JP2023537664A - Aerosol delivery device and consumables therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

A consumable that is configured to be fully inserted into an aerosol delivery device. The consumable includes an aerosol-generating material for use in generating an aerosol by the aerosol delivery device, an insert portion configured for insertion into the aerosol-generating zone of the aerosol delivery device, and an insert portion configured to separate from a surface of the insert portion. ejection means extending over or disposed on a surface of the insertion portion and configured to enhance gripping by a user of the consumable to assist in removal of the insertion portion from the aerosol generation zone. Also provided are aerosol delivery devices for use with such consumables, and methods for removing such consumables from an aerosol delivery device. [Selection diagram] Figure 1a

Description

The present invention relates to consumables for an aerosol delivery device, an aerosol delivery device, an aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol delivery device, and a method of deploying an aerosol delivery device.

background

Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars, and the like burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide an alternative to these articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion. Examples of such products are so-called "non-combustion heated" products, or tobacco heating devices or products, which release compounds by heating materials rather than burning them. The material may be, for example, a tobacco product or other non-tobacco product that may or may not contain nicotine.

overview

A first aspect of the invention provides a consumable that is configured to be fully inserted into an aerosol delivery device. Consumables include aerosol-generating materials for use in generating an aerosol with the aerosol delivery device. The consumable comprises an insert configured for insertion into the aerosol generation zone of the aerosol delivery device. The consumable comprises a removal facilitating means extending away from or disposed on the surface of the insert for assisting removal of the insert from the aerosol generation zone. configured to enhance user grip of the consumable.

In some embodiments, the consumable is elongated and has a longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments the removal facilitating means is symmetrical about the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the removal facilitating means is asymmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the removal facilitator is configured to extend longitudinally of the consumable, the longitudinal direction being parallel to the direction of the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, the removal facilitating means is configured to extend radially of the consumable, the radial direction being perpendicular to the direction of the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments the removal facilitating means is movable relative to the insert portion.

In some embodiments, the removal facilitating means is movable between a longitudinal position aligned with the longitudinal direction of the consumable and a radial position aligned with the radial direction of the consumable.

In some embodiments, the insert portion comprises an outer surface having a relatively low coefficient of friction and the removal facilitating means comprises an outer surface having a relatively high coefficient of friction. In some embodiments, the relatively high coefficient of friction of the outer surface is consistent along the removal facilitating means.

In some embodiments, the removal facilitating means is freely movable relative to the insert portion.

In some embodiments, the structure of the removal facilitating means is self-supporting.

In some embodiments, the consumable comprises a blocking portion configured to prevent the removal facilitating means from being inserted into the aerosol generation zone. In some embodiments, the blocking portion is provided by the largest dimension of the consumable. In some embodiments, the overall dimension is the length of the consumable. In some embodiments, the maximum dimension is the width of the consumable.

In some embodiments, the consumable comprises a blocking portion configured to prevent the removal facilitating means from being inserted into the aerosol generation zone, wherein the blocking portion is provided by a maximum dimension of the consumable. , the largest dimension being the width corresponding to the diameter of the consumable.

In some embodiments, the maximum dimension is provided by a stepped change in width of the consumable.
In some embodiments, the removal facilitating means is or comprises an open cavity.

In some embodiments, the removal-enhancing means is an adhesive area.

In some embodiments, the removal facilitating means occupies a substantially flat portion of the consumable.

In some embodiments, the removal facilitating means extends away from or is disposed on the outer surface of the insert portion.

A second aspect of the invention provides an aerosol delivery device. The aerosol-delivery device comprises an aerosol-generating zone for receiving a consumable insert containing an aerosol-generating material. The aerosol delivery device comprises an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material when the consumable insert is within the aerosol-generating zone. The aerosol delivery device comprises a casing housing an aerosol generator and an aerosol generation zone. The casing comprises a first part and a second part movable relative to each other between an open state and a closed state. The aerosol delivery device is configured such that the consumable removal facilitating means remains outside the aerosol generation zone when the consumable is fully inserted into the aerosol delivery device casing and the consumable insert is within the aerosol generation zone. so that the removal facilitating means are exposed to the user for grasping when the aerosol delivery device is in the open state and hidden from the user when the aerosol delivery device is in the closed state.

In some embodiments, the aerosol delivery device comprises a chamber formed by the first part and the second part for enclosing the consumable in the closed state. In some embodiments, the chamber comprises a sub-chamber extending only part of the length of the chamber and a recess, the sub-chamber comprising the aerosol-generating zone and the recess positioned with the aerosol delivery device open. exposed when In some embodiments, the ends of the subchamber are defined by blocking portions. In some embodiments, the subchamber is a blind hole.

A third aspect of the invention provides an aerosol delivery system comprising a consumable according to the first aspect and an aerosol delivery device according to the second aspect.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a method of removing a consumable from an aerosol delivery device. The method includes providing an aerosol delivery device and a consumable that is fully inserted into the aerosol delivery device such that an insert portion of the consumable is located within an aerosol generation zone of the aerosol delivery device. The method includes gripping a consumable removal facilitator extending away from or disposed on a surface of the insert portion to enhance gripping. The method includes removing the insert from the aerosol generation zone utilizing a removal facilitating means.

In some embodiments, the step of providing includes providing a consumable according to the first aspect.

In some embodiments the providing step comprises providing an aerosol delivery device according to the second aspect.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides an aerosol delivery device. The aerosol delivery device comprises an aerosol generation zone. The aerosol delivery device comprises an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material while the aerosol-generating material is within the aerosol-generating zone. The aerosol-delivery device comprises a first opening at a first end of the aerosol-delivery device, through which a consumable comprising an aerosol-generating material can enter the aerosol-generating zone. The aerosol delivery device includes a second opening at a second end of the aerosol delivery device through which the consumable can exit the aerosol generation zone. The aerosol delivery device is configured to push the consumable when the consumable is passed by the user through the first opening such that at least a portion of the consumable is pushed out of the second opening and removed from the aerosol delivery device by the user. with a mechanism for moving through the aerosol delivery device.

In some embodiments, the first end is located at the opposite end of the aerosol delivery device relative to the second end.

In some embodiments, the first end is the mouth end of the aerosol delivery device.

In some embodiments, the mechanism is configured to move the consumable through the aerosol delivery device in a unidirectional manner.

In some embodiments, the mechanism comprises a plurality of rollers rotatable to move the consumable through the aerosol delivery device. In some embodiments, the multiple rollers are configured to provide a gripping force to be exerted on the consumable. In some embodiments, the plurality of rollers are configured to directly engage the outer surface of the consumable. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of rollers comprises an axis of rotation radially spaced from the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation zone. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of rollers is biased toward the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generation zone such that the axis of rotation is movable toward and away from the longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, the plurality of rollers comprises a first group of rollers and a second group of rollers, wherein the first group of rollers is closer to the first group of the aerosol delivery device than the second group of rollers. Located close to the opening.

In some embodiments, the mechanism comprises a sliding component configured to engage an outer surface of the consumable to pass the consumable through the aerosol delivery device.

In some embodiments, the mechanism comprises a handle for the user to drive the mechanism. In some embodiments, the handle is slidable relative to the first opening. In some embodiments, the handle is rotatable with respect to the first opening.

In some embodiments, an aerosol delivery device comprises a controller configured to output a signal and a motor configured to drive a mechanism based on receipt of the signal.

In some embodiments, the mechanism is configured to move the consumable at discrete intervals.

In some embodiments, the mechanism is configured to move the consumable between the first opening and the second opening in a continuous manner.

In some embodiments, the mechanism is configured to automatically expel the consumable once at least a portion of the aerosol-generating material of the consumable is passed through the aerosol-generating zone.

In some embodiments, the mechanism is configured to move the consumable through the aerosol generation zone.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides an aerosol delivery system. An aerosol delivery system comprises an aerosol delivery device according to the fifth aspect and a consumable comprising an aerosol generating material.

A seventh aspect of the invention provides a method of operating an aerosol delivery system according to the sixth aspect. The method includes inserting the consumable through the first opening. The method includes passing the consumable through the aerosol delivery device toward the second opening by a mechanism of the aerosol delivery device for extrusion of the consumable through the second opening and removal from the aerosol delivery device by the user. Including the step of moving.

In some embodiments, the method includes extruding the consumable once at least a portion of the consumable's aerosol-generating material has passed through the aerosol-generating zone.

In some embodiments, the moving step includes carrying the consumable by rotation of multiple rollers.

Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, by way of example only, of preferred embodiments of the invention, made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

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

1 shows a perspective view of a consumable according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 1b is a perspective view of an aerosol delivery system comprising the consumable of FIG. 1a, according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. Fig. 1b is a front view of the aerosol delivery system of Fig. 1b; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a consumable according to different respective embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a consumable according to different respective embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a consumable according to different respective embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a consumable according to different respective embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a consumable according to different respective embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a consumable according to different respective embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a consumable according to different respective embodiments of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a consumable according to different respective embodiments of the present invention; [0014] Figure 4 illustrates a method of removing a consumable from an aerosol delivery device, according to one embodiment of the present invention; 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol delivery device according to one embodiment of the invention; FIG. 11b is a perspective view of an aerosol delivery system comprising the aerosol delivery device of FIG. 11a, according to one embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol delivery system according to one embodiment of the invention; FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aerosol delivery system comprising an aerosol delivery device according to one embodiment of the invention; FIG. Figure 13b is a perspective view of the aerosol delivery device of Figure 13a; 1A-1D illustrate a method of operating an aerosol delivery system according to an embodiment of the invention;

detailed description

The present disclosure relates to aerosol delivery devices, such as non-combustible aerosol delivery devices, and aerosol delivery systems, such as non-combustible aerosol delivery systems. According to the present disclosure, a "non-combustible" aerosol delivery device is one in which the constituent aerosol-generating material contained by the consumable for being received by a chamber (or component of the aerosol delivery device) of the aerosol delivery device is delivered to the user. An aerosol delivery device that may or may not be combusted to facilitate delivery of the aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, an aerosol delivery system, such as a non-combustible aerosol delivery system, comprises an aerosol delivery device, such as a non-combustible aerosol delivery device, and a consumable for use with the aerosol delivery device, wherein the consumable is , including aerosol-generating materials.

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

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

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is an aerosol-generating material heating system, also known as a non-combustible heated system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

In some embodiments, the non-combustible aerosol delivery system is a hybrid system that utilizes a combination of aerosol-generating materials to generate the aerosol, wherein one or more of the aerosol-generating materials can be heated. . Each of the aerosol-generating materials may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol-generating material and a solid aerosol-generating material. Solid aerosol-forming materials may include, for example, tobacco or non-tobacco products.

An aerosol-generating material is, for example, a material capable of generating an aerosol when heated, irradiated, or otherwise excited. Aerosol-generating materials can be, for example, in the form of solids, liquids, or gels that may or may not contain active agents and/or flavorants. Aerosol-generating materials may include "amorphous solids", which may alternatively be referred to as "monolithic solids" (ie, non-fibrous solids). In some embodiments, an amorphous solid can be a dry gel. Amorphous solids are solid materials that can hold some fluid, such as a liquid, inside. In some cases, the aerosol-generating material comprises from about 50 wt%, 60 wt%, or 70 wt% to about 90 wt%, 95 wt%, 95 wt%, or 100 wt% amorphous solids. In some cases, the aerosol-generating material is composed of an amorphous solid.

Aerosol-generating materials may include one or more active agents and/or fragrances, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and optionally one or more functional materials.

In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered by the aerosol delivery device is an aerosol-generating material that can include an active ingredient, a carrier ingredient, and optionally one or more other functional ingredients. obtain.

A consumable is an article that contains or consists of an aerosol-generating material, some or all of which is intended to be consumed by a user during use. A consumable comprises one or more other components, such as an aerosol-generating material storage area, an aerosol-generating material transfer component, an aerosol-generating area, a housing, a wrapper, a mouthpiece, a filter, and/or an aerosol modifier. obtain. The consumable may further comprise an aerosol-generating device, such as a heater, that generates heat in use to cause the aerosol-generating material to generate an aerosol. A heater may include, for example, a combustible material, a material heatable by electrical conduction, or a susceptor.

In some embodiments, a consumable for use with an aerosol delivery device may include an aerosol-generating material or a region for receiving an aerosol-generating material. The area for receiving the aerosol-generating material may be a storage area for storing the aerosol-generating material. For example, the storage area may be a reservoir. In some embodiments, a region for receiving an aerosol-generating material can be separate from or combined with the aerosol-generating region.

A susceptor is a material that can be heated by penetration by a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be an electrically conductive material such that its penetration by a fluctuating magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material may be a magnetic material such that penetration thereof by a fluctuating magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both electrically conductive and magnetic so that it can be heated by either heating mechanism. A device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol delivery system such as the non-combustible aerosol delivery device may comprise a power source and a controller. The power source may be, for example, an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source comprises a carbon substrate that can be excited to deliver power in the form of heat to the aerosol-generating material or to a heat transfer material proximate to the exothermic power source.

In some embodiments, a non-combustible aerosol delivery device can comprise an area for receiving a consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating region, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and/or an aerosol modifier.

The user can insert the consumable into the aerosol delivery device before the aerosol is created for subsequent inhalation by the user. The consumable may be of a predetermined or specific size, for example configured to be placed in a chamber, such as a heating chamber of a device sized to receive the consumable.

Aerosol modifiers are substances configured to modify the aerosol produced, for example, by changing the taste, aroma, acidity, or other property of the aerosol, typically in the aerosol-generating region. placed downstream. The aerosol modifier may be provided within an aerosol modifier releasing component operable to selectively release the aerosol modifier.

Aerosol modifiers can be, for example, additives or adsorbents. Aerosol modifiers may include, for example, one or more of flavorants, colorants, water, and carbon adsorbents. Aerosol modifiers can be, for example, solids, liquids, or gels. Aerosol modifiers may be in the form of powders, threads, or granules. The aerosol modifier may be free of filtration material.
In some embodiments, the substance to be delivered is one or more active ingredients, one or more fragrances, one or more aerosol-forming materials, and/or one or more It may contain other functional materials. The one or more functional ingredients may include one or more of pH modifiers, colorants, preservatives, binders, fillers, stabilizers, and/or antioxidants.

An aerosol-generating device is a device configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating device is configured to expose the aerosol-generating material to thermal energy to release one or more volatiles from the aerosol-generating material to form an aerosol. is a heater. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating device is configured to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol-generating device may be configured to subject the aerosol-generating material to one or more of vibration, pressure increase, or electrostatic energy. The aerosol generator may be provided as a permanent part of the aerosol delivery device.

Apparatuses are known for heating an aerosol-generating material to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol-generating material, typically to form an aerosol that can be inhaled, with or without burning the aerosol-generating material. there is Such devices may be described as "aerosol generating devices," "aerosol delivery devices," "non-combustion heating devices," "tobacco heating product devices," or "tobacco heating devices." There are also so-called e-cigarette devices, which typically vaporize an aerosol-generating material in liquid form which may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of, or provided as part of, a rod, cartridge, cassette, or the like that may be inserted into the device.

A user will remove consumables from an aerosol delivery device for a variety of reasons. The present invention provides a consumable and an aerosol delivery device that allows for improved removal of the consumable from the aerosol delivery device.

Referring to FIG. 1a, a consumable 100 according to one embodiment of the invention is shown. The consumable is for use with the aerosol delivery device 150 to form an aerosol delivery system 100S according to one embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIGS. 1b and 1c.

Aerosol delivery device 150 comprises opening 154 and chamber 156 . Chamber 156 is for receiving consumable 100 by insertion through opening 154 . Consumable 100 is shown with a dotted border in FIG. Consumable 100 includes aerosol-generating material 110 for use in generating aerosol by aerosol generator 162 of aerosol delivery device 150 . The aerosol-delivery device 150 comprises an aerosol-generating zone 160 into which the aerosol-generating material 110 is inserted such that an aerosol can be generated.

In this embodiment, aerosol-generating device 162 is configured to provide heat to the aerosol-generating material of consumable 100 to generate an aerosol as the inhalable medium. Aerosol generator 162 comprises an electrical resistance heater. In other embodiments, the aerosol generator 162 may comprise an induction heater, or one or more of an electrical resistance heater and an induction heater. In still other embodiments, pressure may be used to generate the inhalable medium from consumable 100 . In this embodiment, aerosol generator 162 extends only partially around and along chamber 156 . In this embodiment, the length of aerosol generator 162 is equal to the length of aerosol generation zone 160 . In other embodiments, aerosol generator 162 may be positioned elsewhere relative to chamber 156 . For example, aerosol generator 162 may be positioned within chamber 156 . In other embodiments, the aerosol generator 162 can substantially surround the chamber 156 along the length of the chamber 156 .

Powering the electrical resistance heater is accomplished by a power source (not shown). In this embodiment, the power source is a rechargeable battery. A rechargeable battery is integral with the aerosol delivery device 150 . In other embodiments, the power source may be replaceable, such as replaceable batteries. In other embodiments, the power source may be a non-rechargeable battery. The power source is configured to provide power to the electronic components of aerosol delivery device 150 .

Aerosol delivery device 150 comprises casing 155 and mouthpiece 153 . Casing 155 comprises first part 151 and second part 152 . A mouthpiece 153 is located at the mouth end of the aerosol delivery device 150 . The oral end may be referred to as the buccal end. The mouthpiece 153 comprises an opening 153a through which the aerosol can be drawn from the mouthpiece 153 by a user of the aerosol delivery device 150 . The user can withdraw the aerosol from the mouthpiece 153 when the consumable 100 is hidden by the casing 155 as shown in FIG. 1c. In this embodiment, chamber 156 is offset from the longitudinal axis of aerosol delivery device 150 to offset consumable 100 from the longitudinal axis. In other embodiments, consumable 100 may be aligned with the longitudinal axis.

A second part 152 of the casing 155 is movable with respect to the first part 151 and the mouthpiece 153 . A hinge 180 ensures that the second part 152 is held relative to the first part 151 but still movable relative to the first part 151 . A first part 151 is configured to block an opening 154 to a chamber 156, as shown in FIG. 1c. This is because the first part 151 and the second part 151 together enclose the consumable 100 in the closed state of the aerosol delivery device 150 (discussed below), so that the chamber 156 is in the first and second parts 151 and 151 . is formed by a part 152 of Movement of the first part 151 and the second part 152 is thus configured to open and close the opening 154 of the chamber 156 .

The second part 152 is movable between a first position (as shown in Figure Ib) and a second position (as shown in Figure Ic). In this embodiment, the second component 152 is manually movable by the user between first and second positions. In other embodiments, movement of the second component 152 may be motorized and electronically controlled by a controller. In the first position, chamber 156 is visually exposed to the user. The first position can be considered an open position of the second part 152, with the aerosol delivery device 150 in an open state. The second position can be considered a closed position of the second part 152, with the aerosol delivery device 150 in the closed state. In the second position, first component 151 blocks entry and exit of consumable 100 from chamber 156 by blocking opening 154 . In the first position, first part 151 allows entry of consumable 100 into chamber 156 and exit of consumable 100 from chamber 156 . Advantageously, the aerosol delivery system 100S is more compact when the aerosol delivery device 150 is in the closed state and the consumable 100 is in the chamber 156. FIG.

Aerosol can be generated from aerosol-generating material 110 and aerosol can be drawn from consumable 100 when consumable 100 is in chamber 156 and second component 152 is in the second position. Accordingly, a user can utilize the mouthpiece 153 to inhale the aerosol produced by the aerosol delivery device 150 when the second part 152 is in the second closed position. In the second position the chamber 156 is closed by the first part 151 as it is covered by the first part 151 . That is, first part 151 is configured such that first part 1151 covers, in the second position, opening 154 to chamber 156 through which consumable 100 can be inserted. In this embodiment, the user cannot utilize the mouthpiece 153 when the second part 152 is in the second position. Aerosol delivery device 150 may comprise a detector for detecting the second position of second component 152 . First part 151 may be of any shape suitable to cover chamber 156 when second part 152 is in the second position.

A chamber 156 is formed in the second part 152 of the aerosol delivery device 100 . In this embodiment, chamber 156 is configured such that consumable 100 abuts walls of chamber 156 to frictionally secure consumable 100 in place. In other embodiments, aerosol delivery device 150 may include a retaining member to retain consumable 100 in place within chamber 156 . The retaining member can help prevent unintentional movement of consumable 100 relative to chamber 156 . One example of a retaining member is a protrusion on second part 152 that is engageable with a recess on consumable 100 . The cooperation of the protrusions and recesses can increase the force required to remove the consumable 100 from the chamber 156 . This can help prevent unintentional movement of consumable 100 . In some embodiments, a retaining member may be provided on the consumable 100 when the second part 152 is provided with a recess. Retaining members may also take the form of magnetic attachments or alternative mechanical fastening means such as threads and threaded barrels. Any consumable or aerosol delivery device described herein can include a retaining member or recess to retain the consumable in place within its respective chamber.

The consumable 100 is fully insertable into the aerosol delivery device 150 as shown in Figures 1b and 1c. That is, consumable 100 is hidden from the user by aerosol delivery device 150 when consumable 100 is in aerosol delivery device 150 and aerosol is generated from aerosol-generating material 110 by aerosol delivery device 150 .

As shown in FIG. 1a, the consumable 100 comprises an insert portion 120. As shown in FIG. The insert portion 120 is for insertion into the aerosol generation zone 160 of the aerosol delivery device 150, as shown in Figure Ic. In this embodiment, consumable 100 is a rod and insert 120 extends along the length of the rod in longitudinal direction Y of consumable 100 . In other embodiments, the consumable 100 may be flat and/or disk shaped. The rod is elongated and has a longitudinal axis A.

The consumable 100 comprises a removal facilitating means 130 . Removal facilitator 130 extends away from outer surface 140 of insert portion 120 . Removal facilitator 130 is configured to enhance user grip of consumable 100 . Advantageously, the removal facilitating means 130 assists in removal of the insert 140 from the aerosol generation zone 160 of the aerosol delivery device 150 . In this embodiment, the removal facilitator 130 extends radially from the longitudinal axis A. The radial direction corresponds to the width direction X of the consumable 100 . Removal facilitator 130 comprises a tab portion 135 that forms a projection of consumable 100 . Tab portion 135 increases the surface area of the end of consumable 100, which makes it easier for the user to hold consumable 100. FIG. Thus, removal facilitator 130 has a width greater than that of insert portion 120 due to the presence of tab portion 135 . Accordingly, tab portion 135 increases the surface area of the end of consumable 100, which facilitates holding consumable 100 by the user. Advantageously, removal facilitator 130 improves the ability to withdraw consumable 100 from aerosol delivery device 150 when consumable 100 is fully inserted into chamber 156 of aerosol delivery device 150 .

In this embodiment, the insertion portion 120 is cylindrical with a cross-section that is symmetrical about the longitudinal axis A, whereas the removal facilitating means 130 is asymmetrical about the longitudinal axis A. The asymmetry of removal facilitator 130 with respect to longitudinal axis A is due to the presence of tab portion 135 .

The tab portion 135 has a dimension in the depth direction Z that is less than the corresponding dimension of the insert portion 120 in the depth direction Z. As shown in FIG. This allows tab portion 135 to be discrete and material usage to be minimized. Tab portion 135 extends in radial direction X a distance equal to the diameter of insert portion 120 . In other embodiments, tab portion 135 may extend in radial direction X a distance less than or greater than the diameter of insert portion 120 .

In this embodiment, tab portion 135 of removal facilitator 130 is movable relative to insert portion 120 and thus relative to longitudinal axis A of consumable 10 . Tab portion 135 is configured to allow tab portion 135 to pivot between a radial position 130a as shown in FIGS. 1a and 1b and an angled position 130b as shown in FIGS. 1b and 1c. , is pivotable. In the angled position 130 b , tab portion 135 is a blocking portion that limits the insertion of insert portion 120 into chamber 156 . In other embodiments, tab portion 135 does not serve as a blocking portion. That is, the extent of insertion of insert portion 120 into chamber 156 may be independent of tab portion 135 . The blocking portion is configured to prevent the removal facilitating means 130 from being inserted into the aerosol generation zone 160 of the aerosol delivery device 150 . The axis of rotation of the tab portion 135 is shown in the depth direction Z. FIG. The removal facilitator 130 is a movable structure of the removal facilitator 130, but is self-supporting. This allows tab portion 135 to remain flat in the illustrated embodiment. In some embodiments, removal facilitator 130 may be curved to provide tactile sensation to the user. In some, removal facilitator 130 may comprise surface roughness to enhance gripping. That is, the surface roughness of tab portion 135 may exceed the surface roughness of insert portion 120, for example.

In some embodiments, tab portion 135 may be biased toward one of radial position 130a or angled position 130b. In some embodiments, tab portion 135 can have only two positions, where the two positions are, for example, a radial position and an angled position. Advantageously, when tab portion 135 is biased toward radial position 130a, removal facilitator 130 is provided in a resting state that is most convenient for a user to grasp removal facilitator 130. As shown in FIG.

Referring to FIG. 2, a consumable 200 according to one embodiment of the invention is shown. Similar features of consumable 200 have the same reference numbers as the features of FIG. 1a, but their reference numbers have been increased by one hundred. Common characteristics are not discussed again. The discussion of consumable 200 below is limited to the differences.

Consumable 200 comprises a removal facilitator 230 having a tab portion 235 parallel to longitudinal axis A of consumable 200 . Both the longitudinal axis A and the tab portion 235 extend in the longitudinal direction Y, although the tab portion 235 is offset from the longitudinal axis A. Removal facilitator 230 is movable between longitudinal and radial positions shown in FIG. In the longitudinal position, tab portion 235 is aligned with longitudinal direction Y of consumable 200 . In the radial position, tab portion 235 is aligned with radial direction X of consumable 200 . In this embodiment, removal facilitator 230 comprises a resilient member to bias tab portion 235 into a longitudinal position. This ensures that tab portion 235 has a rest position that corresponds to the maximum possible range from insert portion 220 .

In contrast to consumable 100 , end 205 of consumable 200 has tab portion 235 extending from the chamber when insert portion 220 of consumable 200 is inserted into the chamber of an aerosol delivery device, such as aerosol delivery device 150 . configured to provide a blocking portion so as to End 205 is the end opposite the end from which portion 235 tabs extend.

3-9, consumables 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 according to embodiments of the invention are shown. Similar features of consumables 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 have the same reference numerals as features of the preceding figures, but their reference numerals have been increased by multiples of 100. FIG. Common characteristics are not discussed again. The discussion of consumables 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 below is limited to differences.

Consumables 300, 400, 500, 600, 700 are substantially bar-shaped, while consumables 800, 900 are substantially planar. That is, the insert portions 320, 420, 520, 620, 720 of the consumables 300, 400, 500, 600, 700 have a rod-like shape, and the insert portions 820, 920 of the consumables 800, 900 are planar. shape. Each consumable 800, 900 may be referred to as a flat consumable 800, 900 because the insert portion 820, 920 is flat. Consumable 900 may be referred to as disk consumable 900 because insert portion 920 is in the shape of a disk. The disc shape of the insertion portion 920 of the consumable 900 is elliptical. In other embodiments, the disc shape of the insert portion 920 can be circular. In other embodiments, the disk shape of insert portion 920 may have any shape, such as regular or irregular polygons.
Consumables 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 are elongate. The insert portion 320, 420, 520, 620, 720, 820, 920 of each consumable 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 has a constant cross section in at least one direction. Consumables 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800 have constant cross-sections in three directions (longitudinal direction Y, width direction X, and depth direction Z), whereas consumable 900 has constant cross-sections in two directions ( It has a constant cross section in the width direction X and the depth direction Z). In other embodiments, the consumable may have a constant cross-section in only one direction.

Similar to consumables 100, 200, consumables 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 of FIGS. Discharge facilitating means 330, 430, 530, 630, 730, 830, 930 located at one end of 900 are provided. In these embodiments, the ends are longitudinal ends. In some embodiments, for example where the insertion portion is a disc in the form of a circle, the removal facilitating means may be provided at only one point on the circumference of the disc.

Referring to FIG. 3, removal facilitator 330 of consumable 300 is located on outer surface 340 of insert 320 . Removal facilitator 330 enhances user gripping of consumable 300 to assist removal of insert 340 from the aerosol generation zone of an aerosol delivery device, such as aerosol delivery device 150 shown in FIGS. 1b and 1c. configured to

Removal facilitator 330 is symmetrical about longitudinal axis A. Removal facilitating means 330 is within the circumferential limits formed by insert portion 320 . That is, the removal facilitating means 330 does not protrude from the insert portion 320 . In this embodiment, removal facilitator 330 is adhesive area 331 . In any of the other consumables described herein, the removal facilitator 330 may additionally comprise an adhesive area 331 . Adhesive region 331 provides tackiness that enhances grip. In this embodiment, adhesive regions 331 are provided at the ends of consumable 300 . That is, the adhesive region 331 has a dimension in the longitudinal direction Y of negligible value. However, in other embodiments, adhesive region 331 may be provided at least partially on a portion of the removal facilitator of any of the other consumables described herein.

Referring to FIG. 4, removal facilitator 430 of consumable 400 extends away from outer surface 440 of insert 420 . Removal facilitator 430 enhances user gripping of consumable 400 to assist removal of insert 420 from the aerosol generation zone of an aerosol delivery device, such as aerosol delivery device 150 shown in FIGS. 1b and 1c. configured to In this embodiment, removal facilitator 430 is immobile with respect to insert portion 420 .

In this embodiment, removal facilitator 430 is cylindrical and has a diameter greater than the diameter of insertion portion 420 . This allows the removal facilitator 430 to block entry of the aerosol delivery device into the chamber to delimit the insertion of the insert 420 into the chamber. That is, the removal facilitator 430 comprises a blocking portion configured to prevent the removal facilitator 430 from being inserted into the aerosol generation zone of the aerosol delivery device. In this embodiment, the diameter of removal facilitator 430 is the maximum overall diameter of consumable 400 . That is, the diameter of the removal facilitating means 430 is the maximum dimension of the expendable article 400 in the width direction X and the depth direction Z. As shown in FIG. In this embodiment, removal facilitator 430 occupies approximately one third of the total length of consumable 400 . In other embodiments, removal facilitator 430 may occupy less than one-third or more than one-third of the total length of consumable 400 . The removal facilitator 430 of the consumable 400 is also symmetrical about the longitudinal axis A. In other embodiments, removal facilitator 430 may be asymmetrical about longitudinal axis A.

In contrast to the removal facilitator 330 of the consumable 300, the removal facilitator 430 of this embodiment comprises an area of increased friction to improve the grip of the consumable 400 by the user. That is, removal facilitating means 430 comprises an outer surface 431 with a relatively high coefficient of friction compared to outer surface 440 of insert portion 420 which has a relatively low coefficient of friction. The relatively high coefficient of friction of outer surface 431 is consistent along the length of removal facilitating means 430 . In some embodiments, only a portion of the length of removal facilitating means 430 may comprise a friction-enhanced outer surface 431 . In some embodiments, outer surface 431 can have a higher surface roughness compared to outer surface 440 of insert portion 420 . The outer surface 431 may be etched or scribed to create a high surface roughness. That is, the outer surface 431 can include etchings or scribing. In this embodiment, the outer surface 431 is arcuate.

5, 8 and 9, the removal facilitators 530, 800, 900 of the consumables 500, 800, 900 are identical. The removal facilitator 530,800,900 is freely movable with respect to the insert portion 520,820,920. Removal facilitator 530,800,900 extends away from outer surface 540,840,940 of insert 520,820,920. The removal facilitator 530, 800, 900 is consumable to assist removal of the insert 520, 820, 920 from the aerosol generation zone of an aerosol delivery device, such as the aerosol delivery device 150 shown in Figures 1b and 1c. It enhances the user's grasp of the item 500, 800, 900.

In the consumables 500, 800, 900 the removal facilitator 530, 800, 900 is connected to the longitudinal ends of the inserts 520, 820, 920 and can extend away from the longitudinal ends. Removal facilitator 530, 800, 900 comprises a flexible structure. That is, the structure of the removal facilitating means 530, 800, 900 is not self-supporting. This allows the removal facilitator 530, 800, 900 to assume any shape or pose. Advantageously, the removal facilitator 530, 800, 900 is compact when not held by the user. The user can withdraw the consumable 500, 800, 900 from the chamber of the aerosol delivery device, for example by holding the removal facilitator 530, 800, 900 between the other finger and thumb of the user's hand. .

In the consumables 500, 800, 900, the respective removal facilitating means 530, 840, 940 are arranged in the width direction X and the depth direction Z of the respective insert portion 540, 840, 940 respectively. extending from the center of the However, in other embodiments the removal facilitating means may extend at different locations, such as off-center locations.

In consumables 500, 800, 900, respective removal facilitators 530, 840, 940 may be referred to as threads, strings, or cords. The removal facilitator 530, 840, 940 can have an increased surface roughness or an increased coefficient of friction, in which case the outer surface of the removal facilitator 530, 840, 940 is the insert portion 520, 820, It has a surface roughness or coefficient of friction greater than that of the outer surface of 920.

Referring to FIG. 6, removal facilitator 630 of consumable 600 tapers toward longitudinal axis A. As shown in FIG. That is, removal facilitator 630 is narrower than outer surface 640 of insert portion 620 . Removal facilitator 630 enhances user gripping of consumable 600 to assist removal of insert 620 from the aerosol generation zone of an aerosol delivery device, such as aerosol delivery device 150 shown in FIGS. 1b and 1c. configured to In this embodiment, removal facilitator 630 is immobile with respect to insert portion 620 .

In this embodiment, removal facilitator 630 is cylindrical and has a diameter smaller than the diameter of insertion portion 620 . This allows the withdrawal facilitating means 630 to reside in the chamber of the aerosol delivery device when in use. Advantageously, the overall length of consumable 600 may be shorter than the overall length of a consumable having a removal facilitator that is also a blocking portion, such as shown by consumable 400 in FIG. Even though the removal facilitator 630 can enter the chamber of the aerosol delivery device in use, the removal facilitator 630 can still be grasped by the user due to the gap provided between the removal facilitator 630 and the chamber wall. .

The removal facilitator 630, unlike the removal facilitator 430 shown in FIG. 4, is not configured to block entry of the aerosol delivery device into the chamber to delimit the insertion of the insert portion 620 into the chamber. Instead, the length or width of consumable 600 is configured to define the extent of insertion of consumable 600 into the chamber. In this embodiment, removal facilitator 630 occupies approximately one third of the total length of consumable 600 . In other embodiments, removal facilitator 630 may occupy less than one-third or more than one-third of the total length of consumable 600 . The removal facilitator 630 of the consumable 600 is also symmetrical about the longitudinal axis A. In other embodiments, removal facilitator 630 may be asymmetrical about longitudinal axis A.

Referring to FIG. 7, removal facilitator 730 of consumable 700 is located on an inner surface 741 of insert portion 720 opposite outer surface 740 . This allows the removal facilitating means 730 to reside in the chamber of the aerosol delivery device when in use. Advantageously, the overall length of consumable 700 can be shorter than the overall length of a consumable having a removal facilitator that is also a blocking portion, such as shown by consumable 400 in FIG. Even though the removal facilitator 730 can enter the chamber of the aerosol delivery device in use, the removal facilitator 730 has an open cavity 733 ( or blind holes) can still be gripped by the user. In some embodiments, surface 731 can include an adhesive or have an increased roughness or coefficient of friction relative to the roughness or coefficient of friction of outer surface 740 of insert 720 .

Like removal facilitator 630 of consumable 600, removal facilitator 730 differs from removal facilitator 430 shown in FIG. not configured to block entry into Instead, the length or width of consumable 700 is configured to define the extent of insertion of consumable 700 into the chamber.

As with other removal facilitating means described herein, removal 730 facilitates removal of insert portion 720 from the aerosol generation zone of an aerosol delivery device, such as aerosol delivery device 150 shown in FIGS. 1b and 1b. To assist, it is configured to enhance user grip of consumable 700 . In this embodiment, removal facilitator 730 is immobile with respect to insert portion 720 .

FIG. 10 shows a diagram of a method 1000 of removing a consumable from an aerosol delivery device according to one embodiment of the invention. Method 1000 includes providing 1001 an aerosol delivery device and a consumable that is fully inserted into the aerosol delivery device such that an insert portion of the consumable is within an aerosol generation zone of the aerosol delivery device. The method 1000 includes gripping 1002 a consumable removal facilitator extending away from or disposed on the surface of the insertion portion to enhance gripping. Method 1000 includes removing 1003 the insert from the aerosol generation zone utilizing the removal facilitator.

Consumables as described herein may be used in the practice of method 1000, if discussed. An aerosol delivery device as described herein can be used in the practice of method 1000, if discussed.

Referring to FIG. 11a, an aerosol delivery device 1150 according to one embodiment of the invention is shown. Aerosol delivery device 1150 together with consumable 1100 form an aerosol delivery system 1100S according to an embodiment of the invention as shown in FIG. 11b. Similar features of aerosol delivery device 1150, consumable 1100, and aerosol delivery system 1100S have the same reference numerals as features in previous figures, but increased by multiples of 100. FIG. Common characteristics are not discussed again. The following discussion of aerosol delivery device 1150, consumable 1100, and aerosol delivery system 1100S is limited to differences.

Aerosol delivery device 1150 comprises casing 1155 and mouthpiece 1153 . Casing 1155 comprises first part 1151 and second part 1152 . Mouthpiece 1153 is positioned at the mouth end of aerosol delivery device 1150 . Mouthpiece 1153 includes an opening 1153 a through which aerosol can be drawn from mouthpiece 1153 by a user of aerosol delivery device 1150 . A user can draw aerosol from mouthpiece 1153 when consumable 1100 is hidden by casing 1155 .

A second part 1152 of the casing 1155 is movable with respect to the first part 1151 and the mouthpiece 1153 . A pair of coaxially arranged hinges 1181 , 1182 ensure that the second part 1152 is held relative to the first part 1152 but still movable relative to the first part 1151 . do. The hinges 1181, 1182 are coaxial about the axis of rotation B. In this embodiment, hinges 1181 , 1182 are parallel to longitudinal direction Y of aerosol delivery device 1150 . In other embodiments, hinges 1181 , 1182 may be perpendicular or oblique to longitudinal direction Y of aerosol delivery device 1150 . In this embodiment, hinges 1181 , 1182 are offset from the center of aerosol delivery device 1150 and are provided on one side of aerosol delivery device 1150 . In other embodiments, hinges 1181 , 1182 may be provided centrally on aerosol delivery device 1150 .

The first part 1151 of the casing 1155 is configured to hide the first opening 1154a to the recess 1156a, as shown in Figure 11b. The recess 1156 a is formed by the first component 1151 . When the first part 1151 and the second part 1152 are closed, a chamber is formed. The chamber includes recess 1156a.

First part 1151 and second part 1151 are configured to enclose a length of consumable 1100 in the closed state of aerosol delivery device 1150 (discussed below). Movement of the first part 1151 and the second part 1152 is thus configured to open and close the first opening 1154a of the recess 1156a. The first part 1151 comprises a sub-chamber 1156b. Subchamber 1156 extends only a portion of the length of the chamber. A second opening 1154b provides access to subchamber 1156b. An aerosol generation zone 1160 is provided in subchamber 1156b.

Aerosol delivery device 1150 comprises an aerosol generator 1162 . Aerosol may be generated from the aerosol-generating material 1110 by the aerosol-generating device 1162 when the insert portion 1120 containing the aerosol-generating material 1110 of the consumable 1100 is inserted into the subchamber 1156b through the second opening 1154b. In this embodiment subchamber 1156b is a blind hole formed by first part 1151 .

The second part 1152 is movable between a first position (as shown in Figure 11b) and a second position (as shown in Figure 11a). In this embodiment, the second component 1152 is manually movable by the user between first and second positions. In other embodiments, movement of the second component 1152 may be motorized and electronically controlled by a controller. In the first position, recess 1156a is visually exposed to the user. The first position can be considered an open position of the second part 1151, with the aerosol delivery device 1150 in an open state. A second position can be considered a closed position of the second part 1152, with the aerosol delivery device 1150 in a closed state. In the second position, the engagement between the first part 1151 and the second part 1152 is caused to cause the chamber (recess 1156a and sub- Entry of consumable 1100 into chamber 1156b) and exit of consumable 1100 from the chamber is blocked. That is, the closure of the first part 1151 and the second part 1152 compresses the removal facilitator 1130 of the consumable 1100 to hold the consumable 1100 in place. In some embodiments, the diameter of first opening 1154a may exceed the diameter of removal facilitator 1130 of consumable 1100, wherein consumable 1100 provides a friction fit between insert portion 1120 and subchamber 1156b. It may be held in place by retaining means that may be included. In the first position, first part 1151 allows entry of consumable 1100 into and exit of consumable 1100 from the chamber. Advantageously, the aerosol delivery system 1100S is compact when the aerosol delivery device 1150 is in the closed state and the consumable 1100 is in the chamber.

In this embodiment, removal facilitator 1130 of consumable 1100 is configured to abut end wall 1156c of subchamber 1156b. End wall 1156c thus defines a blocking portion. In other words, the removal facilitator 1130 for the consumable 1100 has a function similar to the function of the removal facilitator 430 for the consumable 400 shown in FIG. This means that the removal facilitator 1130 comprises a blocking portion to prevent the removal facilitator 1130 from being inserted into the aerosol generation zone 1160 .

Aerosol can be generated from the aerosol-generating material 1110 when the insert portion 1120 of the consumable 1100 is within the subchamber 1156b and the second component 1152 is in the second position (shown in FIG. 11a). , aerosol can be drawn from the consumable 1100 . Accordingly, a user can utilize mouthpiece 1153 to inhale the aerosol produced by aerosol delivery device 1150 when second component 1152 is in the second closed position. In the second position, access to subchamber 1156b is blocked by second component 1152, as recess 1156a communicating with subchamber 1156b is covered by second component 1152. FIG. That is, the second component 1152 covers, in a second position, the second opening 1154b to the subchamber 1156b through which the insert portion 1120 of the consumable 1100 can be inserted. , consists of In this embodiment, the user cannot utilize the mouthpiece 1153 when the first part 1151 is in the second position. Aerosol delivery device 1150 may comprise a detector for detecting the second position of second component 1152 . Second part 1152 may be of any shape suitable to cover recess 1156a when in the second position.

A subchamber 1156b is formed in the first part 1151 of the aerosol delivery device 1100 . In this embodiment, subchamber 1156b is configured such that consumable 1100 is free to contact the walls of subchamber 1156b without abutment to lock consumable 1100 in place. be. This is because the closure of first part 1151 and second part 1152 locks consumable 1100 in place. In this embodiment, only one hinge 1181 is biased toward the closed state to push the first part 1151 and the second part 1152 together to retain the consumable 1100 . In other embodiments, both hinges 1181, 1182 may be biased toward the closed state. In other embodiments, latches (not shown) can be used to hold first part 1151 and second part 1152 together to hold consumable 1100 .

In other embodiments, aerosol delivery device 1150 may comprise a retaining member to retain consumable 1100 in place within the chamber (recess 1156a and subchamber 1156b). The retaining member can help prevent unintentional movement of the consumable 1100 relative to the chamber. One example of a retaining member is a protrusion on second part 1152 that is engageable with a groove on consumable 1100 . The cooperation of the protrusions and grooves can increase the force required to remove the consumable 1100 from the chamber. This can help prevent unintentional movement of consumable 1100 . In some embodiments, a retaining member may be provided on the consumable 1100 when the second part 1152 is provided with grooves. Retaining members may also take the form of magnetic attachments or alternative mechanical fastening means such as threads and threaded barrels.

Consumable 1100 is fully insertable into aerosol delivery device 1150 . That is, consumable 1100 is hidden from the user by aerosol delivery device 1150 when consumable 1100 is in aerosol delivery device 1150 and aerosol is generated from aerosol-generating material 1110 by aerosol delivery device 1150 .

Referring to FIG. 12, an aerosol delivery system 1200S comprising an aerosol delivery device 1250 and a consumable 1200 is shown according to one embodiment of the invention. Similar features of aerosol delivery device 1250, consumable 1200, and aerosol delivery system 1200S have the same reference numerals as features of the preceding figures, but their reference numerals have been increased by multiples of 100. FIG. Common characteristics are not discussed again. The following discussion of aerosol delivery device 1250, consumable 1200, and aerosol delivery system 1200S is limited to differences.

Consumable 1200 includes removal facilitators 1230 extending from outer surface 1240 of consumable 1200 at each longitudinal end (in length direction Y) of consumable 1200 . Each removal facilitator 1230 is optional as the aerosol delivery device 1250 comprises a mechanism 1270 for moving the consumable 1200 through the aerosol delivery device 1250 . Removal facilitator 1230 corresponds to removal facilitator 500, 800, 900 discussed in connection with FIGS. 5, 8, and 9, respectively.

Consumables 200, 300, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900 are all compatible with aerosol delivery device 1250, so any of them can replace consumable 1200 in the discussion below.

The aerosol-delivery device 1250 comprises an aerosol-generating zone 1260 and an aerosol-generating device 1262 for generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating material 1210 when the aerosol-generating material 1210 is within the aerosol-generating zone 1260 . Aerosol delivery device 1250 comprises first opening 1254 at first end 1258 of aerosol delivery device 1250 . First opening 1254 is an opening through which consumable 1200 can enter chamber 1256 of aerosol generation zone 1260 and thus pass through aerosol generation zone 1260 . Aerosol delivery device 1250 comprises second opening 1257 at second end 1259 of aerosol delivery device 1250 . Second opening 1257 is an opening through which consumable 1200 can exit aerosol generation zone 1260 .

The aerosol delivery device 1250 includes a mechanism 1270 for moving the consumable 1200 through the chamber 1256 of the aerosol delivery device 1250 when the consumable 1200 is passed through the first opening 1254 by the user. Accordingly, at least a portion of consumable 1200 can be pushed out of second opening 1257 and removed from aerosol delivery device 1250 by a user.

In this embodiment, the first opening 1254 and the second opening 1257 are located at opposite ends of the aerosol delivery device 1250 in the longitudinal direction Y. In this embodiment, first end 1258 is the mouth end of aerosol delivery device 1250 .

In this embodiment, mechanism 1270 is configured to move consumable 1200 through aerosol delivery device 1250 in a unidirectional fashion. In other embodiments, mechanism 1270 may be configured to move consumable 1200 through aerosol delivery device 1250 in a first direction and return consumable 1200 in a second direction. In some embodiments, the second direction is the opposite direction of the first direction. In other embodiments, the second direction can be perpendicular to the first direction. In other embodiments, the second direction can be oblique to the first direction.

In this embodiment, mechanism 1270 comprises four rollers 1271 , 1272 , 1273 , 1274 that can be rotated to move consumable 1200 through aerosol delivery device 1250 . The four rollers 1271, 1272, 1273, 1274 are called a set of rollers. In other embodiments, only one or multiple rollers may be provided to move consumable 1200 through aerosol delivery device 1250 . In this embodiment, four rollers 1271 , 1272 , 1273 , 1274 are configured to exert a gripping force on consumable 1200 . This allows the position of the consumable 1200 to be precisely controllable. In this embodiment the four rollers 1271 , 1272 , 1273 , 1274 are cylindrical with a longitudinal axis of rotation 1275 . In other embodiments, the or each roller may be spherical, such as a ball. In this embodiment, longitudinal axis of rotation 1275 is provided in depth direction Z, which is relative to longitudinal axis A of consumable 1200 when inserted and longitudinal axis C of aerosol generation zone 1260. Vertical. In other embodiments, a belt can be used to carry the consumable 1200 through the aerosol delivery device 1250. FIG. Accordingly, a conveyor (eg, rollers, balls, belts) can be used to move consumables 1200 through aerosol delivery device 1250 .

In this embodiment, the set of rollers are configured to directly engage the outer surface 1240 of the consumable 1200 . However, only two rollers 1271, 1274 of the set of rollers are configured to be biased toward the chamber through which the consumable 1200 passes. A first bias 1271a and a second bias 1274a are configured to press the first roller 1271 and the second roller 1274 in the width direction X, respectively. In other embodiments, only one roller may be urged toward the chamber through which consumable 1200 passes. In other embodiments, all rollers may be biased toward the chamber through which consumable 1200 passes.

One pair of rollers 1271, 1273 is separated from the other pair of rollers 1272, 1274 in the width direction X. The axis of rotation 1275 of each of the four rollers 1271 , 1272 , 1273 , 1274 is spaced apart from the longitudinal axis C of the aerosol generation zone 1260 in the radial direction (width direction X). However, two of the four rollers 1271, 1274 are movable such that the rotational axis 1275 of each of the two rollers 1271, 1274 is movable toward and away from the longitudinal axis C. , is biased toward the longitudinal axis C of the aerosol generation zone 1260 .

In this embodiment, the first group of rollers 1271, 1272 and the second group of rollers 1273, 1274 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction Y from each other. Two rollers 1271, 1272 in the first group of rollers are positioned closer to the first opening 1254 of the aerosol delivery device 1250 than two other rollers 1273, 1274 in the second group of rollers. there is

In this embodiment, aerosol delivery device 1250 comprises controller 1264 and motor 1266 . Controller 1264 is configured to output a signal. Based on motor 1266 receiving the signal, motor 1266 drives mechanism 1270 to move consumable 1200 between first opening 1254 and second opening 1257 . In this embodiment, mechanism 1270 is configured to move consumable 1200 between first opening 1254 and second opening 10257 in a continuous manner. In other embodiments, movement may be in discrete steps.

In this embodiment, controller 1264 is configured to automatically expel consumable 1200 once at least a portion of aerosol-generating material 1210 of consumable 1200 passes through aerosol-generating zone 1260 . In some embodiments, a detector may be provided to obtain feedback of the position of consumable 1200 within chamber 1256 . In this embodiment, no detector is used. Accordingly, controller 1264 controls mechanism 1270 to move consumable 1200 through aerosol generation zone 1260 . Controller 1264 thus ensures that consumable 1200 is carefully drawn through aerosol delivery device 1250 to control the position of consumable 1200 relative to aerosol generation zone 1260 . Advantageously, this allows the aerosol generation zone 1260 to be smaller and/or require less power. Additionally, aerosol generation is better controlled.

In this embodiment, the aerosol delivery device 1200 also includes a knob 1277 that can be rotated about the housing of the aerosol delivery device 1200 to manually move the consumable 1200 through the aerosol generation zone 1260. Knob 1277 thus provides a manually operable mechanism 1270 that can be used, for example, when power runs out. In some embodiments, knob 1277 is omitted from aerosol delivery device 1200 . In some embodiments, motor 1266 is excluded from aerosol delivery device 1200 .

Referring to Figure 13a, an aerosol delivery system 1300S comprising an aerosol delivery device 1350 and a consumable 1300 is shown according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 13b shows an aerosol delivery device 1350 without the consumable 1300. FIG. Similar features of aerosol delivery system 1300S, aerosol delivery device 1350, and consumable 1300 have the same reference numbers as features of FIG. 12, but their reference numbers have been increased by one hundred. Common characteristics are not discussed again. The following discussion is limited to differences.

The aerosol delivery system 1300S includes a mechanism 1370 for moving the consumable 1300 through the chamber 1356 of the aerosol delivery device 1350 when the consumable 1300 is passed through the first opening 1354 by a user of the aerosol delivery device 1350. Prepare. This results in extrusion of at least a portion of consumable 1300 from second opening 1357 of aerosol delivery device 1350 . A user can remove consumable 1300 from aerosol delivery device 1350 once that portion is pushed out of second opening 1357 .

Aerosol delivery device 1350 includes a sliding component 1377 configured to engage outer surface 1340 of consumable 1300 to move consumable 1300 through aerosol delivery device 1350 . Mechanism 1370 is configured to move consumable 1300 in a unidirectional manner. Movement of consumable 1300 is along longitudinal direction Y of aerosol delivery device 1350 .

Mechanism 1370 further comprises handle 1377 . Handle 1377 is for user engagement to drive mechanism 1370 . That is, mechanism 1370 is manually operable. Handle 1377 is slidable relative to first opening 1354 along slot 1378 of aerosol delivery device 1350 . In other embodiments, handle 1377 may be rotatable relative to first opening 1354 . Mechanism 1370 is configured to move consumable 1300 at discrete intervals. That is, mechanism 1370 can be positioned between a number of predetermined positions to move consumable 1300 between a number of predetermined positions.

FIG. 14 shows a diagram of a method 1400 of operating an aerosol delivery system 1200S according to one embodiment of the invention. Method 1400 includes inserting 1410 consumable 1200 through first opening 1254 . Method 1400 pushes consumable 1200 toward second opening 1257 by a mechanism of aerosol delivery device 1250 for ejection of consumable 1200 from second opening 1257 and removal from aerosol delivery device 1250 by a user. A step 1420 of moving through the aerosol delivery device 1250 is included. In this embodiment, moving 1420 includes conveying 1421 consumable 1200 by rotation of a plurality of rollers 1271 , 1272 , 1273 , 1274 . Method 1400 includes extruding 1430 consumable 1200 once at least a portion of aerosol-generating material 1210 of consumable 1200 has passed through aerosol-generating zone 1260 .

In some embodiments, moving 1420 and/or pushing 1430 may be performed electronically or electromechanically by a controller.

Embodiments of the present invention include consumables 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1100, 1200, 1300, aerosol delivery devices 150, 1150, 1250, 1350, and aerosol generating materials. An aerosol delivery system 100S, 1100S, 1200S, 1300S comprising a consumable 100, 1100, 1200, 1300 including a method 1000 of removing the consumable from the aerosol delivery device, and a method 1400 of operating the aerosol delivery system. Consumables 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 1100, 1200, 1300 are for use in generating an aerosol with an aerosol delivery device 150, 1150, 1250, 1350. be. Advantageously, the consumables and aerosol delivery devices described herein allow for improved removal of consumables from the aerosol delivery device.

For the avoidance of doubt, when the term "comprises" is used herein in defining the invention or features of the invention, "essentially" instead of "comprises" Embodiments are also disclosed in which the invention or feature may be defined using the terms consist essentially of or consist of. A reference to a material that "comprising" some features means that those features are included in, contained in, or retained within the material.

The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples of the invention. Any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone or in combination with other features described, as well as any other of the embodiments. It should be understood that they may be used in any combination with one or more features of the embodiments or any other of the embodiments. In addition, equivalents and modifications not described above may be used without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided merely as representative examples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. The advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects described herein may be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or equivalents of the claims. and that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. be. The various embodiments of the invention suitably comprise any suitable combination of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc. other than those specifically described herein; It may consist of such a combination or consist essentially of such a combination. In addition, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

Claims (31)

A consumable configured to be fully inserted into an aerosol delivery device, comprising:
an aerosol-generating material for use in generating an aerosol with an aerosol delivery device;
an insertion portion configured for insertion into an aerosol generation zone of the aerosol delivery device;
extending away from or disposed on the surface of the insert to enhance user grasping of the consumable to assist removal of the insert from the aerosol generation zone; a removal facilitating means configured to:
with consumables. 2. The consumable of claim 1, elongated and having a longitudinal axis. 3. The consumable according to claim 2, wherein said removal facilitating means are symmetrical about said longitudinal axis. 3. The consumable according to claim 2, wherein said removal facilitating means is asymmetrical with respect to said longitudinal axis. 5. Any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein said removal facilitating means is arranged to extend in a longitudinal direction of said consumable, said longitudinal direction being parallel to the direction of said longitudinal axis. Consumables described in . 6. A consumable according to claim 4 or 5, wherein said removal facilitating means are arranged to extend in a radial direction of said consumable, said radial direction being perpendicular to the direction of said longitudinal axis. . A consumable product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said removal facilitating means is movable with respect to said insert portion. 8. Any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein said removal facilitating means is movable between said longitudinally aligned longitudinal position of said consumable and said radially aligned radial position of said consumable. or the consumables described in item 1. A consumable according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said insert portion comprises an outer surface with a relatively low coefficient of friction and said removal facilitating means comprises an outer surface with a relatively high coefficient of friction. 10. The consumable of claim 9, wherein said relatively high coefficient of friction of said outer surface is consistent along said removal facilitating means. A consumable product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said removal facilitating means is freely movable with respect to said insert portion. Consumable product according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the structure of the removal facilitating means is self-supporting. A consumable according to any preceding claim, wherein at least the insert portion is flat. 14. The consumable of Claim 13, wherein at least the insert portion is planar. A consumable according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least said insert is a disc. 16. A consumable according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a blocking portion configured to prevent said removal facilitating means from being inserted into said aerosol generation zone. 17. The consumable of Claim 16, wherein the blocking portion is provided by the largest dimension of the consumable. 18. The consumable of Claim 17, wherein the maximum dimension is the length of the consumable. 18. The consumable of Claim 17, wherein the maximum dimension is the width of the consumable. The removal facilitating means comprises a blocking portion configured to prevent insertion into the aerosol generation zone, the blocking portion being provided by a maximum dimension of the consumable, the maximum dimension being equal to the consumable. A consumable according to any one of claims 1 to 12, which is the diameter of the item. 21. A consumable according to claim 19 or 20, wherein said maximum dimension is provided by a step change in said width of said consumable. A consumable according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said removal facilitating means is or comprises an open cavity. A consumable according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said removal facilitating means comprises an adhesive area. A consumable according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said removal facilitating means occupy a substantially flat portion of said consumable. an aerosol-generating horn for receiving a consumable insert containing an aerosol-generating material;
an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating material when the insert of the consumable is within the aerosol-generating zone;
an aerosol delivery device comprising: a casing housing the aerosol generator and the aerosol generation zone,
the casing comprises a first part and a second part movable relative to each other between an open state and a closed state;
The aerosol-delivery device is configured such that when the consumable is fully inserted into the casing of the aerosol-delivery device and the insertion portion of the consumable is within the aerosol-generating zone, the means for facilitating removal of the consumable is the aerosol-generating zone. configured to remain outside the zone, so that the removal facilitating means are exposed to a user for grasping when the aerosol delivery device is in the open state and when the aerosol delivery device is in the closed state; An aerosol delivery device that is sometimes hidden from the user. 26. The aerosol delivery device of claim 25, comprising a chamber formed by said first part and said second part for enclosing said consumable in said closed state. The chamber comprises a sub-chamber extending only part of the length of the chamber, and a recess, the sub-chamber comprising the aerosol-generating zone, the recess placing the aerosol delivery device in the open state. 27. The aerosol delivery device of claim 26, which is exposed when the device is being held. 28. The aerosol delivery device of claim 27, wherein the subchamber ends are defined by blocking portions. 29. An aerosol delivery device according to claim 27 or 28, wherein said subchamber is a blind hole. An aerosol delivery system comprising a consumable according to any one of claims 1-24 and an aerosol delivery device according to any one of claims 25-29. A method of removing a consumable from an aerosol delivery device, comprising:
providing the aerosol delivery device and the consumable that is fully inserted into the aerosol delivery device such that the insert portion of the consumable is within the aerosol generation zone of the aerosol delivery device;
gripping the consumable removal facilitator extending away from or disposed on the surface of the insert portion to enhance grip;
and utilizing the removal facilitating means to remove the insert from the aerosol generation zone.

Images