EP4683530A1

EP4683530A1 - An aerosol-generating system comprising a cartridge retention element

Info

Publication number: EP4683530A1
Application number: EP23718165.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Chun Wing KWOK; Guo YU
Original assignee: Philip Morris Products SA
Current assignee: Philip Morris Products SA
Priority date: 2023-03-23
Filing date: 2023-03-23
Publication date: 2026-01-28
Also published as: WO2024192757A1; CN120882324A; KR20250160204A; JP2026509534A

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating system (10). The aerosol-generating system comprises a cartridge (20) for storing an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating system also comprises an aerosol-generating device (30) comprising a cavity (40) configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge in a cavity longitudinal direction. The aerosol-generating system further comprises a cartridge retention element (50) for releasably retaining the cartridge within the cavity. The cartridge retention element comprises a body defining a body longitudinal direction between a first end of the body (51) and a second end of the body (52). The cartridge retention element is arranged such that, when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity, the body longitudinal direction extends in the cavity longitudinal direction. The cartridge retention element also comprises a securing member (53) for securing the cartridge retention element to one of the cartridge and the device. The securing member protrudes from the body in a body transverse direction, and a junction between the securing member and the body extends along the body in the body longitudinal direction. The cartridge retention element also comprises a latching member (54) configured to engage with the other of the cartridge and the device to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity.

Description

AN AEROSOL-GENERATING SYSTEM COMPRISING A CARTRIDGE RETENTION ELEMENT

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising a cartridge, an aerosol-generating device and a cartridge retention element. The present disclosure also relates to a cartridge comprising the cartridge retention element, and an aerosol-generating device comprising the cartridge retention element.
Aerosol-generating systems that are configured to generate an inhalable aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate are known in the art. Some known aerosol-generating systems comprise an aerosol-generating device and a cartridge that can be coupled to the aerosol-generating device. Typically, in such aerosol-generating systems, the cartridge comprises an aerosol-forming substrate and the aerosol-generating device comprises a power supply for supplying electrical power to a heating element in order to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an inhalable aerosol. In general, the cartridge is coupled to the aerosol-generating device prior to use of the aerosol-generating system. In some systems, the cartridge can be uncoupled from the aerosol-generating device, for example when the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge is depleted, and replaced with a new cartridge. This can lead to repeated coupling and uncoupling of the cartridge from the aerosol-generating device during the lifetime of the aerosol-generating system. Thus, it is desirable for such aerosol-generating systems to be provided with an easy and effective means for coupling the cartridge to, and uncoupling the cartridge from, the aerosol-generating device.
However, in some prior art systems, the means for coupling the cartridge to the aerosol-generating device can suffer from degraded performance over time due to the repeated coupling and uncoupling of the cartridge. This may lead to an unreliable or loose connection between the cartridge and the device, which could result in an aerosol-generating system that is inoperable. This could also lead to the cartridge unexpectedly separating from the aerosol-generating device during use or storage, which is likely to result in user dissatisfaction. Thus, it is desirable for such aerosol-generating systems to be provided with a reliable and robust means for coupling the cartridge to the aerosol-generating system.
It is an objective of the present invention to provide an aerosol-generating system with a means for coupling a cartridge to an aerosol-generating device that is reliable, robust, and facilitates easy coupling and uncoupling of the cartridge and aerosol-generating device whilst being simple to manufacture and assemble.
There is provided an aerosol-generating system. The aerosol-generating system may comprise a cartridge for storing an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating system may comprise an aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a cavity. The cavity may be configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge. The cavity may be configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge in a cavity longitudinal direction. The aerosol-generating system may further comprise a cartridge retention element for releasably retaining the cartridge within the cavity. The cartridge retention element may comprise a body defining a body longitudinal direction between a first end of the body and a second end of the body. The cartridge retention element may be arranged such that, when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity, the body longitudinal direction extends in the cavity longitudinal direction. The cartridge retention element may also comprise a securing member for securing the cartridge retention element to one of the cartridge and the device. The securing member may protrude from the body in a body transverse direction, and a junction between the securing member and the body may extend along the body in the body longitudinal direction. The cartridge retention element may also comprise a latching member configured to engage with the other of the cartridge and the device to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity.
According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating system. The aerosol-generating system comprises a cartridge for storing an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating system comprises an aerosol-generating device comprising a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge in a cavity longitudinal direction. The aerosol-generating system further comprises a cartridge retention element for releasably retaining the cartridge within the cavity. The cartridge retention element comprises a body defining a body longitudinal direction between a first end of the body and a second end of the body. The cartridge retention element is arranged such that, when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity, the body longitudinal direction extends in the cavity longitudinal direction. The cartridge retention element also comprises a securing member for securing the cartridge retention element to one of the cartridge and the device. The securing member protrudes from the body in a body transverse direction, and a junction between the securing member and the body extends along the body in the body longitudinal direction. The cartridge retention element also comprises a latching member configured to engage with the other of the cartridge and the device to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity.
Advantageously, the cavity is configured to receive the cartridge in the cavity longitudinal direction, and the body of retention element is configured such that, when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity, the body longitudinal direction extends in the cavity longitudinal direction. That is, the body of the cartridge retention element extends in the direction in which the cartridge is inserted and removed from the cavity. In such an arrangement, improved contact between the cartridge and cartridge retention element can be achieved in order to resist movement of the cartridge out of the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. Additionally, such an arrangement may facilitate a pivoting or hinged moved of the cartridge retention element during coupling and uncoupling of the cartridge.
Advantageously, the latching member is configured to engage with the other of the cartridge and the device. This allows the cartridge retention element to provide a secure connection between the cartridge and the aerosol-generating device. The term “other of the cartridge and the device” refers to the one of these two options that the cartridge retention element is not secured to via the securing member. For example, if the cartridge retention element is secured to the aerosol-generating device via the securing member, then the latching member is configured to engage with the cartridge.
Advantageously, the securing member protrudes from the body in a body transverse direction, and a junction between the securing member and the body extends along the body in the body longitudinal direction. As a result the securing member extends along the body in the body longitudinal direction. Therefore, the securing member can engage with the cartridge or the device so as to prevent rotation of the cartridge retention element about a body transverse direction of the cartridge retention element or prevent movement of the cartridge retention element in the body transverse direction. This may help to ensure alignment of the cartridge retention element during repeated coupling and uncoupling of the cartridge. Furthermore, this arrangement may allow the cartridge retention element to resist bending forces applied to it during coupling and uncoupling of the cartridge.
As used herein, the term “releasably retain” refers to the cartridge retention element being configured to retain the cartridge within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device and also being configured to non-destructively release the cartridge from the cavity when desired by a user.
As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating device” refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. An aerosol-generating device may be a heated aerosol-generating device. An aerosol-generating device may be an electrically heated aerosol-generating device. For example, the aerosol-generating device may comprise one or more components used to supply energy from a power supply to an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. An aerosol-generating device may be a smoking device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol that is directly inhalable into a user's lungs through the user's mouth.
As used herein, the term “aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Such volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate.
As used herein, the term “body longitudinal direction” refers to a direction extending between a first end of the body of the cartridge retention element and a second end of the body of the cartridge retention element. The term “body transverse direction” refers to a direction perpendicular to the body longitudinal direction.
As used herein, the term “a cavity transverse direction” refers to a direction perpendicular to the cavity longitudinal direction.
As used herein, the term “junction” refers to the location at which the securing member and the body meet.
In some embodiments, the cartridge comprises the cartridge retention element. In such embodiments, the securing member is for securing the cartridge retention element to the cartridge, and the latching member is configured to engage the aerosol-generating device to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.
In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating device comprises the cartridge retention element. In such embodiments, the securing member is for securing the cartridge retention element to the aerosol-generating device, and the latching member is configured to engage the cartridge to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. Advantageously, providing the cartridge retention element as part of the aerosol-generating device may allow the aerosol-generating system to be manufactured more cheaply because the cartridge retention element may not be disposed of along with the cartridge after the aerosol-forming substrate is depleted.
In some embodiments, the cartridge retention element may be a first cartridge retention element. The aerosol-generating system may comprise a second cartridge retention element. That is, the aerosol-generating system may comprise a first cartridge retention element and a second cartridge retention element. The second cartridge retention element may have any of the features described herein in relation to the first cartridge retention element. The first cartridge retention element may be positioned opposite the second cartridge retention element. The first cartridge retention element and the second cartridge retention element may cooperate to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. Advantageously, providing a first cartridge retention element and a second cartridge retention element may provide a greater retaining force than a single cartridge retention element. Furthermore, providing a first cartridge retention element and a second cartridge retention element may increase the number of contact points between the cartridge and cavity, which may limit the chance of a loose connection.
The aerosol-generating system may comprise a first engagement state. In the first engagement state, the cartridge may be retained within the cavity by the cartridge retention element. For example, when the aerosol-generating system is in the first engagement state, the aerosol-generating system may be operable to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating system may have a second engagement state. In the second engagement state, the cartridge may not be retained within the cavity by the cartridge retention element. The cartridge may not be received within the cavity when the aerosol-generating system is in the second engagement state.
The aerosol-generating system may be configured to move between the first engagement state and the second engagement state by relative movement between the cartridge and the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. In particular, the relative movement may be in the cavity longitudinal direction. The cartridge retention element may be configured to resist relative movement of the cartridge and the cavity. The cartridge retention element may be configured to resist relative movement, in the cavity longitudinal direction, of the cartridge and the cavity.
The cartridge retention element may be configured to move in a cavity transverse direction to allow the aerosol-generating system to move between the first engagement state and the second engagement state. For example, when the cartridge is moved within the cavity in the cavity longitudinal direction, the second end of the body may be configured to move in a cavity transverse direction to allow the aerosol-generating system to move between the first engagement state and the second engagement state. The cartridge retention element may be configured to move in the cavity transverse direction in a hinged or pivot movement.
The cartridge retention element may have a first position. The cartridge retention element may have a second position. The cartridge retention element may be biased to the first position. The cartridge retention element may be configured to move from the first position to the second position to allow the aerosol-generating system to move between the first engagement state and the second engagement state. The cartridge retention element may be configured to move between the first position and the second position in a cavity transverse direction. In particular, the second end of the body may be configured move in a cavity transverse direction during movement of the cartridge retention element between the first position and second position. The movement of the second end of the body may be a hinged or pivot movement. For example, the second end of the body may be configured to pivot about the first end of the body when the cartridge retention element moves between the first position to the second position.
The aerosol-generating system may comprise a protuberance configured to urge against the latching member of the cartridge retention element, when the cartridge is moved within the cavity in the cavity longitudinal direction, to move the cartridge retention element from the first position to the second position.
In the first position, the cartridge retention element may form a first transverse dimension. In the second position, the cartridge retention element may form a second transverse dimension. When the cartridge retention element is part of the aerosol-generating device, the first transverse dimension may be a first transverse dimension in the cavity transverse dimension, and the second transverse dimension be a second transverse dimension in the cavity transverse dimension. When the cartridge retention element is part of the cartridge, the first transverse dimension and second transverse dimension may be a width of the cartridge.
In the first position, the cartridge retention element may form a constriction within the cavity having a first transverse dimension. In the second position, the constriction may have a second transverse dimension. When the first cartridge retention element and the second cartridge retention element are both in the first position, the first cartridge retention element and the second cartridge retention element may form a constriction having a first transverse dimension. When one or both of the first cartridge retention element and the second cartridge retention element are in the second position, the constriction may have a second transverse dimension.
The first transverse dimension may be dimensioned to prevent movement of the aerosol-generating system between the first engagement state and the second engagement state unless the cartridge retention element, or one or more the first cartridge retention element and the second cartridge retention element, moves from the first position to the second position. The second transverse dimension may be greater than the first transverse dimension. The second transverse dimension may be less than the first transverse dimension. The first transverse dimension may be less than a transverse dimension, or width, of the cartridge. The second transverse dimension may be greater than the transverse dimension, or width, of the cartridge. The first transverse dimension may be less than a transverse dimension, or width, of the connection end of the cartridge. The second transverse dimension may be greater than a transverse dimension, or width, of the connection end of the cartridge.
The first transverse dimension and second transverse dimension may be formed by the latching member of the cartridge retention element. The first transverse dimension and second transverse dimension may be formed by the latching member of the first cartridge retention element and the latching member of the second cartridge retention element.
The constriction may be formed by the latching member of the cartridge retention element. The constriction may be formed by the latching member of the first cartridge retention element and the latching member of the second cartridge retention element.
The aerosol-generating device and the cartridge may be configured to form a snap fit. In particular, the latching member may be configured to form a snap fit to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The cartridge retention element may be configured to form an interference fit between the cavity and the cartridge to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.
The aerosol-generating system may comprise a latching member receptacle for receiving the latching member of the cartridge retention element. The cartridge may be releasably retained within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device when the latching member is received within the latching member receptacle. The aerosol-generating system may be configured such that the latching member is received within the latching member receptacle when the aerosol-generating system is in the first engagement state. The latching member receptacle may be a dimple, a depression, a slot or a groove. The cartridge may comprise the latching member receptacle. The aerosol-generating device may comprise the latching member receptacle.
The securing member may be arranged or configured to limit or prevent movement of the cartridge retention element, relative to the one of the cartridge and the device, in the body transverse direction.
The securing member may comprise a first end. The first end may be connected to the body of the cartridge retention element, for example at the junction between the securing member and the body. The securing member may comprise a second end. The second end may be spaced from the body of the cartridge retention element in a body transverse direction.
The body may comprise a first longitudinal surface extending between the first end of the body and the second end of the body. The body may comprise a second longitudinal surface extending between the first end of the body and the second end of the body. The first longitudinal surface of the body may be disposed opposite, and may be spaced from, the second longitudinal surface of the body. The body may comprise a first face extending from the first longitudinal surface to the second longitudinal surface. The body may comprise a second face extending from the first longitudinal surface to the second longitudinal surface. The first face may face the cartridge when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity. The second face may face a periphery of the cavity when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity.
The securing member may protrude from, and extend along, the first longitudinal surface of the body. For example, the junction between the securing member the body may extend along the first longitudinal surface of the body. The securing member may protrude from, and extend along, the second longitudinal surface of the body. For example, the junction between the securing member the body may extend along the second longitudinal surface of the body.
The latching member may protrude in the body transverse direction. The securing member may protrude in an opposite direction to the latching member. For example, the body may comprise a first side and a second side, the first side being disposed opposite the second side. The securing member may protrude on the first side of the body. The latching member may protrude on the second side of the body. The securing member may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the latching member.
The securing member may follow a path that turns about the body longitudinal direction. That is, the securing member may follow a path between the first end of the securing member and the second end of the securing member having at least one turning point in a plane extending in the body transverse direction. The securing member may comprise at least one turning point positioned between the first end and the second end of the securing member. The at least one turning point may have an angle less than about 180 degrees. The at least one turning point may have an angle of between 80 degrees and 150 degrees. The at least one turning point may have an angle of between 120 degrees and 150 degrees. The at least one turning point may have an angle of between 140 degrees and 150 degrees. The at least one turning point may have an angle of between 145 degrees and 150 degrees. The angle is measured in a plane extending in the body transverse direction. The securing member may not turn about the body longitudinal direction. In other words, the securing member may not have any turning points in a, or any, plane extending in the body longitudinal direction. The securing member may be planar.
The cartridge retention element may be configured to receive a portion of the one of the cartridge and the device between the securing member and the body. The cartridge retention element may be configured to receive a portion of the one of the cartridge and the device between opposing surfaces of the securing member. The securing member may be configured to grip or clamp the received portion of the one of the cartridge and the device.
The securing member may be a clip. The securing member may be configured to clip the cartridge retention element onto the cartridge to attach the cartridge retention element to the cartridge. The securing member may be configured to clip the cartridge retention element onto the aerosol-generating device to secure the cartridge retention element to the aerosol-generating device.
The securing member may be arranged such that at least a portion of the securing member is positioned between the first end of the body and the second end of the body. For example, the, or at least a portion of the, junction between the securing member and the body of the cartridge retention element may be positioned between the first end of the body and the second end of the body. The securing member may be spaced from the first end of the body. The securing member may be spaced from the second end of the body. The securing member may be spaced from both the first end of the body and the second end of the body. That is, the securing member may be spaced from one or both of the first end of the body and the second end of the body in the body longitudinal direction. The securing member may be spaced from the first end of the body, for example in the body longitudinal direction, by at least about 5 millimetres. The securing member may be spaced from the first end of the body, for example in the body longitudinal direction, by between about 5 millimetres and about 10 millimetres. For example, about 5 millimetres, about 6 millimetres, about 7 millimetres, about 8 millimetres, about 9 millimetres or about 10 millimetres.
The securing member may comprise an abutment portion. The abutment portion may be arranged to abut the one of the cartridge and the device. The abutment portion may be positioned at the second end of the securing member. The abutment portion may extend substantially parallel to the body of the cartridge retention element. The abutment portion may be spaced from the body of the cartridge retention element in the body transverse direction. The abutment portion may be spaced from the body of the cartridge retention element in the body transverse direction by between about 1 millimetre and about 10 millimetres. For example, between about 3 millimetres and about 10 millimetres, between about 5 millimetres and about 10 millimetres. Preferably by about 5 millimetres.
The abutment portion may comprise an abutment surface. The abutment surface may face, and be positioned opposite of, a first surface of the body. The abutment surface may be parallel to the first surface of the body. The first surface of the body may be the first face of the body. The first surface of the body may be the second face of the body.
The securing member may be connected to the body of the cartridge retention element by a joint. The joint may extend along the body in the body longitudinal direction. The joint may be formed by, and between, the securing member and the body of the cartridge retention element. The joint may be positioned between, and spaced from, the first longitudinal surface of the body and the opposing second longitudinal surface of the body. Alternatively, the joint may be positioned at, or on, the first longitudinal surface of the body or the second longitudinal surface of the body.
The joint may be positioned between the first end of the body and the second end of the body. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the joint may positioned between the first end of the body and the second end of the body. The joint may be positioned between the first end of the body and the latching member. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the joint may be positioned between the first end of the body and the latching member.
The joint may be spaced from the first end of the body. The joint may be spaced from the second end of the body. The joint may be spaced from both the first end of the body and the second end of the body. That is, the joint may be spaced from one or both of the first end of the body and the second end of the body in the body longitudinal direction. The joint may be spaced from the first end of the body, for example in the body longitudinal direction, by at least about 5 millimetres. The joint may be spaced from the first end of the body, for example in the body longitudinal direction, by between about 5 millimetres and about 10 millimetres. For example, about 5 millimetres, about 6 millimetres, about 7 millimetres, about 8 millimetres, about 9 millimetres or about 10 millimetres.
The securing member may be a first securing member. The cartridge retention element may comprise a second securing member for attaching the cartridge retention element to the one of the cartridge and the device. The second securing member may be arranged or configured to limit or prevent movement of the cartridge retention element, relative to the one of the cartridge and the device, in the body longitudinal direction. That is, the first securing member and the second securing member may be arranged or configured to limit or prevent movement of the cartridge retention element, relative to the one of the cartridge and the device, in substantially perpendicular directions.
The second securing member may extend from the first end of the body. The joint between the first securing member and the body of the cartridge retention element may be a first joint. The second securing member may be connected to the first end of the body by a second joint. The second joint may extend along the body of the cartridge retention element in a body transverse direction. The cartridge retention element may be configured to move between the first position and the second position about the second joint. Therefore, the second joint may be a moveable or flexible joint. The second joint may be resilient. As used herein, the term “resilient” refers to the second joint being deformable by application of an external force and, when the external force is removed, the second joint returns to its undeformed, or relaxed, shape or position. The resilience of the second joint may bias the cartridge retention element in the first position.
The second securing member may comprise an extension member. The extension member may extend in the body longitudinal direction. The extension member may comprise an enlarged portion. The enlarged portion may protrude in the body transverse direction. The enlarged portion may be positioned at an end of the extension member.
When the cartridge retention element is in the first position, an angle may be formed between the body of the cartridge retention element and the second securing member. The angle may be between about 80 degrees and about 100 degrees, between about 85 degrees and about 95 degrees, or between about 89 degrees and about 91 degrees. The cartridge retention element may be configured or arranged such that movement of the cartridge retention element from the first position to the second position decreases the angle between the body and the second securing member.
The cartridge retention element may comprise a contact member extending from the second end of the body. The contact member may be connected to the second end of the body by a third joint. The third joint may extend along the body in a body transverse direction. The contact member may be configured to limit movement of the cartridge retention element in the cavity transverse direction. In particular, the contact member may be configured to limit movement of the second end of the body in the cavity transverse direction. The contact member may be configured to abut a portion of the aerosol-generating device to limit movement of the cartridge retention element in the cavity transverse direction. For example, the contact member may be configured to abut the portion of the aerosol-generating device when cartridge retention element is in the first position. The contact member may be configured to abut the portion of the aerosol-generating device when the cartridge retention element is in the second position. The contact member may follow a path that turns about the body transverse direction.
The aerosol-generating system may comprise a protruding element, and the body of the cartridge retention element may define an aperture for receiving the protruding element to attach the cartridge retention element to the one of the cartridge and the device. The cartridge may comprise the protruding element arranged to be received by the aperture. The aerosol-generating device may comprise the protruding element arranged to be received by the aperture. The aperture may be positioned towards the first end of the body. At least a portion of the aperture may be positioned between the securing member and the first end of the body. The aperture may be longitudinally positioned between the securing member and the first end of the body.
The aperture may have a polygonal shape. The aperture may be triangular, rectangular or square in shape.
The body may have a length of between 6.5 millimetres and 7 millimetres. The length of the body may be a length a the body longitudinal direction.
The body may have a thickness of about 0.2 millimetres. The body may have a uniform thickness. The thickness of the body may be defined in a direction between the first face and the second face.
The latching member may be positioned between the securing member and the second end of the body. The latching member may be formed by the body of the cartridge retention element.
The cartridge retention element may be formed of a single material. The cartridge retention element may be formed from a continuous material. The cartridge retention element may be formed from a metal. For example, the cartridge retention element may be formed from aluminium or copper. The cartridge retention element may be formed from a metal alloy. For example, the cartridge retention element may be formed from brass, carbon steel, stainless steel, bronze, an aluminium alloy, a copper alloy, a copper and nickel alloy, or copper beryllium alloy. Preferably, the cartridge retention element is formed from stainless steel.
The cartridge retention element may be made from a single laminar blank. The single laminar blank is preferably formed utilising a stamping operation. Alternatively, the single laminar blank may be formed by etching, machining, laser cutting or any other suitable manufacturing process.
The aerosol-generating system may comprise a third cartridge retention element. The aerosol-generating system may comprise a fourth cartridge retention element. The third cartridge retention element may be positioned opposite the fourth cartridge retention element. The third cartridge retention element and the fourth cartridge retention element may cooperate to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The third cartridge retention element and the fourth cartridge retention element may have any of the features described in relation to the first cartridge retention element or the second cartridge retention element.
The cartridge may comprise a mouth end. The mouth end may be configured to be inserted into a user's mouth in order to directly inhale an aerosol generated by the aerosol- generating device. The cartridge may comprise a connection end. The connection end may be disposed opposite the mouth end. The connection end may be configured to be received in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.
The cartridge may comprise a protuberance configured to urge against the latching member to move the cartridge retention element from the first position to the second position when the cartridge is moved within the cavity in the cavity longitudinal direction. The protuberance may be positioned on the connection end of the cartridge. The latching member receptacle may be positioned on the connection end of the cartridge. The protuberance may form at least a portion of the latching member receptacle.
The cartridge may comprise a housing. The housing may be formed from a durable material. The housing may be formed from a liquid impermeable material. The housing may formed from a mouldable plastics material, such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) . An external width of the cartridge at the mouth end may be greater than an external width of the cartridge at the connection end. This may form a shoulder at a location between the mouth end and the connection end. The shoulder may abut an external surface of the aerosol-generating device when the connection end of the cartridge is received in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. The shoulder may locate the latching member receptacle with respect to the latching member of the cartridge retention element. The shoulder may also ensure the mouth end of the cartridge remains outside of the aerosol-generating device when the connection end of the cartridge is received in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.
The cartridge may comprise a liquid storage portion for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.
The aerosol-generating device may comprise a distal end. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a proximal end. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a device body extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The cavity may be disposed at the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device.
The cavity of the aerosol-generating device may have an open end. The cartridge may be inserted into, or removed from, the cavity through the open end. The cavity may have a closed end opposite the open end. The cavity longitudinal direction may extending in a direction between the open end and the closed end. The closed end may be the base of the cavity. The closed end may be closed except for the provision of one or more air inlets arranged in the base. The base of the cavity may be flat. The base of the cavity may be circular. The base of the cavity may be arranged upstream of the cavity. The open end may be arranged downstream of the cavity.
The cavity may have a cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a hollow cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a circular cross-section. The cavity may have an elliptical or rectangular cross-section. The cavity may have a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the cartridge.
The aerosol-generating system may comprise a heating arrangement for heating the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-generating device may comprise the heating arrangement. The cartridge may comprise the heating arrangement.
The heating arrangement may be a resistive heating arrangement. The resistive heating arrangement may comprise a resistive heating element.
The heating arrangement may be an induction heating arrangement. The induction heating arrangement may be configured to generate heat by means of induction. The induction heating arrangement may comprise an induction coil and a susceptor. The induction coil may be arranged to at least partially surround the cavity. The induction coil may surround the susceptor. In some arrangements, the cartridge may comprise the susceptor. In such arrangements, the induction coil may be arranged to at least partially surround the susceptor when the cartridge is received within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device. For example, when the aerosol-generating system is in the first engagement state.
The induction coil may be a helical coil. The helical coil may be formed from a wire. The wire may have a circular cross-section. The wire may be made from copper. The helical coil may have a varying pitch. The inductor coil may have a circular cross section.
The susceptor may be in the form of a mesh. As used herein the term "mesh" encompasses grids and arrays of filaments having spaces therebetween. The term mesh also includes woven and non-woven fabrics.
The filaments may define interstices between the filaments and the interstices may have a width of between 10 micrometres and 100 micrometres. Preferably, the filaments give rise to capillary action in the interstices, so that in use, the source liquid, for example from the liquid storage portion, is drawn into the interstices, increasing the contact area between the susceptor and the liquid.
As used herein, the terms a "susceptor" means an element that is heatable by penetration with an alternating magnetic field. A susceptor is typically heatable by at least one of Joule heating through induction of eddy currents in the susceptor, and hysteresis losses. Possible materials for the susceptor include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steels, niobium and aluminium. Advantageously, the susceptor may have a relative permeability between 1 and 40000. When a reliance on eddy currents for a majority of the heating is desirable, a lower permeability material may be used, and when hysteresis effects are desired then a higher permeability material may be used. Preferably, the material has a relative permeability between 500 and 40000.
Operation of the heating arrangement may be triggered by a puff detection system. Alternatively, the heating arrangement may be triggered by pressing an on-off button, held for the duration of the user’s puff. The puff detection system may be provided as a sensor, which may be configured as an airflow sensor to measure the airflow rate. The airflow rate is a parameter characterizing the amount of air that is drawn through the airflow path of the aerosol-generating device per time by the user. The initiation of the puff may be detected by the airflow sensor when the airflow exceeds a predetermined threshold. Initiation may also be detected upon a user activating a button.
The sensor may also be configured as a pressure sensor to measure the pressure of the air inside the aerosol-generating device which is drawn through the airflow path of the device by the user during a puff. The sensor may be configured to measure a pressure difference or pressure drop between the pressure of ambient air outside of the aerosol-generating device and of the air which is drawn through the device by the user. The pressure of the air may be detected at the air inlet, the mouthpiece of the device, the cavity such as the heating chamber or any other passage or chamber within the aerosol-generating device, through which the air flows. When the user draws on the aerosol-generating device, a negative pressure or vacuum is generated inside the device, wherein the negative pressure may be detected by the pressure sensor.
The term “negative pressure” is to be understood as a pressure which is relatively lower than the pressure of ambient air. In other words, when the user draws on the device, the air which is drawn through the device has a pressure which is lower than the pressure off ambient air outside of the device. The initiation of the puff may be detected by the pressure sensor if the pressure difference exceeds a predetermined threshold.
As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the cartridge may comprise a liquid storage portion for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. In such embodiments, the aerosol-generating system may comprise a wicking element. The wicking element may be arranged to convey liquid aerosol-forming substrate from liquid storage portion to the heating arrangement. For example, the wicking element may be arranged to convey liquid aerosol-forming substrate to the resistive heating element or the susceptor.
The wicking element may comprise a capillary material. A capillary material is a material that is capable of transport of liquid from one end of the material to another by means of capillary action. The capillary material may have a fibrous or spongy structure. The capillary material preferably comprises a bundle of capillaries. For example, the capillary material may comprise a plurality of fibres or threads or other fine bore tubes. The fibres or threads may be generally aligned to convey liquid aerosol-forming substrate across a major surface of the susceptor. The capillary material may comprise sponge-like or foam-like material. The structure of the capillary material may form a plurality of small bores or tubes, through which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate can be transported by capillary action.
The aerosol-generating device may comprise a power supply for supply electrical power to the heating arrangement. The power supply may be a direct current (DC) power supply. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a direct current to alternating current (DC/AC) inverter for converting a DC current supplied by the DC power supply to an alternating current. The DC/AC converter may comprise a Class-D or Class-E power amplifier.
The power supply may be configured to provide the alternating current. The power supply may be configured to operate at high frequency. As used herein, the term "high frequency oscillating current" means an oscillating current having a frequency of between 500 kilohertz and 30 megahertz. The high frequency oscillating current may have a frequency of from about 1 megahertz to about 30 megahertz, preferably from about 1 megahertz to about 10 megahertz and more preferably from about 5 megahertz to about 8 megahertz.
The power supply may be a battery, such as a rechargeable lithium ion battery. Alternatively, the power supply may be another form of charge storage device such as a capacitor. The power supply may require recharging. The power supply may have a capacity that allows for the storage of enough energy for one or more uses of the aerosol-generating device. For example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to allow for the continuous generation of aerosol for a period of around six minutes, corresponding to the typical time taken to smoke a conventional cigarette, or for a period that is a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to allow for a predetermined number of puffs or discrete activations.
The aerosol-generating device may comprise a device housing. The device housing may extend between the proximal end and the distal end. The device housing may be elongate. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics or composite materials containing one or more of those materials, or thermoplastics that are suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, for example polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and polyethylene. The material is preferably light and non-brittle.
The aerosol-generating device may comprise one or more air inlets. The one or more air inlets may enable ambient air to be drawn into the cavity.
The distal end of the aerosol-generating device may comprise an electrical connector configured to connect the aerosol-generating device to an electrical connector of an external power source, for charging the power source of the aerosol-generating device. The electrical connector may be a female USB-C connector.
The aerosol-generating device may include a user interface to activate the aerosol-generating device, for example a button to initiate heating of the aerosol-generating device or display to indicate a state of the aerosol-generating device or of the aerosol-forming substrate.
The aerosol-generating device may be a portable or handheld device that is comfortable to hold between the fingers of a single hand. The aerosol-generating device may be elongate. In other words, the aerosol-generating device may have a length dimension that is greater than its thickness, width or diameter. The aerosol-generating device may have a length between 50 millimetres and 100 millimetres, preferably between 60 millimetres and 90 millimetres, more preferably between 70 millimetres and 90 millimetres, most preferably between 80 millimetres and 90 millimetres.
The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine. The nicotine-containing aerosol-forming substrate may be a nicotine salt matrix. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise plant-based material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material including volatile tobacco flavour compounds which are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenised plant-based material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenised tobacco material. Homogenised tobacco material may be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco.
The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may be liquid at room temperature. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise both liquid and solid components. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine. The nicotine containing liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be a nicotine salt matrix. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise plant-based material. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavour compounds, which are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenised tobacco material. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco-containing material. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise homogenised plant-based material.
The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more aerosol-formers. An aerosol-former is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, in use, facilitates formation of a dense and stable aerosol and that is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the temperature of operation of the system. Examples of suitable aerosol formers include glycerine and propylene glycol. Suitable aerosol-formers are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyhydric alcohols, such as triethylene glycol, 1, 3-butanediol and glycerine; esters of polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerol mono-, di-or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di-or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise water, solvents, ethanol, plant extracts and natural or artificial flavours.
The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise nicotine and at least one aerosol-former. The aerosol-former may be glycerine or propylene glycol. The aerosol former may comprise both glycerine and propylene glycol. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may have a nicotine concentration of between about 0.5%and about 10%, for example about 2%.
According to the present disclosure, there is provided a cartridge. The cartridge is for use in an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device having a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge in a cavity longitudinal direction. The cartridge comprises an aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge further comprises a cartridge retention element for releasably retaining the cartridge within the cavity. The cartridge retention element comprises a body defining a body longitudinal direction between a first end of the body and a second end of the body. The cartridge retention element is arranged such that, when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity, the body longitudinal direction extends in the cavity longitudinal direction. The cartridge retention element also comprises a securing member for securing the cartridge retention element to the cartridge. The securing member protrudes from the body in a body transverse direction, and a junction between the securing member and the body extends along the body in the body longitudinal direction. The cartridge retention element also comprises a latching member configured to engage with the aerosol-generating device to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity.
According to the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol-generating device for use with a cartridge comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device comprises a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge in a cavity longitudinal direction. The aerosol-generating device further comprises a cartridge retention element for releasably retaining the cartridge within the cavity. The cartridge retention element comprises a body defining a body longitudinal direction between a first end of the body and a second end of the body. The cartridge retention element is arranged such that, when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity, the body longitudinal direction extends in the cavity longitudinal direction. The cartridge retention element also comprises a securing member for securing the cartridge retention element to the aerosol-generating device. The securing member protrudes from the body in a body transverse direction, and a junction between the securing member and the body extends along the body in the body longitudinal direction. The cartridge retention element also comprises a latching member configured to engage with the cartridge to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity.
It will be appreciated that any features described herein in relation to one example of the present disclosure may also be applicable to other examples of the present disclosure. In particular, features described in relation to the aerosol-generating system may also be applicable to the aerosol-generating device or cartridge.
The invention is defined in the claims. However, below there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.
Ex1. An aerosol-generating system comprising:
a cartridge for storing an aerosol-forming substrate;
an aerosol-generating device comprising a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge in a cavity longitudinal direction; and
a cartridge retention element for releasably retaining the cartridge within the cavity, the cartridge retention element comprising:
a body defining a body longitudinal direction between a first end of the body and a second end of the body and, the cartridge retention element being arranged such that, when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity, the body longitudinal direction extends in the cavity longitudinal direction;
a securing member for securing the cartridge retention element to one of the cartridge and the device, the securing member protruding from the body in a body transverse direction, and a junction between the securing member and the body extending along the body in the body longitudinal direction; and
a latching member configured to engage with the other of the cartridge and the device to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity.
Ex2. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex1, wherein the cartridge comprises the cartridge retention element, the securing member is for securing the cartridge retention element to the cartridge, and the latching member is configured to engage the aerosol-generating device to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.
Ex3. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex1, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises the cartridge retention element, the securing member is for securing the cartridge retention element to the aerosol-generating device, and the latching member is configured to engage the cartridge to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.
Ex4. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex3, wherein the cartridge retention element is a first cartridge retention element, and the aerosol-generating system comprises a second cartridge retention element.
Ex5. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex4, wherein the first cartridge retention element is positioned opposite the second cartridge retention element.
Ex6. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex4 or Ex5, wherein the first cartridge retention element and the second cartridge retention element cooperate to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.
Ex7. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex6, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises a first engagement state in which the cartridge is retained within the cavity by the cartridge retention element, and a second engagement state in which the cartridge is not retained within the cavity by the cartridge retention element.
Ex8. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex7, wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured to move between the first engagement state and the second engagement state by relative movement between the cartridge and the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.
Ex9. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex7 or Ex8, wherein the cartridge retention element is configured to move in a cavity transverse direction to allow the aerosol-generating system to move between the first engagement state and the second engagement state.
Ex10. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex7 to Ex9, wherein the cartridge retention element has a first position and a second position, and the cartridge retention element is configured to move from the first position to the second position to allow the aerosol-generating system to move between the first engagement state and the second engagement state.
Ex11. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex10, wherein the cartridge retention element is configured to move between the first position and the second position in a cavity transverse direction.
Ex12. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex10 or Ex11, wherein the second end of the body is configured move in a cavity transverse direction during movement of the cartridge retention element between the first position and second position.
Ex13. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex12, wherein the movement of the second end of the body is a hinged or pivot movement.
Ex14. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex10 to Ex13, wherein the second end of the body is configured to pivot about the first end of the body when the cartridge retention element moves between the first position to the second position.
Ex15. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex10 to Ex14, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises a protuberance configured to urge against the latching member of the cartridge retention element, when the cartridge is moved within the cavity in the cavity longitudinal direction, to move the cartridge retention element from the first position to the second position.
Ex16. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex10 to Ex15, wherein, in the first position, the cartridge retention element forms a constriction within the cavity having a first transverse dimension and, in the second position, the constriction has a second transverse dimension.
Ex17. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex16, wherein the first transverse dimension is dimensioned to prevent movement of the aerosol-generating system from the first engagement state to the second engagement state unless the cartridge retention element moves from the first position to the second position.
Ex18. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex16 or Ex17, wherein the second transverse dimension is greater than the first transverse dimension.
Ex19. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex16 to Ex18, wherein the constriction is formed by the latching member of the cartridge retention element..
Ex20. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex19, wherein the aerosol-generating device and the cartridge are configured to form a snap fit.
Ex21. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex20, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises a latching member receptacle for receiving the latching member of the cartridge retention element.
Ex22. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex21, wherein the cartridge is releasably retained within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device when the latching member is received within the latching member receptacle.
Ex23. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex21 or Ex22, wherein the latching member receptacle is a dimple, a depression, a slot or a groove.
Ex24. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex1 to Ex23, wherein the securing member is arranged or configured to limit or prevent movement of the cartridge retention element, relative to the one of the cartridge and the device, in the body transverse direction. Ex25. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex24, wherein the securing member protrudes in an opposite direction to the latching member.
Ex26. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex25, wherein the securing member comprises a first end connected to the body of the cartridge retention element and a second end spaced from the body of the cartridge retention element in a body transverse direction.
Ex27. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex26, wherein the securing member follows a path that turns about the body longitudinal direction.
Ex28. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex26, wherein the securing member follows a path between the first end of the securing member and the second end having at least one turning point in a plane extending in the body transverse direction.
Ex29. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex26 or Ex28, wherein the securing member comprises at least one turning point positioned between the first end and the second end of the securing member.
Ex30. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex29, wherein the cartridge retention element is configured to receive a portion of the one of the cartridge and the device between the securing member and the body.
Ex31. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex30, wherein the cartridge retention element is configured to receive a portion of the one of the cartridge and the device between opposing surfaces of the securing member.
Ex32. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex30 or Ex31, wherein the securing member is configured to grip or clamp the received portion of the one of the cartridge and the device.
Ex33. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex32, wherein the securing member is arranged such that at least a portion of the securing member is positioned between the first end of the body and the second end of the body.
Ex34. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex33, wherein the securing member is spaced from both the first end of the body and the second end of the body.
Ex35. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex34, wherein the securing member comprises an abutment portion arranged to abut the one of the cartridge and the device.
Ex36. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex35, wherein the abutment portion extends substantially parallel to the body of the cartridge retention element.
Ex37. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex35 or Ex36, wherein the abutment portion is spaced from the body of the cartridge retention element in the body transverse direction.
Ex38. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex35 to Ex37, wherein the abutment portion is spaced from the body of the cartridge retention element in the body transverse direction by between about 1 millimetre and about 10 millimetres.
Ex39. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex1 to Ex38, wherein the securing member is connected to the body of the cartridge retention element by a joint.
Ex40. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex39, wherein the joint extends along the body in the body longitudinal direction.
Ex41. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex39 or Ex40, wherein the joint is formed by, and between, the securing member and the body of the cartridge retention element.
Ex42. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex39 to Ex41, wherein the joint is positioned between, and spaced from, the first longitudinal surface of the body and the opposing second longitudinal surface of the body.
Ex43. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex39 to Ex41, wherein the joint is positioned at, or on, the first longitudinal surface of the body or the second longitudinal surface of the body.
Ex44. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex39 to Ex43, wherein at least a portion of the joint is positioned between the first end of the body and the latching member
Ex45. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex39 to Ex44, wherein the joint is positioned between the first end of the body and the second end of the body.
Ex46. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex39 to Ex44, wherein the joint is spaced from both the first end of the body and the second end of the body.
Ex47. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex46, wherein the securing member is a first securing member, and the cartridge retention element comprises a second securing member for attaching the cartridge retention element to the one of the cartridge and the device.
Ex48. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex47, wherein the second securing member is arranged or configured to limit or prevent movement of the cartridge retention element, relative to the one of the cartridge and the device, in the body longitudinal direction.
Ex49. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex47 or Ex48, wherein the second securing member extends from the first end of the body.
Ex50. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex47 to Ex49, when dependent on any one of Ex39 to Ex46, wherein the joint between the first securing member and the body of the cartridge retention element is a first joint and the second securing member is connected to the first end of the body by a second joint.
Ex51. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex50, wherein the second joint extends along the body of the cartridge retention element in a body transverse direction.
Ex52. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex47 to Ex51, when dependent on any one of Ex10 to Ex19, wherein the cartridge retention element is configured to move between the first position and the second position about the second joint.
Ex53. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex52, wherein the second joint is resilient.
Ex54. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex47 to Ex53, when dependent on any one of Ex10 to Ex19, wherein, when the cartridge retention element is in the first position, an angle is formed between the body and the second securing member.
Ex55. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex54, wherein the angle is between about 80 degrees and about 100 degrees.
Ex56. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex54 or Ex55, wherein the cartridge retention element is configured or arranged such that movement of the cartridge retention element from the first position to the second position decreases the angle between the body and the second securing member.
Ex57. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex1 to Ex56, wherein the body comprises a contact member extending from the second end of the body.
Ex58. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex57, wherein the contact member is connected to the second end of the body by a third joint.
Ex59. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex58, wherein the third joint extends along the body in a body transverse direction.
Ex60. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex57 to Ex59, wherein the contact member is configured to limit movement of the cartridge retention element in the cavity transverse direction.
Ex61. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex57 to Ex60, wherein the contact member is configured to limit movement of the second end of the body in the cavity transverse direction.
Ex62. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex57 to Ex61, wherein the contact member is configured to abut a portion of the aerosol-generating device to limit movement of the cartridge retention element in the cavity transverse direction.
Ex63. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to E62, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises a protruding element, and the body of the cartridge retention element defines an aperture for receiving the protruding element to attach the cartridge retention element to the one of the cartridge and the device.
Ex64. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex63, wherein the aperture is positioned towards the first end of the body.
Ex65. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex63 or Ex64, wherein the aperture is positioned between the securing member and the first end of the body.
Ex66. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex63 to Ex65, wherein the aperture has a polygonal shape.
Ex67. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex63 to Ex66, wherein the aperture is triangular, rectangular or square in shape.
Ex68. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex67, wherein the cartridge retention element is formed of a single material.
Ex69. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex68, wherein the cartridge retention element is formed from a metal.
Ex70. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex69, wherein the cartridge retention element is formed from aluminium or copper.
Ex71. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex68, wherein the cartridge retention element is formed from a metal alloy.
Ex72. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex71, wherein the cartridge retention element is formed from brass, carbon steel, stainless steel, bronze, an aluminium alloy, a copper alloy, a copper and nickel alloy, or copper beryllium alloy.
Ex73. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex72, wherein the cartridge retention element is made from a single laminar blank.
Ex74. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex73, wherein the single laminar blank is formed utilising a stamping operation.
Ex75. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex73, wherein the single laminar blank is formed by etching, machining, laser cutting or any other suitable manufacturing process.
Ex76. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex1 to Ex75, wherein the cartridge comprises a mouth end configured to be inserted into a user's mouth in order to directly inhale an aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating device, and a connection end configured to be received in the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.
Ex77. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex76, wherein the connection end is disposed opposite the mouth end.
Ex78. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex76 or Ex77, wherein an external width of the cartridge at the mouth end is greater than an external width of the cartridge at the connection end, thereby forming a shoulder at a location between the mouth end and the connection end.
Ex79. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex78, wherein the cartridge comprises a liquid storage portion for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.
Ex80. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex79, wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a distal end and a proximal end.
Ex81. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex80, wherein the cavity is disposed at the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device.
Ex82. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex1 to Ex81, wherein the cavity of the aerosol-generating device has an open end and a closed end opposite the open end.
Ex83. An aerosol-generating system according to Ex82, wherein the cartridge is inserted into, or removed from, the cavity through the open end.
Ex84. A cartridge for use in an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device having a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge in a cavity longitudinal direction, the cartridge comprising:
an aerosol-forming substrate; and
cartridge retention element for releasably retaining the cartridge within the cavity, the cartridge retention element comprising:
a body defining a body longitudinal direction between a first end of the body and a second end of the body, the cartridge retention element being arranged such that, when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity, the body longitudinal direction extends in the cavity longitudinal direction;
a securing member for securing the cartridge retention element to the cartridge, the securing member protruding from the body in a body transverse direction, and a junction between the securing member and the body extending along the body in the body longitudinal direction; and
a latching member configured to engage with the aerosol-generating device to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity.
Ex85. An aerosol-generating device for use with a cartridge comprising an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol-generating device comprising:
a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge in a cavity longitudinal direction;
a cartridge retention element for releasably retaining the cartridge within the cavity, the cartridge retention element comprising:
a body defining a body longitudinal direction between a first end of the body and a second end of the body, the cartridge retention element being arranged such that, when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity, the body longitudinal direction extends in the cavity longitudinal direction;
a securing member for securing the cartridge retention element to the aerosol-generating device, the securing member protruding from the body in a body transverse direction, and a junction between the securing member and the body extending along the body in the body longitudinal directional; and
a latching member configured to engage with the cartridge to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity.
Examples will now be further described with reference to the figures in which:
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device and cartridge;
Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a cartridge of the aerosol-generating system of Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows a perspective the aerosol-generating device of the aerosol-generating system of Figure 1;
Figure 4 shows a side view of the cavity of the aerosol-generating device;
Figure 5 shows a side view of a cartridge retention element according to a first example;
Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the cartridge retention element of Figure 5;
Figure 7 shows a top view of the cartridge retention element of Figure 5;
Figure 8 shows a side view of the cavity of the aerosol-generating device when the cartridge is not retained within the cavity by the cartridge retention element;
Figure 9 shows a side view of the cavity of the aerosol-generating device when the cartridge is retained within the cavity of the cartridge retention element;
Figure 10 shows a cartridge retention element according to a second example;
Figure 11 shows a side view of the cavity of the aerosol-generating device having the cartridge retention element of Figure 10;
Figure 12 shows a side view of a cartridge retention element according to a third example;
Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the cartridge retention element of Figure 12;
Figure 14 shows a sectional schematic side view of the cartridge retention element of Figure 12 positioned within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device;
Figure 15 shows a sectional perspective view of the cartridge retention element of Figure 12 positioned within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device;
Figure 16 shows a perspective view of a cartridge retention element according to a fourth example;
Figure 17 shows a side view of a cartridge retention element according to a fifth example;
Figure 18 shows a perspective view of the cartridge retention element of Figure 17; and
Figure 19 shows a sectional schematic side view of the cartridge retention element of Figure 17 positioned within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.
Figure 1 shows an aerosol-generating system 10 according to the present disclosure. The aerosol-generating system 10 comprises a cartridge 20 having a liquid storage portion for storing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, and an aerosol-generating device 30 having a cavity 40 for receiving the cartridge 20. The aerosol-generating system 10 has a first engagement state in which the cartridge 20 is retained within the cavity 40 by cartridge retention elements 50, 60, and a second engagement state in which the cartridge 20 is not retained within the cavity 40 by the cartridge retention elements 50, 60. In Figure 1, the aerosol-generating system 10 is depicted in the first engagement state.
The aerosol-generating device 30 comprises a proximal end 31 and a distal end 32. The cavity 40 is disposed at the proximal end 31 of the aerosol-generating device 30 such that, in the first engagement state, the cartridge 20 is positioned at the proximal end 31 of the aerosol-generating device 30.
In this example, the aerosol-generating system 10 is an electrically operated aerosol-generating system. The aerosol-generating device 30 comprises a power supply for supply electrical power to a resistive heating element disposed within the cartridge 20. The resistive heating element is configured to heat the liquid aerosol-forming substrate to generate an inhalable aerosol. As the inhalable aerosol is generated, the quantity of liquid aerosol-forming substrate within liquid storage portion of the cartridge 20 reduces. As a consequence the cartridge 20 may become depleted after prolonged use. Thus, the aerosol-generating system 10 is configured such that the cartridge 20 is replaceable. For example, once the liquid storage portion of the cartridge 20 is depleted of liquid aerosol-forming substrate, a user may uncouple the depleted cartridge from the aerosol-generating device 30 and couple a new cartridge to the aerosol-generating device 40.
Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the cartridge 20 of the aerosol-generating system 10 in the second engagement state in which the cartridge 20 is not retained within the cavity 40 by the cartridge retention elements 50, 60. In other words, the cartridge 20 is not coupled to the aerosol-generating device 30.
The cartridge 20 has a mouth end 21 and a connection end 22 disposed opposite the mouth end 11. The connection end 22 of the cartridge 20 is configured to be received in the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 50. The mouth end 21 is configured to be inserted into a user's mouth in order to directly inhale an aerosol, that is generated by the aerosol-generating system 10, into the lungs of the user. An external width of the cartridge 20 at the mouth end 11 is greater than an external width of the cartridge 20 at the connection end 22. This forms a shoulder 23 at a location between the mouth end 21 and the connection end 22. As seen in more detail in Figure 9, the shoulder 23 is arranged to abut an external surface of the aerosol-generating device 30 when the cartridge 20 is received within the cavity 40. This ensures that the mouth end 21 of the cartridge 20 remains outside of the aerosol-generating device 30 when the connection end 22 of the cartridge 20 is received in the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30.
The cartridge 20 has a cartridge housing 24 formed from a mouldable plastics material, such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) . The cartridge 20 comprises several components (not shown) that are housed within the cartridge housing 24. These components include the liquid storage portion; the resistive heating element for heating the liquid aerosol-forming substrate; and a wicking element for transporting liquid aerosol-forming substrate from the liquid storage portion to the resistive heating element. The cartridge 20 also comprises an electrical contact 25 which is configured to cooperate with an electrical contact within the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30 to supply electrical power from the power supply of the aerosol-generating device 30 to the resistive heating element of the cartridge 20. The cartridge housing 24 defines an air outlet 26 at the mouth end 21 of the cartridge 20. The cartridge housing 24 also defines an air inlet (not shown) . The air inlet 26 and the air outlet are fluidly connected by an airflow path. The airflow path is configured such that, when a user draws on the air outlet 26, liquid aerosol-forming substrate heated by the resistive heating element is entrained in the air flow within the airflow path and delivered to the user’s mouth through the air outlet 26.
The cartridge 20 comprises four protuberances 27 –two protuberances 27 on a first side of the cartridge and two protuberances (not shown) on an opposite second side of the cartridge. As explained in more detail below, the protuberances 27 cooperate with respective cartridge retention elements 50, 60 within the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30 in order to releasably retain the cartridge 20 within the cavity 40.
Figure 3 shows the aerosol-generating system 10 of Figure 1 in the second engagement state in which the cartridge 20 is not retained within the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30 by the cartridge retention elements 50, 60. In other words, the cartridge 20 is not coupled to the aerosol-generating device 30.
The cavity 40 comprises four cartridge retention elements 50, 60, according to a first example of the present disclosure, for releasably retaining the cartridge 20 within the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30. In more detail, the cavity 20 comprises two cartridge retention elements 50 on a first side of the cavity 40 and a further two cartridge retention elements 60 (not shown) on a opposite, second side of the cavity 40.
The device comprises a device housing 33 made of aluminium. The device housing 33 houses a rechargeable battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, and control circuitry for controlling the supply of electrical power from the battery to the resistive heating element. As seen in Figure 1, the device housing defines a charging port 34 at the distal end 32 of the aerosol-generating device 30 that is configured to receive a USB-C connector for recharging the battery from an external power supply. The device housing 33 also comprises a button 35 for operating the device, and an LED display 36 for indicating the level of charge remaining in the battery.
Figure 4 shows a side view of the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30. The cavity 40 has an open end 41 and a closed end 42 opposite the open end 41. A cavity longitudinal direction extends in a direction between the open end 41 and the closed end 42. The cartridge 20 is inserted into, or removed from, the cavity 40 through the open end 41.
There is first cartridge retention element 50 positioned opposite a second cartridge retention element 60. The first cartridge retention element 50 and the second cartridge retention element 60 are similar, and are arranged to cooperate with one another to releasably retain the cartridge 20 within the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30.
Figures 5 to 7 show three views of the first cartridge retention element 50 of Figure 4, which is a cartridge retention element according to the first example of the present disclosure. Figure 5 shows a side view of the first cartridge retention element 50. Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the first cartridge retention element 50. Figure 7 shows a top view of the first cartridge retention element 50.
The first cartridge retention element 50 comprises a body defining a body longitudinal direction between a first end 51 of the body and a second end 52 of the body. The first cartridge retention element 50 is arranged such that the body longitudinal direction extends in the cavity longitudinal direction.
The body comprises a first longitudinal surface 561 extending between the first end 51 of the body and the second end 52 of the body, a second longitudinal surface 562 extending between the first end 51 of the body and the second end 52 of the body. The first longitudinal surface 561 is disposed opposite, and spaced from, the second longitudinal surface 562. A first face 563 extends from the first longitudinal surface 561 to the second longitudinal surface 562. A second face 564 extending from the first longitudinal surface 561 to the second longitudinal surface 562. As seen in Figure 4, the first face 563 faces the cartridge 20 when at least a portion of the cartridge 20 is received within the cavity 40, and the second face 564 faces the side wall of the cavity 20.
The first cartridge retention element 50 also comprises a securing member 53 for securing the first cartridge retention element 50 to the aerosol-generating device 30. In particular, the securing member 53 secures the first cartridge retention element 50 to the side wall of the cavity 40. The securing member 53 protrudes from the body in a body transverse direction, and a junction between the securing member 53 and the body extends along the body in the body longitudinal direction. The first cartridge retention element 50 also comprises a latching member 54 configured to engage with the cartridge 20 to releasably retain the cartridge 20 within the cavity 40.
The securing member 53 comprises a first end 531 connected to the body of the first cartridge retention element 50, and a second end 532 spaced from the body of the first cartridge retention element 50 in a body transverse direction. In particular, the securing member 53 is connected to the body of the first cartridge retention element 50 by a joint 55. The joint 55 extends along the body in the body longitudinal direction. The joint 55 is positioned between the first end 51 of the body and the second end 52 of the body. In this example, the joint 55 is spaced from the first end 51 of the body, in the body longitudinal direction, by about 10 millimetres.
As seen in Figure 7, the securing member 53 follows a path between the first end 531 of the securing member 53 and the second end 532 of the securing member 53 that turns about the body longitudinal direction. The securing member has a first turning point 533 forming an internal angle of about 90 degrees, a second turning point 534 forming an internal angle of about 148 degrees, and a third turning point 535 forming an internal angle of about 122 degrees.
The securing member 53 comprises an abutment portion 536 positioned at the second end 532 of the securing member 53. The abutment portion 536 extends substantially parallel to the second face 564 of the body. The abutment portion 536 is spaced from the second face 564 of the body, in the body transverse direction, by about 10 millimetres. The first cartridge retention element 50 is configured to receive a portion of the aerosol-generating device 30 between the securing member 53 and the second face 564 of the body, so as to secure the first cartridge retention element 50 to the aerosol-generating device 30. The abutment portion 536 is arranged to abut a portion of the device 30 when the device 30 is received between the securing member 53 and the second face 564 of the body.
The configuration and arrangement of the securing member 53 limits movement of the first cartridge retention element 50, relative to the device 30, in the body transverse direction.
The first cartridge retention element 50 also comprises a second securing member 57 for attaching the first cartridge retention element 50 to the device 30. The second securing member 57 is arranged to prevent movement of the first cartridge retention element, relative to the device 30, in the body longitudinal direction.
The second securing member 57 extends from the first end 51 of the body, and is connected to the first end 51 of the body by a joint 571. The joint 571 extends along the body of the first cartridge retention element 50 in a body transverse direction. The joint 571 is flexible and permits the second end 52 of the body to pivot about the joint 571, such that the second end 52 of the body moves in a body transverse direction.
The first cartridge retention element 50 also comprises a contact member 58 extending from the second end 52 of the body. The contact member 58 is configured to limit movement of the first cartridge retention element 50 in the cavity transverse direction by contacting a portion of the device 30. In particular, the contact member 58 is configured to limit movement of the second end 52 of the body in the cavity transverse direction.
When the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 are secured to the side wall of cavity 40 by respective securing members 53, 63, as shown in Figure 4, the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 are moveable in the cavity transverse direction between a first position and a second position by pivoting about the joint 571, 671 at the first end of the body. Movement between the first position and the second position to allows the cartridge 20 to be releasably retained within the cavity 40. In Figure 4, the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 are each shown in the first position.
When the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 are in the first position, the latching member 54 of the first cartridge retention element 50 and the latching member 64 of the second cartridge retention element 60 form a constriction within the cavity 40 having a first transverse dimension. The first transverse dimension is less than a transverse dimension of the connection end 22 of the cartridge 20. In particular, the first transverse dimension is less than the transverse dimension between opposing protuberances 27 of the cartridge 20. Thus, the cartridge cannot pass the latching members 54, 64 when the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 are in the first position.
The cartridge retention elements 50, 60 move from the first position to the second position by pivoting about the joints 571, 671 in the direction as indicated by the dashed arrows A and B. For example, the second end 52 of the body of the first cartridge retention element 50 moves outwardly in the cavity transverse direction, as indicated by dashed arrow B, by pivoting about the joint 571 during movement of the first cartridge retention element 50 from the first position to the second position. Therefore, when the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 are in the second position, the constriction has a second transverse dimension that is greater than the first transverse dimension and, in particular, greater than a transverse dimension of the connection end 22 of the cartridge 20
Figure 8 shows a side view of the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30 when the aerosol-generating system is in second engagement state in which the cartridge 20 is not retained within the cavity 40 by the cartridge retention elements 50, 60. Figure 9 shows a side view of the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30 when the aerosol-generating system is in first engagement state in which the cartridge 20 is retained in the cavity 40 by the cartridge retention elements 50 , 60. In other words, in the second engagement state the cartridge 20 is uncoupled from the aerosol-generating device 30, and in the first engagement state the cartridge 20 is coupled to the aerosol-generating device 30. The process of coupling and uncoupling the cartridge 20 to and from the aerosol-generating device 30 will be explained in more detail below.
To couple the cartridge 20 to the aerosol-generating device 30, the connection end 22 of the cartridge 20 is inserted into the cavity 40, in the cavity longitudinal direction through the open end 41 of the cavity 40, towards the closed end 42 of the cavity 40. The cartridge retention elements 50, 60 provide a resistive force to the insertion of the cartridge 20 into the cavity 40 when the bottom surface of the protuberances 27 urge against the top surface of the latching members 54, 64 of the cartridge retention elements 50, 60. To overcome the resistive force of the cartridge retention elements 50, 60, the user applies an insertion force on the cartridge 20 such that the second end of the body of the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 are urged outwardly in a cavity transverse direction, as indicated by the dashed arrows A and B, such that the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 are in the second position. This allows the protuberances 27 of the cartridge to pass the latching members 54, 64 such that the protuberances 27 are positioned between the closed end 42 of the cavity, and the latching members 54, 64 of the cartridge retention elements 50, 60. Once the protuberances 27 pass the latching members 54, 64, the second end of the body of the cartridge retention elements return to the first position. Upon returning to the first position, the latching members 54, 64 are received by latching member receptacles 28 , 29 which are at least partially formed by the protuberances 27 of the cartridge 20. When the latching members 54, 64 are received by the latching member receptacles 28, 29, the cartridge 20 is releasably retained within the cavity 40.
To uncouple the cartridge 20 from the aerosol-generating device 30, the connection end 22 of the cartridge 20 is withdrawn from the cavity 40, in the cavity longitudinal direction through the open end 41 of the cavity 40. The cartridge retention elements 50, 60 provide a resistive force to the withdrawal of the cartridge 20 from the cavity 40 when the top surface of the protuberances 27 urge against the bottom surface of the latching members 54, 64 of the cartridge retention elements 50, 60. To overcome the resistive force of the cartridge retention elements 50, 60, the user applies a withdrawal force on the cartridge 20 such that the second end of the body of the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 is urged outwardly in a cavity transverse direction, as indicated by the dashed arrows A and B, such that the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 are in the second position. This allows the protuberances 27 of the cartridge 20 to pass the latching members 54, 64 such that the protuberances 27 are positioned between the latching members 54, 64 and the open end 41 of the cavity 40. The cartridge 20 may then be completely withdrawn from the cavity 40.
Figures 10 and 11 show a cartridge retention element 70 according to a second example of the present disclosure. Figure 10 shows a schematic side view of the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30 with two cartridge retention elements 70, according to the second example of the present disclosure, positioned within the cavity.
The cartridge retention element 70 is similar to the cartridge retention element according to the first example of the present disclosure. For example, the securing member 73, the latching member 74 and the contact member 78 are identical to those of the cartridge retention element 50, 60 of the first example of the present disclosure. However, the cartridge retention element 70 according to the second example of the present disclosure does not have a second securing member extending from the first end of the body. Instead, the first end 71 of the body directly engages a slot 43 in the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30.
Figures 12 to 15 show a cartridge retention element 80 according to a third example of the present disclosure. Figure 12 shows a side view of the cartridge retention element 80. Figure 13 shows a perspective view of the cartridge retention element 80. Figure 14 shows a sectional schematic side view of the cartridge retention element 80 positioned within the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30. Figure 15 shows a sectional perspective view of the cartridge retention element 80 positioned within the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30.
The cartridge retention element 80 according to the third example of the present disclosure is similar to the cartridge retention element 50, 60 according to the first example of the present disclosure. For example, the securing member 83 and the latching member 84 are identical to those of the cartridge retention element 50, 60 of the first example of the present disclosure. However, the cartridge retention element 80 according to the third example of the present disclosure does not have a second securing member extending from the first end of the body. Additionally, the contact member 88 extending from the second end of the body is shorten compared to the contact member 58 of the cartridge retention element 50, 60 according to the first example of the present disclosure. In more detail, the contact member 88 does not abut the device 30 when the cartridge retention element 80 is in the first position.
As seen in Figure 14 and 15, the aerosol-generating device 30 comprises a protruding element 90, and the body of the cartridge retention element 80 defines an aperture 89 for receiving the protruding element 90 to attach the cartridge retention element 80 to the device 30. The aperture 89 is at least partially positioned between the securing member 83 and the first end 81 of the body and is rectangular in shape.
Figure 16 shows a cartridge retention element 100 according to a fourth example of the present disclosure. The latching member 104 and the contact member 108 of the cartridge retention element 100 according to the fourth example are identical to those of the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 according to the first example. However, in the fourth example, the securing member 103 protrudes from the body of the cartridge retention element 100 in a direction perpendicular to the latching member 104. Furthermore, the securing member 103 does not turn about the body longitudinal direction. In fact, the securing member 103 does not have any turning points, and is planar.
Figures 17 to 19 show a cartridge retention element 110 according to a fifth example. The latching member 114 and contact member 118 of the fifth example are identical to those of the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 according to the first example. The cartridge retention element 110 comprises a securing member 117. The securing member 117 is similar to the second securing member 57 of the cartridge retention elements 50, 60 according to the first example, but further includes an extension member 120 extending from the securing member 117 in a body longitudinal direction. An end of the extension member 120 comprises an enlarged portion 121 which protrudes in the body transverse direction. As seen in Figure 19, a portion of the device 30 is received between the extension member 120 and the body of the cartridge retention element 110. Furthermore, the enlarged portion 121 engages with a slot 44 in the cavity 40 of the aerosol-generating device 30.
For the purpose of the present description and of the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and so forth, are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term "about" . Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein. In this context, therefore, a number A is understood as A ± 5%of A. Within this context, a number A may be considered to include numerical values that are within general standard error for the measurement of the property that the number A modifies. The number A, in some instances as used in the appended claims, may deviate by the percentages enumerated above provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic (s) of the claimed invention. Also, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically enumerated herein.

Claims

An aerosol-generating system comprising:

a cartridge for storing an aerosol-forming substrate;

an aerosol-generating device comprising a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the cartridge in a cavity longitudinal direction; and

a cartridge retention element for releasably retaining the cartridge within the cavity, the cartridge retention element comprising:

a body defining a body longitudinal direction between a first end of the body and a second end of the body and, the cartridge retention element being arranged such that, when at least a portion of the cartridge is received within the cavity, the body longitudinal direction extends in the cavity longitudinal direction;

a securing member for securing the cartridge retention element to one of the cartridge and the device, the securing member protruding from the body in a body transverse direction, and a junction between the securing member and the body extending along the body in the body longitudinal direction; and

a latching member configured to engage with the other of the cartridge and the device to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity.
An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1, wherein the securing member is configured to limit movement of the cartridge retention element, relative to the one of the cartridge and the device, in the body transverse direction.
An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the securing member protrudes in an opposite direction to the latching member.
An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the securing member comprises a first end connected to the body of the cartridge retention element and a second end spaced from the body of the cartridge retention element in a body transverse direction.
An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the securing member follows a path that turns about the body longitudinal direction.
An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding, wherein the cartridge retention element is configured to receive a portion of the one of the cartridge and the device between the securing member and the body.
An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the securing member is arranged such that at least a portion of the securing member is positioned between the first end of the body and the second end of the body.
An aerosol-generating system according any preceding claim, wherein the securing member is connected to the body of the cartridge retention element by a joint.
An aerosol-generating system according to claim 8, wherein the joint extends along the body in the body longitudinal direction.
An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises a first engagement state in which the cartridge is retained within the cavity by the cartridge retention element, and a second engagement state in which the cartridge is not retained within the cavity by the cartridge retention element; and

wherein the cartridge retention element is configured to move in a cavity transverse direction to allow the aerosol-generating system to move between the first engagement state and the second engagement state.
An aerosol-generating system according to claim 10, wherein the cartridge retention element has a first position and a second position, and the cartridge retention element is configured to move from the first position to the second position to allow the aerosol-generating system to move between the first engagement state and the second engagement state; and

wherein the second end of the body is configured to pivot about the first end of the body when the cartridge retention element moves between the first position to the second position.
An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the securing member is a first securing member, and the cartridge retention element comprises a second securing member for attaching the cartridge retention element to the one of the cartridge and the device, wherein the second securing member is arranged to prevent movement of the cartridge retention element, relative to the one of the cartridge and the device, in the body longitudinal direction.
An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol-generating system comprises a protruding element, and the body of the cartridge retention element defines an aperture for receiving the protruding element to attach the cartridge retention element to the one of the cartridge and the device.
An aerosol-generating system according to claim 13, wherein the aperture has a polygonal shape, preferably the aperture is square or rectangular in shape.
An aerosol-generating device for use in the aerosol-generating system of any preceding claim, the aerosol-generating device comprising the cartridge retention element, wherein the securing member is for securing the cartridge retention element to the aerosol-generating device, and the latching member is configured to engage the cartridge to releasably retain the cartridge within the cavity of the aerosol-generating device.