EP4228457A1

EP4228457A1 - Aerosol provision system

Info

Publication number: EP4228457A1
Application number: EP21798609.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: James Sheridan; Ben RAWLS
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Current assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date: 2020-10-19
Filing date: 2021-10-19
Publication date: 2023-08-23
Also published as: KR20230073262A; WO2022084332A1; JP2023546389A; GB202016563D0; US20230380496A1

Abstract

Disclosed herein is an aerosol provision system (1) comprising an aerosol provision device (2) comprising an outer face (3), wherein the outer face (3) comprises a first portion (5) and a second portion (6), the second portion 6 being recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion (5), wherein the aerosol provision device (2) comprises a connecting portion (7) that connects the first portion (5) to the second portion (6) and defines an undercut (8) in a direction non-parallel to the first direction; and a removable member (4) configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device (2) so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face (3), wherein the removable member (4) comprises at least one attachment element (9) configured to be removably receivable at least partially within the undercut (8) to restrict movement of the removable member (4) in a direction opposite to the first direction when the removable member is attached to the aerosol provision device (2).

Description

AEROSOL PROVISION SYSTEM

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an aerosol provision system, an aerosol provision device, a removable member for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device to customise the aerosol provision device, and a kit.

Background

Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like burn tobacco during use to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that bum tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products are heating devices which release compounds by heating, but not burning, the material. The material may be for example tobacco or other nontobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

Summary

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device comprising an outer face, wherein the outer face comprises a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion, wherein the aerosol provision device comprises a connecting portion that connects the first portion to the second portion and defines an undercut in a direction non-parallel to the first direction; and a removable member configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face, wherein the removable member comprises at least one attachment element configured to be removably receivable at least partially within the undercut to restrict movement of the removable member in a direction opposite to the first direction when the removable member is attached to the aerosol provision device.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising: an outer face, wherein the outer face comprises a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion; and a connecting portion that connects the first portion to the second portion and defines an undercut in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.

Optionally, the undercut extends substantially parallel to the first portion.

Optionally, the connecting portion defines a plurality of discrete undercuts, wherein each of the discrete undercuts is in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.

Optionally, the second portion is recessed in the first direction with respect the first portion to define a recess and the discrete undercuts are provided on respective opposite sides of the recess.

Optionally, the recess is elongate.

Optionally, the discrete undercuts are provided at respective opposite longitudinal ends of the recess.

Optionally, the aerosol provision device is configured to generate aerosol from non-liquid, e.g. solid, aerosol-generating material.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a removable member for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device to customise the aerosol provision device, the removable member comprising a body and at least one attachment element that protrudes from the body and is configured to be insertable into a hole in the aerosol provision device.

Optionally, the body comprises a plurality of layers.

Optionally, at least one of the plurality of layers is transparent to define a transparent layer and another of the plurality of layers is visible through the transparent layer. Optionally, at least one of the plurality of layers is integrally formed with the at least one attachment element.

Optionally, the removable member is resilient.

Optionally, the removable member comprises or consists of a metal or metal alloy.

Optionally, the removable member comprises or consists of spring steel.

Optionally, the body comprises an aperture for receiving a part of the aerosol provision device.

Optionally, the at least one attachment element is integrally formed with the body.

Optionally, the at least one attachment element comprises a different material to the body.

Optionally, the, or each, attachment element is resilient.

Optionally, the removable member has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and the width; wherein the length is greater than or equal to the width, and the width is greater than the depth; and wherein the or each attachment element protrudes from the body in a direction perpendicular to the depth.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol provision system, comprising: an aerosol provision device comprising an outer face; and a removable member configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face, wherein one of the aerosol provision device and the removable member comprises a magnetic material and the other of the aerosol provision device and the removable member is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material to hold the removable member against the outer face.

Optionally, the aerosol provision device comprises the magnetic material.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising: an outer face; and a magnetic material configured to attract a removable member towards the outer face, so as to hold the removable member against the outer face to customise the aerosol provision device.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit comprising: a removable member that is configured to be removably attachable to an aerosol provision device so as to cover at least a portion of an outer face of the aerosol generating device; and a tool configured to releasably engage with the removable member to assist in (a) detachment of the removable member from the aerosol generating device, and/or (b) attachment of the removable member to the aerosol generating device.

Optionally, the aerosol provision device of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present invention is the aerosol provision device of the second aspect of the present invention. Accordingly, any one or more of the above-described optional features of the aerosol provision device of the second aspect of the present invention may be present in the aerosol provision device of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present invention.

Optionally, the removable member of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present invention is the removable member of the third aspect of the present invention. Accordingly, any one or more of the above-described optional features of the removable member of the third aspect of the present invention may be present in the removable member of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present invention. Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only, which is made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an example aerosol provision system.

Figure 2 shows a further schematic view of the example aerosol provision system of Figure 1.

Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional schematic view of an example aerosol provision device.

Figure 4 shows a schematic view of an example removable member for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device.

Figure 5 shows an exploded schematic view of an example aerosol provision system.

Figure 6a shows a schematic view of an example aerosol provision system.

Figure 6b shows a schematic view of the removable member of the example aerosol provision system shown in Figure 6a.

Figure 7 shows a schematic view of an example aerosol provision system.

Figure 8 shows a schematic view of an example kit. Figures 9 to 14 show schematic views of alternative example aerosol provision systems.

Figure 15 shows a schematic view of part of an example tool.

Detailed Description

Figure 1 shows an aerosol provision system 1 according to one embodiment. The aerosol provision system 1 comprises an aerosol provision device 2 comprising an outer face 3, and a removable member 4. In Figure 1, the removable member 4 is shown detached from the aerosol provision device 2. Figure 2 shows the aerosol provision system 1 of Figure 1 with the removable member 4 attached to the aerosol provision device 2.

As shown in Figure 1, the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a housing 100 which forms an outer cover of the aerosol provision device 2 and surrounds and houses various components of the aerosol provision device 2. A chamber 101 is configured to receive a consumable (not shown in Figure 1) comprising aerosol -generating material from which the aerosol provision device 2 is configured to generate aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol provision device 2 generates aerosol from the consumable by heating the aerosol-generating material. In other embodiments, aerosol is generated from the aerosol-generating material by imparting energy to the aerosol-generating material in another way, for example, by use of ultrasonic energy.

The aerosol provision device 2 has an opening 102 in one end, which allows the consumable to be inserted into the chamber 101. In some embodiments, a portion of the consumable may be received in the chamber 101 of the aerosol provision device 2, while a portion of the consumable may protrude from the opening 102 of the device 100. In some embodiments, the portion of the consumable received in the chamber 101 comprises the aerosol-generating material from which the aerosol provision device 2 is configured to generate aerosol. The portion of the consumable which protrudes from the opening 102 may, for example, comprise a filter or the like, and the user may inhale the generated flow of aerosol from the portion of the consumable which protrudes from the opening 102 by inserting that portion into his or her mouth.

As shown in Figure 1, the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a user-operable control element 103, such as a button or switch, which operates the aerosol provision device 2 when pressed. For example, a user may turn on the device 100 by operating the user-operable control element 103.

In some embodiments, the aerosol provision device 2 also comprises an electrical component, such as a socket/port 105, which can receive a cable to charge a battery. For example, the socket 105 may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port. In some examples the socket 105 may be used additionally or alternatively to transfer data between the aerosol provision device 2 and another device, such as a computing device. The socket may also be electrically coupled to the battery via electrical tracks.

The end of the aerosol provision device 2 closest to the opening 105 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) of the aerosol provision device 2 because, in use, it is closest to the mouth of the user. In use, a user may insert the consumable into the opening 102, operate the user control 103 to begin heating the aerosolgenerating material and draw on the proximal end of the aerosol provision device 2. This causes the aerosol to flow through the aerosol provision device 2 along a flow path towards the proximal end of the aerosol provision device 2. In some embodiments, a portion of the consumable may protrude from the opening 102 and the user may draw on a proximal end of the consumable to cause the aerosol to flow to the proximal end of the aerosol provision device 2 to be inhaled. In other embodiments, the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a mouthpiece on which the user inhales to draw the flow of aerosol.

An end of the aerosol provision device 2 opposite the proximal end and furthest away from the opening 102 may be known as the distal end of the aerosol provision device 2 because, in use, it is the end furthest away from the mouth of the user. As a user draws on the aerosol generated in the aerosol provision device 2, the aerosol flows away from the distal end of the aerosol provision device 2.

As shown in Figure 1, the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a lid/cap 104. In other embodiments, the lid/cap 104 is omitted. Opening the lid/cap 104 provides access to the heating chamber 101. A user may, for example, open the lid to allow access to the heating chamber 101 for the consumable or to clean components in the heating chamber 101, e.g. to remove debris from previous usage sessions.

By providing an aerosol provision system 1 with a removable member 4, components of the system may be protected from impact forces. For example, the removable member 4 provides a barrier between the aerosol provision device 2 and an external object (e.g. a floor or other surface). When the removable member 4 contacts the external object, at least some of the force is absorbed or dissipated by the removable member 4 rather than being transferred to the aerosol provision device 2. This helps to reduce the chance of damaging the aerosol provision device 2. Should the removable member 4 become damaged as a result, the removable member 4 can be replaced rather than having to also replace the aerosol provision device 2. Furthermore, the removable and replaceable nature of the removable member 4 allows a user to customise the aerosol provision device 2. For example, specific textures, grip, or ergonomics can be provided on the removable member 4. The removable member 4 is releasably engageable with a surface of the aerosol provision device 2 to provide protection to the aerosol provision device 2 at specific locations. One or more such removable members 4 are provided for attachment to the aerosol provision device 2 to increase protection around the assembly at a plurality of locations. The aerosol provision system 1 is usable to generate an inhalable medium in use.

As discussed above, the removable member 4 can also be used to customise the aerosol provision device 2. For example, the removable member 4 may comprise a graphical pattern or colour on at least one surface. The user may then customise the aerosol provision device 2 by selecting a removable member 4 comprising their desired pattern or colour. Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol provision device 2 according to one embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, the outer face 3 comprises a first portion 5 and a second portion 6. The second portion 6 is recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion 5. The aerosol provision device 2 also comprises a connecting portion 7 that connects the first portion 5 to the second portion 6 and defines an undercut 8 in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 3 (as well as Figures 7, 10 and 12 discussed below), the first portion 5 of the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a section or rib which protrudes from the aerosol provision device 2. Alternatively, the first portion omits such a protrusion such that when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol provision device 2, the first portion 5 is substantially flush with a surface of the removable member 4 (as shown in Figure 2). Such an arrangement can be more comfortable for a user to hold and leaves fewer protrusions exposed which may be subject to wear and/or damage.

As shown in Figure 1, the removable member 4 is configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device 2 so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face 3. The removable member 4 comprises three attachment elements 9 configured to be removably receivable at least partially within the undercut 8 to restrict movement of the removable member 4 in a direction opposite to the first direction when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol provision device 2.

In Figure 1, three attachment elements 9 are provided on the periphery of the removable member 4. A first attachment element 9a is provided at a longitudinal end of the removable member 4 and two further attachment elements 9b, 9c are elongate and extend partially along opposite sides of the periphery of the removable member 4 between the longitudinal ends of the removable member 4. Although three attachment elements 9 are shown in Figure 1, greater or fewer attachment elements 9 may be used. For example, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 attachment elements may be used. In some embodiments, a single attachment element 9 may extend around substantially the entire perimeter of the removable member 4. Alternatively, two attachment elements 9 are provided, each being at an opposite longitudinal end of the removable member 4.

In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, the undercut 8 extends substantially parallel to the first portion 5. Alternatively, the undercut 8 may extend at an oblique angle relative to the first portion 5. For example, the undercut 8 may extend at an angle of between 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees relative to the first portion 5.

As discussed above in relation to Figure 3, the connecting portion 7 defines an undercut 8 in a direction non-parallel to the first direction. In some embodiments, the connecting portion 7 defines a plurality of discrete undercuts 8, wherein each of the discrete undercuts 8 is in a direction non-parallel to the first direction. In some embodiments, the number of discrete undercuts 8 is the same as the number of attachment elements 9. For example, the removable member 4 may comprise three attachment elements 9 and the aerosol provision device 2 may comprise three discrete undercuts 8 each corresponding to one of the attachment elements 9.

In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, the second portion 6 is recessed in the first direction with respect to the first portion 5 to define a recess (or hole) 10 and the discrete undercuts 8 are provided on respective opposite sides of the recess 10.

As shown in Figure 1, the recess 10 is elongate. In other embodiments, the recess 10 is non-elongate. The discrete undercuts 8 are provided at respective opposite longitudinal ends 17a, 17b of the recess 10. In other embodiments, an undercut 8 is provided at one longitudinal end 17a, 17b but not at the other longitudinal end 17a, 17b.

Figure 4 shows the removable member 4 of Figures 1 and 2 in isolation. The removable member 4 is for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device 2 (for example the aerosol provision device 2 of Figures 1 and 2). As described in relation to Figure 1 above, the removable member 4 comprises a body 11 and three attachment elements 9 that protrude from the body 11 and are configured to be insertable into a hole 13 in the aerosol provision device 2. A first attachment element 9a is provided at a longitudinal end of the removable member 4 and two further attachment elements 9b, 9c are elongate and extend partially along opposite sides of the periphery of the removable member 4 between the longitudinal ends of the removable member 4. In the embodiment shown in Figure 4, the attachment elements 9 are integrally formed with the body 11. Alternatively, the at attachment elements 9 may be separately formed components which are attached to the body 11 of the removable member 4.

As shown in Figure 4, the removable member 4 has a length L, a width W perpendicular to the length L, and a depth D perpendicular to each of the length L and the width W. The length L is greater than or equal to the width W, and the width W is greater than the depth D. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the width W may be greater than the length L and/or the depth D may be greater than the width W. As shown in Figure 4, the attachment elements 9 protrude from the body 11 in a direction perpendicular to the depth D.

Figure 5 shows an alternative form of the removable member 5. The body 11 of the removable member 4 comprises a plurality of layers 12. One of the plurality of layers 12 is transparent and defines a transparent layer 12a. As such, another of the plurality of layers 12 is visible through the transparent layer 12a.

For example, at least one of the plurality of layers 12 comprises a visual pattern. A transparent later 12a may be provided over the patterned layer such that the pattern is visible through the transparent layer. This allows the pattern to be seen while also providing protection to minimise damage and/or wear to the pattern during use. The user may select a removable member 4 with a particular pattern to make the aerosol provision device 2 easily recognisable.

In some embodiments, a surface of the removable member 4 comprises a texture. Such a texture may help a user grip the aerosol provision system 1 in use.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, one of the plurality of layers 12 is integrally formed with the attachment elements 9 (shown as layer 12b in Figure 5). As shown in Figure 5, the body 11 comprises adhesive layers 12c configured to adhere the layers on either side of the adhesive layers to each other. In other embodiments, any one or more of the layers discussed above is omitted.

In some embodiments, the removable member 4 is resilient. This allows the removable member 4 to be deformed slightly to aid insertion into the aerosol provision device 2. Alternatively only a part of the removable member 4 is resilient. For example, in the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the layer 12b comprising the attachment elements 9 is resilient. Specifically, at least the arms 16 of the layer 12b are resilient. As such, upon application of a force perpendicular to the arms 16 towards the centre of the removable member 4, the arms 16 deform towards the centre of the removable member 4. Once this force is released, the arms 16 return to their original position. This enables the removable member 4 to be more easily inserted into the aerosol provision device, and in particular allows the attachment elements 9 and/or arms 16 to be more easily positioned in the undercuts 8. As the arms 16 deform towards the centre of the removable member 4, the footprint of the removable member 4 is reduced, allowing the removable member 4 to more easily fit into the recess 10 in the aerosol provision device 2.

In some embodiments, the removable member 4 comprises or consists of metal or metal alloy. For example, the removable member may comprise or consist of stainless steel, such as at least one of stainless steel 301, 302, 304 or 316. In some embodiments, the removable member 4 comprises or consists of spring steel. Other metals or metal alloys with suitable spring characteristics may be used. In other embodiments, the removable member 4 comprises or consists of a polymer. For example, the removable member 4 is plastic, such as Nylon, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polypropylene (PP). In other embodiments, other polymers with suitable flexibility may be used.

In some embodiments, the at least one attachment element 9 comprises a different material to the body 11. In some embodiments, the, or each, attachment element 9 is resilient. In some embodiments, the, or each attachment element 9 is resilient 9 and the body 11 of the removable member 4 is not resilient. This allows the body 11 of the removable member 4 to retain strength while allowing the attachment element 9 to deform for easier insertion into the undercut 8.

In the embodiments shown in Figures 1, 2, 4 and 5, the body 11 of the removable member 4 comprises an aperture 13 for receiving a part of the aerosol provision device 2. The part of the aerosol provision device 2 received by the aperture 13 is a button 103 to operate the aerosol provision device 2, for example. Advantageously, the aperture 13 can help to align the removable member 4 with the aerosol provision device 2, when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol provision device 2. In other embodiments, the removable member 4 does not comprise an aperture 13 or another part of the aerosol provision device 2 protrudes through the aperture 13.

Figure 6a shows an aerosol provision system 1 according to one embodiment. The removable member 4 comprises three attachment elements 9 which extend perpendicular to a face of the removable member 4. In other embodiments, the removable member comprises greater or fewer than three attachment elements 9. The aerosol provision device 2 comprises at least one opening 18 corresponding to the at least one attachment element 9 of the removable member 4. When the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol provision device 2, the at least one attachment element 9 is received by the corresponding at least one opening 18 in the aerosol provision device 2. An interference fit is provided between the at least one attachment element 9 and the at least one opening 18 to hold the removable member 4 in place.

Figure 6b shows the removable member 4 of Figure 6a in isolation. As shown in Figure 6b, the attachment elements 9 are offset from a longitudinal axis of the removable member 4. The offset attachment elements 9 are configured to be received by correspondingly offset openings 18 in the aerosol provision device 2. In other embodiments, the attachment elements 9 are not offset from the longitudinal axis of the removable member 4. For example, in some embodiments the attachment elements 9 are aligned with the longitudinal axis of the removable member 4. Figure 7 shows an aerosol provision system 1 according to one embodiment. In the embodiment of Figure 7, the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a raised island

19 on the second portion 6 of the outer face 3. The removable member 4 comprises a corresponding cut out configured to receive the raised island 19. The aerosol provision system 1 also comprises a seal 20 which is configured to engage with a surface of the raised island 19 in use. The seal 20 is compressed between the raised island 19 and the removable member 4 and holds the removable member 4 in place when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol provision device 2. In some embodiments, the seal

20 comprises spring steel and/or the seal 20 does not from a complete loop. For example, when the seal 20 comprises spring steel, there is a gap provided in the seal 20 to allow the seal 20 to deform.

As shown in Figure 8, in some embodiments, a kit comprises a removable member 4 that is configured to be removably attachable to an aerosol generating device 14 so as to cover at least a portion of an outer face 3 of the aerosol generating device 14 and a tool 15 configured to releasably engage with the removable member 4 to assist in (a) detachment of the removable member 4 from the aerosol generating device 14, and/or (b) attachment of the removable member 4 to the aerosol generating device 14.

Figure 8 shows the removable member 4 comprising a plurality of layers 25. The removable member comprises two cover layers 25a between which is a latching layer 25b. An adhesive layer 25c is provided between each cover layer 25a and the latching layer 25b to adhere the cover layers 25a to the latching layer 25b.

As shown in Figure 8, the latching layer 25b comprises three attachment elements 26 which are configured to be received in an undercut (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 14. A first attachment element 26a is provided at a first longitudinal end of the removable member 4. A second and a third attachment element 26b, 26c are provided on opposite sides of the removable member 4 and extend from a second longitudinal end of the removable member 4 towards the first longitudinal end of the removable member 4. The second and third attachment elements 26b, 26c are resilient and are configured to be deformable towards each other. The second and third attachment elements 26b, 26c each comprise a slot 27 with which the tool 15 is configured to removably engage. The tool 15 comprises a first end portion 29a and a second end portion 29b each of which is engageable with a respective one of the slots 27 of the second and third attachment elements 26b, 26c. In use, the first end portion 29a and the second end portion 29b are movable towards each other to force the second attachment element 26b towards the third attachment element 26c. In some embodiments, such as that shown in Figure 8, the tool 15 is configured such that the end portions 29a, 29b are biased away from each other, to aid detachment of the tool 15 from the slots 27. The tool may be made of any suitably resilient material to achieve the biasing.

Providing the tool 15 to assist in attachment and/or detachment of the removable member 4 from the aerosol generating device 14 helps to reduce the risk of the user damaging the device and/or themselves when trying to attach and/or detach the removable member 4 from the aerosol generating device 14.

Figures 9 to 14 show alternative aerosol provision systems 1 comprising aerosol provision devices 2 and respective removable members 4. The aerosol provision systems 1 described in relation to Figures 9 to 14 are the same as those described in relation to Figures 1 to 8 above, with the addition of the features described in relation to each Figure.

Figure 9 shows a similar removable member 4 to that shown in Figure 5. The removable member 4 of Figure 9 comprises only a single arm 16, which may be deformed to allow for easier insertion of the removable member 4 into the recess (or hole) 10.

Figure 10 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising a removable member 4. The removable member 4 comprises a plurality of layers 28. As shown in Figure 10, the removable member 4 comprises a cover layer 28a, a backing layer 28b and an adhesive layer 28c. The adhesive layer 28c is provided between the cover layer 28a and the backing layer 28b to adhere the cover layer 28a to the backing layer 28c. In other embodiments one or more of the layers 28 may be omitted. The cover layer 28a comprises two attachment elements 9 (only one of which is shown in Figure 10) along opposite edges of the cover layer 28a which are formed by folding a part of the cover layer 28a. The attachment elements 9 are configured to be received in the undercut 8 of the aerosol provision device 2.

Figure 11 shows an alternative aerosol provision system 1 comprising a removable member 4 and an aerosol provision device 2. The aerosol provision system 1 comprises an aerosol provision device 2 comprising an outer face 3, and a removable member 4 configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device 2 so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face 3. The aerosol provision device 2 comprises a magnetic material and the removable member 4 is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material to hold the removable member 4 against the outer face 3. In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the aerosol provision device 2 is coated in the magnetic material (for example by magnetron puttering). In other embodiments, at least the outer face 3 of the aerosol provision device 2 is formed from the magnetic material. In other embodiments, the removable member 4 comprises the magnetic material and the aerosol provision device 2 is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material to hold the removable member 4 against the outer face 3. For example, in some embodiments, the removable member 4 comprises a flexible magnetic sheet. In other embodiments, both the removable member 4 and the aerosol provision device 2 comprise magnetic material. In the embodiment shown in Figure 11, the magnetic material comprises steel. In other embodiments, the magnetic material comprises a material other than steel. For example, the magnetic material is any material that exhibits suitable magnetic attraction properties.

Figure 12 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising a removable member 4 and an aerosol provision device 2. As shown in Figure 12, the aerosol provision device comprises two protrusions 22 which protrude from, and perpendicular to, the second portion 6 of the outer face 3. The removable member 4 comprises an attachment element 9 comprising two holes 24 each of which is configured to receive a corresponding one of the protrusions 22 when the removable member is attached to the aerosol provision device 2. Each protrusion 22 comprises an undercut which is configured to receive a corresponding clip 23. After the attachment element 9 is positioned on the aerosol provision device 2 such that the protrusions 22 are received by the attachment element 9, the clips 23 are attached to the protrusions 22 to substantially limit the movement of the attachment element so as to hold the attachment element 9 (and therefore the removable member 4) in place relative to the aerosol provision device 2.

Figure 13 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising an aerosol provision device 2 and a removable member 4. The removable member 4 comprises a plurality of layers 12 wherein one of the plurality of layers comprises attachment elements 9. As shown in Figure 13, the removable member 4 comprises a cosmetic plate 32 and a retention plate 33. The attachment elements 9 are provided on the retention plate 33 and a visual pattern or colour is provided on the cosmetic plate 32. As shown in Figure 13, the attachment elements 9 are provided at longitudinal ends of the removable member 4, and more specifically at the longitudinal ends of the retention plate 33. The attachment elements 9 are configured to be received by corresponding undercuts at longitudinal ends of the aerosol provision device 2. A cut-out 34 is provided at a longitudinal end of the retention plate 33. The cut-out 34 allows for additional flex of the removable member 4 to aid removal and insertion of the removable member 4 into the aerosol provision device 2.

Figure 14 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising an aerosol provision device 2 and a removable member 4. The removable member 4 comprises two attachment elements 9 each of which is configured to be received by a corresponding undercut (not shown) in the aerosol provision device 2. The removable member 4 comprises a resilient material, for example spring steel, and is configured to be deformed during installation of the removable member 4 into the aerosol provision device 2. Deforming the removable member 4 helps to allow for easier fitting into a recess 10 of the aerosol provision device 2. As discussed above, the provision of a removable member 4 allows for the customisation of the aerosol provision system 1. Such customisation could be achieved by a removable member 4 comprising an adhesive sticker which is attached to the aerosol provision device 2 during manufacturing. The adhesive sticker may comprise a single layer or a plurality of layers. For example, the adhesive sticker comprises an adhesive layer, a patterned layer and a protective layer. The protective layer can be transparent or translucent to allow the patterned layer to be visible through the protective layer. Such an adhesive sticker may comprise a step cut into the surface of the periphery of the sticker or the aerosol provision device to allow for further customisation. Alternatively, the adhesive sticker has a uniform surface with no step. However, such adhesive sticker arrangements have limitations since the sticker can be hard to remove, may leave sticky gum on the device, and may not be selectively removeable and be able to be reapplied. Embodiments of the present invention overcome these drawbacks, for example by providing a removable member 4 that is removable and re-attachable and that need not rely on adhesive for holding the removable member 4 in position on or relative to the aerosol provision device 2.

Figure 15 shows part of a tool 30 to aid in the removal of the removable member 4 from the aerosol provision device 2, for example for the removal of the removable member 4 from the aerosol provision device 2 shown in Figure 14. The tool 30 comprises a handle 35 that extends linearly along an axis X-X and an engaging portion 31 provided at a distal end of the handle 35. The engaging portion 31 protrudes from the distal end of the handle 35 in a direction away from the axis X-X. In use, the engaging portion 31 is configured to engage with the removable member 4 to aid in removal of the removable member 4 from the aerosol provision device 2. For example, in use the engaging portion 31 is placed between the removable member 4 and the aerosol provision device 2 to allow the user to lever the removable member 4 away from the aerosol provision device 2. In some embodiments, the tool 30 is provided with any of the devices and/or removable members described herein, and further optionally with the tool 15 of Figure 8, to form a kit. Any of the embodiments discussed herein may be configured to generate aerosol from non-liquid, e.g. solid, aerosol-generating material. Aerosol -generating material is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavourants. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may comprise an “amorphous solid”, which may alternatively be referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e. non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may for example comprise from about 50wt%, 60wt% or 70wt% of amorphous solid, to about 90wt%, 95wt% or 100wt% of amorphous solid.

The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and/or flavours, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material.

The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples of the invention. Further embodiments of the invention are envisaged. It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the accompanying claims.

The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc, other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.

Claims

1. An aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device comprising an outer face, wherein the outer face comprises a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion, wherein the aerosol provision device comprises a connecting portion that connects the first portion to the second portion and defines an undercut in a direction non-parallel to the first direction; and a removable member configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face, wherein the removable member comprises at least one attachment element configured to be removably receivable at least partially within the undercut to restrict movement of the removable member in a direction opposite to the first direction when the removable member is attached to the aerosol provision device.

2. An aerosol provision device comprising: an outer face, wherein the outer face comprises a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion; and a connecting portion that connects the first portion to the second portion and defines an undercut in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.

3. The aerosol provision device according to claim 2, wherein the undercut extends substantially parallel to the first portion.

4. The aerosol provision device according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the connecting portion defines a plurality of discrete undercuts, wherein each of the discrete undercuts is in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.

5. The aerosol provision device according to claim 4, wherein the second portion is recessed in the first direction with respect to the first portion to define a recess and the discrete undercuts are provided on respective opposite sides of the recess.

6. The aerosol provision device according to claim 5, wherein the recess is elongate.

7. The aerosol provision device according to claim 6, wherein the discrete undercuts are provided at respective opposite longitudinal ends of the recess.

8. The aerosol provision device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, configured to generate aerosol from non-liquid aerosol-generating material.

9. A removable member for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device to customise the aerosol provision device, the removable member comprising a body and at least one attachment element that protrudes from the body and is configured to be insertable into a hole in the aerosol provision device.

10. The removable member according to claim 9, wherein the body comprises a plurality of layers.

11. The removable member according to claim 10, wherein at least one of the plurality of layers is transparent to define a transparent layer and another of the plurality of layers is visible through the transparent layer.

12. The removable member according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein at least one of the plurality of layers is integrally formed with the at least one attachment element.

13. The removable member according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the removable member is resilient.

14. The removable member according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the removable member comprises or consists of a metal or metal alloy.

15. The removable member according to any one of claims 9 to 14, wherein the removable member comprises or consists of spring steel.

16. The removable member according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein the body comprises an aperture for receiving a part of the aerosol provision device.

17. The removable member according to any one of claims 9 to 16, wherein the at least one attachment element is integrally formed with the body.

18. The removable member according to any one of claims 9 to 16, wherein the at least one attachment element comprises a different material to the body.

19. The removable member according to any one of claims 9 to 18, wherein the, or each, attachment element is resilient.

20. The removable member according to any one of claims 9 to 19, wherein the removable member has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and the width; wherein the length is greater than or equal to the width, and the width is greater than the depth; and wherein the or each attachment element protrudes from the body in a direction perpendicular to the depth.

21. An aerosol provision system, comprising: an aerosol provision device comprising an outer face; and a removable member configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face; wherein one of the aerosol provision device and the removable member comprises a magnetic material and the other of the aerosol provision device and the removable member is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material to hold the removable member against the outer face.

22. The aerosol provision system according to claim 21, wherein the aerosol provision device comprises the magnetic material.

23. An aerosol provision device comprising: an outer face; and a magnetic material configured to attract a removable member towards the outer face, so as to hold the removable member against the outer face to customise the aerosol provision device.

24. A kit comprising: a removable member that is configured to be removably attachable to an aerosol generating device so as to cover at least a portion of an outer face of the aerosol generating device; and a tool configured to releasably engage with the removable member to assist in (a) detachment of the removable member from the aerosol generating device, and/or (b) attachment of the removable member to the aerosol generating device.