003993 interaction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 229940041616 menthol Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920006132 styrene block copolymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/30—Devices using two or more structurally separated inhalable precursors, e.g. using two liquid precursors in two cartridges
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F25/00—Devices used by the smoker for controlling the moisture content of, or for scenting, cigars, cigarettes or tobacco
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/20—Devices using solid inhalable precursors
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a portable device intended for flavouring shredded tobacco substrates.
- an object of the present invention is to overcome the above mentioned drawbacks.
- the proposed invention provides notably an embodiment of a portable device intended for flavouring a shredded tobacco substrate and comprising a first compartment configured to receive a shredded tobacco substrate.
- Such a portable device allows a simple and easy production of a flavoured tobacco substrate ready for use.
- the embodiment of portable device may comprise other aspects or features, considered separately or combined, as defined hereafter.
- the invention aims, notably, at offering a portable device 1 intended, at least, for producing a flavoured tobacco substrate 2 from the mixing of a shredded tobacco substrate 3 and a flavouring agent contained into a container 4.
- a portable device 1 comprises at least a first compartment 5, a second compartment 6, a mixing compartment 7, and an access control means 8.
- the first compartment 5 is configured to receive a shredded tobacco substrate 3. This shredded tobacco substrate 3 is manually introduced by a user into the first compartment 5.
- the second compartment 6 is configured to receive a flavour container 4 comprising a flavouring agent.
- This flavour container 4 is replaceable by the user of the portable device 1, and can be preferably chosen between several flavour containers 4 containing respectively flavouring agents having different flavours.
- each flavour container 4 may be a rigid capsule or a pouch (possibly similar to a tea bag), preferably made of biodegradable or compostable material.
- a polyhydroxybutyrate (or PHB) material or a styrenic block copolymer (or TPS) material can be used.
- flavouring agent may be a gaz or a liquid.
- flavours there may be for example menthol, fruity and fudge, etc.
- the second compartment 6 may comprise an opening (not illustrated) that allows the user to retrieve a flavour container 4 that has been used and to introduce a new flavour container 4.
- an opening may be a door that can be locked/unlocked by the user.
- the mixing compartment 7 is coupled (directly or indirectly) to the first 5 and second 6 compartments.
- the access control means 8 is configured to control accesses between the first compartment 5, second compartment 6 and mixing compartment 7 to allow release of the shredded tobacco substrate 3 and flavouring agent into the mixing compartment 7 so that they mix together to produce a flavoured tobacco substrate 2.
- flavoured tobacco substrate 2 This allows a simple and easy production of a flavoured tobacco substrate 2 ready for use.
- the access control means 8 may comprise at least a shutter (or flap) controlling access of the shredded tobacco substrate 3 to an outlet 9 of the first compartment 5.
- This (each) shutter 8 may be manually actuated by the user by means of a dedicated control element (or unit), or else electronically actuated by a control device 10 of the portable device 1 when it receives a user command through a user interface 11.
- the portable device 1 may be configured to allow release of the shredded tobacco substrate 3 and flavouring agent into the mixing compartment 7 by gravity. In this case, once the shutter(s) is (are) in the second (or open) state, the user must hold the portable device 1 in an approximately upright position to allow the shredded tobacco substrate 3 and flavouring agent to fall into the mixing compartment 7.
- the mixing compartment 7 may be adapted to mix the shredded tobacco substrate 3 and flavouring agent when it is shaken (manually) by a user.
- the user has just to shake the portable device 1 during several seconds (typically between 5 s and 10 s) in order to mix them and then to obtain the flavoured tobacco substrate 2 into the mixing compartment 7.
- the mixing compartment 7 may be made in stainless steel in order to be easily cleaned by the user by means of a suitable brush.
- the mixing compartment 7 may comprise a first opening 11 that allows the user to retrieve the produced flavoured tobacco substrate 2.
- a first opening 11 may be, for instance, a door that is locked during shaking and unlocked by the user when he wants to retrieve the produced flavoured tobacco substrate 2.
- the portable device 1 is used for producing a flavoured tobacco substrate 2 that the user introduces manually in a paper, after retrieval from the mixing compartment 7, before rolling this paper manually or by means of a dedicated rolling device.
- the amount of the flavoured tobacco substrate 2 delivered to the user can correspond substantially to a substrate dose necessary for making a cigarette, according to known techniques "Roll your Own” (or “RYO") and/or “Make your Own” (or “MYO”).
- the dimensions of the first compartment 5 can be adapted to receive a predetermined amount of the shredded tobacco substrate 3.
- the first compartment 5 can be used as a measuring receptacle allowing the user to obtain the desired dose of flavoured substrate.
- the first compartment 5 can comprise visual indicators allowing the user to vary the amount of the shredded tobacco substrate 3 basing for example on the cigarette dimensions and/or number intended to be obtained.
- the portable device 1 may also allow the user to inhale components produced by heating of the flavoured tobacco substrate 2 into the mixing compartment 7.
- the mixing compartment 7 comprises a heater 12 configured to heat the flavoured tobacco substrate 2 to generate an aerosol when it is supplied with electrical energy, and an aerosol opening 13 for releasing this generated aerosol.
- the portable device 1 comprises a power source 14 storing electrical energy, and the above mentioned control device 10 for controlling supply of electrical energy to the heater 12.
- this power source 14 may be a rechargeable battery.
- the portable device 1 may comprise an electrical connector to which a charger cable may be connected during a charging session of the rechargeable battery 14.
- a charger cable may be coupled to an (AC) adapter or to a wall socket.
- the charger cable and/or the (AC) adapter may belong to the portable device 1.
- the heater 12 may comprise a ceramic plate providing a temperature around 300°C under control of the control device 10 during a vaping session.
- this control device (or controller) 10 may be fixed onto a printed circuit board (or PCB) 15.
- controller should not be construed to refer exclusively to hardware capable of executing software, and may implicitly include, without limitation, digital signal processor (DSP) hardware, processor, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA), read only memory (ROM) for storing software, random access memory (RAM), and non volatile storage. Other hardware, conventional and/or custom, may also be included.
- DSP digital signal processor
- ASIC application specific integrated circuit
- FPGA field programmable gate array
- ROM read only memory
- RAM random access memory
- non volatile storage Other hardware, conventional and/or custom, may also be included.
- the functions of the control device (or controller) 10 may be carried out through the operation of program logic, through dedicated logic, through the interaction of program control and dedicated logic, or even manually (by the user). These functions may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware as well as hardware capable of executing software in association with appropriate software.
- the user interface 11 is coupled to the control device (or controller) 10 and the power source 14 and allows the user to control at least partly the control device (or controller) 10.
- the user interface 11 may be fixed partly to the printed circuit board 15 to ease and simplify its connections with the control device (or controller) 10. But the user interface 11 may have its own printed circuit board connected to the printed circuit board 15 by wires of flexible circuit(s) in order to be deported anywhere.
- control device or controller
- user interface 11 may be housed in a first body 16 of the portable device 1, which is coupled to the second compartment 6.
- the coupling between the first body 16 and the second compartment 6 can be done by screwing by means of two corresponding threaded portions, or by clipping or else by means of magnets.
- the portable device 1 may also comprise an aerosol pipe 17 communicating with the aerosol opening 13 and comprising an outlet 18 for delivering the generated aerosol to a user.
- an aerosol pipe 17 may be detachable in order to be cleaned.
- this aerosol pipe 17 may be made in stainless steel, for instance.
- the aerosol pipe 17 may be fluidly coupled to a mouthpiece (or mouth end) 19 that is more comfortable for the user than the standard outlet 18 of the aerosol pipe 17.
- a mouthpiece 19 may be detachable, for instance to be cleaned or replaced by a new one.
- the first compartment 5 may be located above the second compartment 6, and the second compartment 6 may be located above the mixing compartment 7 and may communicate at least with the mixing compartment 7 through an outlet 20, possibly under control of the access control means 8.
- the first compartment 5 may communicate with the second compartment 6 under control of the access control means 8, as illustrated in the non-limiting example of figures 1 and 2 .
- the shutter 8 controls the access to the outlet 9 of the first compartment 5 allowing access to the second compartment 6.
- this shutter 8 could control the access to the outlet 20 of the second compartment 6 allowing access to the mixing compartment 7.
- the first compartment 5 could communicate through a pipe (or conduit) with the mixing compartment 7 under control of the access control means 8, while in parallel the second compartment 6 communicates with the mixing compartment 7 through the outlet 20.
- the second compartment 6 could be located above the first compartment 5, and the first compartment 5 could be located above the mixing compartment 7 and could communicate with the second compartment 6, possibly under control of the access control means 8, and with the mixing compartment 7, under control of the access control means 8.
- first 5 and second 6 compartments could be located at the same level of the portable device 1, and could communicate separately with the mixing compartment 7, possibly under control of the access control means 8.
- the second compartment 6 may comprise a piercing element 21 adapted to pierce the flavour container 4 to define hole(s) allowing to release the flavouring agent.
- This piercing element 21 is manually actuated by the user when he decides to mix shredded tobacco substrate 3 with the flavouring agent. As illustrated, the piercing element 21 may be fitted in the second compartment 6 so that it can slide when it is pushed by the user inside the second compartment 6. Preferably, this piercing element 21 is fitted against an elastic restoring force that allows it to return to its initial position (illustrated in figures 1 and 2 ) when the user does not push anymore on it. This elastic restoring force may be provided by a return coil spring 22.
- the piercing element 21 may be made in stainless steel in order to be easily cleaned by the user when it is detachable.
- the first compartment 5 may comprise a reservoir 23 containing a liquid, and a sprayer 24 coupled to this reservoir 23 and arranged to spray liquid on the shredded tobacco substrate 3 to moisten the latter (3) before it is released and mixed.
- This liquid may be water.
- the sprayer 24 comprises a pump protruding outside the first compartment 5 and that may be manually actuated by the user for example through successive pushes.
- the sprayer 24 may be fully housed into the first compartment 5 and electronically actuated by the control device 10 when it receives a user command through the user interface 11 (or a dedicated command button (or touch)).
- the liquid capacity of the reservoir 23 can be typically equal to 10 ml, for instance.
- the first compartment 5 may comprise an opening that allows the user to retrieve the reservoir 23 in order to refill it, and possibly to clean it. This opening may also offer an access to the first compartment 5 that allows the user to introduce each new shredded tobacco substrate 3. Such an opening may be a door that is locked during shaking and unlocked by the user when he wants to introduce a new shredded tobacco substrate 3 or to refill the reservoir 23.
- the first compartment 5 may be detachable from the second compartment 6. This may ease introduction of a new shredded tobacco substrate 3 or filling of the reservoir 23.
- the coupling between the first 5 and second 6 compartments can be done by screwing by means of two corresponding threaded portions, or by clipping or else by means of magnets, for instance.
- the second compartment 6 may comprise an ejector (not illustrated) configured to eject a flavour container 4 that has been used.
- This ejector may be manually actuated by the user when he pulls on it, or may be electronically actuated by the control device 10 when it receives a user command through the user interface 11 (or a dedicated command button (or touch)).
- the first compartment 5 and the mixing compartment 7 may have a storage capacity that allows storage of an amount of shredded tobacco substrate 3 corresponding substantially to a cigarette dose.
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to a portable device intended for flavouring shredded tobacco substrates.
- A lot of smokers enjoy preparing their own cigarettes by introducing a shredded tobacco substrate in a paper ready to be rolled manually or by means of a dedicated rolling device.
- Some of these smokers appreciate changing the flavour taste of their tobacco from time to time. So, they need to carry with them several pouches containing respectively tobaccos having different flavour tastes, which is not really convenient.
- So, an object of the present invention is to overcome the above mentioned drawbacks.
- The proposed invention provides notably an embodiment of a portable device intended for flavouring a shredded tobacco substrate and comprising a first compartment configured to receive a shredded tobacco substrate.
- This portable device is characterized in that it further comprises:
- a second compartment configured to receive a flavour container comprising a flavouring agent,
- a mixing compartment coupled to these first and second compartments, and
- an access control means configured to control accesses between the first compartment, second compartment and mixing compartment to allow release of the shredded tobacco substrate and flavouring agent into the mixing compartment so that they mix together to produce a flavoured tobacco substrate.
- Such a portable device allows a simple and easy production of a flavoured tobacco substrate ready for use.
- The embodiment of portable device may comprise other aspects or features, considered separately or combined, as defined hereafter.
- In an example of embodiment, the access control means may comprise at least a shutter controlling access of the shredded tobacco substrate to an outlet of the first compartment.
- In another example of embodiment, the portable device may be configured to allow release of the shredded tobacco substrate and flavouring agent into the mixing compartment by gravity;
- In another example of embodiment, the mixing compartment may be adapted to mix the shredded tobacco substrate and flavouring agent when it is shaken by a user.
- In another example of embodiment, the mixing compartment may comprise a first opening allowing a user to retrieve the produced flavoured tobacco substrate.
- In another example of embodiment, the mixing compartment may further comprise a heater configured to heat the flavoured tobacco substrate to generate an aerosol when it is supplied with electrical energy, and an aerosol opening for releasing this generated aerosol. In this case, the portable device may further comprise a power source storing electrical energy and a control device for controlling supply of electrical energy to the heater. For instance, this power source may be a rechargeable battery.
- In the last example of embodiment, the portable device may further comprise a aerosol pipe communicating with the aerosol opening and comprising an outlet for delivering the generated aerosol to a user.
- In another example of embodiment, the first compartment may be located above the second compartment, and the second compartment may be located above the mixing compartment and may communicate at least with the mixing compartment.
- In the last example of embodiment, the first compartment may communicate with the second compartment under control of the access control means.
- In a variant of the last example of embodiment, the first compartment may communicate with the mixing compartment under control of the access control means.
- In another example of embodiment, the second compartment may further comprise a piercing element adapted to pierce the flavour container to release the flavouring agent.
- In another example of embodiment, the first compartment may further comprise a reservoir containing a liquid, and a sprayer coupled to this reservoir and arranged to spray liquid on the shredded tobacco substrate to moisten the latter.
- In another example of embodiment, the first compartment may be detachable from the second compartment.
- In another example of embodiment, the second compartment may further comprise an ejector configured to eject the flavour container.
- In another example of embodiment, the flavour container may be a rigid capsule or a pouch, preferably made of biodegradable or compostable material.
- In another example of embodiment, the first compartment and the mixing compartment may have a storage capacity that allows storage of an amount of shredded tobacco substrate corresponding substantially to a cigarette dose.
- The invention and its advantages will be better understood upon reading the following detailed description, which is given solely by way of non-limiting examples and which is made with reference to the appended drawings, in which :
-
Figure 1 (FIG.1 ) schematically illustrates an example of embodiment of a portable device according to the invention, before the mixing of a shredded tobacco substrate and a flavouring agent, and -
Figure 2 (FIG.2 ) schematically illustrates the portable device offigure 1 after the mixing of the shredded tobacco substrate and flavouring agent. - The invention aims, notably, at offering a
portable device 1 intended, at least, for producing a flavouredtobacco substrate 2 from the mixing of a shreddedtobacco substrate 3 and a flavouring agent contained into acontainer 4. - As illustrated in
figures 1 and2 aportable device 1, according to the invention, comprises at least afirst compartment 5, asecond compartment 6, amixing compartment 7, and an access control means 8. - The
first compartment 5 is configured to receive a shreddedtobacco substrate 3. This shreddedtobacco substrate 3 is manually introduced by a user into thefirst compartment 5. - The
second compartment 6 is configured to receive aflavour container 4 comprising a flavouring agent. Thisflavour container 4 is replaceable by the user of theportable device 1, and can be preferably chosen betweenseveral flavour containers 4 containing respectively flavouring agents having different flavours. - For instance, each
flavour container 4 may be a rigid capsule or a pouch (possibly similar to a tea bag), preferably made of biodegradable or compostable material. For instance, a polyhydroxybutyrate (or PHB) material or a styrenic block copolymer (or TPS) material can be used. - Also for instance, the flavouring agent may be a gaz or a liquid.
- Amongst the possible flavours there may be for example menthol, fruity and fudge, etc.
- Also for instance, the
second compartment 6 may comprise an opening (not illustrated) that allows the user to retrieve aflavour container 4 that has been used and to introduce anew flavour container 4. Such an opening may be a door that can be locked/unlocked by the user. - The
mixing compartment 7 is coupled (directly or indirectly) to the first 5 and second 6 compartments. - The access control means 8 is configured to control accesses between the
first compartment 5,second compartment 6 and mixingcompartment 7 to allow release of the shreddedtobacco substrate 3 and flavouring agent into themixing compartment 7 so that they mix together to produce a flavouredtobacco substrate 2. - So, in a first (or close) state of the access control means 8 (illustrated in
figure 1 ) the shreddedtobacco substrate 3 and flavouring agent cannot be mixed into themixing compartment 7, while in a second (or open) state of the access control means 8 (illustrated infigure 2 ) the shreddedtobacco substrate 3 and flavouring agent can be mixed into themixing compartment 7. - This allows a simple and easy production of a flavoured
tobacco substrate 2 ready for use. - For instance, and as illustrated in the non-limiting example of
figures 1 and2 , the access control means 8 may comprise at least a shutter (or flap) controlling access of the shreddedtobacco substrate 3 to anoutlet 9 of thefirst compartment 5. - This (each)
shutter 8 may be manually actuated by the user by means of a dedicated control element (or unit), or else electronically actuated by acontrol device 10 of theportable device 1 when it receives a user command through auser interface 11. - Also for instance, the
portable device 1 may be configured to allow release of the shreddedtobacco substrate 3 and flavouring agent into themixing compartment 7 by gravity. In this case, once the shutter(s) is (are) in the second (or open) state, the user must hold theportable device 1 in an approximately upright position to allow the shreddedtobacco substrate 3 and flavouring agent to fall into themixing compartment 7. - Also for instance, the
mixing compartment 7 may be adapted to mix the shreddedtobacco substrate 3 and flavouring agent when it is shaken (manually) by a user. In other words, once theshredded tobacco substrate 3 and the flavouring agent haven fallen into themixing compartment 7, the user has just to shake theportable device 1 during several seconds (typically between 5 s and 10 s) in order to mix them and then to obtain the flavouredtobacco substrate 2 into themixing compartment 7. - Also for instance, the
mixing compartment 7 may be made in stainless steel in order to be easily cleaned by the user by means of a suitable brush. - Also for instance, and as illustrated in the non-limiting example of
figures 1 and2 , themixing compartment 7 may comprise afirst opening 11 that allows the user to retrieve the produced flavouredtobacco substrate 2. Such afirst opening 11 may be, for instance, a door that is locked during shaking and unlocked by the user when he wants to retrieve the produced flavouredtobacco substrate 2. It is important to note that in this embodiment theportable device 1 is used for producing a flavouredtobacco substrate 2 that the user introduces manually in a paper, after retrieval from themixing compartment 7, before rolling this paper manually or by means of a dedicated rolling device. In this case, the amount of the flavouredtobacco substrate 2 delivered to the user can correspond substantially to a substrate dose necessary for making a cigarette, according to known techniques "Roll your Own" (or "RYO") and/or "Make your Own" (or "MYO"). In this case, the dimensions of thefirst compartment 5 can be adapted to receive a predetermined amount of the shreddedtobacco substrate 3. In other words, thefirst compartment 5 can be used as a measuring receptacle allowing the user to obtain the desired dose of flavoured substrate. In some cases, thefirst compartment 5 can comprise visual indicators allowing the user to vary the amount of the shreddedtobacco substrate 3 basing for example on the cigarette dimensions and/or number intended to be obtained. - In the embodiment illustrated non-limitatively in
figures 1 and2 , theportable device 1 may also allow the user to inhale components produced by heating of the flavouredtobacco substrate 2 into themixing compartment 7. - In this embodiment, the
mixing compartment 7 comprises aheater 12 configured to heat the flavouredtobacco substrate 2 to generate an aerosol when it is supplied with electrical energy, and anaerosol opening 13 for releasing this generated aerosol. Moreover, theportable device 1 comprises apower source 14 storing electrical energy, and the above mentionedcontrol device 10 for controlling supply of electrical energy to theheater 12. - For instance, this
power source 14 may be a rechargeable battery. In this case theportable device 1 may comprise an electrical connector to which a charger cable may be connected during a charging session of therechargeable battery 14. Such a charger cable may be coupled to an (AC) adapter or to a wall socket. The charger cable and/or the (AC) adapter may belong to theportable device 1. - Also for instance, the
heater 12 may comprise a ceramic plate providing a temperature around 300°C under control of thecontrol device 10 during a vaping session. - As illustrated in
figures 1 and2 , this control device (or controller) 10 may be fixed onto a printed circuit board (or PCB) 15. - Explicit use of the term "controller" should not be construed to refer exclusively to hardware capable of executing software, and may implicitly include, without limitation, digital signal processor (DSP) hardware, processor, application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA), read only memory (ROM) for storing software, random access memory (RAM), and non volatile storage. Other hardware, conventional and/or custom, may also be included. The functions of the control device (or controller) 10 may be carried out through the operation of program logic, through dedicated logic, through the interaction of program control and dedicated logic, or even manually (by the user). These functions may be provided through the use of dedicated hardware as well as hardware capable of executing software in association with appropriate software.
- The
user interface 11 is coupled to the control device (or controller) 10 and thepower source 14 and allows the user to control at least partly the control device (or controller) 10. - For instance, and as illustrated in the non-limiting example of
figures 1 and2 , theuser interface 11 may be fixed partly to the printedcircuit board 15 to ease and simplify its connections with the control device (or controller) 10. But theuser interface 11 may have its own printed circuit board connected to the printedcircuit board 15 by wires of flexible circuit(s) in order to be deported anywhere. - As illustrated, the control device (or controller) 10,
user interface 11,power source 14 andmixing compartment 7 may be housed in afirst body 16 of theportable device 1, which is coupled to thesecond compartment 6. - For instance, the coupling between the
first body 16 and thesecond compartment 6 can be done by screwing by means of two corresponding threaded portions, or by clipping or else by means of magnets. - In the case where the
portable device 1 allows the user to inhale an aerosol, it may also comprise anaerosol pipe 17 communicating with theaerosol opening 13 and comprising anoutlet 18 for delivering the generated aerosol to a user. Such anaerosol pipe 17 may be detachable in order to be cleaned. Moreover, thisaerosol pipe 17 may be made in stainless steel, for instance. More, and as illustrated in the non-limiting example offigures 1 and2 , theaerosol pipe 17 may be fluidly coupled to a mouthpiece (or mouth end) 19 that is more comfortable for the user than thestandard outlet 18 of theaerosol pipe 17. Such amouthpiece 19 may be detachable, for instance to be cleaned or replaced by a new one. - Also for instance, and as illustrated in the non-limiting example of
figures 1 and2 , thefirst compartment 5 may be located above thesecond compartment 6, and thesecond compartment 6 may be located above themixing compartment 7 and may communicate at least with themixing compartment 7 through anoutlet 20, possibly under control of the access control means 8. - With such an arrangement, the
first compartment 5 may communicate with thesecond compartment 6 under control of the access control means 8, as illustrated in the non-limiting example offigures 1 and2 . In this case and as illustrated, theshutter 8 controls the access to theoutlet 9 of thefirst compartment 5 allowing access to thesecond compartment 6. But in a variant thisshutter 8 could control the access to theoutlet 20 of thesecond compartment 6 allowing access to themixing compartment 7. In another variant (not illustrated), thefirst compartment 5 could communicate through a pipe (or conduit) with themixing compartment 7 under control of the access control means 8, while in parallel thesecond compartment 6 communicates with themixing compartment 7 through theoutlet 20. - In a first variant of embodiment (not illustrated), the
second compartment 6 could be located above thefirst compartment 5, and thefirst compartment 5 could be located above themixing compartment 7 and could communicate with thesecond compartment 6, possibly under control of the access control means 8, and with themixing compartment 7, under control of the access control means 8. - In a second variant of embodiment (also not illustrated), the first 5 and second 6 compartments could be located at the same level of the
portable device 1, and could communicate separately with themixing compartment 7, possibly under control of the access control means 8. - Also for instance, and as illustrated in the non-limiting example of
figures 1 and2 , thesecond compartment 6 may comprise a piercingelement 21 adapted to pierce theflavour container 4 to define hole(s) allowing to release the flavouring agent. - This piercing
element 21 is manually actuated by the user when he decides to mix shreddedtobacco substrate 3 with the flavouring agent. As illustrated, the piercingelement 21 may be fitted in thesecond compartment 6 so that it can slide when it is pushed by the user inside thesecond compartment 6. Preferably, this piercingelement 21 is fitted against an elastic restoring force that allows it to return to its initial position (illustrated infigures 1 and2 ) when the user does not push anymore on it. This elastic restoring force may be provided by areturn coil spring 22. - For instance, the piercing
element 21 may be made in stainless steel in order to be easily cleaned by the user when it is detachable. - Also for instance, and as illustrated in the non-limiting example of
figures 1 and2 , thefirst compartment 5 may comprise areservoir 23 containing a liquid, and asprayer 24 coupled to thisreservoir 23 and arranged to spray liquid on the shreddedtobacco substrate 3 to moisten the latter (3) before it is released and mixed. This liquid may be water. - The
sprayer 24 comprises a pump protruding outside thefirst compartment 5 and that may be manually actuated by the user for example through successive pushes. In a variant (not illustrated) thesprayer 24 may be fully housed into thefirst compartment 5 and electronically actuated by thecontrol device 10 when it receives a user command through the user interface 11 (or a dedicated command button (or touch)). - The liquid capacity of the
reservoir 23 can be typically equal to 10 ml, for instance. Moreover, thefirst compartment 5 may comprise an opening that allows the user to retrieve thereservoir 23 in order to refill it, and possibly to clean it. This opening may also offer an access to thefirst compartment 5 that allows the user to introduce each new shreddedtobacco substrate 3. Such an opening may be a door that is locked during shaking and unlocked by the user when he wants to introduce a newshredded tobacco substrate 3 or to refill thereservoir 23. - For instance, the
first compartment 5 may be detachable from thesecond compartment 6. This may ease introduction of a newshredded tobacco substrate 3 or filling of thereservoir 23. In this case, the coupling between the first 5 and second 6 compartments can be done by screwing by means of two corresponding threaded portions, or by clipping or else by means of magnets, for instance. - Also for instance, the
second compartment 6 may comprise an ejector (not illustrated) configured to eject aflavour container 4 that has been used. This ejector may be manually actuated by the user when he pulls on it, or may be electronically actuated by thecontrol device 10 when it receives a user command through the user interface 11 (or a dedicated command button (or touch)). - Also for instance, and as mentioned above, the
first compartment 5 and themixing compartment 7 may have a storage capacity that allows storage of an amount of shreddedtobacco substrate 3 corresponding substantially to a cigarette dose. - It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that some block diagrams of
figures 1 and2 herein represent conceptual views of illustrative circuitry and/or combination of elements embodying the principles of the invention. - The description and drawings merely illustrate the principles of the invention. It will thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able to devise various arrangements that, although not explicitly described or shown herein, embody the principles of the invention and are included within its spirit and scope. Furthermore, all examples recited herein are principally intended expressly to be only for pedagogical purposes to aid the reader in understanding the principles of the invention and the concepts contributed by the inventor(s) to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Moreover, all statements herein reciting principles, aspects, and embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass equivalents thereof.
Claims (15)
- Portable device (1) intended for flavouring a shredded tobacco substrate (3) and comprising a first compartment (5) configured to receive a shredded tobacco substrate (3), wherein it further comprises:- a second compartment (6) configured to receive a flavour container (4) comprising a flavouring agent,- a mixing compartment (7) coupled to said first (5) and second (6) compartments, and- an access control means (8) configured to control accesses between said first compartment (5), second compartment (6) and mixing compartment (7) to allow release of said shredded tobacco substrate (3) and flavouring agent into said mixing compartment (7) so that they mix together to produce a flavoured tobacco substrate (2).
- Portable device according to claim 1, wherein said access control means (8) comprises at least a shutter controlling access of said shredded tobacco substrate (3) to an outlet (9) of said first compartment (5).
- Portable device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein it is configured to allow release of said shredded tobacco substrate (3) and flavouring agent into said mixing compartment (7) by gravity.
- Portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said mixing compartment (7) is adapted to mix said shredded tobacco substrate (3) and flavouring agent when it is shaken by a user.
- Portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said mixing compartment (7) comprises a first opening (11) allowing a user to retrieve said produced flavoured tobacco substrate (2).
- Portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said mixing compartment (7) further comprises a heater (12) configured to heat said flavoured tobacco substrate (2) to generate an aerosol when it is supplied with electrical energy, and an aerosol opening (13) for releasing said generated aerosol, and wherein it further comprises a power source (14) storing electrical energy and a control device (10) for controlling supply of electrical energy to said heater (12).
- Portable device according to claim 6, wherein it further comprises an aerosol pipe (17) communicating with said aerosol opening (13) and comprising an outlet (18) for delivering said generated aerosol to a user.
- Portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first compartment (5) is located above said second compartment (6), and said second compartment (6) is located above said mixing compartment (7) and communicates at least with said mixing compartment (7).
- Portable device according to claim 8, wherein said first compartment (5) communicates with said second compartment (6) under control of said access control means (8).
- Portable device according to claim 8, wherein said first compartment (5) communicates with said mixing compartment (7) under control of said access control means (8).
- Portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said second compartment (6) further comprises a piercing element (21) adapted to pierce said flavour container (4) to release said flavouring agent.
- Portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first compartment (5) further comprises a reservoir (23) containing a liquid, and a sprayer (24) coupled to said reservoir (23) and arranged to spray liquid on said shredded tobacco substrate (3) to moisten the latter.
- Portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said first compartment (5) is detachable from said second compartment (6).
- Portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said second compartment (6) further comprises an ejector configured to eject said flavour container (4).
- Portable device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said flavour container (4) is a rigid capsule or a pouch.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP21170189.1A EP4079168A1 (en) | 2021-04-23 | 2021-04-23 | Portable device for flavouring a shredded tobacco substrate before use |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP21170189.1A EP4079168A1 (en) | 2021-04-23 | 2021-04-23 | Portable device for flavouring a shredded tobacco substrate before use |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP4079168A1 true EP4079168A1 (en) | 2022-10-26 |
Family
ID=75659929
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP21170189.1A Withdrawn EP4079168A1 (en) | 2021-04-23 | 2021-04-23 | Portable device for flavouring a shredded tobacco substrate before use |
Country Status (1)
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EP (1) | EP4079168A1 (en) |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20120305418A1 (en) * | 2009-11-18 | 2012-12-06 | D Avila Arthur Pacheco | Package for Tobacco Industry Products |
US20150013693A1 (en) * | 2013-07-12 | 2015-01-15 | Richard C. Fuisz | Methods, Devices and Compositions to Enable to Flavor of Smoking Articles Including Tobacco and Marijuana |
US20160073680A1 (en) * | 2013-04-18 | 2016-03-17 | British American Tobacco (Investments) Limited | Container with substance carrier |
WO2018087165A1 (en) * | 2016-11-10 | 2018-05-17 | British American Tobacco (Investments) Limited | Tobacco blend |
-
2021
- 2021-04-23 EP EP21170189.1A patent/EP4079168A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20120305418A1 (en) * | 2009-11-18 | 2012-12-06 | D Avila Arthur Pacheco | Package for Tobacco Industry Products |
US20160073680A1 (en) * | 2013-04-18 | 2016-03-17 | British American Tobacco (Investments) Limited | Container with substance carrier |
US20150013693A1 (en) * | 2013-07-12 | 2015-01-15 | Richard C. Fuisz | Methods, Devices and Compositions to Enable to Flavor of Smoking Articles Including Tobacco and Marijuana |
WO2018087165A1 (en) * | 2016-11-10 | 2018-05-17 | British American Tobacco (Investments) Limited | Tobacco blend |
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