KR20230159520A - Aerosol-generating device comprising a cover element having a cavity - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to an aerosol-generating device (1), comprising a housing (2) having an aperture (4) adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, movable relative to the housing (2) between a closed and an open position. comprising a cover element (3) adapted so that, in the closed position, the cover element (3) at least partially covers the aperture (4), and in the open position, the aperture (4) is not at least partially covered, and the cover element (3) is adapted to The element 3 forms a cover element cavity 10 , with a guide element 14 projecting from the housing 2 and the guide element 14 being received in the cover element cavity 10 . The invention additionally relates to a method for opening and closing the aperture (4) of the aerosol-generating device (1) and to an assembly method for the cover element (3) on the housing (2) of the aerosol-generating device (1).

Description

Aerosol-generating device comprising a cover element having a cavity

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising a cover element. The invention also relates to a method for opening and closing an aperture of an aerosol-generating device, and an assembly method for a cover element on a housing of an aerosol-generating device.

One type of aerosol-generating system is an electrically operated smoking system. Known compact electrically operated smoking systems typically include an aerosol-generating device comprising a battery, control electronics, and an electric heater for heating an aerosol-generating article specifically designed for use with the aerosol-generating device. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco rod or tobacco plug, and the heater housed within the aerosol-generating device is inserted into or forms an aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating article. It is located around the substrate. In an alternative electrically operated smoking system, the aerosol-generating article may comprise a capsule containing an aerosol-forming substrate, such as loose tobacco.

In known electrically operated smoking systems, an aerosol-generating article can be accommodated within a heater chamber of the aerosol-generating device. Some aerosol-generating devices may include a sliding cover element that a user can slide over the aperture of the heater chamber when the aerosol-generating device is not in use. However, when the aerosol generating device is not in use, cotton, dust or foreign objects can contaminate the heater chamber and damage the heater if the sliding cover is accidentally opened.

According to a first aspect of the invention, an aerosol-generating device is provided, the device comprising a housing having an aperture adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, a cover element adapted to move relative to the housing between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the cover element at least partially covers the aperture, and in the open position the aperture is at least partially uncovered. Preferably, the aperture is completely covered by the cover element in the closed position. Preferably, the aperture is not completely covered in the open position. The cover element defines a cover element cavity, and the guide element protrudes from the housing and is received within the cover element cavity. In particular, the guide element is partially arranged within the cover element cavity. The guide element preferably engages the inner surface of the cover element cavity. The cover element cavity is preferably open only on the side of the cover element facing the housing. The cover element may enable a small sliding mechanism to open and close the aperture. In particular, the guide elements are not visible to the consumer or are exposed to damage or contamination.

The cover element can be adjusted to move between a closed position and an open position along the first path. The first path may be transverse or may have at least components in the transverse direction of the aerosol-generating device. The first path may be linear or curved. The transverse direction may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the aerosol-generating device, or may have a perpendicular component. The longitudinal direction may be the main extension direction of the aerosol-generating device, i.e. the direction in which the aerosol-generating device has a maximum length. In the upright orientation of the aerosol generating device, the longitudinal direction may be a height direction and the transverse direction may be a horizontal direction. The horizontal direction may be perpendicular to the width direction of the aerosol generating device. The following arbitrary expressions regarding “top” and “bottom” refer to the longitudinal direction being the height direction.

The aerosol-generating article can be inserted longitudinally through the aperture of the aerosol-generating device, such that the aerosol-generating article is at least partially arranged in the heating chamber. When the aerosol-generating article abuts a stop element or end surface of the heating chamber, a mouth end portion of the aerosol-generating article may protrude longitudinally from the heating chamber.

The guide element can be adjusted to apply a downward holding force towards the housing on the cover element, at least when the cover element is in the closed position. This allows the cover element to be pulled towards the housing. Clearance tolerances between the cover element and the housing can be minimized. Intake of dust and other contamination between the cover element and the housing can be reduced or eliminated.

The cover element may include a sealing element, which contacts the housing and extends around the aperture when the cover element is arranged in the closed position. In particular, the sealing element may be provided within a sealing recess or on the lower surface of the cover element facing the housing. The upper surface of the housing in contact with the sealing element is preferably at least partially complementary to the lower surface of the cover element and is preferably substantially flat. The force applied on the cover element towards the housing by the guide element can improve sealing efficiency.

The guide element can be elastically biased in a direction towards the housing. Preferably, the elastic deflection is provided by an elastic element, which may be part of or engage the guide element. The guide element can be pulled downward by the elastic element in the longitudinal direction.

The guide element can be pulled downward by the elastic element in the longitudinal direction. Alternatively or additionally, the guide element may be pushed longitudinally downward in addition to or instead of being pulled. The elastic element can act downward on the guide element. The elastic element may be a spring plate. The elastic element may be arranged inside the cover element. The elastic element may be attached to the upper surface of the housing. The elastic element can engage the guide element from the top, from inside the cover element.

One of the cover element and the guide element includes a protrusion, and the other of the cover element and the guide element includes a recess, and when the cover element is in the closed position, the protrusion and the recess engage with each other. In particular, the guide element comprises a protrusion and the cover element comprises a first recess, wherein the protrusion and the first recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the closed position. The cover element remains in the closed position and the possibility of accidental opening can be reduced.

In particular, the release force required on the cover element along the first path to start sliding from the closed position is determined by the geometry of the projections and recesses and the downward holding force. Preferably, the release force from the closed position is at least twice, preferably at least five times the release force at an intermediate position between the open and closed positions. In particular, the release force in the intermediate position is determined by the static friction between the cover element and the housing.

When the cover element reaches the closed position, the protrusions and recesses engage so that the consumer feels a tactile response, in particular a click.

One of the cover element and the guide element includes a protrusion, and the other of the cover element and the guide element includes a recess, and when the cover element is in the open position, the protrusion and the recess engage with each other. In particular, the guide element includes a protrusion and the cover element includes a second recess, wherein the protrusion and the second recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the open position. The cover element remains in the open position and the possibility of accidental closure can be reduced. Preferably, the release force from the open position is at least twice, preferably at least five times the release force at an intermediate position between the open and closed positions.

One of the cover element and the guide element may include a protrusion, and the other of the cover element and the guide element may include a first recess and a second recess, and the protrusion and the second recess when the cover element is in the closed position. The first recess locks with each other, and the protrusion and the second recess lock with each other when the cover element is in the open position.

One of the cover element and the guide element may include a recess, and the other of the cover element and the guide element may include a first protrusion and a second protrusion, and the recess and the second protrusion when the cover element is in the closed position. The first protrusion locks with each other, and the recess and the second protrusion lock with each other when the cover element is in the open position.

When the cover element reaches the open position, the protrusions and recesses engage so that the consumer feels a tactile response, in particular a click.

In particular, the cover element may comprise two recesses at the same position along the first path and on opposite sides in the width direction. The guide element may comprise two protrusions at the same position along the first path and on opposite sides in the width direction.

The guide element can be adjusted to force the protrusion within the recess. In particular, the force by which the protrusion is pressed into the recess is a reaction against the downward holding force by which the guide element is pressed towards the housing. A triple function is thus provided: to secure the cover element tightly on the housing, to secure the cover element in the closed or open position and to provide tactile feedback when the cover reaches the closed or open position.

The guide element may include a leg, the leg extending from the interior of the housing to the exterior of the housing, and the elastic element may engage the leg inside the housing. The elastic element can be arranged completely inside the housing. This can reduce the likelihood of damage to the elastic elements and improves the appearance and cleanability of the device. In particular, the elastic elements press the legs towards the interior of the housing. In an alternative embodiment, the legs themselves may be elastic elements.

The elastic element may be a latch spring. In particular, the latch spring may be formed as a bent sheet metal part. Alternatively, the latch spring may be formed as a helical wire spring. This enables relatively high elastic forces, long durability and low space requirements for the elastic elements.

The elastic element can be arranged in a spring cavity of the housing, the spring cavity having an opening through which the leg extends. The spring cavity may be hermetically closed to the internal compartment of the housing. The internal compartment may contain control electronics, heaters or batteries. This can prevent any liquid or dust that enters the spring cavity through the opening (which could cause damage) from moving further inside the device towards the internal compartment.

The spring cavity may be formed integrally with the cap of the housing. To improve assembly, the spring cavity may be closed by a lower closure part, such as a bottom wall. The lower closure may be sealed against the side wall of the spring cavity with a sealing element. The sealing element may be a gasket. The sealing element may seal the spring cavity against an internal compartment of the device, which may in particular contain control electronic components. The opening of the spring cavity can correspond in its shape to the leg cross-section, thereby minimizing clearance.

The elastic element may include a head, the head being received within a cover element cavity of the cover element, the head having a width greater than the width of the legs. The head can be arranged such that its main extension is in the width direction perpendicular to the first path, in particular perpendicular to the transverse direction. At least one protrusion of the head can protrude above the leg in the width direction and can engage with the cover element. Protruding portions may be provided on both sides of the head in the width direction.

The cover element may include a guide slot in a surface adjacent the housing from which the legs of the guide element extend, where the head engages the inner surface of the cover element cavity next to the guide slot. In particular, the head engages the inner surface of the cover element cavity on both sides of the guide slot. The cross section of the head in the width direction can correspond to the required tolerance for the cross section of the cover element cavity in the width direction.

The cover element may include a bottom portion and a top cap, with a cover element cavity formed between the top cap and the bottom portion. The lower portion may be a flat lower plate. Preferably, a guide slot is provided at the lower end. The top cap may have a concave surface defining a cover element cavity. Assembling the cover element from at least two parts, a top cap and a bottom part, allows for an efficient assembly operation. The top cap may be fastened to the bottom part, in particular by adhesive, form-fit, especially snap-fit, or a combination thereof. Alternatively, the cover element may be just one part. In this case, the head is preferably inserted into the guide slot in a first orientation and then rotated to engage the interior of the cover element cavity.

The cover element may include at least one guide protrusion guided along a guide surface of the housing. In particular, two guide projections are arranged on opposite sides in the width direction of the cover element. In particular, two guide surfaces are provided within the housing and extend along a first path. Preferably, the guide surface is arranged on the upper side wall of the housing. The side wall may extend at least partially along the first path and, in particular, may protrude longitudinally in the region of the guide surface. The guide surface preferably extends along the first path and is curved or linear in a direction perpendicular to the first path.

In an alternative implementation, the cover element may comprise at least one guide protrusion guided within a guide recess of the housing. In particular, two guide projections are arranged on opposite sides in the width direction of the cover element. In particular, two guide recesses are provided in the housing and extend along the first path. Preferably, the guide surface is arranged within the upper side wall of the housing. The side wall may extend at least partially along the first path and, in particular, may protrude longitudinally in the region of the guide recess. The guide recess may be a guide slot in the side wall.

The guide protrusion may be rigid. In an alternative implementation, the guide protrusions may be elastic to compensate for tolerances, in particular to manage gap variations. The guide protrusion may be designed as a blade spring. A guide protrusion may be considered elastic if the most protruding end deviates more than the thickness of the guide protrusion when subjected to a downward holding force. Otherwise, the guide protrusion can be considered rigid. The most protruding end of the guide protrusion may deviate by more than two times, especially more than five times the thickness of the guide protrusion when subjected to a downward holding force.

According to a second aspect of the invention, in accordance with any of the embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device according to the first aspect of the invention. Aerosol-generating systems also include aerosol-generating articles comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. As used herein, the term “aerosol-generating article” refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate that, when heated, releases volatile compounds capable of forming an aerosol.

The aerosol-forming substrate may include a plug of a cigarette. Tobacco plugs may include one or more of powders, granules, pellets, shreds, spaghetti, strips, or sheets containing one or more of tobacco leaves, tobacco rib pieces, regenerated tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, and puffed tobacco. You can. Optionally, the tobacco plug may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds that are released upon heating of the tobacco plug. Optionally, the tobacco plug may also contain a capsule containing, for example, additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds. These capsules may melt while the tobacco plug is heated. Additionally or alternatively, these capsules may be ground before, during, or after the tobacco plug is heated.

When the tobacco plug includes homogenized tobacco material, the homogenized tobacco material may be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco. The homogenized tobacco material may be in sheet form. The homogenized tobacco material may have an aerosol former content exceeding 5% on a dry weight basis. The homogenized tobacco material may alternatively have an aerosol former content of 5% to 30% by weight on a dry weight basis. Sheets of homogenized tobacco material may be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco obtained by pulverizing or finely grinding one or both of the tobacco leaf blades and tobacco petioles; Alternatively, or additionally, the sheet of homogenized tobacco material may include one or more of tobacco dust, tobacco fines and other particulate tobacco by-products produced, for example, during processing, handling and shipping of tobacco. The sheet of homogenized tobacco material may include one or more intrinsic binders that are tobacco endogenous binders, one or more extrinsic binders that are tobacco extrinsic binders, or a combination thereof to help agglomerate the particulate tobacco. Alternatively, or additionally, sheets of homogenized tobacco material may be prepared from tobacco and non-tobacco fibers, aerosol formers, wetting agents, plasticizers, flavoring agents, fillers, aqueous and non-aqueous solvents, and combinations thereof. It may contain other additives including. A sheet of homogenized tobacco material is prepared by casting a slurry comprising particulate tobacco and one or more binders onto a conveyor belt or other support surface, drying the cast slurry to form a sheet of homogenized tobacco material, and homogenizing from the support surface. It is preferably formed by a casting process of a type that generally involves removing a sheet of tobacco material.

The aerosol-generating article can have a total length of approximately 30 mm to approximately 100 mm. The aerosol-generating article can have an outer diameter of approximately 5 mm to approximately 13 mm.

The aerosol-generating article may include a mouthpiece located downstream of the tobacco plug. The mouthpiece may be located at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece may be a cellulose acetate filter plug. Preferably, the mouthpiece is approximately 7 mm in length, but may have a length of approximately 5 mm to approximately 10 mm.

A cigarette plug can have a length of approximately 10 mm. A cigarette plug can have a length of approximately 12 mm.

The diameter of the tobacco plug can be approximately 5 mm to approximately 12 mm.

In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating article has a total length of about 40 mm to about 50 mm. Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has a total length of approximately 45 mm. Preferably, the aerosol-generating article has an outer diameter of approximately 7.2 mm.

According to a third aspect of the invention, a method is provided for opening and closing an aperture of an aerosol-generating device, wherein the aperture is adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, and the cover element is disposed along a first path, in particular at the aperture. It moves transversely to the aperture between an open position (the aperture is at least partially exposed) and a closed position (the cover element at least partially covers the aperture). The cover element moves relative to the guide element, which pulls the cover element towards the housing at least in the closed position. Accordingly, the tolerance gap between the cover element and the housing can be reduced, which can enable improved closure of the aperture. Preferably, the aperture is completely covered by the cover element in the closed position.

In particular, the cover element includes a sealing element, which contacts the housing and extends around the aperture when the cover element is arranged in the closed position.

In particular, one of the cover element and the guide element comprises a protrusion, and the other of the cover element and the guide element comprises a recess, and when the cover element is in the closed position, the protrusion and the recess engage with each other.

In particular, one of the cover element and the guide element comprises a protrusion, and the other of the cover element and the guide element comprises a recess, and when the cover element is in the open position, the protrusion and the recess engage with each other.

When the cover element moves along the first path between the open and closed positions, the guide element can elastically move in a direction different from the first path. Accordingly, by increasing the elastic potential energy of the elastic element, the reaction against movement along the first path can be varied along the movement of the cover element relative to the guide element. Accordingly, a tactile response at a specific position can be provided, especially in an open and/or closed position. Additionally, the cover element can be maintained in the open and/or closed position against unwanted movement.

The guide element may pull the cover element towards the housing throughout its movement between the open and closed positions. Accordingly, the gap between the cover element and the housing can be kept to a minimum throughout the movement and movement of the cover element outside the first path can be reduced to allow precise guidance of the cover element.

The pulling force of the guide element can press the at least one guide protrusion of the cover element against the wall of the guide recess in the housing. Guide protrusions may be provided on the side of the cover element. In particular, the guide recess is arranged on the protruding side wall of the housing. Preferably, the guide recesses can be arranged on both sides of the cover element. The guide recess extends in particular along the first path.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided the use of a guide element for elastically forcing a cover element towards the housing of an aerosol-generating device, while the cover element moves relative to the guide element and has improved sealing properties. Close the aperture of the housing.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, an assembly method is provided for a cover element on a housing of an aerosol-generating device, in particular according to a first aspect of the invention, wherein the lower end of the cover element is connected to an upper side of the housing of the aerosol-generating device. The legs of the guide elements are then inserted into the openings of the spring cavities in the housing through the guide slots in the lower part, such that the elastic elements arranged in the spring cavities engage the notches of the legs. Accordingly, the legs are secured by form fitting of the spring cavities. Since the head of the guide element can be engaged with the upper side of the lower part, the lower part is slidably mounted on the upper side of the housing. The elastic element can pull the lower end towards the housing.

Subsequently, the top cap can be arranged on the lower part so that a cover element cavity is formed, where the head of the guide element is arranged within the cover element cavity. Thus, the guide element is no longer visible and is protected.

Before the leg is inserted into the spring cavity, the elastic element can be positioned within the spring cavity and the spring cavity can subsequently be closed with a closure. The closure may be a lower closure, especially a bottom wall. A sealing element, such as a gasket, may be arranged between the side wall and the lower closure of the spring cavity. The closure may be arranged on an opposite side of the spring cavity than the opening.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising an aperture, the aperture adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, the cover element having, in a first direction relative to the aperture, an open position ( is adjusted to move between a closed position (the aperture is at least partially exposed) and a closed position (the cover element at least partially covers the aperture), the cover element is adjusted to move relative to the guide element, and the guide element is at least closed. It is adjusted to pull the cover element towards the housing in position.

The device according to the first or sixth aspect of the invention can be used according to the method of the third aspect of the invention. The method according to the third aspect of the present invention may, in any of its embodiments, be performed using an apparatus according to the method of the first or sixth aspect of the present invention. The use of the guide element according to the fourth aspect of the invention can be carried out using a device according to the first or sixth aspect of the invention and using method steps from the method according to the third aspect of the invention. there is. The assembly method according to the fifth aspect can be used to assemble the device according to the first or sixth aspect of the present invention.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below.

Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of other examples, implementations, or aspects described herein.

Example Ex1: An aerosol-generating device, comprising a housing having an aperture adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, a cover element adapted to move relative to the housing between a closed position and an open position, wherein the closed position wherein the cover element at least partially covers the aperture, and in the open position the aperture is at least partially uncovered, the cover element defines a cover element cavity, and the guide element protrudes from the housing, The device wherein the guide element is received in the cover element cavity.

Embodiment Ex2: The aerosol-generating device according to Embodiment Ex1, wherein the cover element is adjustable to move between a closed position and an open position along a first path, the first path being in the transverse direction of the aerosol-generating article.

Embodiment Ex3: The aerosol-generating device according to embodiments Ex1 or Ex2, wherein the guide element is adapted to apply a downward holding force towards the housing on the cover element, at least when the cover element is in the closed position.

Embodiment Ex4: The method according to any one of embodiments Ex1 to Ex3, wherein the cover element comprises a sealing element, the sealing element contacting the housing and surrounding the aperture when the cover element is arranged in the closed position. An aerosol-generating device extending to an aerosol-generating device.

Example Ex5: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of examples Ex1 to Ex4, wherein the guide element is elastically deflected in a direction towards the housing.

Embodiment Ex6: The method of any one of embodiments Ex1 to Ex5, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element comprises a protrusion, the other of the cover element and the guide element comprises a recess, and the cover element An aerosol-generating device, wherein when in the closed position, the protrusion and the recess engage with each other.

Embodiment Ex7: The method of any one of embodiments Ex1 to Ex6, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element comprises a protrusion, the other of the cover element and the guide element comprises a recess, and the cover element An aerosol-generating device, wherein when in an open position, the protrusion and the recess engage with each other.

Embodiment Ex8: The method according to any one of embodiments Ex1 to Ex5, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element includes a protrusion, and the other of the cover element and the guide element includes a first recess and a second recess. wherein the protrusion and the first recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the closed position, and the protrusion and the second recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the closed position. Device.

Example Ex9: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of examples Ex6 to Ex8, wherein the guide element is adjusted to force the protrusion within the recess.

Embodiment Ex10: The method of any one of embodiments Ex1 to Ex9, wherein the guide element includes a leg, the leg extending from the interior of the housing to the exterior of the housing, and the elastic element engaging the leg inside the housing. An aerosol generating device.

Example Ex11: The aerosol-generating device of Example Ex11, wherein the elastic element is a latch spring.

Embodiment Ex12: The method of embodiment Ex10 or Ex11, wherein the elastic element is arranged in a spring cavity of the housing, the spring cavity has an opening, the leg extends through the opening of the spring cavity, and the spring cavity An aerosol-generating device hermetically closed to an internal compartment of the housing.

Example Ex13: The aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex12, wherein the guide element comprises a head, the head being received within the cover element cavity, and the head having a width greater than the width of the legs.

Embodiment Ex14: Embodiment Ex13, wherein the cover element includes a guide slot on a surface adjacent the housing from which the legs of the guide element extend, and the head has an inner surface of the cover element cavity next to the guide slot and Fastening, aerosol generating device.

Example Ex15: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of examples Ex1 to Ex14, wherein the cover element includes a lower end and a top cap, and the cover element cavity is formed between the upper cap and the lower end.

Embodiment Ex16: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of embodiments Ex1 to Ex14, wherein the cover element comprises at least one guide protrusion guided within a guide recess of the housing.

Example Ex17: An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex14, wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-forming substrate.

Example Ex18: A method for opening and closing an aperture of an aerosol-generating device, wherein the aperture is adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, the cover element having an open position (the aperture is at least partially exposed) and a closed position (the aperture is at least partially exposed). a cover element at least partially covers the aperture), the cover element moves relative to a guide element, the guide element pulling the cover element towards the housing at least in the closed position.

Embodiment Ex19: The method of embodiment Ex18, wherein the cover element defines a cover element cavity, and the guide element is received within the cover element cavity.

Embodiment Ex20: Method according to exemplary Ex18 or Ex19, wherein the cover element comprises a sealing element, the sealing element being in contact with the housing and around the aperture when the cover element is arranged in the closed position. Extended method.

Embodiment Ex21: The method of any one of embodiments Ex18 to Ex20, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element comprises a protrusion, the other of the cover element and the guide element comprises a recess, and the cover element When in the closed position, the protrusion and the recess engage with each other.

Embodiment Ex22: The method of any one of embodiments Ex18 to Ex20, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element comprises a protrusion, the other of the cover element and the guide element comprises a recess, and the cover element When in the open position, the protrusion and the recess engage each other.

Embodiment Ex23: The method of any one of embodiments Ex18 to Ex20, wherein the cover element moves along a first path, and wherein the cover element moves along the first path between the open position and the closed position, wherein the guide element moves elastically in a direction different from the first path.

Embodiment Ex24: The method according to any one of embodiments Ex18 to Ex23, wherein the guide element pulls the cover element towards the housing throughout the movement between the open and closed positions.

Embodiment Ex25: The method according to any one of embodiments Ex18 to Ex24, wherein the pulling force of the guide element presses at least one guide protrusion of the cover element against the wall of a guide recess in the housing.

Example Ex26: The use of a guide element to elastically force a cover element towards a housing of an aerosol-generating device, wherein the cover element moves relative to the guide element to open an aperture of the housing with improved sealing properties. Closed, used.

Example Ex27: Assembly method for a cover element on a housing of an aerosol-generating device according in particular to any one of examples Ex1 to Ex17 or Ex30, comprising:

- arranging the lower end of the cover element on the upper side of the housing of the aerosol-generating device, and

- Inserting a leg of a guide element through a guide slot in the lower end into an opening of a spring cavity in the housing, such that an elastic element arranged in the spring cavity engages a notch in the leg.

Embodiment Ex28: The assembly method according to embodiment Ex27, further comprising the step of arranging a top cap on the lower end to form a cover element cavity, wherein the head of the guide element is arranged within the cover element cavity.

Embodiment Ex29: The method of embodiment Ex27 or Ex28, further comprising the step of positioning the elastic element within the spring cavity and closing the spring cavity with a closure.

Example Ex30: An aerosol-generating device comprising an aperture, wherein the aperture is adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article, and the cover element is in an open position, in a first direction relative to the aperture, wherein the aperture is at least partially exposed. ) and a closed position (the cover element at least partially covers the aperture), the cover element being adjusted to move relative to the guide element, the guide element being positioned at least in the closed position to move the housing A device adapted to pull the cover element towards.

Now, the embodiment will be further described with reference to the drawings.
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 2 shows a cross section through the cover element.
Figure 3 shows a partial perspective view of the aerosol-generating device without the top cap of the cover element.
Figure 4 shows a partial perspective view of the aerosol-generating device without cover and guide elements.
Figure 5 shows a partial perspective view of the lower part of the cover element, guide element and elastic element.
Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the guide element.
Figure 7 shows a partial cross-sectional perspective view of an aerosol-generating device.

The aerosol generating device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown in vertical orientation in Figure 1. The aerosol-generating device (1) comprises a housing (2) and a cover element (3) slidably arranged on the housing (2) along a first path in the transverse direction (100). The housing 2 mainly extends in the height direction 200 and has a relatively smallest extension in the width direction 300.

In the closed position, the cover element 3 covers the aperture 4 of the heating chamber 5, as shown in Figure 4. In the open position, the cover element (3) allows a rod-shaped aerosol-generating article to be inserted through the aperture (4) in the heating chamber (5). The mouth end of the aerosol-generating article typically protrudes above the aperture 4, and when the aerosol-generating article is heated within the heating chamber 5, the aerosol-generating article can be consumed substantially like a cigarette.

The housing 2 comprises an upper surface 6 on which the cover element 3 can be slidably moved. Additionally, the housing 2 includes an edge portion 7 surrounding the upper surface 6 . The edge portion 7 protrudes longitudinally 200 above the upper surface 6 forming the side wall at the top of the housing 2 . In the closed position, the cover element 3 is arranged adjacent to the edge portion 7 on one side in the transverse direction 100 . In the open position, the cover element 3 is arranged on the edge portion 7 on opposite sides in the transverse direction 100 .

In Figure 2, a cross section through the cover element 3 is shown. The cover element 3 comprises a top cap 8 , which is arranged on and connected to the lower part 9 . The top cap (8) is fixed to the bottom part (9). Between the lower part 9 and the upper cap 8, a cover element cavity 10 is provided. The guide slot 11 extends from the lower end 9 in the horizontal direction 100. A first recess 12 and a second recess 13 are provided adjacent to opposite ends of the guide slot 11 . In particular, aligned pairs of first recesses 12 and aligned pairs of second recesses 13 are provided on both sides of the guide slot 11 .

As shown in Figure 3, the guide element 14 is arranged on the housing 2. In particular, the guide element 14 is elastically movable in the height direction 200. As shown in Figure 5, the guide element 14 is pulled in the downward longitudinal direction 200 by an elastic element 15 in the form of a latch spring, so that the guide element 14 moves towards the housing 2 and the cover element 3. Pull. In particular, the guide element 14 is partially arranged within the spring cavity 16 of the housing 2 . The elastic element 15 is completely arranged within the spring cavity 16 .

The guide element 14 comprises a head 17 , which is arranged in the cover element cavity 10 of the cover element 3 . The guiding element 14 further comprises a leg 18 , which is arranged at least partially within the spring cavity 16 . Notches 19 are formed in the legs 18. The elastic element 15 engages the notch 19 to apply an elastic force in the downward longitudinal direction 200, pulling the guide element 14 towards the inside of the spring cavity 16.

As shown in Figure 6, a protrusion 20 is provided on the lower side of the head 17 of the guide member 14. The protrusion 20 engages the first recess 12 in the cover element 3 when the cover element 3 is in the closed position as shown in FIG. 3 . When the cover element 3 is in the open position, the protrusion 20 of the guide element 14 engages the second recess 13 . During the sliding movement between the closed and open positions, the protrusion 20 slides along the sliding surface 21 and extends parallel to the guide slot 11 on the lower end 9 of the cover element 3 . Engaging the protrusion 20 in the recess 12 or 13 provides a tactile response in the form of a click, confirming to the consumer that the cover element 3 has reached the open or closed position.

The cover element 3 may include a guide protrusion 22 on each side in the width direction 300 . The guide projection 22 engages the curved surface 23 of the edge portion 7 .

As shown in Figure 7, the spring cavity 16 in which the elastic elements 15 are arranged is closed on the lower side by a closure 24 in the form of a bottom wall. In particular, a gasket or glue is provided around the closure 24 so that the spring cavity 16 is sealed against the housing compartment containing the control electronics.

According to one embodiment of the method according to the invention, the cover element 3 moves along a first path in the transverse direction 100 from the closed position, as shown in FIG. 1 , with the head 17 of the guide element 14 ) of the protrusion 20 is engaged with the first concave portion 12. The guide element 14 remains stationary while the cover element 3 moves, allowing the protrusion 20 to separate from the first recess 12 . The cover element 3 is then moved so that the sliding surface 21 of the lower part 9 slides along the protrusion 20 of the head 17 of the guide element 14 . When the cover element 3 reaches the open position, the protrusion 20 engages the second recess 13, so that the consumer feels a tactile response. In this position, the aperture 4 is fully exposed and the consumer can insert a rod-shaped aerosol-generating article into the heating chamber 5.

In an embodiment of the assembly method according to the invention, initially, an elastic element 15 in the form of a latch spring is inserted into the spring cavity 16 from below. The spring cavity is then closed by a lower closure 24 in the form of the bottom wall of the spring cavity 16. Then, in the condition shown in FIG. 4 , the lower end 9 of the cover element 3 is positioned on the upper surface 6 of the housing 2 . The guide element 14 is inserted with the leg 18 through the guide slot 11 and the latch spring 15 is pressed into the spring cavity 16 which engages the notch 19 of the guide element 14. . The latch spring 15 pulls the guide element 14 downward so that the head 17 of the guide element 14 rests on the sliding surface 21 or on one of the pair of recesses 12, 13 with its protrusion ( 20) and is pressurized together. Accordingly, by a simple linear insertion movement, the guide member 14 is fixed to the latch spring 15, and the guide member 14 keeps the upper surface 6 and the lower part 9 of the housing 2 in close contact. do. The top cap 8 is then preferably fixed to the bottom 9 by means of a snap-in element. Accordingly, assembly of the cover element 3 is completed.

For the purposes of this description and the appended claims, except where otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, quantities, percentages, etc. are to be understood in all instances as being modified by the term “about.” Additionally, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include therein any intermediate ranges that may or may not be specifically recited herein. Therefore, in this context, the number A is understood as 10% of A ± A. In this context, number A may be considered to include a numerical value that is within the common standard error of measurement for the characteristic that number A modifies. In some cases, as used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate by the percentages listed above, provided that the amount by which A deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel feature(s) of the claimed invention. Additionally, all ranges include the maximum and minimum points disclosed and include therein any intermediate ranges that may or may not be specifically recited herein.

Claims (15)

An aerosol generating device, comprising:
a housing having an aperture adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article;
a cover element adapted to move relative to the housing between a closed position and an open position,
In the closed position, the cover element at least partially covers the aperture,
In the open position, the aperture is at least partially exposed,
the cover element forming a cover element cavity,
A guide element protrudes from the housing,
The device wherein the guide element is received within the cover element cavity. 2. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 1, wherein the guide element is adapted to apply a downward holding force towards the housing on the cover element, at least when the cover element is in the closed position. 3. The cover according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one of the cover element and the guide element comprises a protrusion and the other of the cover element and the guide element comprises a first recess and a second recess. An aerosol-generating device, wherein the protrusion and the first recess engage with each other when the element is in the closed position, and the protrusion and the second recess engage with each other when the cover element is in the open position. 4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the guide element comprises a leg, the leg extending from the inside of the housing to the outside of the housing, and the elastic element engaging the leg inside the housing. , aerosol generating device. 5. The method of claim 4, wherein the elastic element is arranged in a spring cavity of the housing, the spring cavity has an opening, the leg extends through the opening of the spring cavity, and the spring cavity is located in an internal compartment of the housing. An aerosol-generating device that is hermetically closed against. 6. An aerosol-generating device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the guide element comprises a head, the head being received within the cover element cavity, the head having a width greater than the width of the legs. 7. The cover element according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the cover element comprises a guide slot in a surface adjacent the housing from which the legs of the guide element extend, and the head is positioned in the cover element cavity next to the guide slot. An aerosol-generating device engaged with the inner surface of an aerosol-generating device. 8. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cover element comprises a bottom part and a top cap, and the cover element cavity is formed between the top cap and the bottom part. 9. An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the cover element comprises at least one guide protrusion guided within a guide recess in the housing. An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
The system of claim 1, wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-forming substrate. A method for closing the aperture of an aerosol-generating device, comprising:
the aperture is adapted to receive an aerosol-generating article,
the cover element moves between an open position (the aperture is at least partially exposed) and a closed position (the cover element at least partially covers the aperture),
The cover element moves relative to the guide element,
wherein the guide element pulls the cover element towards the housing at least in the closed position. 12. The method of claim 11, wherein the cover element moves along a first path, and when the cover element moves along the first path between the open position and the closed position, the guide element moves along the first path and Method for moving elastically in different directions. 10. An assembly method for a cover element on a housing of an aerosol-generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising:
- arranging the lower end of the cover element on the upper side of the housing of the aerosol-generating device, and
- Inserting a leg of a guide element through a guide slot in the lower end into an opening of a spring cavity in the housing, such that an elastic element arranged in the spring cavity engages a notch in the leg. According to clause 13,
- An assembly method further comprising the step of arranging a top cap on the lower end so that a cover element cavity is formed, wherein the head of the guide element is arranged within the cover element cavity. According to claim 13 or 14,
- A method of assembly, further comprising the step of positioning the elastic element within the spring cavity and closing the spring cavity with a closure.