WO2023118013A1

WO2023118013A1 - Aerosol provision device

Info

Publication number: WO2023118013A1
Application number: PCT/EP2022/086807
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jorge Gomez; Matthew Holden; Conor MCGRATH
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Limited
Priority date: 2021-12-23
Filing date: 2022-12-19
Publication date: 2023-06-29
Also published as: GB202118882D0

Abstract

An aerosol provision device (100) is provided. The device (100) has a body (102) defining an air flow passage (180) through the body (102) and an opening (190) at one end of the air flow passage (180). An outer cover (300) covers the opening (190), and a threaded engagement is provided between the outer cover (300) and the body (102). An airflow path is defined through at least one of the outer cover (300) and the threaded connection and arranged to allow airflow across the outer cover (300).

Description

AEROSOL PROVISION DEVICE

Technical Field

The present invention relates to an aerosol provision device. The present invention also relates to an aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device and an article comprising aerosol generating material and an outer cover for covering an opening of an air passage in a body of an aerosol provision device.

Background

Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars and the like burn tobacco during use to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles 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.

Summary

In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol provision device, comprising: a body defining an air flow passage through the body and an opening at one end of the air flow passage, an outer cover for covering the opening, and a threaded engagement between the outer cover and the body, wherein an airflow path is defined through at least one of the outer cover and the threaded connection and arranged to allow airflow across the outer cover.

The aerosol provision device may comprise an air channel defined through the threaded engagement, the air channel defining at least part of the airflow path.

The threaded engagement may define an axis, and the air channel may extend in a generally axial direction.

The outer cover may define a first thread and the body may define a second thread which engage to form the threaded engagement.

The first thread may extend annularly around the outer cover.

The air channel may be defined at least in part by the first thread.

The air channel may be defined at least in part by the second thread.

The air channel may have a width of up to 2mm. The air channel may have a width of up to 1mm.

The air channel may be one of a plurality of air channels.

The threaded engagement may be a broken threaded engagement.

The aerosol provision device may comprise a cover member and an air vent in the cover member.

The cover member may be separable from the body.

The thread configuration may be arranged to allow air to pass from a first side surface of the cover member to a second side surface of the cover member.

The air flow passage may define a cavity at an end of the body, wherein the cavity is configured to receive the outer cover.

An interface of the outer cover and the cavity may define an edge liquid restriction. The restriction may define a gap. The cover member may comprise a peripheral rim that protrudes radially around the cover member in the cavity. The spacing between the rim and an inner annular surface of the cavity may define the edge liquid restriction.

The cavity may have an annular inner surface comprising threads that are configured to threadingly engage the threads of the cover member.

The airflow path may extend through the cover member.

The airflow path may comprise an air vent through the cover member. The air vent may define a liquid restriction.

The outer cover may comprise a tool receiving recess configured to receive a tool to aid disengagement of the cover member from the body of the aerosol provision device.

The tool receiving recess may define at least part of the airflow path.

In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device as described in any of the above, and an article containing aerosol generating material arranged to be at least partially received in the aerosol provision device.

In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided an outer cover for covering an opening of an air passage in a body of an aerosol provision device, comprising: a cover member, a thread arrangement on the cover member arranged to threadingly engage with the body, and an airflow path defined through at least one of the cover member and the thread configuration arranged to allow airflow across the cover member.

In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided an outer cover for covering an opening of an air passage in a body of an aerosol provision device, comprising: a cover member, a tool receiving recess configured to receive a tool to aid disengagement of the cover member from the body of the aerosol provision device, and an airflow path defined across the cover member, wherein the tool receiving recess defines at least part of the airflow path.

The cover member may comprise a first side and a second side.

The tool receiving recess may comprise a tool slot on the first side of the cover member.

The cover member may comprise a vent extending through the cover member from the tool slot.

The cover member may comprise a thread for threadingly engaging with the body of the device.

The cover member may be separable from the body.

The vent may be elongate.

The vent may comprise a liquid restriction. The liquid restriction may be the edge of the vent.

The liquid restriction may be elongate.

The liquid restriction may define a gap. The dimensions of the gap may be defined by a surface tension limit in dependence on the shape of the vent.

The gap may have a width of up to 0.6mm. The gap may be up to 0.35mm.

The liquid restriction may be elongate.

The cover member may comprise at least two vents.

The vent may be a first vent, the first vent may have substantially the same cross-section as a second vent.

The first vent may have a different cross-section to the second vent. The tool receiving recess may comprise a recess base and a recess side wall, the vent communicating with the recess side wall.

The tool receiving recess and the tool may have complementary geometric shapes.

The tool receiving recess may have a locating means to locate the tool in position.

The locating means may be a shoulder configured to receive a resilient element.

In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol provision device, comprising: a body defining an air flow passage through the body and an opening at one end of the air flow passage, the outer cover for covering the opening.

In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising the aerosol provision device and a tool configured to engage with the tool receiving recess. In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device as described in any of the above, and an article containing aerosol generating material arranged to be at least partially received in the aerosol provision device.

In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol provision device, comprising: a body defining an airflow passage through the body and an opening at one end of the air flow passage; an outer cover for covering the opening; the body defining a cavity on an outer side of the body arranged to at least partially receive the outer cover, the cavity comprising a base surface and a peripheral wall; and wherein an airflow path is defined between the base surface and the outer cover.

The aerosol provision device may comprise a threaded engagement between the outer cover and the body.

The aerosol provision device may comprise a protrusion arrangement arranged in a space between the base surface and the outer cover.

A stop may limit insertion of the outer cover into the cavity.

The protrusion arrangement may define a tortuous path. The airflow path may define at least in part by a channel in the base surface.

The airflow path may define at least in part by a channel in the outer cover.

The airflow path may define a flow path between the opening and the peripheral wall.

A portion of the airpath may extend through the threaded engagement.

The outer cover may be separable from the body.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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

Figure 1 shows a front view of an aerosol provision device;

Figure 2 shows a perspective side view of the aerosol provision device of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generator of the aerosol provision device of Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 shows a partial plan view of the base of the aerosol provision device of Figure 1 ;

Figure 5 shows a perspective side view of the aerosol provision device of Figure 1 showing an outer side of an outer cover, the outer cover in a disengaged condition;

Figure 6 shows a perspective side view of the aerosol provision device of Figure 1 showing an inner side of the outer cover, the outer cover in a disengaged condition;

Figure 7 shows a side view of an end of the aerosol provision device of Figure 1 with the outer cover in a disengaged condition;

Figure 8 shows a schematic side view of an end of the aerosol provision device of Figure 1 with the outer cover in an engaged condition; and

Figure 9 shows another side view of the end of the aerosol provision device of Figure 1 with the outer cover in the engaged condition. Detailed Description

As used herein, the term “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 flavourants. Aerosol-generating material may include any plant based material, such as tobaccocontaining material and may, for example, include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes. Aerosolgenerating material also may include other, non-tobacco, products, which, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. Aerosol-generating material may for example be in the form of a solid, a liquid, a gel, a wax or the like. Aerosol-generating material may for example also be a combination or a blend of materials. Aerosolgenerating material may also be known as “smokable material”.

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

The aerosol-generating material may comprise or be an “amorphous solid”. The amorphous solid may be a “monolithic solid”. 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 aerosolgenerating material may, for example, comprise from about 50wt%, 60wt% or 70wt% of amorphous solid, to about 90wt%, 95wt% or 100wt% of amorphous solid.

The aerosol-generating material may comprise an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may comprise or be a sheet, which may optionally be shredded to form a shredded sheet. The aerosol-generating sheet or shredded sheet may be substantially tobacco free.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An aerosol generating device can receive an article comprising aerosol generating material for heating. An “article” in this context is a component that includes or contains in use the aerosol generating material, which is heated to volatilise the aerosol generating material, and optionally other components in use. A user may insert the article into the aerosol generating device before it is heated to produce an aerosol, which the user subsequently inhales. The article may be, for example, of a predetermined or specific size that is configured to be placed within a heating chamber of the device which is sized to receive the article.

Figure 1 shows an aerosol provision device 100 for generating aerosol from an aerosol generating material. In broad outline, the device 100 may be used to heat a replaceable article 110 comprising the aerosol generating material, to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium which is inhaled by a user of the device 100.

The device 100 comprises a body 102. A housing arrangement 120 surrounds and houses various components of the body 102. An article aperture 104 is formed at one end of the body 102, through which the article 110 may be inserted for heating by an aerosol generator 200 (refer to Figure 3). In use, the article 110 may be fully or partially inserted into the aerosol generator 200 where it may be heated by one or more components of the aerosol generator 200. The article 110 and the device 100 together form an aerosol provision system 101.

The device 100 may also include a user-operable control element 150, such as a button or switch, which operates the device 100 when pressed. For example, a user may turn on the device 100 by operating the switch 150.

The aerosol generator 200 defines a longitudinal axis (A).

Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the device 100. Figure 3 shows a schematic view of the device 100. The device 100 comprises a first body assembly 130 and a second body assembly 140. The first body assembly 130 comprises the aerosol generator 200.

The first body assembly 130 comprises a first housing 131. The second body assembly 140 comprises a second housing 141 . The first and second body assemblies 130, 140 are fixedly mounted. The first and second body assemblies 130, 140 form the body 102.

The body 102 has end surfaces of the device 100. The end of the device 100 closest to the article aperture 104 may be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) 106 of the device 100 because, in use, it is closest to the mouth of the user. In use, a user inserts an article 110 into the aperture 104, operates the aerosol generator 200 to begin heating the aerosol generating material and draws on the aerosol generated in the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through the device 100 along a flow path towards the proximal end of the device 100.

The other end of the device furthest away from the aperture 104 may be known as the distal end 108 of the device 100 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 device, the aerosol flows in a direction towards the proximal end of the device 100. The terms proximal and distal as applied to features of the device 100 will be described by reference to the relative positioning of such features with respect to each other in a proximal-distal direction along the longitudinal axis.

As used herein, one-piece component refers to a component of the device which is not separable into two or more components following assembly of the device. Integrally formed relates to two or more features that are formed into a one piece component during a manufacturing stage of the component.

An air flow passage 180 extends through the body 102 as shown in Figure 3. The airflow passage 180 extends to an opening 190. The opening 190 acts as an air inlet. An outer cover 300 covers the opening 190. The outer cover 300 in embodiments is vented to allow the flow of air into the air flow passage 180. The outer cover is an end door of the device. The outer cover maybe a clean out door to aid with cleaning. The clean out door in embodiments is removable from the device.

Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generator 200. In one example, the aerosol generator 200 comprises an induction-type heating system, including a magnetic field generator 210. The magnetic field generator 210 comprises an inductor coil assembly 211. The aerosol generator 200 comprises a heating element 220. The heating element is also known as a susceptor.

A susceptor is a material that is heatable by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor may be an electrical ly-conductive material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes induction heating of the heating material. The heating material may be magnetic material, so that penetration thereof with a varying magnetic field causes magnetic hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor may be both electrically-conductive and magnetic, so that the susceptor is heatable by both heating mechanisms. The device that is configured to generate the varying magnetic field is referred to as a magnetic field generator, herein.

The aerosol generator 200 is an inductive heating assembly and comprises various components to heat the aerosol generating material of the article 110 via an inductive heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating an electrically conducting object (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction.

The inductor coil assembly 211 includes a first inductor coil 212 and a second inductor coil 213. In embodiments, the number of inductor coils 212, 213 differs. In embodiments, a single inductor coil is used. The inductor coil assembly 211 also comprises a coil support 214. The coil support 214 is tubular. The coil support 214 comprises a guide 215 for the coils 212, 213. The guide 215 comprises a channel on an outer side of the coil support 214.

The heating element 220 is part of a heating assembly 221. The heating element 220 of this example is hollow and therefore defines at least part of a receptacle 222 within which aerosol generating material is received. For example, the article 110 can be inserted into the heating element 220. The heating element 220 is tubular, with a circular cross section. The heating element 220 has a generally constant diameter along its axial length.

The heating element 220 is formed from an electrically conducting material suitable for heating by electromagnetic induction. The susceptor in the present example is formed from a carbon steel. It will be understood that other suitable materials may be used, for example a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel or cobalt. In other embodiments, the feature acting as the heating element 220 may not be limited to being inductively heated. The feature, acting as a heating element, may therefore be heatable by electrical resistance. The aerosol generator 200 may therefore comprise electrical contacts for electrical connection with the apparatus for electrically activating the heating element by passing a flow of electrical energy through the heating element.

The receptacle 222 and article 110 are dimensioned so that the article 110 is received by the heating element 220. This helps ensure that the heating is most efficient. The article 110 of this example comprises aerosol generating material. The aerosol generating material is positioned within the receptacle 222. The article 110 may also comprise other components such as a filter, wrapping materials and/or a cooling structure.

A first end support 230 supports the heating element 220. The first end support 230 supports the heating element 220 at a first, distal, end. A second end support 231 supports the heating element 220. The second end support 231 supports the heating element 220 at a second, proximal, end. The first and second end supports 230, 231 act as receptacle supports.

The air flow passage 180 extends from the heating element 220. The air flow passage 180 is at the first, distal, end. The air flow passage 180 protrudes from the heating element 220. The air flow passage 180 extending from the heating element 220 is defined by a flow path member 182. The heating element 220 and the flow path member 182 forms part of an airflow path arrangement 181.

The flow path member 182 extends between the heating element 220 and the opening 190. The flow path member 182 is tubular. The flow path member 182 defines a bore. The flow path member extends in an axial direction along its length.

The flow path member 182 and the heating element 220 intersect at a juncture 183. The flow path member 182 overlaps the heating element 220. The flow path member 182 comprises a first section 184 having a first diameter and a second section 185 having a second diameter. The diameter of the first section 184 is greater than the diameter of the second section 185. An intermediate section 186 extends between the first and second sections 184, 185. The intermediate section 186 forms a shoulder. The shoulder acts as a stop to limit insertion of the article 110. The flow path member 182 overlaps the heating element 220 between about 1 mm and about 3mm. In this particular example, the overlap is 2mm. In examples, there is no overlap. The juncture 183 assists with forming a thermally conductive path.

The fluid seal at the juncture 183 is formed in embodiments by a mechanical fabricated joint, for example a weld. The fluid seal at the juncture 183 is formed by a laser weld process, however it will be understood that other methods may be used such as brazing and adhering. The flow path member 182 is formed from a thermally conductive material. In embodiments, the flow path member 182 is formed from a carbon steel. The flow path member 182 in embodiments is formed from the same material as the heating element 220. By such processes the heating element 220 and flow path member 182 are fabricated as a one-piece component.

The abutment of the heating element 220 and the flow path member 182 provides for heat transfer by conduction. As such, it is possible to aid passive heating of the flow path member 182.

The second end support 231 defines an insertion chamber 234. The insertion chamber 234 is configured to receive the article 110 therethrough.

The heating element 220 extends between the first and second end supports 230, 231. A barrier member 233 extends between the first end support 231 and the second end support 232.

Figure 4 shows a partial plan view of the base of the aerosol generating device 100. The first body assembly 130 is generally tubular.

The first housing 131 is tubular. The first housing 131 has a circular crosssection. It will be understood that in embodiments the housing on which the outer cover is mounted may be non-tubular. The outer cover 300 is disposed at the distal end 108 of the first housing 131. The outer cover 300 covers the opening 190 at the distal end 108 of the first housing 131. When disposed in the first housing 131 , the outer cover 300 is flush with the distal end 108 of the first housing 131. The outer cover 300 comprises a cover member 302. The cover member has a first side 304 and a second side 306.

The air flow passage 180 defines a cover cavity at the distal end of the body 102. The cavity defines the opening 190. The cavity is configured to receive the cover member 302. The cavity has a depth generally corresponding to the thickness of the cover member 302. The cover member 302 is configured to be inserted into the opening 190. The cover member 302 and the cavity have corresponding cross-sections. The cover member 302 has a circular cross-sectional shape. An annular wall 308 connects the first side 304 of the cover member 302 to the second side 306. The annular wall 308 is configured to engage the first housing 131.

The first side 304 of the cover member 302 comprises a tool receiving recess 310. The tool receiving recess 310 is a tool receiving recess configured to receive a tool (not shown). The tool is configured to aid in inserting and removing the outer cover 300 from the opening 190. The recess 310 has a tool slot 312. The tool slot 312 is an aperture configured to receive the tool. The tool slot 312 is elongate. The tool slot 312 and the tool have complimentary geometries. The tool slot 312 is disposed centrally on the first side 304 of the cover member 302. Though in the shown embodiment the tool slot 312 is elongate and disposed centrally on the first side 304, the geometry and location of the tool slot may differ in embodiments.

Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the distal end 108 of the aerosol generating device 100 with the outer cover 300 separated from the body 102. The first side 304 of the outer cover 300 is shown. The distal end 108 of the first body assembly 130 comprises the cavity 330. The opening 190 at an end of the airflow passage 180 is defined in the cavity 330. The outer cover 300 can be inserted into the cavity 330 to cover the opening 190. The cavity 330 comprises a base surface 332 and an annular inner surface 334. The annular inner surface 334 is a portion of an inner surface 132 of the first housing 131. The cavity 330 has a height H1 that extends from a distal end surface 134 of the first housing 131 to the base surface 332 of the cavity 330. The base surface 332 comprises a protrusion 336. The protrusion 336 extends annularly around the opening 190. The protrusion 336 follows a generally circular path around the opening 190. The protrusion 336 extends axially at least partially the height H1 of the cavity 330. The base surface 332 comprises a second protrusion 338, wherein protrusion 336 is a first protrusion. The second protrusion 338 is disposed radially outward of the first protrusion 336. The second protrusion 338 extends a greater axial distance than that of the first protrusion 336. A channel 340 exists between the first and second protrusions 336, 338. The channel 340 extends annularly. The radial width of the channel 340 is constant around the annular extent of the channel 340. The channel 340 is a trough. In the shown embodiment, the second protrusion extends annularly to surround the first protrusion, but it can be appreciated that the second protrusion may only extend partially around the first protrusion. It can be further appreciated that the second protrusion may extend axially any distance, including a distance less than that of the first protrusion. The channel may also not be a constant width in embodiments. The number of protrusions may differ, and may include a single protrusion, or protrusions may be omitted.

The annular inner surface 334 of the cavity 330 comprises a thread 342. The thread 342 extends annularly partially around the annular inner surface 334. It can be appreciated that the number of protrusions and channels of the cavity 330 may differ. In embodiments, the cavity 330 may only comprise one protrusion. In embodiments the configuration of the annular inner surface may differ. The cavity thread 342 has a single turn. In embodiments, the cavity thread 342 comprises two or more turns. Each turn may be axially offset relative to each other. The cavity thread 342 is a broken thread. The break in the cavity thread 342 defines at least a part of a cavity air channel 343. The cavity air channel 343 extends from the distal surface of the body to the base surface 332 of the cavity 330.

The annular wall 308 of the cover member 302 comprises a cover member thread 350. The thread 350 extends annularly around the annular wall 308 of the cover member 302. The thread 350 is a broken thread. There is a thread air channel 354 disposed on the annular wall 308. The thread air channel 354 extends generally axially and is configured to allow air to pass from the first side 304 of the cover member 302 to the second side 306. The thread air channel 354 is disposed in a break in the thread 350. The thread 350 of the cover member 302 is configured to engage the cavity thread 342. When the thread 350 of the cover member 302 and the cavity thread 342 are engaged, the cover member 302 is secured within the cavity 330 and covers the opening 190.

When the cover member thread 350 and the cavity thread 342 are engaged, the thread air channel 354 and the cavity air channel 343 are aligned. When aligned, the thread air channel 354 and the cavity air channel 343 define an airflow passage 344 (see Figure 8). The airflow passage 344 extends from the first side of the cover member 302 to the second side. The airflow passage 344 has an annular width. The annular width of the airflow passage 344 is approximately 0.35mm. The airflow passage 344 has a radial width. The radial width is measured between the annular surface of the outer cover 300 and the inner annular surface 334 of the cavity 330. The radial width is up to approximately 2mm. The radial width may also be known as the width, or a gap of the airflow passage 344. The interaction of the cavity 330 and the cover member 302 defines a restriction in the airflow path. The airflow passage 344 provides a passage through the restriction. In embodiments, the radial width may be up to 1mm.

The radial width of the airflow passage 344, also known as the gap, is defined by the thread air channel 354 and the cavity air channel 343. In embodiments, only one of the cover member thread 350 and the cavity thread 342 has a break defining the airflow passage 344. In such an embodiment, the airflow passage 344 is defined by one of the thread air channel 354 and the cavity air channel 343.

In embodiments, the restriction may be defined by the threaded engagement between the thread 350 and the cavity thread 342. In embodiments, the restriction may be defined between another feature of the cavity 330 and the cover member 302. In embodiments, a peripheral rim 346 protrudes radially around the cover member 302 in the cavity 330. The spacing between the free edge 347 of the rim 346 and the inner annular surface 334 of the cavity 330 defines the restriction. The restriction extends around the peripheral edge of the outer cover and has a width smaller than the width of the airflow passage 344. The restriction has a maximum width of 0.5mm. In embodiments, the maximum width of the restriction may differ. For example, in embodiments the restriction may have a maximum width of 0.16mm.

The thread 350 of the cover member 302 has a single turn. The turn extends the entire annular wall of the cover member 302 such that it surrounds the cover member 302. In embodiments, the thread 350 may not extend all the way around the cover member 350. It can be appreciated that the number of turns of the thread 350 may differ. In embodiments, the thread 350 may comprise less than one turn, for example a quarter of a turn, or half a turn. In embodiments, the thread 350 may comprise two or more turns. The two or more turns may be axially offset from each another. The two or more turns may each extend the entire annular extent of the annular inner surface. The two or more turns may engage corresponding turns of the cavity thread 342. The thread air channel may be defined at least in part by the two or more turns of the thread 350. The threaded engagement may comprise a plurality of thread air channels.

The first side 304 of the cover member 302 comprises the tool receiving recess 310 configured to receive the tool. The tool receiving recess 310 has a base surface 356 and a side wall 358. The side wall 358 of the tool receiving recess 310 extends from the base surface 356 to the first side 304 of the cover member 302. The side wall 358 of the tool receiving recess 310 has a first vent 360 and a second vent (not shown) disposed proximate the base surface 356. The vent 360 extends from the tool receiving recess 310 to the second side 306 of the cover member 302. The vent has an elongate cross-sectional shape. The recess side wall 358 has a shoulder 362 that partially defines an opening 364 of the vent 360. The shoulder 362 is configured to receive a fixing member of the tool. The shoulder 362 locates the tool in position to aid in the insertion or removal of the cover member 302 by use of the tool. It can be appreciated that the number of vents may differ, and that in some embodiments only one vent may be used. In embodiments, the dimension of the vent 360 may differ. The cross sectional-shape of the vent 360 may differ. For example, the cross-sectional shape may be circular or that of polygon. The cross-sectional shape of the vent 360 may vary through the vent from the first side 304 to the second side 306 of the outer cover 300. In embodiments, a plurality of vents may be used. Each vent in the plurality of vents may be identical. Each vent in the plurality of vents may differ in width, length, cross- sectional shape or in any other spatial extent. The plurality of vents may be micro holes. The micro holes may define bores through the outer cover 300. The micro holes may be distributed over the base surface of the recess 356.

Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the distal end 108 of the aerosol generating device 100 with the outer cover 300 separated from the body 102. The second side 306 of the outer cover 300 is shown. A first aperture and a second aperture are shown. The first aperture 370 defines a second end of the first vent 360, wherein the opening 364 is a first end. The second aperture 372 defines second end of the second vent 374, wherein a second opening in the recess side wall is a first end of the second vent 374. The apertures 370, 372 are elongate and extend longitudinally along the second side 306 of the cover member 302. The apertures 370, 372 have a width W and a length L. The width W and the length L of the apertures 370, 372 are selected in order to provide a liquid restriction. In embodiments, the selection of the width and length of the apertures is defined by the surface tension limits of the liquid, for example water, arranged to flow to the vents. The surface tension limits of the liquid will vary with the shape of the vents 360, 374. An example width of the apertures 370, 372 is 0.6mm and an example length of the apertures 370, 372 is 6.97mm, however this is merely an example and not intended to be limiting to the dimensions or shape of the apertures 370, 372 or the vents 360, 374.

The second side 306 of the cover member 302 has a first cover protrusion 376 and a second cover protrusion 378. The first and the second cover protrusions 376, 378 extend axially away from the second side 306 of the cover member 302 and are configured to be offset from the first and second protrusions 336, 338 of the cavity 330 when the outer cover 300 is disposed to cover the opening 190. The geometry of the first and second cover protrusions 376, 378 is substantially similar to the first and second protrusions. The first and second cover protrusions 376, 378 extend annularly. The first and second cover protrusions 376, 378 extend circumferentially such that the first and second cover protrusions 376, 378 follow a circular path. The first and second cover protrusions 376, 378 are spaced in a radial direction. The space between the first and second cover protrusions 376, 378 defines a cover channel 345.

The outer cover 300 further comprises a stop 380. The stop is configured to limit insertion of the outer cover into the device. The stop 380 allows the outer cover 300 to be inserted into the position that maximises airflow into the device. The stop 380 is configured such that the air channel 343 and the thread air channel 342 are aligned. The stop 380 is configured to retain a gap between the outer cover 300 and the base surface 332 of the recess 330. This ensures airflow between the outer cover 300 and the base surface 332 of the recess 330. The stop 380 in the shown embodiment is a shoulder 382 on the annular surface 308. The shoulder 382 is configured to prevent over insertion of the outer cover 300 into the cavity 330 by contacting a surface of the device. The shoulder 382 extends radially and extends annularly around the entire circumference of the outer cover 300. It can be appreciated that any stopping means can be employed to prevent over insertion of the outer cover 300 into the cavity 330. Another example of a stopping means not shown in the Figures is an axial protrusion from the base surface 332 of the cavity 330 to contact the second side 306 of the outer cover 300 once the outer cover 300 has been inserted.

Figure 7 shows a section view of the body 102 and the outer cover 300, wherein the outer cover 300 is separated from the distal end 108 of the body 102. The first body assembly 130 comprises a distal end member 390. The distal surface of the distal end member 390 provides the base surface 332 of the cavity 330. The distal end member 390 is mounted to and surrounds the flow path member 182. The distal end member 390 has a seal 394 disposed around a peripheral surface 396 of the distal end member 390. The seal 394 provides fluid sealing between the distal end member 390 and the inner surface 132 of the first housing 131. The seal 394 prevents air or condensate from passing between the distal end member 390 and the first housing 131. By preventing the ingress of condensate, liquid or other unwanted material from further entering the first housing, the seal 394 protects components of the device 100 housed in the first housing, for example electronic components such as those found in the aerosol generator 200.

Figure 8 shows a section view of the distal end 108 of the device 100, wherein the outer cover 300 is engaged in the cavity 330. The first and second cover protrusions 376, 378 are configured so that when the outer cover 300 is disposed to cover the opening 190 the first cover protrusion 376 corresponds to the channel 340 and extends therein. The second cover protrusion 378 is configured to extend radially outward of the second protrusion 338 of the base surface 332. A gap 400 between the base surface 332 of the cavity 330 and the first side 304 of the outer cover 300 defines a portion of a first airflow path 410. The first airflow path 410 comprises a first portion 412 through the airflow passage 344 and a second portion 414 through the gap 400 between the outer cover 300 and the cavity 330. The first airflow path 410 is an inlet airflow for the device. The gap 400 between the outer cover 300 and the base surface 332 of the cavity 330 is constant. The configuration of the first, second, first cover and second cover protrusions 336, 338, 376, 378 results in the second portion 414 of the first airflow path 410 being a tortuous path. The tortuous path helps mitigate the flow of condensate in the airflow passage. The tortuous path acts as an obstacle to prevent condensate from flowing. The tortuous path helps prevent condensate blocking the airflow passage 344 where the greatest volume of airflow occurs. The tortuous path helps prevent condensate blocking the thread air channel 354. The tortuous path prevents condensate from reaching the exterior of the device 100. The tortuous path prevents condensate from exiting the device 100.

Figure 9 a section view of the distal end 108 of the device system at a different angle to that of Figure 8, wherein the outer cover 300 is disposed in the cavity 330. A second airflow path 420 is shown. The second airflow path 420 is split into a first portion through the first vent 360 and a second portion through the second vent 422. The second airflow path 420 extends through the outer cover 300 from the first side 304 to the second side 306. The second airflow path extends through the outer cover 300 to the opening 190. The first opening 364 and a second opening 424 are inlets, and the first and second apertures 370, 372 are outlets of the second airflow path 420.

The first and second airflow paths 410, 420 act as inlet paths for the device. When the user draws on the device, air passes into the device via the first and second airflow paths 410, 420 and into the flow path member 182 via the opening 190. In embodiments, the first airflow path 410 may be a primary airflow path and the second airflow path 420 may be a secondary airflow path. In this embodiment, the majority of the airflow into the device may occur through the first airflow path 410. Once the user has completed using the device, condensate can form as the device cools down. The configuration described herein can allows the condensate to build up in the vents 360, 422 extending through the outer cover, thereby leaving the first flow path 410 unblocked. The performance of the device over multiple uses may therefore be greatly improved.

A tool (not shown) is may be used to insert or remove the outer cover 300 from the cavity 330. The tool comprises a protrusion configured to extend through the tool slot 312 and into the recess 310 of the outer cover 300. The protrusion has a corresponding geometrical shape to the tool slot 312. The protrusion extends into the recess 310 of the outer cover 300 when inserted. The protrusion can comprise a locating feature that corresponds to the fixing member 362 of the recess 310 of the outer cover 300. The locating feature is a snap hook. The locating feature secures the tool in the tool slot 312 to enable ease of use for the user. The user is able to twist the tool, which in turn twists the outer cover. The outer cover rotates with the tool relative to the device. When the outer cover is rotating relative to the device, the threads and the threaded surfaces move relative to each other. The outer cover is inserted or removed as the threads engage or disengage as a result of the relative movement. It can be appreciated that any locating feature of the tool can be used, for example a magnetic connector. In embodiments, the tool may be any other body that can be inserted into the recess 310 that would aid in levering the outer cover. For example, the tool may be a coin or a flathead screwdriver.

The various embodiments described herein are presented only to assist in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided as a representative sample of embodiments only, and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. It is to be understood that advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures, and/or other aspects described herein are not to be considered limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations on equivalents to the claims, and that other embodiments may be utilised and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. Various embodiments of the invention may suitably comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, appropriate combinations of the disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, means, etc, other than those specifically described herein. In addition, this disclosure may include other inventions not presently claimed, but which may be claimed in future.

Claims

1. An aerosol provision device, comprising: a body defining an air flow passage through the body and an opening at one end of the air flow passage, an outer cover for covering the opening, and a threaded engagement between the outer cover and the body, wherein an airflow path is defined through at least one of the outer cover and the threaded connection and arranged to allow airflow across the outer cover.

2. The aerosol provision device of claim 1 , comprising an air channel defined through the threaded engagement, the air channel defining at least part of the airflow path.

3. The aerosol provision device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the threaded engagement defines an axis, and the air channel extends in a generally axial direction.

4. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the outer cover defines a first thread and the body defines a second thread which engage to form the threaded engagement.

5. The aerosol provision device of claim 4, wherein the first thread extends annularly around the outer cover.

6. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the air channel is defined at least in part by at least one of the first thread and the second thread.

7. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the threaded engagement is a broken threaded engagement.

8. The aerosol provision system of any of claims 1 to 7, comprising a tool receiving recess configured to receive a tool to aid disengagement of the cover member from the body of the aerosol provision device.

9. The aerosol provision system of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the tool receiving recess defines at least part of the airflow path.

10. The aerosol provision system of claim 9, comprising an air vent through the cover member, wherein the vent defines a liquid restriction.

11. The aerosol provision system of any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the body defines a cavity on an outer side of the body arranged to at least partially receive the outer cover, the cavity comprising a base surface and a peripheral wall; and wherein an airflow path is defined at least in part between the base surface and the outer cover.

12. The aerosol provision system of claim 11 , wherein the base surface and the outer cover defines a liquid restriction.

13. An aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device of any of claims 1 to 12, and an article containing aerosol generating material arranged to be at least partially received in the aerosol provision device.

14. An outer cover for covering an opening of an air passage in a body of an aerosol provision device, comprising: a cover member; a thread arrangement on the cover member arranged to threadingly engage with the body; and an airflow path defined through at least one of the cover member and the thread configuration arranged to allow airflow across the cover member.

15. An outer cover for covering an opening of an air passage in a body of an aerosol provision device, comprising: a cover member; a tool receiving recess configured to receive a tool to aid disengagement of the cover member from the body of the aerosol provision device; and an airflow path defined across the cover member, wherein the tool receiving recess defines at least part of the airflow path.

16. The outer cover of claim 15, wherein the cover member comprises a first side and a second side, and wherein the tool receiving recess comprises a tool slot on the first side of the cover member.

17. The outer cover of claim 15 or 16, comprising a vent extending through the cover member from the tool slot.

18. The outer cover of any of claims 15 to 17, wherein the cover member comprises a thread for threadingly engaging with the body of the device.

19. The outer cover of any of claims 15 to 18, wherein the cover member is separable from the body.

20. The outer cover of any of claims 15 to 19, wherein the vent defines a liquid restriction.

21. The outer cover of claim 20, wherein the liquid restriction is dependent on a surface tension limit.

22. The outer cover of claim 20 or 21 , wherein the liquid restriction is elongate.

23. An aerosol provision device, comprising: a body defining an air flow passage through the body and an opening at one end of the air flow passage, an outer cover for covering the opening according to any of claims 15 to 22.

24. An aerosol provision system comprising the aerosol provision device according to claim 23; and a tool configured to engage with the tool receiving recess.

25. An aerosol provision device, comprising: a body defining an airflow passage through the body and an opening at one end of the air flow passage; an outer cover for covering the opening; the body defining a cavity on an outer side of the body arranged to at least partially receive the outer cover, the cavity comprising a base surface and a peripheral wall; and wherein an airflow path is defined between the base surface and the outer cover.

26. The aerosol provision device of claim 25, comprising a threaded engagement between the outer cover and the body.

27. The aerosol provision device of claim 25 or 26, comprising a protrusion arrangement arranged to space the base surface from the outer cover.

28. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 25 to 27, wherein the protrusion arrangement defines a tortuous path.

29. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 25 to 28, wherein the airflow path is defined at least in part by a channel in at least one of the base surface and the outer cover.

30. An aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device of any of claims 25 to 29, and an article containing aerosol generating material arranged to be at least partially received in the aerosol provision device.