EP4475700A1

EP4475700A1 - An aerosol generating device comprising a positioning mechanism

Info

Publication number: EP4475700A1
Application number: EP23701554.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Layth Sliman BOUCHUIGUIR; Pier Paolo MONTICONE
Original assignee: JT International SA
Current assignee: JT International SA
Priority date: 2022-02-09
Filing date: 2023-01-26
Publication date: 2024-12-18
Also published as: KR20240138539A; JP2025505109A; CN118613181A; US20250134169A1; WO2023151959A1

Abstract

An aerosol generating device (10, 100, 110) comprises a heating assembly (12). The heating assembly (12) comprises a heating compartment (14) arranged to receive an aerosol generating substrate (16). The aerosol generating device further comprises a positioning mechanism (18). The positioning mechanism (18) is configured to move the aerosol generating substrate (16) along a longitudinal direction of the heating compartment (14) based on the temperature of the heating compartment (14).

Description

AN AEROSOL GENERATING DEVICE COMPRISING A POSITIONING MECHANISM

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to an aerosol generating device, and more particularly to an aerosol generating device for heating an aerosol generating substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user.

Technical Background

The popularity and use of reduced-risk or modified-risk devices (also known as vaporisers) has grown rapidly in recent years as an alternative to the use of traditional tobacco products. Various devices and systems are available that heat or warm, rather than bum, an aerosol generating substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user.

A commonly available reduced-risk or modified-risk device is an aerosol generating device, or so-called heat-not-bum device. Devices of this type generate an aerosol or vapour by heating an aerosol generating substrate, for instance comprised in an aerosol generating article such as a heated tobacco stick, to a temperature typically in the range 150°C to 300°C, in a heating compartment. Heating the aerosol generating substrate to a temperature within this range, without burning or combusting the aerosol generating substrate, generates a vapour which typically cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user of the device.

Currently available aerosol generating devices rely upon a user correctly positioning the aerosol generating substrate in the heating compartment of the device. Incorrectly positioning the aerosol generating substrate in the heating compartment can cause damage to the substrate and/or device. Furthermore, a user is generally required to determine when to initiate use of the aerosol generating device. Initiation of use before the heating compartment has reached a target temperature at which the aerosol generating device is ready for use can compromise the sensory experience by reducing the quality and/or consistency of the vapour (and resulting aerosol) that is generated.

There is, therefore, a need to provide an aerosol generating device which mitigates these drawbacks. Summary of the Disclosure

According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device, comprising: a heating assembly, wherein the heating assembly comprises a heating compartment arranged to receive an aerosol generating substrate; and a positioning mechanism configured to control the positioning of the aerosol generating substrate in the heating compartment based on the temperature of the heating compartment.

The positioning mechanism is configured to move the aerosol generating substrate in the heating compartment, along a longitudinal direction of the heating compartment, based on the temperature of the heating compartment. The positioning mechanism thus ensures correct positioning of the aerosol generating substrate in the heating compartment. The risk of damaging the aerosol generating substrate and/or the aerosol generating device by a user incorrectly positioning the aerosol generating substrate in the heating compartment is therefore mitigated. Furthermore, because the positioning mechanism controls the movement, and thus the positioning, of the aerosol generating substrate in the heating compartment based only on temperature, no additional power source or additional control system is required to operate the positioning mechanism. The arrangement is therefore simple and robust.

Possibly, the positioning mechanism comprises: a moveable member disposed in the heating compartment, wherein the moveable member comprises a locator on which the aerosol generating substrate is locatable by a user; and an actuator, wherein the actuator is configured to displace the moveable member in the heating compartment, thereby controlling the positioning of (i.e., moving) the aerosol generating substrate in the heating compartment along the longitudinal direction, from a start position to an end position based on the heating compartment reaching a target temperature.

As the moveable member is displaced from the start position to the end position, the aerosol generating substrate will also move in the heating compartment. The aerosol generating substrate will stop moving when the moveable member is at the end position. This provides a user with a clear visual indication of when the heating compartment has reached the target temperature (i.e , the aerosol generating substrate stops moving), and thus when the aerosol generating device is ready for use. Initiation of use before the heating compartment is at the target temperature can therefore readily be avoided ensuring that the quality and consistency of the vapour (and resulting aerosol) that is generated is optimum for a satisfactory sensory experience.

The end position may correspond to the maximum permitted displacement of the moveable member in the heating compartment by the actuator. This arrangement is therefore simple and robust.

Possibly, the actuator comprises a phase-change material having a temperature dependent volume, wherein, in use, an increase in the volume of the phase-change material by thermal expansion caused by heat from the heating compartment extends the actuator to displace the moveable member to the end position. The phase-change material may comprise wax.

The actuator is therefore operated based only on the response of the phase-change material, e.g., wax, to the temperature of the heating compartment. Accordingly, no additional power source or additional control system is required to operate the actuator. The arrangement is therefore simple and robust.

The moveable member may comprise an arm, wherein a section of the arm extends into the heating compartment from a position to one side of the heating compartment. Alternatively, the moveable member may comprise an arm, wherein a section of the arm extends into the heating compartment from a position beneath the heating compartment.

Possibly, the positioning mechanism comprises a resilient member, wherein the resilient member is configured to urge the moveable member to the start position in the heating compartment; and wherein the resilient member is configured to deflect as the moveable member is displaced by the actuator to the end position. The resilient member may comprise a mechanical spring. The mechanical spring may comprise a compression spring, the compression spring being configured to shorten as the moveable member is displaced by the actuator to the end position. Alternatively, the mechanical spring may comprise an extension spring, the extension spring being configured to stretch as the moveable member is displaced by the actuator to the end position. The resilient member, e.g., mechanical spring, therefore provides an automatic return mechanism for the actuator, which is simple and robust.

The locator may comprise a cup having a sidewall and a base, wherein the aerosol generating substrate is locatable in the cup. This arrangement provides a secure friction fit.

The cup may comprise at least one opening in the base, wherein in use air is flowable through the at least one opening from the exterior of the cup to the interior of the cup. This arrangement improves airflow by allowing air to flow through the at least one opening in the base to the bottom of the aerosol generating substrate.

The cup may comprise at least one opening in the sidewall, wherein in use air is flowable through the at least one opening from the exterior of the cup to the interior of the cup. This arrangement improves airflow by allowing air to flow through the at least one opening in the sidewall to the side of the aerosol generating substrate.

The base of the cup may comprise a raised central section. This arrangement further improves airflow by allowing air to flow through the at least one opening in the sidewall to the side and bottom of the aerosol generating substrate.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a first example of an aerosol generating device;

Figure 2a is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a second example of an aerosol generating device in a first condition;

Figure 2b is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device of Figure 2a, in a second condition;

Figure 3a is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a heating assembly of the aerosol generating device of Figure 2a;

Figure 3b is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the heating assembly of Figure 3a, wherein an aerosol generating substrate is received in a heating compartment of the heating assembly; Figure 4a is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the arrangement of Figure 3b in a first condition; Figure 4b is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the arrangement of Figure 3b in a second condition;

Figure 4c is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the arrangement of Figure 3b in an intermediate condition;

Figure 4d is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the arrangement of Figure 3b in another intermediate condition;

Figure 5a is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a third example of an aerosol generating device in a first condition;

Figure 5b is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device of Figure 5a in a second condition;

Figure 6a is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a heating assembly of the aerosol generating device of Figure 5a;

Figure 6b is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the heating assembly of Figure 6a, wherein an aerosol generating substrate is received in a heating compartment of the heating assembly;

Figure 7a is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the arrangement of Figure 6b in a first condition;

Figure 7b is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the arrangement of Figure 6b in a second condition;

Figure 7c is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the arrangement of Figure 6b in an intermediate condition;

Figure 7d is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the arrangement of Figure 6b in another intermediate condition;

Figure 8a is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of another heating assembly, wherein an aerosol generating substrate is received in a heating compartment of the heating assembly;

Figure 8b is a diagrammatic top view of the heating assembly of Figure 8a;

Figure 8c is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a part of the heating assembly of Figure 8a;

Figure 9a is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of another heating assembly, wherein an aerosol generating substrate is received in a heating compartment of the heating assembly;

Figure 9b is a diagrammatic top view of the heating assembly of Figure 9a; and

Figure 9c is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a part of the heating assembly of Figure 9a; Detailed Description of Embodiments

Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Referring initially to Figure 1, there is shown diagrammatically a first example of an aerosol generating device 10 according to the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device 10 is configured to be used with an aerosol generating substrate 16 such that the aerosol generating device 10 and the aerosol generating substrate 16 together form an aerosol generating system.

The aerosol generating device 10 may equally be referred to as a “heated tobacco device”, a “heat-not-bum tobacco device”, a “device for vaporising tobacco products”, and the like, with this being interpreted as a device suitable for achieving these effects. The features disclosed herein are equally applicable to devices which are designed to vaporise any aerosol generating substrate.

The aerosol generating device 10 is a hand-held, portable, device, by which it is meant that a user is able to hold and support the device unaided, in a single hand. The aerosol generating device 10 has a first (or proximal) end 48 and a second (or distal) end 50 and comprises a device housing 52.

In some examples, the aerosol generating device 10 includes a controller 54. The aerosol generating device 10 may include a user interface for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device 10 via the controller 54.

The controller 54 is configured to detect the initiation of use of the aerosol generating device 10 in response to a user input, such as a button press to activate the aerosol generating device 10, or in response to a detected airflow through the aerosol generating device 10. As will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art, an airflow through the aerosol generating device 10 is indicative of a user inhalation or ‘puff. The aerosol generating device 10 may, for example, include a puff detector, such as an airflow sensor (not shown), to detect an airflow through the aerosol generating device 10.

The controller 54 includes electronic circuitry. The aerosol generating device 10 includes a power source 56, such as a battery. The power source 56 and the electronic circuitry may be configured to operate at a high frequency. The power source 56 and the electronic circuitry may be configured to operate at a frequency of between approximately 80 kHz and 500 kHz, possibly between approximately 150 kHz and 250 kHz, and possibly at approximately 200 kHz. The power source 56 and the electronic circuitry could be configured to operate at a higher frequency, for example in the MHz range, if required.

The aerosol generating device 10 comprises a heating assembly 12. The heating assembly 12 further comprises a heating compartment 14. The heating compartment 14 is arranged to receive an aerosol generating substrate 16. In some examples, the heating compartment 14 has a substantially cylindrical cross-section. The heating compartment 14 defines a cavity.

The heating compartment 14 has a first end 58 and a second end 60, and has a longitudinal direction extending between the first and second ends 58, 60. The heating compartment 14 includes an opening 62 at the first end 58 for receiving an aerosol generating substrate 16. In the illustrated example, the heating compartment 14 includes a substantially cylindrical side wall 64, i.e., a side wall 64 which has a substantially circular cross-section.

The aerosol generating substrate 16 may be any type of solid or semi-solid material. Example types of aerosol generating solids include powder, granules, pellets, shreds, strands, particles, gel, strips, loose leaves, cut leaves, cut filler, porous material, foam material or sheets. The aerosol generating substrate 16 may comprise plant derived material and in particular, may comprise tobacco. It may advantageously comprise reconstituted tobacco.

The aerosol generating substrate 16 may comprise an aerosol -former. Examples of aerosolformers include polyhydric alcohols and mixtures thereof such as glycerine or propylene glycol. Typically, the aerosol generating substrate 16 may comprise an aerosol-former content of between approximately 5% and approximately 50% on a dry weight basis. In some examples, the aerosol generating substrate 16 may comprise an aerosol-former content of between approximately 10% and approximately 20% on a dry weight basis, and possibly approximately 15% on a dry weight basis.

Upon heating, the aerosol generating substrate 16 may release volatile compounds. The volatile compounds may include nicotine or flavour compounds such as tobacco flavouring. In the illustrated example, the aerosol generating substrate 16 is comprised in an aerosol generating article 66. The shape of the aerosol generating article 66 corresponds to the shape of the heating compartment 14. The aerosol generating article 66 may be generally cylindrical or rod-shaped. The aerosol generating article 66 may be formed substantially in the shape of a stick, and may broadly resemble a cigarette, having a tubular region with an aerosol generating substrate arranged in a suitable manner. The aerosol generating article 66 may be a disposable and replaceable article which may, for example, contain tobacco as the aerosol generating substrate 16. The aerosol generating article 66 may be a heated tobacco stick. The aerosol generating substrate 16 is a consumable.

The aerosol generating article 66 has a first end 68 (or mouth end), a second end 70, and comprises a filter 72 at the first end 68. The filter 72 acts as a mouthpiece and may comprise an air-permeable plug, for example comprising cellulose acetate fibres.

The aerosol generating substrate 16 and filter 72 may be circumscribed by a paper wrapper and may, thus, be embodied as an aerosol generating article 66. One or more vapour collection regions, cooling regions, and other structure may also be included in some designs.

The heating assembly 12 comprises a heater (not shown) arranged to heat the aerosol generating substrate 16 in the heating compartment 14.

The heating assembly 12 may be an induction heating assembly (not shown). The induction heating assembly further comprises an induction coil (not shown). The induction coil is arranged to be energised to generate an alternating electromagnetic field for inductively heating an induction heatable susceptor (not shown), i.e., a heater.

The induction heatable susceptor may be arranged around the periphery of the heating compartment 14. Alternatively, the induction heatable susceptor may be arranged to project into the heating compartment 14 from the second end 60 (e.g., as a heating blade or pin) to penetrate the aerosol generating substrate 16. In other examples, the induction heatable susceptor is instead provided in the aerosol generating substrate 16 during manufacture of the aerosol generating article 66. In such examples, the aerosol generating article 66 comprises the induction heatable susceptor. The induction coil can be energised by the power source 56 and controller 54. The induction coil may comprise a Litz wire or a Litz cable. It will, however, be understood that other materials could be used.

The induction coil may extend around the heating compartment 14. Accordingly, the induction coil may be annular. The induction coil may be substantially helical in shape. In some examples, the circular cross-section of a helical induction coil may facilitate the insertion of an aerosol generating article 66 and optionally one or more induction heatable susceptors, into the heating compartment 14 and ensure uniform heating of the aerosol generating substrate 16.

The induction heatable susceptor comprises an electrically conductive material. The induction heatable susceptor may comprise one or more, but not limited to, of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, aluminium, iron, nickel, nickel containing compounds, titanium, mild steel, stainless steel, low carbon steel and alloys thereof, e.g., nickel chromium or nickel copper, and composites of metallic materials. In some examples, the induction heatable susceptor comprises a metal selected from the group consisting of mild steel, stainless steel and low carbon stainless steel.

In use, with the application of an electromagnetic field in its vicinity, the induction heatable susceptor(s) generate heat due to eddy currents and magnetic hysteresis losses resulting in a conversion of energy from electromagnetic to heat.

The induction coil may be arranged to operate in use with a fluctuating electromagnetic field having a magnetic flux density of between approximately 20mT and approximately 2.0T at the point of highest concentration.

In use, heat from the heater, for example an induction heatable susceptor, is transferred to the aerosol generating substrate 16 positioned in the heating compartment 14, for example by conduction, radiation and convection, to heat the aerosol generating substrate (without burning the aerosol generating substrate) and thereby generate a vapour which cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user of the aerosol generating device 10, for instance, through the filter 72. The vaporisation of the aerosol generating substrate is facilitated by the addition of air from the surrounding environment, e.g., through an air inlet (not shown). In general terms, a vapour is a substance in the gas phase at a temperature lower than its critical temperature, which means that the vapour can be condensed to a liquid by increasing its pressure without reducing the temperature, whereas an aerosol is a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets, in air or another gas. It should, however, be noted that the terms ‘aerosol’ and ‘vapour’ may be used interchangeably in this specification, particularly with regard to the form of the inhalable medium that is generated for inhalation by a user.

The aerosol generating device 10 further comprises a positioning mechanism 18. The positioning mechanism 18 is configured to move the aerosol generating substrate 16 in the heating compartment 14, along the longitudinal direction of the heating compartment 14, based on the temperature of the heating compartment 14 to control the positioning of the aerosol generating substrate 16 in the heating compartment 14.

The positioning mechanism 18 is therefore configured to dispose the aerosol generating substrate 16 in a predetermined position in the heating compartment 14 based on the temperature of the heating compartment 14 by moving the aerosol generating substrate 16 in the heating compartment 14 along the longitudinal direction. The predetermined position defines a ready -for use position of the aerosol generating substrate 16 in the heating compartment 14.

The positioning mechanism 18 ensures correct positioning of the aerosol generating substrate 16 in the heating compartment 14. The risk of damaging the aerosol generating substrate 16 and/or the aerosol generating device 10 by a user incorrectly positioning the aerosol generating substrate 16 in the heating compartment 14 is therefore mitigated. Furthermore, because the positioning mechanism 18 controls the movement and, thus, positioning of the aerosol generating substrate 16 in the heating compartment 14 based only on temperature, no additional power source or additional control system is required to operate the positioning mechanism 18. The arrangement is therefore simple and robust.

Referring now to Figures 2a to 4d, there is shown a second example of an aerosol generating device 100 according to the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device 100 is similar to the aerosol generating device 10 described above and corresponding elements are designated using the same reference numerals. Figures 2a and 2b are a diagrammatic cross-sectional views of the aerosol generating device 100 in a first condition and second condition, respectively.

Figure 3a is diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the heating assembly 12 of the aerosol generating device 100. In Figure 3b, an aerosol generating substrate 16 is received in the heating compartment 14 of the heating assembly 12. The aerosol generating device 100 is in the first condition in Figures 3a and 3b.

Figures 4a to 4d are diagrammatic cross-sectional views of the heating assembly 12 of the aerosol generating device 100 in different conditions as described below.

The positioning mechanism 18 of the aerosol generating device 100 comprises a moveable member 20 disposed in the heating compartment 14. The moveable member 20 comprises a locator 22 on which the aerosol generating substrate 16 is locatable by a user. The moveable member 20 may comprise a plate or platform.

The positioning mechanism 18 further comprises an actuator 24. The actuator 24 is a linear actuator. In the illustrated example, the actuator 24 is located to one side of the heating compartment 14. The actuator 24 is configured to displace the moveable member 20 in the heating compartment 14, thereby controlling the movement and, thus, positioning of the aerosol generating substrate 16 in the heating compartment 14, from a start position (which is the first condition illustrated in Figure 2a) to an end position (which is the second condition illustrated in Figure 2b) based on the heating compartment 14 reaching a target temperature. Accordingly, the actuator 24 is coupled or connected with the moveable member 20 such that operation, i.e., actuation of the actuator 24 causes a corresponding movement of the moveable member 20.

The target temperature is a predefined temperature of the heating compartment 14 at which the aerosol generating device 10 is ready for use. The target temperature may be in the range 150°C to 300°C. The target temperature should be reached during a heat-up phase.

As the moveable member 20 is displaced from the start position to the end position, the aerosol generating substrate 16 will also move in the heating compartment 14. The aerosol generating substrate 16 will stop moving when the moveable member 20 is at the end position. This provides a user with a clear visual indication of when the heating compartment has reached the target temperature (i.e., the aerosol generating substrate 16 will stop moving), and thus when the aerosol generating device is ready for use. Initiation of use before the heating compartment 14 is at the target temperature can therefore readily be avoided ensuring that the quality and consistency of the vapour (and resulting aerosol) that is generated is optimum for a satisfactory sensory experience.

In the illustrated examples, the end position corresponds to the maximum permitted displacement of the moveable member 20 in the heating compartment 14 by the actuator 24. This arrangement is therefore simple and robust.

The actuator 24 comprises a phase-change material 26 having a temperature dependent volume. In use, an increase in the volume of the phase-change material 26 by thermal expansion caused by heat from the heating compartment 14 extends the actuator 24 to displace the moveable member 20 to the end position. Accordingly, the actuator 24 is configured to convert thermal energy into mechanical energy based on the phase-change behaviour of the phase-change material 26. The phase-change material 26 may comprise wax, which melts or softens during use. Accordingly, the actuator 24 may be a wax motor. Typically, wax expands from 5 to 20% on melting or softening.

The actuator 24 is thermally responsive. Accordingly, the actuator 24 may be a thermal actuator.

The actuator 24 is therefore operated based only on the response of the phase-change material, e.g., wax, to the temperature of the heating compartment 14. Accordingly, no additional power source or additional control system is required to operate the actuator 24. The arrangement is therefore simple and robust.

In the illustrated examples, the positioning mechanism 18 further comprises a resilient member 27. In the illustrated examples, the resilient member 27 comprises a mechanical spring 28. The resilient member 27 is configured to urge the moveable member 20 to the start position in the heating compartment 14. Accordingly, the resilient member 27 is configured to displace the moveable member 20 to the start position when a force is no longer applied by the actuator 24. The resilient member 27 is configured to deflect as the moveable member 20 is displaced by the actuator 24 to the end position In the illustrated example, the resilient member 27 is arranged to contact the moveable member 20. The resilient member 27 may recover its original shape when a force is no longer applied by the actuator 24.

The resilient member 27, e g., mechanical spring 28, therefore provides an automatic return mechanism for the actuator 24, which is simple and robust.

The moveable member 20 comprises an arm 34. A section 36 of the arm 34 extends into the heating compartment 14.

In the example illustrated in Figures 2a to 4d, the section 36 of the arm 34 extends into the heating compartment 14 from a position to one side of the heating compartment 14. In such examples, the mechanical spring 28 comprises a compression spring 30. The compression spring 30 is configured to shorten as the moveable member 20 is displaced by the actuator 24 to the end position.

Referring now to Figures 5a to 7d, there is shown a third example of an aerosol generating device 110 according to the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device 110 is similar to the aerosol generating devices 10, 100 described above and corresponding elements are designated using the same reference numerals.

Figures 5a and 5b are a diagrammatic cross-sectional views of the aerosol generating device 110 in the first condition (in which the moveable member 20 is in the start position) and second condition (in which the moveable member 20 is in the end position), respectively. An aerosol generating substrate 16 is not present in Figure 5a.

Figure 6a is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of the heating assembly 12 of the aerosol generating device 100. In Figure 6b, an aerosol generating substrate 16 is received in the heating compartment 14 of the heating assembly 12. The aerosol generating device 100 is in the first condition in Figures 6a and 6b.

Figures 7a to 7d are diagrammatic cross-sectional views of the heating assembly 12 of the aerosol generating device 110 in different conditions. In the example illustrated in Figures 5a to 7d, the section 36 of the arm 34 of the moveable member 20 extends into the heating compartment 14 from a position beneath, i.e., below, the heating compartment 14. In such examples, the mechanical spring 28 comprises an extension spring 32. The extension spring 32 is configured to stretch as the moveable member 20 is displaced by the actuator 24 to the end position.

In all the illustrated examples, the locator 22 comprises a cup 38 having a sidewall 40 and a base 42. In use, the aerosol generating substrate 16 is locatable in the cup 38 by a user. This arrangement provides a secure friction fit.

The sidewall 40 and/or base 42 of the cup 38 may have an internal surface with a relatively higher friction than the internal surface of the heating compartment 14 such that an aerosol generating substrate 16 located in the cup 38 by a user is securely held by the cup 38 and moved along the longitudinal direction of the heating compartment 14 as the moveable member 20 is displaced in the heating compartment 14.

Referring to Figure 8a, 8b and 8c, in the illustrated example the cup 38 comprises at least one opening 44 in the base 42. As illustrated, in use air is flowable through the at least one opening 44 from the exterior of the cup 38 to the interior of the cup 38 (as shown by the arrows). This arrangement improves airflow by allowing air to flow through the at least one opening 44 in the base 42 to the bottom of the aerosol generating substrate 16.

Referring to Figures 9a, 9b and 9c, in the illustrated example the cup 38 compnses at least one opening 44 in the sidewall 40. As illustrated, in use air is flowable through the at least one opening 44 from the exterior of the cup 38 to the interior of the cup 38 (as shown by the arrows). This arrangement improves airflow by allowing air to flow through the at least one opening 44 in the sidewall 40 to the side of the aerosol generating substrate 16.

The at least one opening 44 in the sidewall 40 and/or base 42 may be a perforation(s) or constitute a cut-out section(s).

Referring to Figure 9c, in some examples the base 42 of the cup 38 comprises a raised central section 46. This arrangement further improves airflow, for instance, by allowing air to flow through the at least one opening 44 in the sidewall 40 to the side and bottom of the aerosol generating substrate 16 (as shown by the arrows).

To use the aerosol generating device 10, a user inserts an aerosol generating substrate 16 through the opening 62 into the heating compartment 14, so that an end of the aerosol generating substrate 16 locates on the locator 22 of the moveable member 20. Activation of the heater to heat the heating compartment 14 causes the actuator 24 to displace the moveable member 20, along with the aerosol generating substrate 16 located on the locator 22, from a start position (i.e., the first condition as illustrated in Figures 2a, 3a, 3b, 4a, 5a, 6a, 6b and 7a) to an end position in the heating compartment 14 (i.e., the second condition as illustrated in Figures 2b, 4b, 5b and 7b) via an intermediate position (as illustrated in Figure 4c and 7c) based on the heating compartment 14 reaching a target temperature. In the illustrated examples, the end position corresponds to the second end 60 of the heating compartment 14, i.e., the bottom of the heating compartment 14, which is the maximum permitted displacement of the moveable member 20 in the hearing compartment 14. In use, the aerosol generating substrate 16 moves slowly downwardly, i.e., descends, into the heating compartment 14 before stopping at the end position at which point the aerosol generating device 10 is ready for use, i.e., the heating compartment 14 has reached the target temperature.

Following deactivation of the heater, the heating compartment 14 cools below the target temperature causing the actuator 24 to return to its original position so that it no longer applies a force to the moveable member 20. The resilient member 27 urges the moveable member 20, along with the aerosol generating substrate 16 located on the locator 22, from the end position in the heating compartment 14 (as illustrated in Figures 2b, 4b, 5b and 7b) to the start position (as illustrated in Figures 2a, 3a, 3b, 4a, 5a, 6a, 6b and 7a) via an intermediate position (as illustrated in Figures 4d and 7d).

Referring specifically to Figures 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d in relation to the second example of the aerosol generating device 100, as described above the section 36 of the arm 34 of the moveable member 20 extends into the heating compartment 14 from a position to one side of the heating compartment 14. In such examples, the resilient member 27 comprises a compression spring 30. The compression spring 30 deflects by shortening, i.e., contracting as the moveable member 20 is displaced by the actuator 24 from the start position illustrated in Figure 4a to the end position illustrated in Figure 4b via the intermediate position (as illustrated in Figure 4c). In the illustrated example, the actuator 24 is a wax motor as described above. As illustrated in Figures 4b and 4c, in use heat from the heating compartment 14 causes the wax of the wax motor to expand. As the wax expands, the arm 34 of the moveable member 20 is pushed (as best shown in Figure 4c by the downward arrow) causing the compression spring 30 to shorten. The moveable member 20, along with the aerosol generating substrate 16 located on the locator 22, moves downwardly in the heating compartment 14 before stopping at the end position illustrated in Figure 4b at which point the aerosol generating device 10 is ready for use, i.e., the heating compartment 14 has reached the target temperature. Accordingly, the actuator 24, i.e., the wax motor, completes a full stroke at the point the heating compartment 14 has reached the target temperature.

Following deactivation of the heater, the heating compartment 14 cools below the target temperature causing the wax ofthe wax motorto cool and contract, i.e., compress, to its original volume such that it returns to its original position and no longer applies a force to the moveable member 20. The compression spring 30 then extends, i.e., lengthens to urge the moveable member 20, along with the aerosol generating substrate 16 located on the locator 22, from the end position in the heating compartment 14 (as illustrated in Figures 4b) to the start position (as illustrated in Figures 4a) via the intermediate position (as illustrated in Figure 4d). Accordingly, the compression spring 30 pushes upwards against the arm 34 of the moveable member 20 (as best shown in Figure 4d by the upward arrow) to urge the moveable member 20 from the end position to the start position. In the start position, the arm 34 is received within a housing of the actuator 24 to a maximum extent and the compression spring 30 is in a rest state.

Referring to Figures 7 a, 7b, 7 c and 7d in relation to the third example of the aerosol generating device 110, as described above the section 36 of the arm 34 of the moveable member 20 extends into the heating compartment 14 from a position beneath the heating compartment 14. In such examples, the resilient member 27 comprises an extension spring 32. The extension spring 32 deflects by stretching as the moveable member 20 is displaced by the actuator 24 from the start position illustrated in Figure 7a to the end position illustrated in Figure 7b via the intermediate position (as illustrated in Figure 7c). In the illustrated example, the actuator 24 is a wax motor as described above. As illustrated in Figures 7b and 7c, in use heat from the heating compartment 14 causes the wax of the wax motor to expand. As the wax expands, the arm 34 of the moveable member 20 is pushed (as best shown in Figure 7c by the downward arrow) causing the extension spring 32 to stretch, i.e., lengthen. The moveable member 20, along with the aerosol generating substrate 16 located on the locator 22, moves downwardly in the heating compartment 14 before stopping at the end position illustrated in Figure 7b at which point the aerosol generating device 10 is ready for use, i.e., the heating compartment 14 has reached the target temperature. Accordingly, the actuator 24, i.e., the wax motor, completes a full stroke at the point the heating compartment 14 has reached the target temperature.

Following deactivation of the heater, the heating compartment 14 cools below the target temperature causing the wax ofthe wax motorto cool and contract, i.e., compress, to its original volume such that it returns to its original position and no longer applies a force to the moveable member 20. The extension spring 32 then contracts, i.e., shortens to urge the moveable member 20, along with the aerosol generating substrate 16 located on the locator 22, from the end position in the heating compartment 14 (as illustrated in Figure 7b) to the start position (as illustrated in Figure 7a) via an intermediate position (as illustrated in Figure 7d). Accordingly, the extension spring 32 pulls the arm 34 of the moveable member 20 upwards (as best shown in Figure 7d by the upward arrow) to urge the moveable member 20 from the end position to the start position. In the start position, the arm 34 is received within the housing of the actuator 24 to a maximum extent and the extension spring 32 is in a rest state.

The Figures also illustrate a method of manufacturing an aerosol generating device 10, 100, 110 according to examples of the disclosure. The Figures also illustrate a method of providing an aerosol generating system according to examples of the disclosure.

Although exemplary embodiments have been described in the preceding paragraphs, it should be understood that various modifications may be made to those embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Thus, the breadth and scope of the claims should not be limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments. Any combination of the above-described features in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the present disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise”, “comprising”, and the like, are to be construed in an inclusive as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device (10, 100, 110), comprising: a heating assembly (12), wherein the heating assembly (12) comprises a heating compartment (14) arranged to receive an aerosol generating substrate (16); and a positioning mechanism (18) configured to move the aerosol generating substrate (16) along a longitudinal direction of the heating compartment (14) based on the temperature of the heating compartment (14).

2. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the positioning mechanism (18) comprises: a moveable member (20) disposed in the heating compartment (14), wherein the moveable member (20) comprises a locator (22) on which the aerosol generating substrate (16) is locatable by a user; and an actuator (24), wherein the actuator (24) is configured to displace the moveable member (20) in the heating compartment (14), thereby moving the aerosol generating substrate (16) in the heating compartment (14) along the longitudinal direction, from a start position to an end position based on the heating compartment (14) reaching a target temperature.

3. An aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein the end position corresponds to the maximum permitted displacement of the moveable member (20) in the heating compartment (14) by the actuator (24).

4. An aerosol generating device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the actuator (24) comprises a phase-change material (26) having a temperature dependent volume, wherein, in use, an increase in the volume of the phase-change material by thermal expansion caused by heat from the heating compartment (14) extends the actuator (24) to displace the moveable member (20) to the end position.

5. An aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein the phase-change material (26) comprises wax.

6. An aerosol generating device according to any of claims 2 to 5, wherein the moveable member (20) comprises an arm (34), wherein a section (36) of the arm (34) extends into the heating compartment (14) from a position to one side of the heating compartment (14).

7. An aerosol generating device according to any of claims 2 to 5, wherein the moveable (20) member compnses an arm (34), wherein a section (36) of the arm (34) extends into the heating compartment (14) from a position beneath the heating compartment (14).

8. An aerosol generating device according to any of claims 2 to 7, wherein the positioning mechanism (18) comprises a resilient member (27), wherein the resilient member (27) is configured to urge the moveable member (20) to the start position in the heating compartment (14); and wherein the resilient member (27) is configured to deflect as the moveable member (20) is displaced by the actuator (24) to the end position.

9 An aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein the resilient member (27) comprises a mechanical spring (28).

10. An aerosol generating device according to claim 9 when dependent on claim 6, wherein the mechanical spring (28) comprises a compression spring (30), the compression spring (30) being configured to shorten as the moveable member (20) is displaced by the actuator (24) to the end position.

11. An aerosol generating device according to claim 9 when dependent on claim 7, wherein the mechanical spring (28) comprises an extension spring (32), the extension spring (32) being configured to stretch as the moveable member (20) is displaced by the actuator (24) to the end position.

12. An aerosol generating device according to any of claims 2 to 11, wherein the locator (22) comprises a cup (38) having a sidewall (40) and a base (42), wherein the aerosol generating substrate (16) is locatable in the cup (38).

13. An aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein the cup (38) comprises at least one opening (44) in the base (42), wherein in use air is flowable through the at least one opening (44) from the exterior of the cup (38) to the interior of the cup (38).

14. An aerosol generating device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the cup (38) comprises at least one opening (44) in the sidewall (40), wherein in use air is flowable through the at least one opening (44) from the exterior of the cup (38) to the interior of the cup (38).

15. An aerosol generating device according to any of claims 12 to 14, wherein the base (42) of the cup (38) comprises a raised central section (46).