EP4676251A1

EP4676251A1 - Aerosol provision device

Info

Publication number: EP4676251A1
Application number: EP24711167.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Dean Cowan; Ying Liu; Ronghui Li
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Current assignee: Nicoventures Trading Ltd
Priority date: 2023-03-10
Filing date: 2024-03-08
Publication date: 2026-01-14
Also published as: WO2024188902A1; TW202435774A; JP2026509424A

Abstract

An aerosol provision device (300) comprising a chamber having an opening (305) arranged to receive an aerosol generating article. The device (300) further comprises a cover (303) arranged to move between a first position in which the opening (305) of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover (303) and a second position in which the opening (305) is not substantially blocked by the cover (303). The cover (303) is configured to be activated by a user such that at least one activation of the cover (303) results in at least one corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device (300).

Description

AEROSOL PROVISION DEVICE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an aerosol provision device, an aerosol provision system and a method of generating an aerosol.

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 by creating products that release compounds without combusting. Examples of such products are so-called “heat not burn” products or tobacco heating devices or products, which release compounds by heating, but not burning, material. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.

Aerosol provision systems, which cover the aforementioned devices or products, are known. Common systems use heaters to create an aerosol from a suitable medium which is then inhaled by a user. Often the medium used needs to be replaced or changed to provide a different aerosol for inhalation. It is known to use induction heating systems as heaters to create an aerosol from a suitable medium. An induction heating system generally consists of a magnetic field generating device for generating a varying magnetic field, and a susceptor or heating material which is heatable by penetration with the varying magnetic field to heat the suitable medium.

Conventional aerosol provision devices comprise a cylindrical heating chamber into which a rod-shaped consumable is inserted.

SUMMARY

According to an aspect there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising: a chamber having an opening arranged to receive an aerosol generating article; and a cover arranged to move between a first position in which the opening of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover and a second position in which the opening is not substantially blocked by the cover; wherein the cover is configured to be activated by a user such that at least one activation of the cover results in at least one corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device. According to another aspect there is provided aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device arranged to receive an aerosol generating article; a charging unit for charging the aerosol provision device, the charging unit comprising a cavity having an opening arranged to receive the aerosol provision device; and a cover arranged to move between a first position in which the opening of the cavity is at least partially blocked by the cover and a second position in which the opening is not substantially blocked by the cover; wherein the cover is configured to be activated by a user such that at least one activation of the cover results in at least one corresponding operation of the provision device and/or the charging unit.

Optionally, the at least one activation comprises physical movement of the cover.

Optionally, the at least one activation comprises a user pressing the cover.

Optionally, the at least one activation comprises a plurality of different activations, and wherein each activation results in a different corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device.

Optionally, the at least one activation comprises moving the cover from the first position to the second position and wherein the corresponding operation comprises activating of the aerosol provision device and/or charging unit. For example, the activation of the aerosol provision device may comprise activation of an aerosol generator, where included.

Optionally, the at least one activation comprises moving the cover into the first position (e.g. from the second position) and wherein the corresponding operation comprises deactivating the aerosol provision device and/or charging unit. For example, it may comprise deactivating an aerosol generator, where included.

Optionally, the cover is arranged to slide between the first position and the second position.

Optionally, the cover is configured to slide in a straight line between the first position and the second position.

Optionally, the cover is arranged to move into a third position, which does not lie on a path between the first and second positions. Optionally, the at least one activation comprises moving the cover to the third position.

Optionally, the cover is arranged to move from either: (i) the first position into the third position without passing through the second position, or (ii) the second position to a third position, without passing through the first position.

Optionally, movement of the cover to the third position is in a direction which is different to the direction of movement of the cover when moved between the first position and the second position.

Optionally, the cover is configured rotate around an axis of rotation, and the at least one activation comprises rotating the cover around the axis.

Optionally, the axis of rotation is substantially aligned with, or perpendicular to, the direction of movement of the cover when moved between the first position and the second position.

Optionally, the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system is elongate, having a longitudinal axis, and wherein the axis of rotation does not align with the longitudinal axis.

Optionally, the cover comprises at least one button, and the at least one activation comprises a user pressing the at least one button.

Optionally, the at least one button comprises a plurality of buttons, each button corresponding to a different activation.

Optionally, the at least one button comprises at least one capacitive button.

Optionally, the at least one button comprises at least one mechanical button.

Optionally, the corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device depends on the at least one activation and at least one of:

(i) a position the cover is initially in when the cover is activated; and

(ii) a status of the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system.

Optionally, the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system further comprises a communication device configured to communicate information for receipt by the user. Optionally, the communication device comprises at least one of: (i) a light source; (ii) a haptic component; and (iii) a speaker.

Optionally, the communication device comprises a wireless connection means for connection to an external device, or a wired means for connecting to an external device.

Optionally, the corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device comprises operation of the communication device so as to communicate information for receipt by the user.

Optionally, the information communicated by the communication device depends on the at least one activation and at least one of:

(i) a position the cover is initially in when the cover is activated; and

(ii) a status of the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system.

Optionally, the communication device is configured to output information only: when the aerosol provision device or charging unit is in use, for a predetermined period of time after operation of the aerosol provision device or charging unit and/or when a separate user interface is activated.

Optionally, the information for receipt by the user comprises information relating to a status of the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system.

Optionally, the information relating to the status of the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system comprises one or more of:

(i) a battery level;

(ii) an available amount of aerosol generating material; and

(iii) an available type of aerosol generating material.

Optionally, in the first position the opening is fully blocked by the cover.

Optionally, in the second position the opening is not obscured by the cover.

Optionally, the aerosol provision device comprises an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating article received therein during use.

Optionally, the aerosol generator comprises a heating element which is configured to heat the article comprising aerosol generating material, so as to generate aerosol from the aerosol generating material.

Optionally, the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system further comprises a controller configured to cause the corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device or charging unit, and wherein the at least one activation causes a corresponding at least one control signal to be sent or detected by the controller.

Optionally, the at least one corresponding operation comprises at least one of: activating or deactivating the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system, causing the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system to operate in a particular mode of operation, activating or deactivating an aerosol generator (where provided), and causing a communication device to output or cease outputting information for receipt by a user.

Optionally, the cover is at least partially transparent.

According to another aspect there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising: a chamber having an opening arranged to receive an aerosol generating article; and a cover arranged to move between a first position in which the opening of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover and a second position in which the opening is substantially open; wherein at least a portion of the cover is at least partially transparent.

According to another aspect there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device arranged to receive an aerosol generating article; a charging unit for charging the aerosol provision device, the charging unit comprising a cavity having an opening arranged to receive the aerosol provision device; and a cover arranged to move between a first position in which the opening of the cavity is at least partially blocked by the cover and a second position in which the opening is substantially open; wherein at least a portion of the cover is at least partially transparent.

Optionally, the cover has an average optical transmittance across the wavelength range 380-700 nm of at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 95%.

Optionally, the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system further comprises a communication device comprising a visual indicator device for providing a visual indication to the user.

Optionally, the visual indicator device is arranged such that the visual indicator device is substantially visible to the user when the cover is moved to any position between and including the first position and the second position.

Optionally, the visual indicator is arranged such that the visual indicator is substantially visible to the user when the cover is in the first position and the second position.

Optionally, wherein the visual indicator is arranged such that the visual indicator is substantially visible to the user when the cover is in the first position, and such that the visual indicator is not substantially visible to the user when the cover is in the second position.

Optionally, the visual indicator is arranged such that the visual indicator is not substantially visible to the user when the cover is in the first position, and such that the visual indicator is substantially visible to the user when the cover is in the second position.

Optionally, the visual indicator means is arranged such that it is at least partially covered by the cover when the cover is in the second position.

Optionally, the visual indicator means is arranged such that the visual indication is at least partially visible to the user through the portion of the cover which is at least partially transparent, when the cover is in the second position.

Optionally, the visual indicator means comprises a light source.

Optionally, the light source comprises at least one LED.

Optionally, the light source comprises a plurality of LEDs.

Optionally, the plurality of LEDs comprises at least one LED of a first colour, and at least one LED of a second colour different to the first colour.

Optionally, the light source comprises a screen.

Embodiments are also contemplated wherein the cover may comprise a photonic coating. For example, a UV source may be arranged to emit electromagnetic radiation and the photonic coating may be arranged to fluoresce. Embodiments are also contemplated wherein the cover is luminescent.

According to embodiments there is provided a movable cover for an aerosol provision device, wherein the cover is arranged to receive electromagnetic radiation at a wavelength < 380 nm and to emit electromagnetic radiation in the visible spectrum of 380-700 nm.

According to an aspect there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising: a chamber having an opening arranged to receive an aerosol generating article; and a cover arranged to move between a first position in which the opening of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover and a second position in which the opening is not substantially blocked by the cover; wherein the cover is configured to be activated by a user in order to send a control signal to a controller.

The cover may be activated mechanically or physically e.g. by being depressed by a user or alternatively the cover may be activated via capacitive sensing.

According to an aspect there is provided a movable cover for an aerosol provision device, wherein the cover may be activated by a user to send a control signal to a controller.

According to an aspect there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device as described above; and an aerosol generating article comprising aerosol generating material.

According to an aspect there is provided a method of generating an aerosol comprising: providing an aerosol provision device as described above; at least partially inserting an aerosol generating article comprising aerosol generating material into the aerosol provision device; and activating the aerosol provision device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 shows an aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device located within a charging unit in accordance with an embodiment wherein the charging unit comprises an activatable cover;

Fig. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 1 ;

Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of an aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 1 with an aerosol generating article inserted therein;

Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of an upper portion of an aerosol provision system in accordance with an embodiment wherein the cover on the charging unit is in second (e.g. open) position;

Fig. 5 shows a top view of the aerosol provision system shown in Fig. 4;

Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of an upper portion of an aerosol provision system shown in Fig. 4, wherein the cover on the charging unit is in a first (e.g. closed) position;

Fig. 7 shows a top view of the aerosol provision system shown in Fig. 6;

Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of an aerosol provision device in accordance with an embodiment comprising an activatable cover;

Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 8 with the cover in a first (e.g. closed) position;

Fig. 10 shows a view from above of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 9 when the cover is in the first position;

Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 8, with the cover in the second (e.g. open) position;

Fig. 12 shows a view from above of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 11 with the cover in the second position;

Fig. 13 shows a perspective view of another aerosol provision device in accordance with another embodiment;

Fig. 14 shows a perspective view of an aerosol provision device in accordance with an embodiment comprising a cover which is arranged to rotate around an axis;

Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 14, with the cover rotated in a first direction; Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 14 with the cover in a non-rotated position;

Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 14 with the cover rotated in a second direction;

Fig. 18 is a perspective view of an aerosol provision device according to an embodiment comprising a cover which is activatable by pressing of the cover;

Fig. 19 is a view from above of an aerosol provision device according to an embodiment comprising a cover which is configured to move into a third position;

Fig. 20 is a view from above of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 19, illustrating the third position;

Fig. 21 is a view from above of an aerosol provision device according to an embodiment comprising a cover which is configured to move into a third position, which is different to the third position shown in the embodiment of Fig. 20;

Fig. 22 is a view from above of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 21 , illustrating the third position;

Fig. 23 shows a perspective view of an aerosol provision device in accordance with an embodiment comprising a communication device and whereby the cover is at least partially transparent;

Fig. 24 shows a view from above of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 23 with the cover in a first position;

Fig. 25 shows a view from above of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 23 with the cover in a second position;

Fig. 26 shows a view from above of an aerosol provision device according to an embodiment comprising a cover which comprises a transparent portion and an opaque portion, with the cover in a first position;

Fig. 27 shows a view form above of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 26 with the cover in a second position;

Fig. 28 shows a view from above of an aerosol provision device according to an embodiment comprising a cover which comprises a transparent portion and an opaque portion, with the cover in a first position such that the opaque portion blocks a communication device; and

Fig. 29 shows a view from above of the aerosol provision device shown in Fig. 28 with the cover in a second position such that the transparent portion is above the communication device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

According to the present disclosure, a “non-combustible” aerosol provision system is one where a constituent aerosol generating material of the aerosol provision system (or component thereof) is not combusted or burned in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a powered non-combustible aerosol provision system.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an electronic cigarette, also known as a vaping device or electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not a requirement.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is an aerosol generating material heating system, also known as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system is a hybrid system to generate aerosol using a combination of aerosol generating materials, one or a plurality of which may be heated. Each of the aerosol generating materials may be, for example, in the form of a solid, liquid or gel and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system comprises a liquid or gel aerosol generating material and a solid aerosol generating material. The solid aerosol generating material may comprise, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

Typically, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise a non-combustible aerosol provision device and a consumable for use with the non- combustible aerosol provision device.

In some embodiments, the disclosure relates to consumables comprising aerosol generating material and configured to be used with non-combustible aerosol provision devices. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout the disclosure.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system, such as a non-combustible aerosol provision device thereof, may comprise a power source and a controller. The power source may, for example, be an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source comprises a carbon substrate which may be energised so as to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol generating material or to a heat transfer material in proximity to the exothermic power source.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol provision system may comprise an area for receiving the consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.

In some embodiments, the consumable for use with the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a filter, a mouthpiece, and/or an aerosol-modifying agent.

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 semi-solid (such as a gel) which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavourants.

The aerosol generating material may comprise a binder and an aerosol former. Optionally, an active and/or filler may also be present. Optionally, a solvent, such as water, is also present and one or more other components of the aerosol generating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating material is substantially free from botanical material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol generating material is substantially tobacco free.

The aerosol generating material may comprise or be an aerosol generating film. The aerosol generating film may be formed by combining a binder, such as a gelling agent, with a solvent, such as water, an aerosol-former and one or more other components, such as active substances, to form a slurry and then heating the slurry to volatilise at least some of the solvent to form the aerosol generating film. The slurry may be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt% or 90 wt% of the solvent. The aerosol generating film may be a continuous film or a discontinuous film, such an arrangement of discrete portions of film on a support. The aerosol generating film may be substantially tobacco free.

The aerosol generating film may comprise or be a sheet, which may optionally be shredded to form a shredded sheet.

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.

An aerosol generator is an apparatus configured to cause aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to subject the aerosol generating material to heat energy, so as to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator may be configured to subject the aerosol generating material to one or more of vibration, increased pressure, or electrostatic energy.

A consumable is an article comprising or consisting of aerosol generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed during use by a user. A consumable may comprise one or more other components, such as an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transfer component, an aerosol generation area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosolmodifying agent. A consumable may also comprise an aerosol generator, such as a heater, that emits heat to cause the aerosol generating material to generate aerosol in use. The heater may, for example, comprise combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

A susceptor is a heating material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be an electrical ly-conductive material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be magnetic material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both electrically- conductive and magnetic, so that the susceptor is heatable by both heating mechanisms. The aerosol provision device that is configured to generate the varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator, herein. Non-combustible aerosol provision systems may comprise a modular assembly including both a reusable aerosol provision device and a replaceable aerosol generating article. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol provision device may comprise a power source and a controller (or control circuitry). The power source may, for example, comprise an electric power source, such as a battery or rechargeable battery. In some implementations, the non-combustible aerosol provision device may also comprise an aerosol generating component. However, in other implementations the aerosol generating article may comprise partially, or entirely, the aerosol generating component.

Induction heating is a process in which an electrically-conductive object, referred to as a susceptor, is heated by penetrating the object with a varying magnetic field. The process is described by Faraday's law of induction and Ohm's law. An induction heater may comprise an electromagnet and a device for passing a varying electrical current, such as an alternating current, through the electromagnet. When the electromagnet and the object to be heated are suitably relatively positioned so that the resultant varying magnetic field produced by the electromagnet penetrates the object, one or more eddy currents are generated inside the object. The object has a resistance to the flow of electrical currents and when such eddy currents are generated in the object, their flow against the electrical resistance of the object causes the object to be heated. This process is called Joule, ohmic or resistive heating.

Magnetic hysteresis heating is a process in which an object made of a magnetic material is heated by penetrating the object with a varying magnetic field. A magnetic material can be considered to comprise many atomic-scale magnets, or magnetic dipoles. When a magnetic field penetrates such material, the magnetic dipoles align with the magnetic field. Therefore, when a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field, for example as produced by an electromagnet, penetrates the magnetic material, the orientation of the magnetic dipoles changes with the varying applied magnetic field. Such magnetic dipole reorientation causes heat to be generated in the magnetic material.

When an object is both electrically-conductive and magnetic, penetrating the object with a varying magnetic field can cause both Joule heating and magnetic hysteresis heating in the object. Moreover, the use of magnetic material can strengthen the magnetic field, which can intensify the Joule heating.

An aerosol provision system according to various embodiments will now be described in more detail.

Fig. 1 shows an aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device 100 which is shown located within a cavity of a charging unit 101. The aerosol provision device 100 is arranged to generate aerosol from an aerosol generating article which may be inserted, in use, into the aerosol provision device 100.

The aerosol provision device 100 comprises an elongate structure, extending along a longitudinal axis. Additionally, the aerosol provision device 100 has a proximal end, which will be closest to the user (e.g. the user’s mouth) when in use by the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol provision device 100, as well as a distal end which will be furthest from the user when in use. The proximal end may also be referred to as the mouth end. The aerosol provision device 100 also accordingly defines a proximal direction, which is directed towards the user when in use, i.e. in the direction from the distal end to the proximal end. Further, the aerosol provision device 100 also likewise defines a distal direction, which is directed away from the user when in use, i.e. in the direction from the proximal end to the distal end.

The aerosol provision device 100 may be removably inserted into the charging unit 101 in order to be charged. The charging unit 101 comprises a cavity for receiving the aerosol provision device 100. The aerosol provision device 100 may be inserted into the cavity via an opening 111. The cavity cannot be seen in Fig. 1 as it is occupied by the aerosol provision device 100. However, the cavity has substantially the same shape as the aerosol provision device 100. The cavity may also comprise a longitudinal opening. A portion of the aerosol provision device 100 may comprise a first side. One or more user-operable control elements or a user interface such as buttons 106 which can be used to operate the aerosol provision device 100 may be provided on the first side of the aerosol provision device 100. The first side of the aerosol provision device 100 may be received in the longitudinal opening provided in the charging unit 101.

As will be described in more detail below with reference to Figs. 2 and 3 and as described below, the aerosol provision device may comprise a heating element 202 (see Fig. 2). Referring back to Fig. 1, the user interface 106 provided on the aerosol provision device 100 may comprise two buttons. A first button may be provided in order to operate the aerosol provision device 100 in a standard or base mode of operation wherein a predetermined heating profile may be set for the heating element 202. A second button may be provided in order to operate the aerosol provision device 100 in an enhanced or boost mode of operation wherein the heating profile set for the heating element 202 may be altered. For example, in an enhanced or boost mode of operation a set or desired temperature for the heating element 202 may be increased for a period of time.

A session of use may be determined to relate to a period of time during which a user is enabled to take multiple puffs of aerosol generated from aerosol generating material without replacement or replenishment of the aerosol generating material. The aerosol provision device 100 may be operable in at least a first (e.g. base) mode of operation and a second (e.g. boost) mode of operation. The modes of operation may be selectable by a user by selecting one of the two buttons 106 provided as part of the user interface or by selected by any other suitable means.

The heating element 202 may configured such that, in a first mode, the aerosol provision device 100 is ready for use a first period of time after the start of a session of use, and in a second mode the aerosol provision device 100 is ready for use a second period of time after the start of the session. The first period of time may be different from the second period of time. The aerosol provision device 100 may be ready for use at a time t1 after the start of a session of use in a first (base) mode of operation and may be ready for use at a time t2 after the start of a session of use in a second (boost) mode of operation, wherein t2 < t1.

Providing an aerosol provision device 100 such as a tobacco heating product with a heating assembly that is operable in a plurality of modes (e.g. base mode and boost mode) gives more choice to the consumer, particularly where each mode is associated with a different maximum heater temperature. Moreover, such an aerosol provision device 100 may be capable of providing different aerosols having differing characteristics, because volatile components in the aerosol generating material will be volatilised at different rates and concentrations at different heater temperatures. This allows a user to select a particular mode based on a desired characteristic of the inhalable aerosol, such as degree of tobacco flavour, nicotine concentration, and aerosol temperature. For example, modes in which the aerosol provision device 100 is ready for use more quickly (e.g. a second or “boost” mode) may provide a quicker first puff, or a greater nicotine content per puff, or a more concentrated flavour per puff. Conversely, modes in which the aerosol provision device 100 is ready for use at a later point in the session of use (e.g. a first or base mode) may provide a longer overall session of use, lower nicotine content per puff, and more sustained delivery of flavour.

The user interface 106 may comprise one or more lights or LEDs which indicate a status of the charging unit 101 and/or the aerosol provision device 100. For example, the user interface 106 may indicate the charging status of the aerosol provision device 100. The one or more lights or LEDs may be considered to be a form of communication device which is configured to output information to a user. For example, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 the user interface 106 may comprise two LEDs. If zero LEDs are displayed or are otherwise illuminated, then a low charge status of the aerosol provision device 100 may be indicated to a user. If one LED is displayed or otherwise illuminated then an intermediate charge status of the aerosol provision device 100 may be indicated to a user. If two LEDs are displayed or otherwise illuminated then a full or nearly full charge status of the aerosol provision device 100 may be indicated to a user.

The cavity of the charging unit 101 may have a cross-sectional profile which only permits that the aerosol provision device 100 to be inserted into the charging unit 101 in a single orientation. The outer profile of the aerosol provision device 100 may comprise an arcuate portion and a linear portion. The cross-sectional profile of the cavity provided in the charging unit 101 may also comprise a similar arcuate portion and a linear portion. The linear portion of the cross-sectional profile of the cavity may correspond with the longitudinal opening.

The aerosol provision device 100 comprises an opening leading into a chamber in which heating of an aerosol generating article occurs. The chamber may thus be considered to be a heating chamber. A rod shaped aerosol generating article comprising aerosol generating material may be inserted through the opening and may be retained within the heating chamber of the aerosol provision device 100. The aerosol generating article may be heated by an aerosol generator, for example comprising a heating element, so that an aerosol or other inhalable medium may be generated which may then be inhaled by a user of the aerosol provision device 100.

The charging unit 101 may include a cover 103, which may be arranged to slide, and which covers an opening 111 which receives the aerosol generating device 100. The cover 103 may be configured to be activated such that at least one activation of the cover 103 results in a corresponding operation of the charging unit 101 or the aerosol provision device 100 arranged therein. This will be discussed in detail further below. The cover 103 may be considered to be an activatable cover 103. In Fig. 1 , the opening 111 , of the cavity, is beneath the cover 103 which is shown in a first, e.g. closed, position. When the aerosol provision device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 in order to be recharged, the cover 103 may be moved into the first position so as to cover the opening 111 into the aerosol provision device 100. The cover 103 may thus function to retain the aerosol provision device 100 within the charging unit 101.

The charging unit 101 may include a communication device, e.g. in the form of a user display 108. As shown in Fig. 1, the user display 108 may be provided on an upper portion of the charging unit 101 and may be visible to a user irrespective of the position of the cover 103. However, other arrangements are contemplated wherein the user display 108 may be concealed by the cover 103 when the cover is moved into a second (e.g. open) position. The user display 108 may then be revealed to a user when the cover 103 is moved into the first (e.g. closed) position. In the first position, as shown in Fig. 1 , the opening 111 is substantially blocked by the cover 103. When the cover 103 is in a second position, the opening 111 is not substantially blocked by the cover 103. As such, the aerosol provision device 100 may be separated from the charging unit 101 via the opening 111 and similarly inserted into the charging unit 101 via the opening 111.

The cover 103 is moveable between a first (e.g. closed) position (shown in Fig. 1) and a second (e.g. open) position (not shown) in which the opening 111 is not substantially blocked by the cover 103. As discussed above, the cover 103 is configured to be operated by a user such that an activation of the cover 103 results in a corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device 100 or the charging unit 101. An activation of the cover 103 may comprise movement of the cover 103 from the first position into the second position. This activation may have any appropriate corresponding operation. For example, this activation of the cover 103 may cause the aerosol provision device 101 to operate in a pre-heating phase whereby an aerosol generator provided within eh aerosol provision device 101 begins to pre-heat. Similarly, the corresponding operation may cause a communication means, e.g. the user display 108 provided on the charging unit 101 , to output an indication of the current charge or expected amount of puffs available from the aerosol provision device 100. This may inform a user as to whether the aerosol provision device 100 has sufficient charge for their intended use. In similar manner, the at least one activation of the cover 103 may comprise movement of the cover 103 into the first position, e.g. from the second position. Movement in this manner may cause any suitable corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device 100 or charging unit 101. For example, it may cause an operation comprising activation of the user display 108. For example, the user display 108 may be caused to indicate an expected time until the aerosol provision device is charged. In other embodiments, the operation may comprise a deactivation of the aerosol provision device 100.

The cover 103 which is activatable to cause a corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device 100 or charging unit 101 may provide a convenient interaction between a user and the system. For example, it may minimise the amount of physical operations a user has to go through when using the system. Movement of the cover 103 which then triggers a particular operation may thus make the system easier to use. Additionally, the cover 103 effectively acts as an input means which at least partially controls operation of the aerosol provision device 100 or charging unit 101. The provision of such a cover 103 may therefore remove the need for a further input means on the charging unit 101. The triggering of an operation when the cover 103 is moved may also increase the speed at which a particular operation occurs, as compared to a user having to operate a separate input means. This may, for example, mean that a user is able to obtain information about the charging unit 101 aerosol provision device 100, or begin operation of the charging unit 101 or aerosol provision device 100 more quickly.

Fig. 2 shows for illustrative purposes a cross sectional view of a portion of the aerosol provision device 100. The aerosol provision device 100 comprises a main housing 200 which forms a chamber 201. Heating of an aerosol generating article occurs in the chamber 201, and thus the chamber 201 may be considered to be a heating chamber 201. The main housing 200 may comprise a wall 200a which is a tubular wall 200a, and which may extend along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol provision device 100, and which surrounds the heating chamber 201. The wall 200a may, at least in part, define the heating chamber 201 of the aerosol provision device 100, as the volume which is enclosed within the tubular wall 200a. The wall 200a may be a shape other than tubular, and may be any shape which encloses (e.g. encircles) and defines a heating chamber 201 therewithin. The aerosol provision device 100 may comprise an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating article received within the aerosol provision device 100. The aerosol generator may take any suitable form that is capable of generating an aerosol from the aerosol generating article. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator comprises a heating element 202 which may be provided in a portion of the main housing 200 and the heating element 202 may extend or project into the heating chamber 201. The heating element 202 may comprise a base portion 202a which may be located in a recess provided in a portion of the main housing 200.

The heating element 202 may comprise a resistive heating element. The heating element 202 may comprise a pin which may be inserted, in use, into a distal end of an aerosol generating article which is received within the heating chamber 201 in order to internally heat the aerosol generating article.

Alternatively, the heating element 202 may comprise a resistive blade heating element comprising a planar portion and a pointed portion. The pointed portion of the resistive blade heating element may be arranged to be inserted, in use, into a distal end of an aerosol generating article in order to internally heat the aerosol generating article.

According to another arrangement the heating element 202 may comprise an inductive heating element which may be arranged to internally heat an aerosol generating article. The inductive heating element may similarly comprise a pin or blade which acts as a susceptor. In such embodiments, a magnetic field generating device, e.g. an inductor coil, may at least partially, e.g. fully, surround the heating chamber 201. It is also contemplated that the heating element may form part of the aerosol generating article rather than being a component of the aerosol provision device 100. As such, the aerosol generating article may comprise a susceptor arranged therein. The aerosol generator may thus comprise an inductive heating arrangement.

The aerosol provision device 100 may further comprise a removal mechanism 204 which may be removably retained to the main housing 200 of the aerosol provision device 100. The removal mechanism 204 may be retained to the main housing 200 so that at least a portion of the removal mechanism 204 extends into the heating chamber 201. The removal mechanism 204 may comprise a longitudinal portion such as a tubular portion 207a and a base portion 207b. The base portion 207b may have an aperture 206 through which the heating element 202 may project. In order to retain the removal mechanism 204 to the main housing 200, the removal mechanism 204 may be pushed into engagement with the main housing 200 in the distal direction, i.e. towards the distal end of the main housing 200, until the removal mechanism 204 is able to move no further in the distal direction. In the following description, when the removal mechanism 204 is referred to as being retained to the main housing 200, this is when the removal mechanism 204 is engaged with the main housing 200, and can move no further in the distal direction.

Together, the tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b may define and enclose an article chamber for receiving an aerosol generating article. The article chamber comprises an inner surface which may be configured to contact the aerosol generating article. The inner surface may comprise a longitudinally extending portion which is provided by the tubular portion 207a and an end portion which is provided by the base portion 207b. When an aerosol generating article is received in the heating chamber, the aerosol generating article may contact both the longitudinally extending portion of the inner surface and the end portion of the inner surface. In particular, the article chamber (i.e. the tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b) may be configured to receive at least part of an aerosol generating article which is in the form of rod which is longitudinally extending and cylindrical, such that the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article is parallel to (and optionally in line with) the longitudinal axis of the aerosol provision device 100 when received in the article chamber.

The article chamber may also be referred to as a receiving portion. When the removal mechanism 204 is retained to the main housing 200, in use, the article chamber of the removal mechanism 204 may be arranged, at least partially, within the heating chamber 201. The heating element 202 may be arranged so as to project into the article chamber, through the aperture 206 provided in the base portion 207b of the removal mechanism 204. The removal mechanism 204 is therefore configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol generating article in use.

The removal mechanism 204 may comprise a first magnet or a magnetisable material 208. The main housing 200 may comprise a second magnet or magnetisable material 209. In use, the removal mechanism 204 may be magnetically retained to the main housing 200 by the interaction of the first magnet or magnetisable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetisable material 209.

The removal mechanism 204 is fully detachable from the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 may be retained to the main housing 200 by a magnetic force of attraction between the first magnet or magnetisable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetisable material 209. The removal mechanism 204 may be detached from the main housing 200 by overcoming the magnetic force between the first magnet or magnetisable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetisable material 209. Alternatively, the removal mechanism 204 may be removably retained to the main housing 200 by other means. For example, the removal mechanism 204 may be configured to be removably retained to the main housing 200 by an interference fit with the main housing.

Fig. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol provision device 100 and shows a main housing 200 with a heating element 202 extending into a heating chamber 201 and wherein a removal mechanism 204 is removably retained to the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 surrounds the heating element 202. An aerosol generating article 300 is shown located at least partly within the article chamber, and accordingly also within the heating chamber 201, such that the aerosol generating article 300 is positioned onto the heating element 202.

When retained to the main housing 200, the outer cap portion 210 forms a portion of an outer housing of the aerosol provision device 100. The outer cap portion 210 may radially surround the tubular element 207a with a gap being provided between the internal element (e.g. the tubular element 207a) and the outer cap 210, the gap extending along a portion of the length of the removal mechanism 204, and being configured to receive a portion of the main housing 200, e.g. the wall 200a. The removal mechanism 204 may define an opening 203 to the article chamber, through which the aerosol generating article 300 may be inserted in a first direction in order to be inserted into the article chamber. This first direction is the distal direction, and may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol provision device 100. In embodiments, the opening 203 may be configured to contact the aerosol generating article 300.

The first magnet or a magnetisable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetisable material 209 may be located in the removal mechanism 204 and the main housing 200 respectively, such that they are sufficiently proximate to one another to generate an attractive force between one another when the removal mechanism 204 is retained to the main housing 200, such that the removal mechanism 204 is magnetically retained to the main housing 200. For example, the first magnet or magnetisable material may be located at the proximal end of the portion of the main housing 200, e.g. at the proximal end of the wall 200a, which is inserted into the gap within the removal mechanism 204 (i.e. between the outer cap 210 and the internal element 207a, 207b) when the removal mechanism 204 is retained to the main housing 200, with the second magnet or magnetisable material 209 located at a corresponding location in the removable mechanism 204. Accordingly, when the removal mechanism 204 is engaged to the main housing 200 the second magnet or magnetisable material 209 is positioned sufficiently close to the first magnet or magnetisable material 208 such that the attraction between the first magnet or magnetisable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetisable material 209 keeps the removal mechanism 204 retained to the main housing 200.

In use, a user may insert or partially insert an aerosol generating article 300 through the opening 203 into the aerosol provision device 100. The aerosol generating article 300 is received within the tubular portion 207a of the removal mechanism 204 and hence the aerosol generating article 300 is received into the article chamber defined by the tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b, and is additionally received into the heating chamber 201. The heating element 202 may be arranged to pierce a distal end of the aerosol generating article 300 so that the heating element 202 is located within the aerosol generating article 300 and is arranged to heat the aerosol generating article 300 via internal heating.

Once the aerosol generating article 300 has been inserted into the aerosol provision device 100 the user may then conduct a session of use. During the session of use the aerosol generating article 300 may be heated by the heating element 202. It will be understood that a session of use may last several minutes. For example, according to various embodiments a session of use may last 2-3 mins, 3-4 mins or 4-5 mins.

At the end of a session of use the user may wish to remove the spent aerosol generating article 300 from the aerosol provision device 100 and optionally replace the spent aerosol generating article 300 with a fresh aerosol generating article 300. According to an embodiment in order to remove a spent aerosol generating article 300 after a session of use, the user may detach the removal mechanism 204 from the main housing 200 by applying a force to the removal mechanism 204 in order to overcome the magnetic force of attraction between the first magnet 208 provided in the removal mechanism 204 and the second magnet provided in the main housing 200.

Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of the uppermost part of an aerosol provision system in accordance with various embodiments and Fig. 5 shows a top view of the aerosol provision system shown in Fig. 4.

According to various embodiments the charging unit 101 comprises a cover 103 configured to be activated by a user. The cover 103 is moveable between a first position and a second position. With reference to Figs. 4 and 5 the cover 103 is shown in a second position which corresponds to a position whereby an opening 111 to a cavity which receives the aerosol provision device 100 is not substantially blocked by the cover 103, i.e. an open position wherein the aerosol provision device 100 can be inserted or removed from the charging unit 101.

The cover 103 may be moved into a first position as shown in Figs. 6 and 7, whereby the opening 111 is at least partially, e.g. fully, blocked by the cover 103. This may be considered to be a closed position. This is described in detail further below.

In the second position, the cover 103 may be positioned such that an opening 111 in the charging unit is accessible such that the aerosol provision device 100 can be inserted into and removed from a cavity 112 within the charging unit 101. In the embodiment shown in Figs. 4 and 5, the aerosol provision device 100 is shown within the cavity 112. The charging unit 101 may comprise a housing 113 which houses the components of the charging unit 101.

The aerosol provision device 100 may comprise a communication device in the form of a user display and/or a user interface 106a. Movement of the cover 103 may activate and/or deactivate the user display and/or user interface 106a provided on the aerosol provision device 100.

Embodiments are contemplated such as shown in Fig. 1 wherein a user display 108 may be provided on the charging unit 101 and may be separate from a user interface 106 which may be provided on the aerosol provision device 100 (as shown in Fig. 1). However, other embodiments are contemplated wherein as shown in Fig. 4, a user interface and/or a user display 106a may be provided solely on the aerosol provision device 100. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 4 the user interface and/or user display 106a is provided on a side panel of the aerosol provision device 100 which is visible to a user when the aerosol provision device 100 is docked within the charging unit 101. Other embodiments are contemplated wherein a user interface and/or user display may be provided on the charging unit 101. It is contemplated, for example, that a user display may be provided on the charging unit 101 beneath the cover 103 such that the user display is concealed when the lid is in an second, e.g. open, position as shown in Figs. 4 and 5 but is revealed or visible to a user when the lid 103 is in a first, e.g. closed, position as shown in Figs. 6 and 7.

According to embodiments a user interface 106,106a may be provided, for example, on the aerosol provision device 100. The cover 103 may be activated by moving the cover into the second position and/or moving the cover 103 into the first position. Activation by movement into the second position may have a corresponding operation which comprises activation of the user interface 106, 106a. Similarly, activation by movement into the first position may have a corresponding operation which comprises deactivation of the user interface 106, 106a. For example, when the cover 103 is moved in the first, e.g. closed, position then the aerosol provision system may be arranged to deactivate the user interface 106,106a provided on the aerosol provision device 100. This may prevent accidental activation of the aerosol provision device 100 whilst it is docket within the aerosol charging unit 101.

The cover 103 may be moved by a user from the first, e.g. closed position to the second, e.g. open, position and when the cover 103 is returned to the first position the user interface 106,106a on the aerosol provision device 100 may be activated enabling a user to control various operations of the aerosol provision device 100.

According to embodiments at least a portion of the user display 108 may be located on the charging unit 101 as shown in Fig. 1. However, other embodiments are contemplated as shown in Fig. 4 wherein at least a portion of the user display 106a is located on the aerosol provision device 100. According to an embodiment the user display 106a may be provided solely on the aerosol provision device 100.

In a mode of operation, a user display 108 provided on the charging unit 101 (see Fig. 1) or a user display 106a provided on the aerosol provision device 100 (see Fig. 4) may be arranged to indicate the charge state of the charging unit 101. For example, with reference to Fig. 1 a user display 108 provided on the charging unit 101 may comprise a series of concentric circles wherein the number of concentric circles illuminated indicates the charge state of the charging unit 101. Alternatively, the user display 108 may comprise a circle divided into four quadrants wherein the number of quadrants illuminated may indicate the charge state of the charging unit 101. Other embodiments are also contemplated wherein the colour of the user display 108 may indicate the charge state of the charging unit 101. For example, the colour red may be used to indicate a low charge state, the colour yellow may be used to indicate an intermediate charge state and the colour green, blue or white may be used to indicate a full or nearly full charge state.

With reference to Fig. 4, a user display 106a may additionally or alternatively be provided on the aerosol provision device 100. According to an embodiment the user display 106a may comprise a sequence or array of two, three, four or more than four lights or LEDs. For example, according to an embodiment two lights or LEDs may be provided and the lights or LEDs may be progressively illuminated in order to indicate the charge state. Zero lights or LEDs illuminated may indicate a low charge state (or a charge status of < 33%), one light or LED illuminated may indicate an intermediate charge state (or a charge state of 33-66%) and two lights or LEDs may indicate a full or nearly full charge state (or a charge state of > 66%). Other embodiments are also contemplated wherein the colour of the user display 106a may indicate the charge state of the charging unit 101. For example, the colour red may be used to indicate a low charge state, the colour yellow may be used to indicate an intermediate charge state and the colour green, blue or white may be used to indicate a full or nearly full charge state.

In a mode of operation, a user display 108 provided on the charging unit 101 or a user display 106,106a on the aerosol provision device 100 may be arranged to indicate the charge state of the aerosol provision device 100. For example, with reference to Fig. 1 the user display 108 may comprise a series of concentric circles wherein the number of concentric circles illuminated indicates the charge state of the aerosol provision device 100. Alternatively, the user display 108 may comprise a circle divided into four quadrants wherein the number of quadrants illuminated may indicate the charge state of the aerosol provision device 100. Other embodiments are also contemplated wherein the colour of the user display 108 may indicate the charge state of the aerosol provision device 100. For example, the colour red may be used to indicate a low charge state, the colour yellow may be used to indicate an intermediate charge state and the colour green, blue or white may be used to indicate a full or nearly full charge state.

Other embodiments are contemplated wherein a user display is not provided on the aerosol provision device 100. For example, according to an embodiment a user display may be provided solely on the charging unit 101. According to another embodiment no user display may be provided at all i.e. no user display is provided on either the aerosol provision device 100 or the charging unit 101.

In a mode of operation a user display 108 provided on the charging unit 101 and/or a user display 106a provided on an aerosol provision device 100 may be arranged to indicate an error or fault status of either the charging unit 101 and/or the aerosol provision device 100. In a mode of operation a user display 108 provided on the charging unit 101 and/or a user display 106a provided on an aerosol provision device 100 may be arranged to indicate the time left of a session of use.

According to various embodiments the second position comprises an open position in which the aerosol provision device 100 can be inserted into, and removed from the cavity of the charging unit 101. According to various embodiments the first position comprises a closed position in which an upper portion of the cavity of the charging unit 101 is closed by the cover 103.

The cover 103 may be configured to be moved (e.g. slid or pivoted) between the first and second positions. The charging unit 101 may comprise a housing having one or more rails or grooves and the cover 103 may comprise one or more tabs or projections arranged to engage the one or more rails or grooves. Alternatively, the charging unit 101 may comprise a housing having one or more tabs or projections and the cover 103 may comprises one or more rails or grooves and wherein the one or more tabs or projections engage the one or more rails or grooves.

With reference to Figs. 4 and 5, the cover 103 may be configured to slide between the first and second positions. Sliding of the cover 103 may be achieved by any suitable arrangement. The charging unit 101 may comprise grooves 114. The grooves 114 may be arranged on an inside edge of the housing 113 as shown in Figs. 4 and 5. The cover 103 may comprise tabs 116 which engage the grooves 114. Engagement of the tabs 116 with the grooves 114 may constrain the cover 103 such that it is able to slide relative to the main housing 113.

Other embodiments are envisaged wherein the charging unit 101 comprises rails instead of grooves 114. Similarly, the cover 103 may comprise projections, having a form other than tabs 116, which may engage the grooves 114 or rails. The grooves 114 or rails may be arranged on the cover 103 instead of the housing 113, and the tabs 116 or projections may be arranged on the housing 113 or other suitable part of the charging unit 101 , rather than the cover 103. The grooves 114 and/or rails together with the tabs 116 and/or projections, irrespective of their location, act to constrain movement of the cover 103. Any number of grooves 114, rails, tabs 116 or projections may be provided.

Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of an uppermost portion of the aerosol provision system with the cover 103 in the first position. In some embodiments, the first position of the cover 103 comprises a closed position in which the opening 111 at an upper portion of the cavity 112 is closed by the cover 103. This may prevent a user from being able to remove the aerosol provision device 100 from the cavity 112 of the charging unit 101.

Fig. 7 shows a top view of the aerosol provision system with the cover 103 in the first position. The grooves 114 on the housing 113 of the charging unit 101 and the tabs 116 on the lid 103 are visible. When the lid 103 moves from the second (e.g. open) position shown in Figs. 4 and 5 into the first (e.g. closed) position shown in Figs. 6 and 7 the tabs 116 slide within the grooves 114 and thereby guide sliding movement of the lid 103.

Other embodiments are also contemplated whereby the lid 103 moves between first and second positions in any other suitable manner, for example by rotation and/or pivotal movement.

As discussed above, in the embodiments described above, the cover 103 of the charging unit 100 is configured to be activated. An activation of the cover 103 may comprise moving the cover 103 into a second position, e.g. from the first position, or into a first position, e.g. from the second position. The cover 103 may be moved into each of the first position or second position from an intermediate position located in-between each of the first and second positions. The corresponding operation for each activation may be any suitable operation depending on the particular set up of the aerosol provision system. An activation comprising movement into the second position may comprise a corresponding operation whereby the user display 108 and/or user interface(s) 106,106a are activated. Similarly, an activation comprising movement into the first position may comprise deactivation of the user display 108 and/or the user interface(s) 106,106a. Activation of the cover 103 of the charging unit may thus cause corresponding operation on the charging unit 101 or the aerosol provision device 100 received within the charging unit 101. Whilst activation in the form of moving the cover 103 between the first and second positions is described above, it will be appreciated that the cover 103 may be activated in any other suitable manner.

In the embodiments described above, the aerosol provision device 100 is shown together with a charging unit 101. However, this is not essential and the aerosol provision device may comprise a standalone aerosol provision device. An aerosol provision device comprising a cover which is configured to be activated by at least one activation to result in a corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device will now be described in more detail below. It will be appreciated that, unless indicated to the contrary, features of the aerosol provision devices, specifically the cover thereof, may be applied to the aerosol provision system discussed above. Similarly, features of the aerosol provision system may be applied to the aerosol provision devices described below. Features of any of the aerosol provision devices described below may also be combined in any suitable manner, unless indicated to the contrary.

Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of an aerosol provision device 300 according to various embodiments. The aerosol provision device 300 may be charged by a charging unit 101 as described above, or it may be charged by any other suitable means. The aerosol provision device 300 may comprise features corresponding to the aerosol provision device 100 described above. For example, the aerosol provision device may comprise an aerosol generator configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating article received in the aerosol provision device 300.

A housing 328 of the aerosol provision device 300 may be larger than an aerosol provision device 100 as described above and may thus house a larger capacity battery. As such, the aerosol provision device 300 may be capable of an increased period of use, as compared to an aerosol provision device 100 described above. The aerosol provision device 300 may thus not need to be charged as often as an aerosol provision device 100 described above. The aerosol provision device 300 comprises an opening 305 which leads to a chamber (not visible in this Figure), in the same manner as the aerosol provision device 100 discussed above. The aerosol provision device 300 may also comprise an aerosol generator comprising a heating arrangement similar to the heating arrangement of the aerosol provision device 100 discussed above.

The aerosol provision device 300 may comprise a cover 303 arranged to move between a first position in which the opening 305 is at least partially blocked (see Fig. 9) and a second position in which the opening is not substantially blocked by the cover, as depicted in Fig. 8. The cover 303 may therefore be used to selectively provide access to the opening 305, thereby allowing a user to insert and/or remove an aerosol generating article into/from the opening 305 when the cover 303 is in the second position.

The cover 303 is configured to be activated by a user. At least one activation of the cover 303 may result in a corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device 300. This is discussed in more detail further below. As illustrated by the arrow 330, the cover 303 may be configured to slide. However, it is contemplated that the cover 303 may move between first and second positions in any suitable manner. For example, the cover 303 may instead pivot between the first and second positions. In some embodiments, the cover 303 may comprise a button 332. The button 332 may be arranged at any suitable position on the cover 303, e.g. at a forward portion thereof.

When in the first position, the cover 303 may fully block the opening 305. This may prevent any foreign objects from entering the opening 305 which may otherwise prevent the proper functioning of the aerosol provision device 300. In some embodiments, as depicted in Fig. 8, the second position may be a position whereby the opening 305 is not obscured by the cover 303. The second position may thus correspond to a position whereby the cover 303 is positioned such that the opening 305 is open to receive an aerosol generating article.

Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of the aerosol provision device 300 with the cover 303 in a first position in which the opening 305 (not visible in this Figure) is at least partially blocked. In the embodiment depicted, the opening 305 is fully blocked.

Fig. 10 shows a view from above of the aerosol provision device 300 with the cover 303 in the first position.

Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of the aerosol provision device 300 with the cover 303 in the second position, in which the opening 305 is not substantially blocked.

Fig. 12 shows a view of the aerosol provision deice 300 when viewed from above. This corresponds to the position of the cover shown in Fig. 8.

Operation of the aerosol provision device 300 will now be described. When a user initially wishes to use the aerosol provision device 300, the user first needs to insert an aerosol generating article into the aerosol provision device 300. In order to do this, the user may move the cover 303 from the first position shown in Figs. 9 and 10, into the second position shown in Figs. 11 and 12, so as to reveal the opening 305, which leads to a chamber (not visible in these Figures), for receiving an aerosol generating article.

The cover 303 is configured to be activated such that at least one activation of the cover 303 results in a corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device 303. In the embodiment depicted in Figs. 8-12, the cover 303 may be configured to be activated by physical movement of the cover 303. For example, movement of the cover 303 from the first position to the second position may be an activation of the cover 303. The corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device 300 may depend on how the device is configured to operate. For example, in some embodiments, an activation comprising moving the cover 303 from the first position to the second position may have a corresponding operation which is an activation of the aerosol provision device 300. Such an activation may have any suitable form. For example, the activation of the aerosol provision device 300 may start a pre-heating process, e.g. by activating an aerosol generator of the aerosol provision device 300. In other embodiments, the activation may comprise activating a communication device configured to output information to a user. The communication device, may for example, output information relating to a current status, e.g. a charge status, of the aerosol provision device 300.

The activatable cover 303, activation of which causes a corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device 300, may provide a convenient means for a user to interact with a control operation of the aerosol provision device 300. It may, for example, remove the need to provide a separate user interface on the aerosol provision device 300. This may simplify the aerosol provision device 300 as it may reduce the total number of parts. An operation being triggered by movement of the cover 303 may reduce the total number of inputs a user has to provide when using the aerosol provision device 300, thus potentially making the aerosol provision device 300 easier to use. An operation may comprise a pre-heating of the aerosol provision device 300. This may mean that the aerosol provision device 300 is able to produce an aerosol more quickly, as compared to a device whereby a user has to separately operate a user interface, e.g. a power button, following opening of a cover.

Once a user has finished using the aerosol provision device 300, the user may remove the aerosol generating article therefrom and proceed to move the cover 303 from the second position, shown in Figs. 11 and 12, into the first position shown in Figs. 9 and 10. Once in this position, the cover 303 may at least partially, e.g. fully, block the opening 305 and thereby prevent the ingress of any foreign objects into the chamber beneath the opening 305. Movement of the cover 303 into the first position, e.g. from the second position, may be another activation which results in another corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device 300. The corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device 300 may, for example, comprise a deactivation of an aerosol generator within the aerosol provision device 300 and/or deactivation of a communication means, e.g. a user display. Deactivating the aerosol provision device 300 in this manner may provide a convenient means for deactivating the aerosol provision device 300. This may mean that the aerosol provision device 300 does not unnecessarily continue to consume electrical power when the user is no longer using the aerosol provision device 300. Incorporating this deactivation with movement of the cover 303 may provide a convenient means for triggering the deactivation.

The cover 303 may move between the first and second positions in any suitable manner. In the embodiment shown in Figs. 8-12, the cover 303 is arranged to slide between the first and second positions. A sliding cover 303 may be particularly easy for a user to operate whilst holding the aerosol provision device 300. In some embodiments the cover 303 is arranged to slide in a straight line between the first and second positions. Again, sliding the cover 303 in a straight line may be easy for a user to operate. However, it will be appreciated that the cover 303 may follow any other suitable path, for example a curved path.

As described above, the activation of the cover 303 may comprise a plurality of different activations. For example, movement of the cover from the first to the second position may be a first activation with a first corresponding operation (e.g. activation of the aerosol provision device) and movement of the cover 303 from the second position to the first position may be a second activation with a second corresponding operation (e.g. inactivation of the aerosol provision device). However, it is contemplated that any number of activations and corresponding operations of the aerosol provision device 300 may be implemented. In the above embodiment, activation of the cover 303 comprises physical movement of the cover 303. However, it will be appreciated that activation of the cover 303 may be achieved through other means, e.g. by pressing the cover 303. With reference back to Fig. 8, the cover 303 may comprise a button 332. A pressing, by a user, of this button 332 may be another activation with another corresponding operation. The corresponding operation may, for example, comprise initiating a boost mode of operation for the aerosol provision device 303.

In the embodiments described above, the activation need not necessarily comprise movement of the cover 303 from the first position into the second position. Instead, the activation may simply comprise movement of the cover 303 into the first position or the second position, irrespective of the start position. For example, an activation may comprise moving the cover 303 out of, and back into, the first position, without the cover ever reaching the second position. The same may apply for the second position. Fig. 13 shows a further embodiment of an aerosol provision device 400 which is substantially the same as the aerosol provision device 300 described above in that it comprises an opening 405, a cover 403 which is arranged to slide and which comprises a button 432 at its forward end. The housing 428 as shown may have a different shape.

Variations of an aerosol provision device comprising a cover configured to be activated will now be described. In each of the embodiments described, the aerosol provision devices are substantially the same as the aerosol provision devices described above, except for how the cover functions to be activated. As such, any of the aerosol provision devices may comprise any of the features of the aerosol provision devices described above.

Fig. 14 shows a perspective view of an aerosol provision device 500 in accordance with another embodiment. The aerosol provision device 500 comprises a cover 503 arranged to move between first and second positions, in the same manner as the cover 303,403 described above. Movement of the cover 503 between the first and second positions may correspond to activations, with corresponding operations of the aerosol provision device 500, in the same manner as the cover 303 described above. In other embodiments, movement of the cover 503 between the first and second positions may not correspond to activations, and thus movement of the cover 503 between the first and second positions may not change an operational state of the aerosol provision device 500.

The cover 503 may be arranged to rotate around an axis 534 of rotation. The cover 503 may be rotated when the cover 503 is in the second position, in which the opening 505 is not substantially blocked by the cover 503 (as shown in Fig. 14) and/or when the cover 503 is in a first position in which the opening 505 is substantially blocked (not shown). Rotating the cover 503 may correspond to an activation of cover 503, which may result in corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device 500. Activation of the cover 503 by rotating it may provide a further degree of movement which may increase the number of different activations which are possible using the cover 503. For example, sliding the cover 503 into the second position may be one form of activation of the cover 503, and rotation of the cover 503 may then be a second form of activation. Rotation of the cover 503 also requires a notably different form of manual input from a user when compared to sliding of the cover 503. As such, it may be easier for a user to input different forms of activation with the cover 503, and thus initiate the desired operation.

In the embodiment depicted in Fig. 14, the cover 503 is arranged to slide along the same axis 534 around which the cover 503 is arranged to rotate. As such, the axis of rotation may be considered to be substantially aligned with the direction of movement of the cover 503 when moved between the first and second positions. In other embodiments, the cover 503 may be arranged to rotate around an axis 535 which is perpendicular to the direction of movement of the cover 503 when moved between the first and second positions. As will be appreciated, the aerosol provision device 500 may generally be elongate having a longitudinal axis, and the axis 534,535 around which the cover 503 is arranged to rotate, may not align with the longitudinal axis of the aerosol provision device 500.

Figs. 15-17 each show a sectional view of the aerosol provision device 500 shown in Fig. 14, when viewed through the line A-A from a forward end of the aerosol provision device 500. Fig. 16 shows the cover 503 when it is in a non-rotated position i.e. when it has not been rotated relative to the axis 534. Fig. 15 shows the cover 503 when it has been rotated around the axis 534 in a first direction and Fig. 17 shows the cover 503 when it has been rotated around the axis 534 in a second direction. Rotation in each of the different directions may each be a different activation which each correspond to a different operation of the aerosol provision device 503. For example, rotation to the left, as shown in Fig. 15 may initiate a standard mode of operation, whereas rotation to the right, as shown in Fig. 17, may initiate a boost mode of operation. In some embodiments, it may only be possible to rotate the cover 503 to one side, e.g. it may only be possible to rotate the cover 503 in the first direction shown in Fig. 15, and then back to the central position shown in Fig. 16. In such embodiments, rotation in the first direction may correspond to an activation with a corresponding operation. The cover 503 may be resiliently biased to move back into the non-rotated position shown in Fig. 16. As such, a user may apply a force to rotate the cover 503, and then release the force to allow the cover 503 to move back into the non-rotated position.

In some embodiments, an activation, and its corresponding operation, may not only depend on the direction in which cover 503 is rotated, but also on the period of time for which the cover 503 is held in a particular rotated position. For example, if the cover 503 is held in a first rotated position, as shown in Fig. 15 for 2 seconds, this may be a first activation with a first corresponding operation, e.g. a base mode of operation, whereas if the cover is held in the first rotated position for 5 seconds, this may be a second activation with a second corresponding operation, e.g. a boost mode of operation. The same may be applied to any type of activation. For example, movement into a second position for a first period of time may result in a first mode of operation, whereas movement into a second position for a second period of time may result in a second mode of operation. The same may apply equally to embodiments wherein the cover comprises at least one button, which are described in more detail below.

Fig. 18 shows an example of an aerosol provision device 600 in accordance with another embodiment. The aerosol provision device 600 comprises a movable cover 603 which moves in a similar manner to the various embodiments as described above. The cover 603 further comprises a first button 636 at a forward end of the cover 603. The cover 603 may also comprise a second button 638 arranged at a rearward end of the cover 603. In such embodiments, activation of the cover 603 may comprise a user pressing the cover 603, e.g. by pressing one or both of the first and second buttons 636,638. Whilst two buttons 636,638 are depicted, it will be appreciated that the cover 603 may comprise any number of buttons, and the number of buttons may depend on the types of operation that are possible with the device. The first and second buttons 636,638 may each correspond to a different activation and thus a different operation of the aerosol generating device 600. For example, the first button 636 may correspond to a standard mode of operation, whereas the second button 638 may correspond to a boost mode of operation. Alternatively, different modes of operation may be achieved by pressing a single button multiple times, or by pressing a button for a different amount of time.

The first and second buttons 636,638 may comprise a capacitive button or a mechanical button. The operation caused by pressing of the first and second buttons may also depend on the position that the cover 603 is in when they are pressed. For example, if the cover 603 is in a second position, as shown in Fig. 18, when either of the first or second buttons 636,638 is pressed, i.e. activated, the aerosol provision device 600 may operate to begin heating of an aerosol generating article inserted therein. In contrast, if the cover 603 is in the first position when the one of the buttons 636,638 is pressed, i.e. activated, this may result in a different operation, for example it may cause a communication device, e.g. a screen, to provide an indication of battery status or remaining number of uses of the aerosol provision device 600. As such, the operation of the aerosol provision device 600 may thus depend on the activation, as well as the position of the cover 603 at the point of activation. In some embodiments, the operation may also depend on the status of the aerosol provision device 600 at the point of activation. For example, if the cover 603 is in the second position, as depicted, and the aerosol provision device 600 is already operating to heat an aerosol generating article inserted therein, a further press of one of the first or second buttons 636,638 may trigger a different operational mode, e.g. heating at a reduced power or for a different period of time. Movement of the cover 603 between the first and second positions may also correspond to activations of the cover 603. By taking into account the position of the cover 603 and/or the status of the aerosol provision device 600 the number of different operations which can be instigated using a cover 603 may be increased without increasing the number of different activations which are required.

In the embodiments described above, the cover moves between a first position and a second position and movement of the cover between these positions may correspond to an activation of the cover. Figs. 19 and 20 illustrate a further embodiment whereby a cover is movable into a third position. Fig. 19 shows a view from above of an aerosol provision device 700 comprising a cover 703, wherein the cover 703 is in the first position. Fig. 20 shows a view of the aerosol provision device 700 illustrating how the cover 703 can be moved into a second position, shown by dashed line 741 , and a third position, shown by dashed line 740. The third position 740 may be reached by moving the cover 703 directly into the third position from the first position, without passing through the second position. As such, in some embodiments, the third position does not lie on a path between the first position and second positions of the cover 703. Movement of the cover 703 into the third position may be a form of activation of the cover 703. As will be appreciated, movement into the third position as shown in Fig. 20, is in a different direction to movement into the second position. As will be appreciated, due to the different direction of movement, a user may be able to more easily provide a different activation with the cover 703.

In this embodiment, when moving from the first position to the third position, without passing through the second position, the cover 703 may continue to substantially block the opening (not visible on this Figure) which would otherwise receive an aerosol generating article. As such, the activation of moving the cover 703 into the third position may cause, for example, an operation of the aerosol provision device 700 whereby information is portrayed to a user via a communication device.

Fig. 21 shows a view from above of a further embodiment of an aerosol provision device 800 wherein a cover 803 is movable into a third position, different from the third position described above with respect to Figs. 19 and 20. In Fig. 21, the cover 803 is shown in a first position. Fig. 22 shows the aerosol provision device 800 with the cover 803 in a second position, and also illustrates the third position by the dashed line 842. As will be appreciated, in order to move the cover 803 into the third position, the cover 803 has first to be moved into the second position. As depicted, when the cover 803 is moved into the third position, the opening 805 is substantially open. This may be advantageous as a user may first move the cover 803 into the second position, thereby allowing them to place an aerosol generating article into the opening 805. The user may activate the cover 803 by moving the cover 803 into the third position shown by the dashed line 842. This activation may have a corresponding operation which, for example, comprises causing the aerosol provision device 800 to begin heating the aerosol generating article. As such, the cover 803 may be used to initiate heating of the aerosol provision device 800, thereby potentially removing the need for a further user interface. This may simplify the form of the aerosol provision device 800.

Fig. 23 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of an aerosol provision device 900. The aerosol provision device 900 may function in the same manner as any of the embodiments discussed above. The aerosol provision device 900 comprises a communication device 943 configured to communicate information for receipt by a user. The information may, for example, relate to a current status of the aerosol provision device 900. The communication device 943 may comprise a light source, e.g. so as to provide a visual indicator means. In some embodiments, the communication device 943 may comprise a haptic component, configured to provide information to a user e.g. by vibrating upon the initiation of a particular mode of operation. In some embodiments, the communication device 943 may comprise a speaker configured to output audible information for receipt by a user. In other embodiments, the communication device 943 may comprise a wireless connection, e.g. comprising a wireless transmitter, for connecting to an external device. The external device may, for example, comprise a mobile phone. In such embodiments, the communication device 943 may transmit information to the external device which may then output the information for receipt by a user. For example, the information may be displayed on a mobile phone. In other embodiments, the communication device 943 may comprise a wired means for connecting to an external device.

In embodiments comprising a communication device 943, activation of the cover 903, e.g. by moving the cover between the first and second positions, may have a corresponding operation which comprises operation of the communication device 943 so as to communicate information for receipt by a user. For example, an activation comprising movement of the cover 903 into the second position may have a corresponding operation whereby the communication device 943 is caused to output information for receipt by a user. For example, movement of the cover 903 into the second position may cause the communication device 943 to display a current battery level of the aerosol provision device 900. Any other suitable information may also be output. For example, an activation of the cover 903 may cause the communication device to output information relating to an available amount of aerosol generating material, and/or an available type of aerosol generating material.

The information communicated by the communication device 943 may depend on the activation. For example, sliding of the cover 903 may cause a particular type of information to be output, whereas activation by pressing of the cover 903 may cause a different type of information to be output by the communication device 943. In some embodiments, the information output by the communication device 943 may not only depend on the specific activation, but also on the position the cover 903 is in at the point of activation and/or on a status of the aerosol provision device 900. For example, if the cover 903 is in a first position when it is activated, e.g. by pressing of the cover 903, the communication device 943 may output information relating to the battery status. In contrast, if the cover 903 is in the second position when it is activated, the communication device 943 may be caused to output information relating to the current operational mode of the aerosol provision device 900.

In some embodiments, the communication device 943 may be configured to only output information when the aerosol provision device 900 is in use. In some embodiments, the communication device 943 may only output information for a predetermined period of time following use of the aerosol provision device 900. In other embodiments, the communication device 943 only output information when a user interface, separate to the cover 903, is activated, e.g. when a separate button is pressed.

As depicted, the communication device 943 may comprise a screen 944 and one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) 946A.946B. Each of the LEDs 946A.946B may be a different colour. Illumination of respective ones of the LEDs 946A.946B may thus be used to portray specific information to a user. For example, illuminating a first coloured LED may indicate that the aerosol provision device is beginning to warm up, and illuminating a second coloured LED may indicate that the deice is ready for use.

In some embodiments, the cover 903 is at least partially, e.g. fully transparent. In such embodiments, the communication device 943, e.g. in the form of a visual indicator device, may be arranged beneath the cover 903 such that it is visible through the cover 903. The cover 903 may have an average optical transmittance across the wavelength range 380-700 nm of at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 95%, such that the communication device 943 can be viewed through the cover 903.

In the embodiment depicted in Fig. 23, the screen 944 and LEDs 946A.946B are substantially visible to a user when the cover 903 is moved to any position between a first position as shown in Fig. 23 and Fig. 24 and to a second position as shown in Fig. 25. In this embodiment, the entire cover 903 is transparent. As such, the screen 944 and LEDs 946A.946B, i.e. the visual indicator, is substantially visible to the user when the cover 903 is in the first position and also in the second position.

In embodiments wherein the cover 903 is arranged over the communication device 943, the cover 903 may function to cover the opening 905 of the chamber arranged to receive an aerosol generating article, whilst simultaneously protecting the communication device 943, e.g. the screen 944 and LEDs 946A.946B. The screen 944 and/or the LEDs 946A.946B may provide a visual indication to the user regarding the status aerosol provision device 900.

Fig. 24 shows a view from above the aerosol provision device 900 when the cover 903 is in a first position. As shown, when in the first position, because the entire cover 903 is transparent, the communication device 943, specifically the screen 944 and the LEDs 946A.946B are visible to a user. When in this first position, the screen 944 may display first information, for example the current battery status of the aerosol provision device 900. In this first position, the opening 905 is also visible. This may allow a user to inspect the opening 905, and the chamber arranged therebelow, without having to open the cover 903.

Fig. 25 shows a view from above of the aerosol provision device 900 when the cover 903 is in a second position. When in this second position, the opening 905 is not substantially blocked such that a user can insert an aerosol generating article therein. As depicted, when in this second position, the visual indicator device 943 may continue to be visible. Specifically, the screen 944 and LEDs 946A.946B may continue to be visible. The output of information by the screen 944 and the LEDs 946A.946B may nonetheless change. For example, the screen 944 may change to reflect an ON status of the aerosol provision device 900. It will be apparent any other suitable information may be output using the visual indicator means 943. This different information may be a form of operation which corresponds to the activation of moving the cover 903 into the second position.

Fig. 26 shows a view from above of another embodiment of an aerosol provision device 1000. The cover 1003 of the aerosol provision device comprises a transparent portion 1048 and an opaque portion 1050. When the cover 1003 is in the position first position, as shown in Fig. 26, the transparent portion 1048 is arranged above a screen 1044. As such, when the cover 1003 is in the first position, the screen 1044 is visible. Whilst a screen 1044 is shown, it will be appreciated that any other form of visual indicator device may be provided, e.g. at least one LED.

Fig. 27 shows the cover 1003 in a second position, in which the opening 1005 for receiving an aerosol generating article, is substantially open. As shown when in the second position, the opaque portion 1050 of the cover 1003 overlaps the screen 1044 such that the screen 1044 is no longer visible.

Fig. 28 shows a view from above of another embodiment of an aerosol provision device 1100 wherein the cover 1103 comprises a transparent portion 1148 and an opaque portion 1150. In this embodiment, the transparent portion 1148 and opaque portion 1150 are reversed when compared to the embodiment shown in Figs. 26 and 27. As a result, when the cover 1103 is in the first position, as shown in Fig. 28, the opening 1105 can be seen through the transparent portion 1148 of the cover, whereas the screen 1144 is blocked by the opaque portion 1150 of the cover 1103. When moved into the second position depicted in Fig. 29, the opaque portion 1150 moves and the transparent portion 1148 moves above the screen 1144 such that the screen 1144 can then be seen. This may allow the screen 1144, or any other suitable visual indicator device, to be seen during use of the aerosol provision device 1100. The at least partially transparent cover of any of the embodiments described above may be made from any suitable at least partially transparent material. For example, at least part of the cover may be made from a transparent acrylic or a transparent polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). Whilst an at least partially transparent cover has been described in the context of an aerosol provision device, it will be appreciated that an aerosol provision system, comprising an aerosol provision device and a charging unit, may comprise an at least partially transparent cover in a similar manner.

In any of the embodiments described above, the aerosol provision device and/or aerosol provision system may comprise a controller or suitable control circuitry. The controller or control circuitry may be configured to cause the corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device or charging unit. For example, the controller or control circuitry may be connected to a communication device, so as to cause the communication device to output information, or to an aerosol generator to cause the aerosol generator to begin heating an aerosol generating article, or equally to cause an aerosol generator to stop heating an aerosol generating article. The at least one activation of the cover of any of the above embodiments may cause a control signal to be sent to, or be detected by, the controller or control circuitry. This control signal may be generated in any suitable manner.

Activation of the cover of any of the embodiments, e.g. movement or pressing of the cover, may be detected by any suitable means. For example, at least one switch may be arranged to detect an activation, e.g. movement or pressing of the cover. For example, at least one switch may be arranged to be contacted when the cover moves into the second position. The switch may provide a control signal to a controller or control circuitry. Similarly, a switch may be arranged to detect movement of the cover into the first position and may output a control signal to the controller of control circuitry. Any other suitable device may be provided for detecting activation of the cover. In embodiments wherein an activation comprises pressing of the cover, at least one switch or capacitive switch, may be provided to detect pressing of the cover.

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 device comprising: a chamber having an opening arranged to receive an aerosol generating article; and a cover arranged to move between a first position in which the opening of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover and a second position in which the opening is not substantially blocked by the cover; wherein the cover is configured to be activated by a user such that at least one activation of the cover results in at least one corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device.

2. An aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device arranged to receive an aerosol generating article; a charging unit for charging the aerosol provision device, the charging unit comprising a cavity having an opening arranged to receive the aerosol provision device; and a cover arranged to move between a first position in which the opening of the cavity is at least partially blocked by the cover and a second position in which the opening is not substantially blocked by the cover; wherein the cover is configured to be activated by a user such that at least one activation of the cover results in at least one corresponding operation of the provision device and/or the charging unit.

3. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one activation comprises physical movement of the cover.

4. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any of claims 1, 2 or 3, wherein the at least one activation comprises a user pressing the cover.

5. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one activation comprises a plurality of different activations, and wherein each activation results in a different corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device.

6. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one activation comprises moving the cover from the first position to the second position and wherein the corresponding operation comprises activating of the aerosol provision device and/or charging unit.

7. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one activation comprises moving the cover into the first position and wherein the corresponding operation comprises deactivating the aerosol provision device and/or charging unit.

8. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the cover is arranged to slide between the first position and the second position.

9. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the cover is arranged to move into a third position, which does not lie on a path between the first and second positions, and wherein the at least one activation comprises moving the cover to the third position.

10. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in claim 9, wherein movement of the cover to the third position is in a direction which is different to the direction of movement of the cover when moved between the first position and the second position.

11. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the cover is configured to rotate around an axis of rotation, and the at least one activation comprises rotating the cover around the axis.

12. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in claim 11, wherein the axis of rotation is substantially aligned with, or perpendicular to, the direction of movement of the cover when moved between the first position and the second position.

13. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the cover comprises at least one button, and the at least one activation comprises a user pressing the at least one button.

14. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in claim 13, wherein the at least one button comprises at least one capacitive button and/or at least one mechanical button.

15. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device depends on the at least one activation and at least one of:

(i) a position the cover is initially in when the cover is activated; and

(ii) a status of the aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system.

16. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a communication device configured to communicate information for receipt by the user.

17. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in claim 16, wherein the corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device comprises operation of the communication device so as to communicate information for receipt by the user.

18. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a controller configured to cause the corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device or charging unit, and wherein the at least one activation causes a corresponding at least one control signal to be sent or detected by the controller.

19. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the cover is at least partially transparent.

20. An aerosol provision device comprising: a chamber having an opening arranged to receive an aerosol generating article; and a cover arranged to move between a first position in which the opening of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover and a second position in which the opening is substantially open; wherein at least a portion of the cover is at least partially transparent.

21. An aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device arranged to receive an aerosol generating article; a charging unit for charging the aerosol provision device, the charging unit comprising a cavity having an opening arranged to receive the aerosol provision device; and a cover arranged to move between a first position in which the opening of the cavity is at least partially blocked by the cover and a second position in which the opening is substantially open; wherein at least a portion of the cover is at least partially transparent.

22. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in any of claims 19, 20 or 21 , further comprising a communication device comprising a visual indicator device for providing a visual indication to the user.

23. An aerosol provision device or aerosol provision system as claimed in claim 22, wherein the visual indicator device is arranged such that the visual indicator device is substantially visible to the user when the cover is moved to any position between and including the first position and the second position.

24. An aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device as claimed in any of claims 1-11 , 22 or 23; and an aerosol generating article comprising aerosol generating material.

25. A method of generating an aerosol comprising: providing an aerosol provision device as claimed in any of claims 1-11 , 22 or 23; at least partially inserting an aerosol generating article comprising aerosol generating material into the aerosol provision device; and activating the aerosol provision device.