US20230380496A1 - Aerosol provision system - Google Patents
Aerosol provision system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20230380496A1 US20230380496A1 US18/249,598 US202118249598A US2023380496A1 US 20230380496 A1 US20230380496 A1 US 20230380496A1 US 202118249598 A US202118249598 A US 202118249598A US 2023380496 A1 US2023380496 A1 US 2023380496A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- removable member
- aerosol provision
- provision device
- aerosol
- outer face
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 239000000443 aerosol Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 212
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 25
- 239000000696 magnetic material Substances 0.000 claims description 18
- 229910000639 Spring steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000007788 liquid Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 4
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- 239000010410 layer Substances 0.000 description 45
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 9
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 7
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 7
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 7
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- 241000208125 Nicotiana Species 0.000 description 4
- 235000002637 Nicotiana tabacum Nutrition 0.000 description 4
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- 239000013543 active substance Substances 0.000 description 2
- 150000001875 compounds Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 239000002537 cosmetic Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000796 flavoring agent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 235000019634 flavors Nutrition 0.000 description 2
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- 238000002955 isolation Methods 0.000 description 2
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- 229920000642 polymer Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 229920001155 polypropylene Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 239000012858 resilient material Substances 0.000 description 2
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- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- SNICXCGAKADSCV-JTQLQIEISA-N (-)-Nicotine Chemical compound CN1CCC[C@H]1C1=CC=CN=C1 SNICXCGAKADSCV-JTQLQIEISA-N 0.000 description 1
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- 229960002715 nicotine Drugs 0.000 description 1
- SNICXCGAKADSCV-UHFFFAOYSA-N nicotine Natural products CN1CCCC1C1=CC=CN=C1 SNICXCGAKADSCV-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
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Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/20—Devices using solid inhalable precursors
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/60—Devices with integrated user interfaces
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
- A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
- A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
- A24F40/70—Manufacture
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates to an aerosol provision system, an aerosol provision device, a removable member for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device to customize the aerosol provision device, and a kit.
- Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like burn tobacco during use to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products are heating devices which release compounds by heating, but not burning, the material.
- the material may be for example tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.
- an aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device comprising an outer face, wherein the outer face comprises a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion, wherein the aerosol provision device comprises a connecting portion that connects the first portion to the second portion and defines an undercut in a direction non-parallel to the first direction; and a removable member configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face, wherein the removable member comprises at least one attachment element configured to be removably receivable at least partially within the undercut to restrict movement of the removable member in a direction opposite to the first direction when the removable member is attached to the aerosol provision device.
- an aerosol provision device comprising: an outer face, wherein the outer face comprises a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion; and a connecting portion that connects the first portion to the second portion and defines an undercut in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.
- the undercut extends substantially parallel to the first portion.
- the connecting portion defines a plurality of discrete undercuts, wherein each of the discrete undercuts is in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.
- the second portion is recessed in the first direction with respect the first portion to define a recess and the discrete undercuts are provided on respective opposite sides of the recess.
- the recess is elongate.
- the discrete undercuts are provided at respective opposite longitudinal ends of the recess.
- the aerosol provision device is configured to generate aerosol from non-liquid, e.g. solid, aerosol-generating material.
- a removable member for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device to customize the aerosol provision device, the removable member comprising a body and at least one attachment element that protrudes from the body and is configured to be insertable into a hole in the aerosol provision device.
- the body comprises a plurality of layers.
- At least one of the plurality of layers is transparent to define a transparent layer and another of the plurality of layers is visible through the transparent layer.
- At least one of the plurality of layers is integrally formed with the at least one attachment element.
- the removable member is resilient.
- the removable member comprises or consists of a metal or metal alloy.
- the removable member comprises or consists of spring steel.
- the body comprises an aperture for receiving a part of the aerosol provision device.
- the at least one attachment element is integrally formed with the body.
- the at least one attachment element comprises a different material to the body.
- the, or each, attachment element is resilient.
- the removable member has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and the width; wherein the length is greater than or equal to the width, and the width is greater than the depth; and wherein the or each attachment element protrudes from the body in a direction perpendicular to the depth.
- an aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device comprising an outer face; and a removable member configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face, wherein one of the aerosol provision device and the removable member comprises a magnetic material and the other of the aerosol provision device and the removable member is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material to hold the removable member against the outer face.
- the aerosol provision device comprises the magnetic material.
- an aerosol provision device comprising: an outer face; and a magnetic material configured to attract a removable member towards the outer face, so as to hold the removable member against the outer face to customize the aerosol provision device.
- a kit comprising: a removable member that is configured to be removably attachable to an aerosol provision device so as to cover at least a portion of an outer face of the aerosol generating device; and a tool configured to releasably engage with the removable member to assist in (a) detachment of the removable member from the aerosol generating device, and/or (b) attachment of the removable member to the aerosol generating device.
- the aerosol provision device of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present disclosure is the aerosol provision device of the second aspect of the present disclosure. Accordingly, any one or more of the above-described optional features of the aerosol provision device of the second aspect of the present disclosure may be present in the aerosol provision device of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present disclosure.
- the removable member of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present disclosure is the removable member of the third aspect of the present disclosure. Accordingly, any one or more of the above-described optional features of the removable member of the third aspect of the present disclosure may be present in the removable member of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an example aerosol provision system.
- FIG. 2 shows a further schematic view of the example aerosol provision system of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional schematic view of an example aerosol provision device.
- FIG. 4 shows a schematic view of an example removable member for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device.
- FIG. 5 shows an exploded schematic view of an example aerosol provision system.
- FIG. 6 a shows a schematic view of an example aerosol provision system.
- FIG. 6 b shows a schematic view of the removable member of the example aerosol provision system shown in FIG. 6 a.
- FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of an example aerosol provision system.
- FIG. 8 shows a schematic view of an example kit.
- FIGS. 9 to 14 show schematic views of alternative example aerosol provision systems.
- FIG. 15 shows a schematic view of part of an example tool.
- FIG. 1 shows an aerosol provision system 1 according to one embodiment.
- the aerosol provision system 1 comprises an aerosol provision device 2 comprising an outer face 3 , and a removable member 4 .
- the removable member 4 is shown detached from the aerosol provision device 2 .
- FIG. 2 shows the aerosol provision system 1 of FIG. 1 with the removable member 4 attached to the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a housing 100 which forms an outer cover of the aerosol provision device 2 and surrounds and houses various components of the aerosol provision device 2 .
- a chamber 101 is configured to receive a consumable (not shown in FIG. 1 ) comprising aerosol-generating material from which the aerosol provision device 2 is configured to generate aerosol.
- the aerosol provision device 2 generates aerosol from the consumable by heating the aerosol-generating material.
- aerosol is generated from the aerosol-generating material by imparting energy to the aerosol-generating material in another way, for example, by use of ultrasonic energy.
- the aerosol provision device 2 has an opening 102 in one end, which allows the consumable to be inserted into the chamber 101 .
- a portion of the consumable may be received in the chamber 101 of the aerosol provision device 2 , while a portion of the consumable may protrude from the opening 102 of the device 100 .
- the portion of the consumable received in the chamber 101 comprises the aerosol-generating material from which the aerosol provision device 2 is configured to generate aerosol.
- the portion of the consumable which protrudes from the opening 102 may, for example, comprise a filter or the like, and the user may inhale the generated flow of aerosol from the portion of the consumable which protrudes from the opening 102 by inserting that portion into his or her mouth.
- the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a user-operable control element 103 , such as a button or switch, which operates the aerosol provision device 2 when pressed.
- a user may turn on the device 100 by operating the user-operable control element 103 .
- the aerosol provision device 2 also comprises an electrical component, such as a socket/port 105 , which can receive a cable to charge a battery.
- the socket 105 may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port.
- the socket 105 may be used additionally or alternatively to transfer data between the aerosol provision device 2 and another device, such as a computing device.
- the socket may also be electrically coupled to the battery via electrical tracks.
- the end of the aerosol provision device 2 closest to the opening 105 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) of the aerosol provision device 2 because, in use, it is closest to the mouth of the user.
- a user may insert the consumable into the opening 102 , operate the user control 103 to begin heating the aerosol-generating material and draw on the proximal end of the aerosol provision device 2 . This causes the aerosol to flow through the aerosol provision device 2 along a flow path towards the proximal end of the aerosol provision device 2 .
- a portion of the consumable may protrude from the opening 102 and the user may draw on a proximal end of the consumable to cause the aerosol to flow to the proximal end of the aerosol provision device 2 to be inhaled.
- the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a mouthpiece on which the user inhales to draw the flow of aerosol.
- An end of the aerosol provision device 2 opposite the proximal end and furthest away from the opening 102 may be known as the distal end of the aerosol provision device 2 because, in use, it is the end furthest away from the mouth of the user. As a user draws on the aerosol generated in the aerosol provision device 2 , the aerosol flows away from the distal end of the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a lid/cap 104 .
- the lid/cap 104 is omitted. Opening the lid/cap 104 provides access to the heating chamber 101 .
- a user may, for example, open the lid to allow access to the heating chamber 101 for the consumable or to clean components in the heating chamber 101 , e.g. to remove debris from previous usage sessions.
- the removable member 4 provides a barrier between the aerosol provision device 2 and an external object (e.g. a floor or other surface).
- an external object e.g. a floor or other surface.
- the removable member 4 contacts the external object at least some of the force is absorbed or dissipated by the removable member 4 rather than being transferred to the aerosol provision device 2 .
- This helps to reduce the chance of damaging the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the removable member 4 can be replaced rather than having to also replace the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the removable and replaceable nature of the removable member 4 allows a user to customize the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the removable member 4 is releasably engageable with a surface of the aerosol provision device 2 to provide protection to the aerosol provision device 2 at specific locations.
- One or more such removable members 4 are provided for attachment to the aerosol provision device 2 to increase protection around the assembly at a plurality of locations.
- the aerosol provision system 1 is usable to generate an inhalable medium in use.
- the removable member 4 can also be used to customize the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the removable member 4 may comprise a graphical pattern or color on at least one surface. The user may then customize the aerosol provision device 2 by selecting a removable member 4 comprising their desired pattern or color.
- FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol provision device 2 according to one embodiment.
- the outer face 3 comprises a first portion 5 and a second portion 6 .
- the second portion 6 is recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion 5 .
- the aerosol provision device 2 also comprises a connecting portion 7 that connects the first portion 5 to the second portion 6 and defines an undercut 8 in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.
- the first portion 5 of the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a section or rib which protrudes from the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the first portion omits such a protrusion such that when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol provision device 2 , the first portion 5 is substantially flush with a surface of the removable member 4 (as shown in FIG. 2 ).
- Such an arrangement can be more comfortable for a user to hold and leaves fewer protrusions exposed which may be subject to wear and/or damage.
- the removable member 4 is configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device 2 so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face 3 .
- the removable member 4 comprises three attachment elements 9 configured to be removably receivable at least partially within the undercut 8 to restrict movement of the removable member 4 in a direction opposite to the first direction when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol provision device 2 .
- three attachment elements 9 are provided on the periphery of the removable member 4 .
- a first attachment element 9 a is provided at a longitudinal end of the removable member 4 and two further attachment elements 9 b , 9 c are elongate and extend partially along opposite sides of the periphery of the removable member 4 between the longitudinal ends of the removable member 4 .
- three attachment elements 9 are shown in FIG. 1 , greater or fewer attachment elements 9 may be used. For example, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 attachment elements may be used.
- a single attachment element 9 may extend around substantially the entire perimeter of the removable member 4 .
- two attachment elements 9 are provided, each being at an opposite longitudinal end of the removable member 4 .
- the undercut 8 extends substantially parallel to the first portion 5 .
- the undercut 8 may extend at an oblique angle relative to the first portion 5 .
- the undercut 8 may extend at an angle of between 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees relative to the first portion 5 .
- the connecting portion 7 defines an undercut 8 in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.
- the connecting portion 7 defines a plurality of discrete undercuts 8 , wherein each of the discrete undercuts 8 is in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.
- the number of discrete undercuts 8 is the same as the number of attachment elements 9 .
- the removable member 4 may comprise three attachment elements 9 and the aerosol provision device 2 may comprise three discrete undercuts 8 each corresponding to one of the attachment elements 9 .
- the second portion 6 is recessed in the first direction with respect to the first portion 5 to define a recess (or hole) 10 and the discrete undercuts 8 are provided on respective opposite sides of the recess 10 .
- the recess 10 is elongate. In other embodiments, the recess 10 is non-elongate.
- the discrete undercuts 8 are provided at respective opposite longitudinal ends 17 a , 17 b of the recess 10 . In other embodiments, an undercut 8 is provided at one longitudinal end 17 a , 17 b but not at the other longitudinal end 17 a , 17 b.
- FIG. 4 shows the removable member 4 of FIGS. 1 and 2 in isolation.
- the removable member 4 is for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device 2 (for example the aerosol provision device 2 of FIGS. 1 and 2 ).
- the removable member 4 comprises a body 11 and three attachment elements 9 that protrude from the body 11 and are configured to be insertable into a hole 13 in the aerosol provision device 2 .
- a first attachment element 9 a is provided at a longitudinal end of the removable member 4 and two further attachment elements 9 b , 9 c are elongate and extend partially along opposite sides of the periphery of the removable member 4 between the longitudinal ends of the removable member 4 .
- the attachment elements 9 are integrally formed with the body 11 .
- the at attachment elements 9 may be separately formed components which are attached to the body 11 of the removable member 4 .
- the removable member 4 has a length L, a width W perpendicular to the length L, and a depth D perpendicular to each of the length L and the width W.
- the length L is greater than or equal to the width W
- the width W is greater than the depth D.
- the width W may be greater than the length L and/or the depth D may be greater than the width W.
- the attachment elements 9 protrude from the body 11 in a direction perpendicular to the depth D.
- FIG. 5 shows an alternative form of the removable member 5 .
- the body 11 of the removable member 4 comprises a plurality of layers 12 .
- One of the plurality of layers 12 is transparent and defines a transparent layer 12 a . As such, another of the plurality of layers 12 is visible through the transparent layer 12 a.
- At least one of the plurality of layers 12 comprises a visual pattern.
- a transparent layer 12 a may be provided over the patterned layer such that the pattern is visible through the transparent layer. This allows the pattern to be seen while also providing protection to minimize damage and/or wear to the pattern during use.
- the user may select a removable member 4 with a particular pattern to make the aerosol provision device 2 easily recognizable.
- a surface of the removable member 4 comprises a texture. Such a texture may help a user grip the aerosol provision system 1 in use.
- one of the plurality of layers 12 is integrally formed with the attachment elements 9 (shown as layer 12 b in FIG. 5 ).
- the body 11 comprises adhesive layers 12 c configured to adhere the layers on either side of the adhesive layers to each other. In other embodiments, any one or more of the layers discussed above is omitted.
- the removable member 4 is resilient. This allows the removable member 4 to be deformed slightly to aid insertion into the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the layer 12 b comprising the attachment elements 9 is resilient.
- at least the arms 16 of the layer 12 b are resilient. As such, upon application of a force perpendicular to the arms 16 towards the center of the removable member 4 , the arms 16 deform towards the center of the removable member 4 . Once this force is released, the arms 16 return to their original position.
- the removable member 4 comprises or consists of metal or metal alloy.
- the removable member may comprise or consist of stainless steel, such as at least one of stainless steel 301 , 302 , 304 or 316 .
- the removable member 4 comprises or consists of spring steel. Other metals or metal alloys with suitable spring characteristics may be used.
- the removable member 4 comprises or consists of a polymer.
- the removable member 4 is plastic, such as Nylon, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polypropylene (PP). In other embodiments, other polymers with suitable flexibility may be used.
- the at least one attachment element 9 comprises a different material to the body 11 .
- the, or each, attachment element 9 is resilient.
- the, or each attachment element 9 is resilient 9 and the body 11 of the removable member 4 is not resilient. This allows the body 11 of the removable member 4 to retain strength while allowing the attachment element 9 to deform for easier insertion into the undercut 8 .
- the body 11 of the removable member 4 comprises an aperture 13 for receiving a part of the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the part of the aerosol provision device 2 received by the aperture 13 is a button 103 to operate the aerosol provision device 2 , for example.
- the aperture 13 can help to align the removable member 4 with the aerosol provision device 2 , when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the removable member 4 does not comprise an aperture 13 or another part of the aerosol provision device 2 protrudes through the aperture 13 .
- FIG. 6 a shows an aerosol provision system 1 according to one embodiment.
- the removable member 4 comprises three attachment elements 9 which extend perpendicular to a face of the removable member 4 . In other embodiments, the removable member comprises greater or fewer than three attachment elements 9 .
- the aerosol provision device 2 comprises at least one opening 18 corresponding to the at least one attachment element 9 of the removable member 4 . When the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol provision device 2 , the at least one attachment element 9 is received by the corresponding at least one opening 18 in the aerosol provision device 2 . An interference fit is provided between the at least one attachment element 9 and the at least one opening 18 to hold the removable member 4 in place.
- FIG. 6 b shows the removable member 4 of FIG. 6 a in isolation.
- the attachment elements 9 are offset from a longitudinal axis of the removable member 4 .
- the offset attachment elements 9 are configured to be received by correspondingly offset openings 18 in the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the attachment elements 9 are not offset from the longitudinal axis of the removable member 4 .
- the attachment elements 9 are aligned with the longitudinal axis of the removable member 4 .
- FIG. 7 shows an aerosol provision system 1 according to one embodiment.
- the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a raised island 19 on the second portion 6 of the outer face 3 .
- the removable member 4 comprises a corresponding cut out configured to receive the raised island 19 .
- the aerosol provision system 1 also comprises a seal which is configured to engage with a surface of the raised island 19 in use.
- the seal 20 is compressed between the raised island 19 and the removable member 4 and holds the removable member 4 in place when the removable member 4 is attached to the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the seal 20 comprises spring steel and/or the seal 20 does not from a complete loop. For example, when the seal 20 comprises spring steel, there is a gap provided in the seal 20 to allow the seal 20 to deform.
- a kit comprises a removable member 4 that is configured to be removably attachable to an aerosol generating device 14 so as to cover at least a portion of an outer face 3 of the aerosol generating device 14 and a tool 15 configured to releasably engage with the removable member 4 to assist in (a) detachment of the removable member 4 from the aerosol generating device 14 , and/or (b) attachment of the removable member 4 to the aerosol generating device 14 .
- FIG. 8 shows the removable member 4 comprising a plurality of layers 25 .
- the removable member comprises two cover layers 25 a between which is a latching layer 25 b .
- An adhesive layer 25 c is provided between each cover layer 25 a and the latching layer 25 b to adhere the cover layers 25 a to the latching layer 25 b.
- the latching layer 25 b comprises three attachment elements 26 which are configured to be received in an undercut (not shown) of the aerosol generating device 14 .
- a first attachment element 26 a is provided at a first longitudinal end of the removable member 4 .
- a second and a third attachment element 26 b , 26 c are provided on opposite sides of the removable member 4 and extend from a second longitudinal end of the removable member 4 towards the first longitudinal end of the removable member 4 .
- the second and third attachment elements 26 b , 26 c are resilient and are configured to be deformable towards each other.
- the second and third attachment elements 26 b , 26 c each comprise a slot 27 with which the tool 15 is configured to removably engage.
- the tool 15 comprises a first end portion 29 a and a second end portion 29 b each of which is engageable with a respective one of the slots 27 of the second and third attachment elements 26 b , 26 c .
- the first end portion 29 a and the second end portion 29 b are movable towards each other to force the second attachment element 26 b towards the third attachment element 26 c .
- the tool 15 is configured such that the end portions 29 a , 29 b are biased away from each other, to aid detachment of the tool 15 from the slots 27 .
- the tool may be made of any suitably resilient material to achieve the biasing.
- Providing the tool 15 to assist in attachment and/or detachment of the removable member 4 from the aerosol generating device 14 helps to reduce the risk of the user damaging the device and/or themselves when trying to attach and/or detach the removable member 4 from the aerosol generating device 14 .
- FIGS. 9 to 14 show alternative aerosol provision systems 1 comprising aerosol provision devices 2 and respective removable members 4 .
- the aerosol provision systems 1 described in relation to FIGS. 9 to 14 are the same as those described in relation to FIGS. 1 to 8 above, with the addition of the features described in relation to each Figure.
- FIG. 9 shows a similar removable member 4 to that shown in FIG. 5 .
- the removable member 4 of FIG. 9 comprises only a single arm 16 , which may be deformed to allow for easier insertion of the removable member 4 into the recess (or hole) 10 .
- FIG. 10 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising a removable member 4 .
- the removable member 4 comprises a plurality of layers 28 .
- the removable member 4 comprises a cover layer 28 a , a backing layer 28 b and an adhesive layer 28 c .
- the adhesive layer 28 c is provided between the cover layer 28 a and the backing layer 28 b to adhere the cover layer 28 a to the backing layer 28 c .
- one or more of the layers 28 may be omitted.
- the cover layer 28 a comprises two attachment elements 9 (only one of which is shown in FIG. 10 ) along opposite edges of the cover layer 28 a which are formed by folding a part of the cover layer 28 a .
- the attachment elements 9 are configured to be received in the undercut 8 of the aerosol provision device 2 .
- FIG. 11 shows an alternative aerosol provision system 1 comprising a removable member 4 and an aerosol provision device 2 .
- the aerosol provision system 1 comprises an aerosol provision device 2 comprising an outer face 3 , and a removable member 4 configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device 2 so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face 3 .
- the aerosol provision device 2 comprises a magnetic material and the removable member 4 is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material to hold the removable member 4 against the outer face 3 .
- the aerosol provision device 2 is coated in the magnetic material (for example by magnetron puttering).
- at least the outer face 3 of the aerosol provision device 2 is formed from the magnetic material.
- the removable member 4 comprises the magnetic material and the aerosol provision device 2 is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material to hold the removable member 4 against the outer face 3 .
- the removable member 4 comprises a flexible magnetic sheet.
- both the removable member 4 and the aerosol provision device 2 comprise magnetic material.
- the magnetic material comprises steel.
- the magnetic material comprises a material other than steel.
- the magnetic material is any material that exhibits suitable magnetic attraction properties.
- FIG. 12 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising a removable member 4 and an aerosol provision device 2 .
- the aerosol provision device comprises two protrusions 22 which protrude from, and perpendicular to, the second portion 6 of the outer face 3 .
- the removable member 4 comprises an attachment element 9 comprising two holes 24 each of which is configured to receive a corresponding one of the protrusions 22 when the removable member is attached to the aerosol provision device 2 .
- Each protrusion 22 comprises an undercut which is configured to receive a corresponding clip 23 .
- the clips 23 are attached to the protrusions 22 to substantially limit the movement of the attachment element so as to hold the attachment element 9 (and therefore the removable member 4 ) in place relative to the aerosol provision device 2 .
- FIG. 13 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising an aerosol provision device 2 and a removable member 4 .
- the removable member 4 comprises a plurality of layers 12 wherein one of the plurality of layers comprises attachment elements 9 .
- the removable member 4 comprises a cosmetic plate 32 and a retention plate 33 .
- the attachment elements 9 are provided on the retention plate 33 and a visual pattern or color is provided on the cosmetic plate 32 .
- the attachment elements 9 are provided at longitudinal ends of the removable member 4 , and more specifically at the longitudinal ends of the retention plate 33 .
- the attachment elements 9 are configured to be received by corresponding undercuts at longitudinal ends of the aerosol provision device 2 .
- a cut-out 34 is provided at a longitudinal end of the retention plate 33 . The cut-out 34 allows for additional flex of the removable member 4 to aid removal and insertion of the removable member 4 into the aerosol provision device 2 .
- FIG. 14 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising an aerosol provision device 2 and a removable member 4 .
- the removable member 4 comprises two attachment elements 9 each of which is configured to be received by a corresponding undercut (not shown) in the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the removable member 4 comprises a resilient material, for example spring steel, and is configured to be deformed during installation of the removable member 4 into the aerosol provision device 2 . Deforming the removable member 4 helps to allow for easier fitting into a recess 10 of the aerosol provision device 2 .
- a removable member 4 allows for the customization of the aerosol provision system 1 .
- Such customization could be achieved by a removable member 4 comprising an adhesive sticker which is attached to the aerosol provision device 2 during manufacturing.
- the adhesive sticker may comprise a single layer or a plurality of layers.
- the adhesive sticker comprises an adhesive layer, a patterned layer and a protective layer.
- the protective layer can be transparent or translucent to allow the patterned layer to be visible through the protective layer.
- Such an adhesive sticker may comprise a step cut into the surface of the periphery of the sticker or the aerosol provision device to allow for further customization.
- the adhesive sticker has a uniform surface with no step.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure overcome these drawbacks, for example by providing a removable member 4 that is removable and re-attachable and that need not rely on adhesive for holding the removable member 4 in position on or relative to the aerosol provision device 2 .
- FIG. 15 shows part of a tool 30 to aid in the removal of the removable member 4 from the aerosol provision device 2 , for example for the removal of the removable member 4 from the aerosol provision device 2 shown in FIG. 14 .
- the tool 30 comprises a handle 35 that extends linearly along an axis X-X and an engaging portion 31 provided at a distal end of the handle 35 .
- the engaging portion 31 protrudes from the distal end of the handle 35 in a direction away from the axis X-X. In use, the engaging portion 31 is configured to engage with the removable member 4 to aid in removal of the removable member 4 from the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the engaging portion 31 is placed between the removable member 4 and the aerosol provision device 2 to allow the user to lever the removable member 4 away from the aerosol provision device 2 .
- the tool 30 is provided with any of the devices and/or removable members described herein, and further optionally with the tool 15 of FIG. 8 , to form a kit.
- Aerosol-generating material is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavorants. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may comprise an “amorphous solid”, which may alternatively be referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e. non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel.
- the amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it.
- the aerosol-generating material may for example comprise from about 50 wt %, 60 wt % or 70 wt % of amorphous solid, to about 90 wt %, 95 wt % or 100 wt % of amorphous solid.
- the aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and/or flavors, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material.
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Abstract
Description
- The present application is a National Phase entry of PCT Application No. PCT/EP2021/078983, filed Oct. 19, 2021, which claims priority from GB Application No. 2016563.5, filed Oct. 19, 2020, each of which hereby fully incorporated herein by reference.
- The present disclosure relates to an aerosol provision system, an aerosol provision device, a removable member for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device to customize the aerosol provision device, and a kit.
- Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like burn tobacco during use to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles that burn tobacco by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products are heating devices which release compounds by heating, but not burning, the material. The material may be for example tobacco or other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine.
- According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising: an aerosol provision device comprising an outer face, wherein the outer face comprises a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion, wherein the aerosol provision device comprises a connecting portion that connects the first portion to the second portion and defines an undercut in a direction non-parallel to the first direction; and a removable member configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face, wherein the removable member comprises at least one attachment element configured to be removably receivable at least partially within the undercut to restrict movement of the removable member in a direction opposite to the first direction when the removable member is attached to the aerosol provision device.
- According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising: an outer face, wherein the outer face comprises a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being recessed in a first direction with respect to the first portion; and a connecting portion that connects the first portion to the second portion and defines an undercut in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.
- Optionally, the undercut extends substantially parallel to the first portion.
- Optionally, the connecting portion defines a plurality of discrete undercuts, wherein each of the discrete undercuts is in a direction non-parallel to the first direction.
- Optionally, the second portion is recessed in the first direction with respect the first portion to define a recess and the discrete undercuts are provided on respective opposite sides of the recess.
- Optionally, the recess is elongate.
- Optionally, the discrete undercuts are provided at respective opposite longitudinal ends of the recess.
- Optionally, the aerosol provision device is configured to generate aerosol from non-liquid, e.g. solid, aerosol-generating material.
- According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a removable member for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device to customize the aerosol provision device, the removable member comprising a body and at least one attachment element that protrudes from the body and is configured to be insertable into a hole in the aerosol provision device.
- Optionally, the body comprises a plurality of layers.
- Optionally, at least one of the plurality of layers is transparent to define a transparent layer and another of the plurality of layers is visible through the transparent layer.
- Optionally, at least one of the plurality of layers is integrally formed with the at least one attachment element.
- Optionally, the removable member is resilient.
- Optionally, the removable member comprises or consists of a metal or metal alloy.
- Optionally, the removable member comprises or consists of spring steel.
- Optionally, the body comprises an aperture for receiving a part of the aerosol provision device.
- Optionally, the at least one attachment element is integrally formed with the body.
- Optionally, the at least one attachment element comprises a different material to the body.
- Optionally, the, or each, attachment element is resilient.
- Optionally, the removable member has a length, a width perpendicular to the length, and a depth perpendicular to each of the length and the width; wherein the length is greater than or equal to the width, and the width is greater than the depth; and wherein the or each attachment element protrudes from the body in a direction perpendicular to the depth.
- According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol provision system, comprising: an aerosol provision device comprising an outer face; and a removable member configured to be removably attachable to the aerosol provision device so as to cover at least a portion of the outer face, wherein one of the aerosol provision device and the removable member comprises a magnetic material and the other of the aerosol provision device and the removable member is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material to hold the removable member against the outer face.
- Optionally, the aerosol provision device comprises the magnetic material.
- According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol provision device comprising: an outer face; and a magnetic material configured to attract a removable member towards the outer face, so as to hold the removable member against the outer face to customize the aerosol provision device.
- According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a kit comprising: a removable member that is configured to be removably attachable to an aerosol provision device so as to cover at least a portion of an outer face of the aerosol generating device; and a tool configured to releasably engage with the removable member to assist in (a) detachment of the removable member from the aerosol generating device, and/or (b) attachment of the removable member to the aerosol generating device.
- Optionally, the aerosol provision device of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present disclosure is the aerosol provision device of the second aspect of the present disclosure. Accordingly, any one or more of the above-described optional features of the aerosol provision device of the second aspect of the present disclosure may be present in the aerosol provision device of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present disclosure.
- Optionally, the removable member of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present disclosure is the removable member of the third aspect of the present disclosure. Accordingly, any one or more of the above-described optional features of the removable member of the third aspect of the present disclosure may be present in the removable member of the aerosol provision system of the first aspect of the present disclosure.
- Further features and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments of the disclosure, given by way of example only, which is made with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- Embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an example aerosol provision system. -
FIG. 2 shows a further schematic view of the example aerosol provision system ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional schematic view of an example aerosol provision device. -
FIG. 4 shows a schematic view of an example removable member for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device. -
FIG. 5 shows an exploded schematic view of an example aerosol provision system. -
FIG. 6 a shows a schematic view of an example aerosol provision system. -
FIG. 6 b shows a schematic view of the removable member of the example aerosol provision system shown inFIG. 6 a. -
FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of an example aerosol provision system. -
FIG. 8 shows a schematic view of an example kit. -
FIGS. 9 to 14 show schematic views of alternative example aerosol provision systems. -
FIG. 15 shows a schematic view of part of an example tool. -
FIG. 1 shows an aerosol provision system 1 according to one embodiment. The aerosol provision system 1 comprises anaerosol provision device 2 comprising anouter face 3, and aremovable member 4. InFIG. 1 , theremovable member 4 is shown detached from theaerosol provision device 2.FIG. 2 shows the aerosol provision system 1 ofFIG. 1 with theremovable member 4 attached to theaerosol provision device 2. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , theaerosol provision device 2 comprises ahousing 100 which forms an outer cover of theaerosol provision device 2 and surrounds and houses various components of theaerosol provision device 2. Achamber 101 is configured to receive a consumable (not shown inFIG. 1 ) comprising aerosol-generating material from which theaerosol provision device 2 is configured to generate aerosol. In some embodiments, theaerosol provision device 2 generates aerosol from the consumable by heating the aerosol-generating material. In other embodiments, aerosol is generated from the aerosol-generating material by imparting energy to the aerosol-generating material in another way, for example, by use of ultrasonic energy. - The
aerosol provision device 2 has anopening 102 in one end, which allows the consumable to be inserted into thechamber 101. In some embodiments, a portion of the consumable may be received in thechamber 101 of theaerosol provision device 2, while a portion of the consumable may protrude from theopening 102 of thedevice 100. In some embodiments, the portion of the consumable received in thechamber 101 comprises the aerosol-generating material from which theaerosol provision device 2 is configured to generate aerosol. The portion of the consumable which protrudes from theopening 102 may, for example, comprise a filter or the like, and the user may inhale the generated flow of aerosol from the portion of the consumable which protrudes from theopening 102 by inserting that portion into his or her mouth. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , theaerosol provision device 2 comprises a user-operable control element 103, such as a button or switch, which operates theaerosol provision device 2 when pressed. For example, a user may turn on thedevice 100 by operating the user-operable control element 103. - In some embodiments, the
aerosol provision device 2 also comprises an electrical component, such as a socket/port 105, which can receive a cable to charge a battery. For example, thesocket 105 may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port. In some examples thesocket 105 may be used additionally or alternatively to transfer data between theaerosol provision device 2 and another device, such as a computing device. The socket may also be electrically coupled to the battery via electrical tracks. - The end of the
aerosol provision device 2 closest to theopening 105 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) of theaerosol provision device 2 because, in use, it is closest to the mouth of the user. In use, a user may insert the consumable into theopening 102, operate theuser control 103 to begin heating the aerosol-generating material and draw on the proximal end of theaerosol provision device 2. This causes the aerosol to flow through theaerosol provision device 2 along a flow path towards the proximal end of theaerosol provision device 2. In some embodiments, a portion of the consumable may protrude from theopening 102 and the user may draw on a proximal end of the consumable to cause the aerosol to flow to the proximal end of theaerosol provision device 2 to be inhaled. In other embodiments, theaerosol provision device 2 comprises a mouthpiece on which the user inhales to draw the flow of aerosol. - An end of the
aerosol provision device 2 opposite the proximal end and furthest away from theopening 102 may be known as the distal end of theaerosol provision device 2 because, in use, it is the end furthest away from the mouth of the user. As a user draws on the aerosol generated in theaerosol provision device 2, the aerosol flows away from the distal end of theaerosol provision device 2. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , theaerosol provision device 2 comprises a lid/cap 104. In other embodiments, the lid/cap 104 is omitted. Opening the lid/cap 104 provides access to theheating chamber 101. A user may, for example, open the lid to allow access to theheating chamber 101 for the consumable or to clean components in theheating chamber 101, e.g. to remove debris from previous usage sessions. - By providing an aerosol provision system 1 with a
removable member 4, components of the system may be protected from impact forces. For example, theremovable member 4 provides a barrier between theaerosol provision device 2 and an external object (e.g. a floor or other surface). When theremovable member 4 contacts the external object, at least some of the force is absorbed or dissipated by theremovable member 4 rather than being transferred to theaerosol provision device 2. This helps to reduce the chance of damaging theaerosol provision device 2. Should theremovable member 4 become damaged as a result, theremovable member 4 can be replaced rather than having to also replace theaerosol provision device 2. Furthermore, the removable and replaceable nature of theremovable member 4 allows a user to customize theaerosol provision device 2. For example, specific textures, grip, or ergonomics can be provided on theremovable member 4. Theremovable member 4 is releasably engageable with a surface of theaerosol provision device 2 to provide protection to theaerosol provision device 2 at specific locations. One or more suchremovable members 4 are provided for attachment to theaerosol provision device 2 to increase protection around the assembly at a plurality of locations. The aerosol provision system 1 is usable to generate an inhalable medium in use. - As discussed above, the
removable member 4 can also be used to customize theaerosol provision device 2. For example, theremovable member 4 may comprise a graphical pattern or color on at least one surface. The user may then customize theaerosol provision device 2 by selecting aremovable member 4 comprising their desired pattern or color. -
FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of anaerosol provision device 2 according to one embodiment. As shown inFIG. 3 , theouter face 3 comprises afirst portion 5 and asecond portion 6. Thesecond portion 6 is recessed in a first direction with respect to thefirst portion 5. Theaerosol provision device 2 also comprises a connectingportion 7 that connects thefirst portion 5 to thesecond portion 6 and defines an undercut 8 in a direction non-parallel to the first direction. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 3 (as well asFIGS. 7, 10 and 12 discussed below), thefirst portion 5 of theaerosol provision device 2 comprises a section or rib which protrudes from theaerosol provision device 2. Alternatively, the first portion omits such a protrusion such that when theremovable member 4 is attached to theaerosol provision device 2, thefirst portion 5 is substantially flush with a surface of the removable member 4 (as shown inFIG. 2 ). Such an arrangement can be more comfortable for a user to hold and leaves fewer protrusions exposed which may be subject to wear and/or damage. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , theremovable member 4 is configured to be removably attachable to theaerosol provision device 2 so as to cover at least a portion of theouter face 3. Theremovable member 4 comprises threeattachment elements 9 configured to be removably receivable at least partially within the undercut 8 to restrict movement of theremovable member 4 in a direction opposite to the first direction when theremovable member 4 is attached to theaerosol provision device 2. - In
FIG. 1 , threeattachment elements 9 are provided on the periphery of theremovable member 4. Afirst attachment element 9 a is provided at a longitudinal end of theremovable member 4 and twofurther attachment elements removable member 4 between the longitudinal ends of theremovable member 4. Although threeattachment elements 9 are shown inFIG. 1 , greater orfewer attachment elements 9 may be used. For example, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 attachment elements may be used. In some embodiments, asingle attachment element 9 may extend around substantially the entire perimeter of theremovable member 4. Alternatively, twoattachment elements 9 are provided, each being at an opposite longitudinal end of theremovable member 4. - In some embodiments, as shown in
FIG. 3 , the undercut 8 extends substantially parallel to thefirst portion 5. Alternatively, the undercut 8 may extend at an oblique angle relative to thefirst portion 5. For example, the undercut 8 may extend at an angle of between 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees relative to thefirst portion 5. - As discussed above in relation to
FIG. 3 , the connectingportion 7 defines an undercut 8 in a direction non-parallel to the first direction. In some embodiments, the connectingportion 7 defines a plurality ofdiscrete undercuts 8, wherein each of thediscrete undercuts 8 is in a direction non-parallel to the first direction. In some embodiments, the number ofdiscrete undercuts 8 is the same as the number ofattachment elements 9. For example, theremovable member 4 may comprise threeattachment elements 9 and theaerosol provision device 2 may comprise threediscrete undercuts 8 each corresponding to one of theattachment elements 9. - In some embodiments, as shown in
FIG. 3 , thesecond portion 6 is recessed in the first direction with respect to thefirst portion 5 to define a recess (or hole) 10 and thediscrete undercuts 8 are provided on respective opposite sides of therecess 10. - As shown in
FIG. 1 , therecess 10 is elongate. In other embodiments, therecess 10 is non-elongate. Thediscrete undercuts 8 are provided at respective opposite longitudinal ends 17 a, 17 b of therecess 10. In other embodiments, an undercut 8 is provided at onelongitudinal end longitudinal end -
FIG. 4 shows theremovable member 4 ofFIGS. 1 and 2 in isolation. Theremovable member 4 is for selective attachment to an aerosol provision device 2 (for example theaerosol provision device 2 ofFIGS. 1 and 2 ). As described in relation toFIG. 1 above, theremovable member 4 comprises abody 11 and threeattachment elements 9 that protrude from thebody 11 and are configured to be insertable into a hole 13 in theaerosol provision device 2. Afirst attachment element 9 a is provided at a longitudinal end of theremovable member 4 and twofurther attachment elements removable member 4 between the longitudinal ends of theremovable member 4. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 4 , theattachment elements 9 are integrally formed with thebody 11. Alternatively, the atattachment elements 9 may be separately formed components which are attached to thebody 11 of theremovable member 4. - As shown in
FIG. 4 , theremovable member 4 has a length L, a width W perpendicular to the length L, and a depth D perpendicular to each of the length L and the width W. The length L is greater than or equal to the width W, and the width W is greater than the depth D. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the width W may be greater than the length L and/or the depth D may be greater than the width W. As shown inFIG. 4 , theattachment elements 9 protrude from thebody 11 in a direction perpendicular to the depth D. -
FIG. 5 shows an alternative form of theremovable member 5. Thebody 11 of theremovable member 4 comprises a plurality oflayers 12. One of the plurality oflayers 12 is transparent and defines atransparent layer 12 a. As such, another of the plurality oflayers 12 is visible through thetransparent layer 12 a. - For example, at least one of the plurality of
layers 12 comprises a visual pattern. Atransparent layer 12 a may be provided over the patterned layer such that the pattern is visible through the transparent layer. This allows the pattern to be seen while also providing protection to minimize damage and/or wear to the pattern during use. The user may select aremovable member 4 with a particular pattern to make theaerosol provision device 2 easily recognizable. - In some embodiments, a surface of the
removable member 4 comprises a texture. Such a texture may help a user grip the aerosol provision system 1 in use. - In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 5 , one of the plurality oflayers 12 is integrally formed with the attachment elements 9 (shown aslayer 12 b inFIG. 5 ). As shown inFIG. 5 , thebody 11 comprisesadhesive layers 12 c configured to adhere the layers on either side of the adhesive layers to each other. In other embodiments, any one or more of the layers discussed above is omitted. - In some embodiments, the
removable member 4 is resilient. This allows theremovable member 4 to be deformed slightly to aid insertion into theaerosol provision device 2. Alternatively only a part of theremovable member 4 is resilient. For example, in the embodiment shown inFIG. 5 , thelayer 12 b comprising theattachment elements 9 is resilient. Specifically, at least thearms 16 of thelayer 12 b are resilient. As such, upon application of a force perpendicular to thearms 16 towards the center of theremovable member 4, thearms 16 deform towards the center of theremovable member 4. Once this force is released, thearms 16 return to their original position. This enables theremovable member 4 to be more easily inserted into the aerosol provision device, and in particular allows theattachment elements 9 and/orarms 16 to be more easily positioned in theundercuts 8. As thearms 16 deform towards the center of theremovable member 4, the footprint of theremovable member 4 is reduced, allowing theremovable member 4 to more easily fit into therecess 10 in theaerosol provision device 2. - In some embodiments, the
removable member 4 comprises or consists of metal or metal alloy. For example, the removable member may comprise or consist of stainless steel, such as at least one of stainless steel 301, 302, 304 or 316. In some embodiments, theremovable member 4 comprises or consists of spring steel. Other metals or metal alloys with suitable spring characteristics may be used. In other embodiments, theremovable member 4 comprises or consists of a polymer. For example, theremovable member 4 is plastic, such as Nylon, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) or polypropylene (PP). In other embodiments, other polymers with suitable flexibility may be used. - In some embodiments, the at least one
attachment element 9 comprises a different material to thebody 11. In some embodiments, the, or each,attachment element 9 is resilient. In some embodiments, the, or eachattachment element 9 is resilient 9 and thebody 11 of theremovable member 4 is not resilient. This allows thebody 11 of theremovable member 4 to retain strength while allowing theattachment element 9 to deform for easier insertion into the undercut 8. - In the embodiments shown in
FIGS. 1, 2, 4 and 5 , thebody 11 of theremovable member 4 comprises an aperture 13 for receiving a part of theaerosol provision device 2. The part of theaerosol provision device 2 received by the aperture 13 is abutton 103 to operate theaerosol provision device 2, for example. Advantageously, the aperture 13 can help to align theremovable member 4 with theaerosol provision device 2, when theremovable member 4 is attached to theaerosol provision device 2. In other embodiments, theremovable member 4 does not comprise an aperture 13 or another part of theaerosol provision device 2 protrudes through the aperture 13. -
FIG. 6 a shows an aerosol provision system 1 according to one embodiment. Theremovable member 4 comprises threeattachment elements 9 which extend perpendicular to a face of theremovable member 4. In other embodiments, the removable member comprises greater or fewer than threeattachment elements 9. Theaerosol provision device 2 comprises at least oneopening 18 corresponding to the at least oneattachment element 9 of theremovable member 4. When theremovable member 4 is attached to theaerosol provision device 2, the at least oneattachment element 9 is received by the corresponding at least oneopening 18 in theaerosol provision device 2. An interference fit is provided between the at least oneattachment element 9 and the at least oneopening 18 to hold theremovable member 4 in place. -
FIG. 6 b shows theremovable member 4 ofFIG. 6 a in isolation. As shown inFIG. 6 b , theattachment elements 9 are offset from a longitudinal axis of theremovable member 4. The offsetattachment elements 9 are configured to be received by correspondingly offsetopenings 18 in theaerosol provision device 2. In other embodiments, theattachment elements 9 are not offset from the longitudinal axis of theremovable member 4. For example, in some embodiments theattachment elements 9 are aligned with the longitudinal axis of theremovable member 4. -
FIG. 7 shows an aerosol provision system 1 according to one embodiment. In the embodiment ofFIG. 7 , theaerosol provision device 2 comprises a raisedisland 19 on thesecond portion 6 of theouter face 3. Theremovable member 4 comprises a corresponding cut out configured to receive the raisedisland 19. The aerosol provision system 1 also comprises a seal which is configured to engage with a surface of the raisedisland 19 in use. Theseal 20 is compressed between the raisedisland 19 and theremovable member 4 and holds theremovable member 4 in place when theremovable member 4 is attached to theaerosol provision device 2. In some embodiments, theseal 20 comprises spring steel and/or theseal 20 does not from a complete loop. For example, when theseal 20 comprises spring steel, there is a gap provided in theseal 20 to allow theseal 20 to deform. - As shown in
FIG. 8 , in some embodiments, a kit comprises aremovable member 4 that is configured to be removably attachable to anaerosol generating device 14 so as to cover at least a portion of anouter face 3 of theaerosol generating device 14 and atool 15 configured to releasably engage with theremovable member 4 to assist in (a) detachment of theremovable member 4 from theaerosol generating device 14, and/or (b) attachment of theremovable member 4 to theaerosol generating device 14. -
FIG. 8 shows theremovable member 4 comprising a plurality of layers 25. The removable member comprises twocover layers 25 a between which is alatching layer 25 b. Anadhesive layer 25 c is provided between eachcover layer 25 a and thelatching layer 25 b to adhere the cover layers 25 a to thelatching layer 25 b. - As shown in
FIG. 8 , thelatching layer 25 b comprises three attachment elements 26 which are configured to be received in an undercut (not shown) of theaerosol generating device 14. Afirst attachment element 26 a is provided at a first longitudinal end of theremovable member 4. A second and athird attachment element removable member 4 and extend from a second longitudinal end of theremovable member 4 towards the first longitudinal end of theremovable member 4. The second andthird attachment elements third attachment elements slot 27 with which thetool 15 is configured to removably engage. Thetool 15 comprises afirst end portion 29 a and asecond end portion 29 b each of which is engageable with a respective one of theslots 27 of the second andthird attachment elements first end portion 29 a and thesecond end portion 29 b are movable towards each other to force thesecond attachment element 26 b towards thethird attachment element 26 c. In some embodiments, such as that shown inFIG. 8 , thetool 15 is configured such that theend portions tool 15 from theslots 27. The tool may be made of any suitably resilient material to achieve the biasing. - Providing the
tool 15 to assist in attachment and/or detachment of theremovable member 4 from theaerosol generating device 14 helps to reduce the risk of the user damaging the device and/or themselves when trying to attach and/or detach theremovable member 4 from theaerosol generating device 14. -
FIGS. 9 to 14 show alternative aerosol provision systems 1 comprisingaerosol provision devices 2 and respectiveremovable members 4. The aerosol provision systems 1 described in relation toFIGS. 9 to 14 are the same as those described in relation toFIGS. 1 to 8 above, with the addition of the features described in relation to each Figure. -
FIG. 9 shows a similarremovable member 4 to that shown inFIG. 5 . Theremovable member 4 ofFIG. 9 comprises only asingle arm 16, which may be deformed to allow for easier insertion of theremovable member 4 into the recess (or hole) 10. -
FIG. 10 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising aremovable member 4. Theremovable member 4 comprises a plurality of layers 28. As shown inFIG. 10 , theremovable member 4 comprises acover layer 28 a, abacking layer 28 b and anadhesive layer 28 c. Theadhesive layer 28 c is provided between thecover layer 28 a and thebacking layer 28 b to adhere thecover layer 28 a to thebacking layer 28 c. In other embodiments one or more of the layers 28 may be omitted. Thecover layer 28 a comprises two attachment elements 9 (only one of which is shown inFIG. 10 ) along opposite edges of thecover layer 28 a which are formed by folding a part of thecover layer 28 a. Theattachment elements 9 are configured to be received in the undercut 8 of theaerosol provision device 2. -
FIG. 11 shows an alternative aerosol provision system 1 comprising aremovable member 4 and anaerosol provision device 2. The aerosol provision system 1 comprises anaerosol provision device 2 comprising anouter face 3, and aremovable member 4 configured to be removably attachable to theaerosol provision device 2 so as to cover at least a portion of theouter face 3. Theaerosol provision device 2 comprises a magnetic material and theremovable member 4 is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material to hold theremovable member 4 against theouter face 3. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 11 , theaerosol provision device 2 is coated in the magnetic material (for example by magnetron puttering). In other embodiments, at least theouter face 3 of theaerosol provision device 2 is formed from the magnetic material. In other embodiments, theremovable member 4 comprises the magnetic material and theaerosol provision device 2 is configured to be attracted to the magnetic material to hold theremovable member 4 against theouter face 3. For example, in some embodiments, theremovable member 4 comprises a flexible magnetic sheet. In other embodiments, both theremovable member 4 and theaerosol provision device 2 comprise magnetic material. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 11 , the magnetic material comprises steel. In other embodiments, the magnetic material comprises a material other than steel. For example, the magnetic material is any material that exhibits suitable magnetic attraction properties. -
FIG. 12 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising aremovable member 4 and anaerosol provision device 2. As shown inFIG. 12 , the aerosol provision device comprises twoprotrusions 22 which protrude from, and perpendicular to, thesecond portion 6 of theouter face 3. Theremovable member 4 comprises anattachment element 9 comprising two holes 24 each of which is configured to receive a corresponding one of theprotrusions 22 when the removable member is attached to theaerosol provision device 2. Eachprotrusion 22 comprises an undercut which is configured to receive acorresponding clip 23. After theattachment element 9 is positioned on theaerosol provision device 2 such that theprotrusions 22 are received by theattachment element 9, theclips 23 are attached to theprotrusions 22 to substantially limit the movement of the attachment element so as to hold the attachment element 9 (and therefore the removable member 4) in place relative to theaerosol provision device 2. -
FIG. 13 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising anaerosol provision device 2 and aremovable member 4. Theremovable member 4 comprises a plurality oflayers 12 wherein one of the plurality of layers comprisesattachment elements 9. As shown inFIG. 13 , theremovable member 4 comprises acosmetic plate 32 and aretention plate 33. Theattachment elements 9 are provided on theretention plate 33 and a visual pattern or color is provided on thecosmetic plate 32. As shown inFIG. 13 , theattachment elements 9 are provided at longitudinal ends of theremovable member 4, and more specifically at the longitudinal ends of theretention plate 33. Theattachment elements 9 are configured to be received by corresponding undercuts at longitudinal ends of theaerosol provision device 2. A cut-out 34 is provided at a longitudinal end of theretention plate 33. The cut-out 34 allows for additional flex of theremovable member 4 to aid removal and insertion of theremovable member 4 into theaerosol provision device 2. -
FIG. 14 shows an aerosol provision system 1 comprising anaerosol provision device 2 and aremovable member 4. Theremovable member 4 comprises twoattachment elements 9 each of which is configured to be received by a corresponding undercut (not shown) in theaerosol provision device 2. Theremovable member 4 comprises a resilient material, for example spring steel, and is configured to be deformed during installation of theremovable member 4 into theaerosol provision device 2. Deforming theremovable member 4 helps to allow for easier fitting into arecess 10 of theaerosol provision device 2. - As discussed above, the provision of a
removable member 4 allows for the customization of the aerosol provision system 1. Such customization could be achieved by aremovable member 4 comprising an adhesive sticker which is attached to theaerosol provision device 2 during manufacturing. The adhesive sticker may comprise a single layer or a plurality of layers. For example, the adhesive sticker comprises an adhesive layer, a patterned layer and a protective layer. The protective layer can be transparent or translucent to allow the patterned layer to be visible through the protective layer. Such an adhesive sticker may comprise a step cut into the surface of the periphery of the sticker or the aerosol provision device to allow for further customization. Alternatively, the adhesive sticker has a uniform surface with no step. However, such adhesive sticker arrangements have limitations since the sticker can be hard to remove, may leave sticky gum on the device, and may not be selectively removeable and be able to be reapplied. Embodiments of the present disclosure overcome these drawbacks, for example by providing aremovable member 4 that is removable and re-attachable and that need not rely on adhesive for holding theremovable member 4 in position on or relative to theaerosol provision device 2. -
FIG. 15 shows part of atool 30 to aid in the removal of theremovable member 4 from theaerosol provision device 2, for example for the removal of theremovable member 4 from theaerosol provision device 2 shown inFIG. 14 . Thetool 30 comprises ahandle 35 that extends linearly along an axis X-X and an engagingportion 31 provided at a distal end of thehandle 35. The engagingportion 31 protrudes from the distal end of thehandle 35 in a direction away from the axis X-X. In use, the engagingportion 31 is configured to engage with theremovable member 4 to aid in removal of theremovable member 4 from theaerosol provision device 2. For example, in use the engagingportion 31 is placed between theremovable member 4 and theaerosol provision device 2 to allow the user to lever theremovable member 4 away from theaerosol provision device 2. In some embodiments, thetool 30 is provided with any of the devices and/or removable members described herein, and further optionally with thetool 15 ofFIG. 8 , to form a kit. - Any of the embodiments discussed herein may be configured to generate aerosol from non-liquid, e.g. solid, aerosol-generating material. Aerosol-generating material is a material that is capable of generating aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other way. Aerosol-generating material may, for example, be in the form of a solid, liquid or gel which may or may not contain an active substance and/or flavorants. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may comprise an “amorphous solid”, which may alternatively be referred to as a “monolithic solid” (i.e. non-fibrous). In some embodiments, the amorphous solid may be a dried gel. The amorphous solid is a solid material that may retain some fluid, such as liquid, within it. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material may for example comprise from about 50 wt %, 60 wt % or 70 wt % of amorphous solid, to about 90 wt %, 95 wt % or 100 wt % of amorphous solid.
- The aerosol-generating material may comprise one or more active substances and/or flavors, one or more aerosol-former materials, and optionally one or more other functional material.
- The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples of the disclosure. Further embodiments of the disclosure are envisaged. It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the disclosure, which is defined in the accompanying claims.
- The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the disclosure as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed disclosure. Various embodiments of the disclosure may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc., other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.
Claims (24)
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
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GBGB2016563.5A GB202016563D0 (en) | 2020-10-19 | 2020-10-19 | Aerosol provision system |
GB2016563.5 | 2020-10-19 | ||
PCT/EP2021/078983 WO2022084332A1 (en) | 2020-10-19 | 2021-10-19 | Aerosol provision system |
Publications (1)
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US20230380496A1 true US20230380496A1 (en) | 2023-11-30 |
Family
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Family Applications (1)
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US18/249,598 Pending US20230380496A1 (en) | 2020-10-19 | 2021-10-19 | Aerosol provision system |
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US (1) | US20230380496A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP4228457A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2023546389A (en) |
KR (1) | KR20230073262A (en) |
GB (1) | GB202016563D0 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2022084332A1 (en) |
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Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20060213505A1 (en) * | 1997-11-14 | 2006-09-28 | Astrazeneca Ab | Inhalation device |
GB201717476D0 (en) * | 2017-10-24 | 2017-12-06 | British American Tobacco Investments Ltd | Aerosol provision system and removable member |
GB201903243D0 (en) * | 2019-03-11 | 2019-04-24 | Nicoventures Trading Ltd | Aerosol provision device |
US20220167681A1 (en) * | 2019-04-04 | 2022-06-02 | Nicoventures Trading Limited | Aerosol generating apparatus |
-
2020
- 2020-10-19 GB GBGB2016563.5A patent/GB202016563D0/en not_active Ceased
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2021
- 2021-10-19 WO PCT/EP2021/078983 patent/WO2022084332A1/en active Application Filing
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- 2021-10-19 EP EP21798609.0A patent/EP4228457A1/en active Pending
- 2021-10-19 US US18/249,598 patent/US20230380496A1/en active Pending
- 2021-10-19 KR KR1020237013019A patent/KR20230073262A/en active Search and Examination
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JP2023546389A (en) | 2023-11-02 |
GB202016563D0 (en) | 2020-12-02 |
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KR20230073262A (en) | 2023-05-25 |
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