WO2023214045A1

WO2023214045A1 - Aerosol provision device

Info

Publication number: WO2023214045A1
Application number: PCT/EP2023/061994
Authority: WO
Inventors: Conor MCGRATH; Matthew Holden; Jack GOODEVE; Jorge Gomez
Original assignee: Nicoventures Trading Limited
Priority date: 2022-05-06
Filing date: 2023-05-05
Publication date: 2023-11-09

Abstract

An aerosol provision device (101) for generating aerosol from aerosol-generating material is described. The device (101) comprises a body (107) and a receptacle (109) configured to receive at least part of an article (102) comprising aerosol- generating material. The body (107) has an opening (108) communicating with the receptacle (109). The device (101) further comprises a cover mechanism (300). The cover mechanism (300) comprises a cover member (320) arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening (108). The cover member (320) is arranged to move relative to the body (107) between a relatively open position in which at least part of an article (102) is able to be inserted through the opening (108) and a relatively closed position in which at least part of an article (102) is prevented from being inserted through the opening (108). The cover mechanism (300) further comprises an actuating member (330) arranged to move relative to the body (107) and a gear mechanism (340) arranged to move the cover member (320) upon movement of the actuating member (330).

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.

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 for generating aerosol from aerosol-generating material, the device comprising a body; a receptacle configured to receive at least part of an article comprising aerosol-generating material; the body having an opening communicating with the receptacle; and a cover mechanism comprising: a cover member arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening, wherein the cover member is arranged to move relative to the body between a relatively open position in which at least part of an article is able to be inserted through the opening and a relatively closed position in which at least part of an article is prevented from being inserted through the opening; an actuating member arranged to move relative to the body; and a gear mechanism arranged to move the cover member upon movement of the actuating member.

The actuating member may be arranged to rotate relative to the body.

The cover member may be arranged to pivot relative to the body.

The cover member and the actuating member may be arranged to rotate about parallel axes. The axis of rotation of the cover member may be offset from the axis of rotation of the actuating member.

The cover member may be arranged to translate relative to the body.

The translation of the cover member may be a linear translation.

The translation of the cover member may be an arcuate translation.

The gear mechanism may comprise an actuating toothed portion on the actuating member.

The gear mechanism may comprise a cover toothed portion on the cover member.

The movement of the actuating member relative to the body may cause the cover member to move as motion is transmitted between the actuating toothed portion and the cover toothed portion.

The aerosol provision device may comprise a gear arranged to intermesh with the actuating toothed portion and the cover toothed portion. Motion may be transmitted from the actuating toothed portion to the toothed portion via the gear.

Wherein the gear may rotate about an axis of rotation parallel to the axis of rotation of the actuating member.

The gear may comprise a first gear segment and a second gear segment.

The gear may comprise a first gear segment arranged to intermesh with the actuating toothed portion and a second gear segment arranged to intermesh with the cover toothed portion.

The first gear segment may drive the second gear segment.

The first gear segment and the second gear segment may be fixed relative to each other.

The first gear segment and the second gear segment may be coaxial.

The first gear segment and the second gear segment may be axially offset.

The actuating toothed portion and the cover toothed portion may be axially offset. The first gear segment and the second gear segment may differ in at least one aspect to provide a gear ratio. The first gear segment and the second gear segment may differ in at least one of pitch, pitch diameter and number of teeth.

The gear mechanism may comprise a rack and pinion arrangement.

The actuating toothed portion may directly intermesh with the cover toothed portion of the cover member.

The actuating member may comprise a peripheral wall. The actuating toothed portion may be on an inner side of the peripheral wall.

The cover mechanism may comprise a guide arranged to guide the movement of the at least one cover member.

The guide may comprise a track. The guide may comprise a channel. The guide may be formed in the body.

The guide may comprise at least two parallel channels.

The actuating member may comprise a housing portion covering at least part of the body.

The at least part of the body may extend in the housing portion.

The gear mechanism may extend in the housing portion.

The housing portion may comprise a gap through which at least a part of the cover member is arranged to be received.

The gap may be in the peripheral wall.

The peripheral wall may be a peripheral skirt.

The gap may be a slot. The gap may overlap the actuating toothed portion in a peripheral direction. The gap and the actuating toothed portion may be axially offset in a longitudinal direction.

The gap may be provided in the peripheral wall such that the gap and the actuating toothed portion are arranged adjacent to one another in a longitudinal direction.

The gap may be elongate. The gap may extend in a circumferential direction. The cover member may be arranged to be retracted from the gap in the relatively closed position. The cover member may be arranged to extend in the gap in the relatively open position.

The body may have a pocket for receiving the at least part of the cover member.

The pocket may be defined within a portion of the body adjacent to the actuating member.

The gap may be hidden by the body of the device throughout the range of movement of the actuating member.

The actuating member may comprise an aperture arranged to receive at least a portion of an article comprising aerosol.

The aperture is aligned with the opening.

The cover member may be arranged to fully cover the opening in the relatively closed position.

The cover member may be arranged to be fully retracted from the opening in the relatively open position.

The cover member may comprise a first cover member and a second cover member. The actuating toothed portion may be arranged to transmit motion to the cover toothed portion of the first cover member and to the cover toothed portion of the second cover member.

The actuating toothed portion may comprise a first actuating toothed portion arranged to transmit motion to the cover toothed portion of the first cover member and a second actuated toothed portion arranged to transmit motion to the cover toothed portion of the second cover member.

The first cover member and the second cover member may be configured to interface in the relatively closed position.

In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided an aerosol provision device for generating aerosol from aerosol-generating material, the device comprising a body; a receptacle configured to receive at least part of an article comprising aerosol-generating material; the body having an opening communicating with the receptacle; and a cover mechanism comprising: a cover member arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening, wherein the cover member is arranged to move relative to the body between a relatively open position in which at least part of an article is able to be inserted through the opening and a relatively closed position in which at least part of an article is prevented from being inserted through the opening.

In accordance with some embodiments described herein, there is provided a cover mechanism for an aerosol provision device, comprising a body having an opening configured to receive at least part of an article comprising aerosolgenerating material; and a cover mechanism comprising: a cover member arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening, wherein the cover member is arranged to move relative to the body between a relatively open position in which at least part of an article is able to be inserted through the opening and a relatively closed position in which at least part of an article is prevented from being inserted through the opening; an actuating member arranged to move relative to the body; and a gear mechanism arranged to move the cover member upon movement of the actuating member.

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 comprising aerosol-generating material.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an aerosol provision system including an aerosol provision device and an article comprising aerosol generating material;

Figure 2 shows an exploded view of a cover mechanism for use with an aerosol provision device;

Figure 3A shows a cross-sectional top view of the cover mechanism of Figure 2 in a relatively closed position;

Figure 3B shows a cross-sectional top view of the cover mechanism of Figure 2 in a relatively open position; Figure 4A shows a cross-sectional top view of a cover mechanism in a relatively closed position;

Figure 4B shows a cross-sectional top view of the cover mechanism of Figure 4A in a relatively open position;

Figure 5A shows a cross-sectional top view of a cover mechanism in a relatively closed position; and

Figure 5B shows a cross-sectional top view of the cover mechanism of Figure 5A in a relatively open position.

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 tobacco-containing material and may, for example, include one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco or tobacco substitutes. Aerosol-generating material also may include other, non-tobacco, products, which, depending on the product, may or may not contain nicotine. Aerosolgenerating 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. Aerosol-generating 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 aerosolgenerating material may or may not be soluble in the solvent. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating 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 aerosol- generating 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 example of an aerosol provision system 100. The system 100 comprises an aerosol provision device 101 for generating aerosol from an aerosol generating material, and a replaceable article 102 comprising the aerosol generating material. The article 102 is a consumable.

The device 101 defines a longitudinal axis 103, along which the article 102 may extend when inserted into the device 101. In use, a user draws on the aerosol generated in the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through the article 102 along a flow path towards a proximal end 104 of the device 101. The proximal end (or mouth end) 104 of the device 101 is the closest to the mouth of the user when the device 101 is in use. The other end of the device 101, furthest away from the proximal end 104, is known as the distal end 105 of the device 101 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 104 of the device 101. The terms proximal and distal as applied to features of the device 101 will be described by reference to the relative positioning of such features with respect to each other in a proximal-distal direction along the axis 103.

The device 101 includes a button assembly 106, which operates the device 101 when pressed. For example, a user may turn on the device 101 by operating the button assembly 106.

The device 101 comprises a body 107. The body 107 comprises a housing, which surrounds and houses various components of the device 101. An opening 108 is formed at one end of the body 107, through which the article 102 may be inserted for heating. In use, the article 102 may be fully or partially inserted into the device 101 where it may be heated by one or more components of the device 101. Figure 1 shows the article 102 received into the device 101. The article 102 is sized to be at least partially received by a receptacle 109. The receptacle 109 is formed into the body 107 of the device.

The device 101 includes an apparatus for heating aerosol-generating material. The apparatus includes an aerosol generating assembly, a controller (control circuit), and a power source. The apparatus forms part of the body 107. The receptacle 109 forms part of the apparatus. The apparatus may include a chassis and other components forming part of the device 101. The aerosol generating assembly is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material of an article 102 inserted into the receptacle 109, such that an aerosol is generated from the aerosol generating material. The power source supplies electrical power to the aerosol generating assembly, and the aerosol generating assembly converts the supplied electrical energy into heat energy for heating the aerosol-generating material. The power source may be, for example, a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, a lithium battery (such as a lithium-ion battery), a nickel battery (such as a nickel-cadmium battery), and an alkaline battery. The power source may be electrically coupled to the aerosol generating assembly to supply electrical power when required and under control of the controller to heat the aerosol generating material. The control circuit may be configured to activate and deactivate the aerosol generating assembly based on a user input.

The aerosol generating assembly may comprise various components to heat the aerosol generating material via an inductive heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating an electrically conducting heating element (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. An induction heating assembly may comprise an inductive element, for example, one or more inductor coils, and a device for passing a varying electric current, such as an alternating electric current, through the inductive element. The varying electric current in the inductive element produces a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field penetrates a susceptor (heating element) suitably positioned with respect to the inductive element, and generates eddy currents inside the susceptor. The susceptor has electrical resistance to the eddy currents, and hence the flow of the eddy currents against this resistance causes the susceptor to be heated by Joule heating. In cases where the susceptor comprises ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis losses in the susceptor, i.e. by the varying orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of their alignment with the varying magnetic field. In inductive heating, as compared to heating by conduction for example, heat is generated inside the susceptor, allowing for rapid heating. Further, there need not be any physical contact between the inductive element and the susceptor, allowing for enhanced freedom in construction and application.

The device 101 comprises a cover mechanism 300. The cover mechanism 300 is configured to selectively restrict insertion of the article 102 through the opening 108. In this regard, the cover mechanism 300 is arranged to cover, uncover or partially cover the opening 108 during use of the device 101. In embodiments, a user may operate the cover mechanism 300 to cover the opening 108 when the device 101 is not in use. This may be done to prevent dust, dirt or other particles from entering the receptacle 109 of the device 101. In embodiments, a user may operate the cover mechanism 300 to uncover the opening 108 such that the article 102 may be inserted into the device 101 for heating. In embodiments, a user may operate the cover mechanism 300 to only partially cover the opening 108. This may be done to minimise particle ingression while allowing for ventilation of the receptacle 109.

The cover mechanism 300 is configured to be selectively operated between a relatively open and a relatively closed position. In the relatively open position, the opening 108 is at least partially uncovered. In the relatively closed position, the opening 108 is at least partially covered. A larger portion of the opening 108 is covered in the relatively closed position than in the relatively open position. In the relatively open position, the article 102 is able to be inserted through the opening 108. In the relatively closed position, the article 102 is prevented from being inserted through the opening 108. In embodiments, the opening 108 may be fully uncovered in the relatively open position. In embodiments, the opening 108 may be fully covered in the relatively closed position. In embodiments, the opening 108 may be fully covered in the relatively closed position such that the cover mechanism 300 forms a seal around the opening 108. The terms open and closed as applied to features of the cover mechanism 300 are herein described in relation to one another.

Figure 2 shows an exploded view of the cover mechanism 300. Figures 3A and 3B show cross-sectional views of the cover mechanism 300 in a relatively closed position and a relatively open position respectively. The cover mechanism 300 may be used with the aerosol provision device 101 of Figure 1 and will be described by reference to that device.

With reference to Figure 2, the cover mechanism 300 comprises a chassis 302. The chassis 302 is rigidly fixed to the body 107 of the device 101. In this regard, the chassis 302 forms part of the body 107. The chassis 302 is fixed in position such that it cannot rotate relative to the body 107. This may be achieved through various fasteners, screw mechanisms and/or clips. For example, resilient clips 303 and an elongated feature 304 are shown in Figure 2. In embodiments, the chassis 302 may be integrally formed with the body 107.

An aperture 307 is formed through the chassis 302. The aperture 307 forms part of the opening 108 of the device 101 and is in fluid communication with the receptacle 109. An article comprising aerosol generating material, such as the article 102, is inserted into the receptacle 109 of device 101 through the aperture 307. As such, the aperture 307 is dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the article 102. The aperture 307 is axially aligned with longitudinal axis 103.

The chassis 302 also comprises a guide 305. With reference to Figures 3A and 3B, the guide 305 includes tracks 308. The tracks 308 are formed integral to the chassis 302. The tracks 308 are parallel to one another. The tracks 308 are formed on a proximal surface 310 of the chassis 302. In the embodiment shown, the tracks 308 comprise guide rails. The guide rails protrude from the proximal surface 310. In embodiments, the guide 305 may comprise more than two tracks or a single track. In embodiments, the guide tracks 308 may comprise channels instead.

The cover mechanism 300 comprises a cover member 320. The cover member 320 is generally planar. The cover member 320 comprises a blade 321. In the embodiment shown, the cover member is a single component. The cover member 320 is arranged to move relative to the chassis 302. Accordingly, the cover member 320 is arranged to move relative to the body 107. The cover member 320 is movable to selectively cover, uncover or at least partially cover the aperture 307. As such, at least a portion of the cover member 320 is larger in cross-section than the aperture 307.

The cover member 320 is arranged to slide across the proximal surface 310 of the chassis 302. The cover member 320 translates between a first position and a second position. As shown in Figure 3A, the first position is a relatively closed position in which the at least part of the article 102 is prevented from being inserted through the opening. As shown on Figure 3B, the second position is a relatively open position in which at least part of the article 102 is able to be inserted through the opening.

In the embodiment shown, the translation of the cover member 320 is linear. In embodiments, the translation of the cover member 320 is arcuate. The translation of the cover member 320 is directed by the guide 305 of the body 107.

The cover member 320 comprises a guide formation 327. The guide 305 and the guide formation 327 define a guide arrangement. In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the guide formation 327 includes guide channels 328. The guide channels 328 act as guide elements. The guide channels 328 are parallel to one another. The guide channels are formed on a distal surface of the cover member 320. The guide channels 328 of the cover member 320 engage with the guide tracks 308 of the chassis 302 to direct movement of the cover member 320. In this regard, movement of the cover member 320 is directed by the guide 305. In embodiments, the guide formation 327 comprises more than two guide channels or a single channel. The number of guide channels provided corresponds to the number of guide tracks comprising the guide 305. In embodiments, the guide formation comprises tracks instead.

The cover mechanism 300 comprises an actuating member 330. The actuating member 330 is arranged to move relative to the body 107. The actuating member 330 rotates about the body 107. Movement of the actuating member 330 is configured to actuate movement of the cover member 320 between positions.

The actuating member 330 comprises a peripheral wall 331 and an end wall 332. The peripheral wall 331 extends from the end wall 332 in a distal direction. The peripheral wall 331 forms a peripheral skirt 333 around the end wall 332. The peripheral wall 331 is generally cylindrical. The peripheral wall 331 and the end wall

332 form a housing portion 333 of the actuating member 330. The housing portion

333 covers the chassis 302 and part of the body 107. The housing portion 333 houses various components of the cover mechanism 300. At least part of the body 107 extends into the housing portion 333. The housing portion 333 comprises an aperture 337. The aperture 337 forms part of the opening 108 of the device 101 and is in fluid communication with the receptacle 109. The article 102 is inserted into the receptacle 109 of device 101 for heating through the aperture 337. As such, the aperture 337 is dimensioned to receive at least a portion of the article 102. The aperture 337 is axially aligned with the aperture 307 of the chassis 302. The aperture 337 is axially aligned with longitudinal axis 103.

A gap 338 is formed in the housing portion 333. The gap is dimensioned to receive at least a part of the cover member 320. The gap 338 is provided in the peripheral wall 331. The gap 338 extends in a circumferential direction along the peripheral wall 331. The gap 338 is elongate. The gap 338 is a slot. The gap, in embodiments, may be omitted.

The cover mechanism 300 comprises a gear mechanism 340. The gear mechanism 340 is arranged to move the cover member 320 upon movement of the actuating member 330. In other words, motion is transmitted from the actuating member 330 to the cover member 320 via the gear mechanism 340.

In the embodiment shown, the gear mechanism 340 comprises an actuating toothed portion 342, a cover toothed portion 344, and a gear 346. The actuating toothed portion 342 is provided on the actuating member 330. The cover toothed portion 344 is provided on the cover member 320. The gear 346 is arranged to intermesh with the actuating toothed portion 342 and with the cover toothed portion 344. Motion is transmitted from the actuating toothed portion 342 to the cover toothed portion 344 via the gear 346.

The actuating toothed portion 342 is provided on the inner side of the peripheral wall 331 of the actuating member 330. In this regard, the actuating toothed portion 342 acts as an internal gear. The actuated toothed portion 342 rotates with rotation of the actuating member 330. The axis of rotation of the actuating toothed portion 342 is coaxial with longitudinal axis 103. The actuating toothed portion 342 extends circumferentially along peripheral wall 331. The actuating toothed portion 342 comprises a number of teeth 343. The number of teeth is configured to allow actuation of the cover member 320 between the first position and the second position. In the embodiment shown, the actuating toothed portion 342 extends along a part of the peripheral wall 331 such that sufficient range of motion is provided to move the cover member 320 from the first position to the second position. In other words, the actuating toothed portion 342 is configured such that the cover mechanism 300 can be operated to fully cover and fully uncover the opening 108. In embodiments, one or both of the first and second positions represent a partially open position. In embodiments, the actuating toothed portion 342 instead extends along the full circumference of the peripheral wall 331.

The gear 346 comprises a first gear segment 347 and a second gear segment 348. The first gear segment 347 is arranged to intermesh with the actuating toothed portion 342 and the second gear segment 348 is arranged to intermesh with the cover toothed portion 344. The first segment 347 drives the second segment 348. In embodiments, the gear 348 comprises a single gear segment. In these embodiments, the single gear segment may be arranged to intermesh with at least one or both of the actuating toothed portion 342 and the cover toothed portion 344. The first gear segment 347 and the second gear segment 348 are each provided on a gear wheel. The axis of rotation of the first gear segment 347 is parallel to the axis of rotation of the actuating toothed portion 342. The axis of rotation of the second gear segment 348 is parallel to the axis of rotation of the actuating toothed portion 342. The axes of rotation of the first gear segment 347 and the second gear segment 348 are coaxial. In embodiments, the axes of rotation of the first gear segment 347 and the second gear segment 348 are parallel and offset from one another.

The first gear segment 347 and the second gear segment 348 are fixed relative to each other. The first and second gear segments 347, 348 in embodiments are integrally formed. The first gear segment 347 and the second gear segment 348 move simultaneously. The rotation of the first gear segment 347 is configured to drive the second gear segment 348 without the teeth of the first gear segment 347 intermeshing with the teeth of the second gear segment 348.

The first gear segment 347 differs from the second gear segment 348 in pitch diameter and number of teeth. The first and second gear segments 347, 348 are configured to provide a gear ratio. In embodiments, the first gear segment 347 is substantially identical to the second gear segment. The first gear segment 347 and the second gear segment 348 may have the same pitch diameter and number of teeth.

The second gear segment 348 and the cover toothed portion 344 form a rack and pinion arrangement. By virtue of the gear mechanism 340, rotational motion of the actuating toothed portion 342 is converted into linear motion of the cover toothed portion 344.

The actuating member 330 moves between a first circumferential position and a second circumferential position. The cover member 320 moves between a first position and a second position. When the actuating member 330 is in the first circumferential position, the cover member 320 is in the first position. When the actuating member 330 is in the second circumferential position, the cover member 320 is in the second position. The first position of the cover member 320 corresponds to a relatively closed position and the second position of the cover member 320 corresponds to a relatively open position. As shown in Figure 3B, when the cover member 320 is in the second position, at least part of the cover member 320 protrudes though the gap 338. The gap 338 is dimensioned so that at least part of the cover member 320 can be received through it. A pocket (not shown) is defined within a portion of the body 107 adjacent to the actuating member 330. When the cover member 320 is in the second position, at least part of the cover member is housed within the pocket. In other words, at least a part of the cover member 320 is arranged to be retracted from the body 107 through the gap 338 when the cover member 320 is moved to the first position and to be extended into the body 107 through the gap 338 when the cover member 320 is moved to the second position. In the embodiment shown, the cover member 320 is partially retracted into the body 107 in the second position such that the opening 108 of the device is fully uncovered. This arrangement allows for a more compact design of the cover mechanism 300. The gap 338 is hidden by the body 107 throughout the range of movement of the actuating member 330. In this embodiment, the gap 338 overlaps the actuating toothed portion 342 in a peripheral direction. The gap 338 and the actuating toothed portion 342 are axially offset in the longitudinal direction. The gap 338 is provided in the peripheral wall 331 such that the gap 338 and the actuating toothed portion 342 are arranged adjacent to one another in a longitudinal direction.

In use of the device 101 , a user may operate the cover mechanism 300 by rotating the actuating member 330 between the first and the second circumferential positions. It will be appreciated that while the first and the second positions are discrete positions, the actuating member 330 may be rotated to any intermediate position, between the first and second positions, instead. The rotational motion of the actuating member 330 is transmitted to the first gear segment 347 via actuating toothed portion 342. The first gear segment 347 drives the second gear segment 348. The second gear segment 348 engages the cover toothed portion 344 such that the rotational motion of the actuating member 330 is converted to linear motion and transmitted to the cover member 320.

Figure 4A and 4B show schematic views of a cover mechanism 400 in a relatively closed position and a relatively open position respectively. The cover mechanism 400 may be used with the aerosol provision device 101 of Figures 1 and will be described by reference to that device. The cover mechanism 400 is substantially similar to the cover mechanism 300 described above. As such, a detailed description is omitted. The cover mechanism 400 differs in that the cover member 420 comprises a first cover member 420a and a second cover member 420b. Each of the first cover member 420a and the second cover member 420b comprises a blade. In the embodiment shown, the first cover member 420a and the second cover member 420b are substantially identical. In embodiments, the configuration of the first cover member 420a and the second cover member 420b differ.

Each of the first and second cover members 420a, 420b comprises a cover toothed portion 444a, 444b. The actuating member 430 comprises a first actuating toothed portion 442a arranged to transmit motion to the cover toothed portion 444a of the first cover member 420a. The actuating member 430 comprises a second actuated toothed portion 442b arranged to transmit motion to the cover toothed portion 444b of the second cover member 420b. In embodiments, the actuating member 430 instead comprises a single toothed actuating portion configured to transmit motion to the cover toothed portions 444a, 444b of the first and second cover members 420a, 420b simultaneously. The single toothed actuating portion may extend along the full circumference of the actuating member 430.

The gear mechanism 440 comprises the first actuating toothed portion 442a, the second actuating toothed portion 442b, the first cover toothed portion 444a, the second cover toothed portion 444b, a first gear 446a and a second gear 446b. The first gear 446a is arranged to intermesh with the first actuating toothed portion 442a and the first cover toothed portion 444a. The second gear 446b is arranged to intermesh with the second actuating toothed portion 442b and the second cover toothed portion 444b. The first and the second gears 446a, 446b are each a gear wheel. Each gear 446a, 446b comprise a single gear segment.

In some embodiments, each of the first and the second gears 446a, 446b comprises a first gear segment and a second gear segment. The first gear segment of the first and second gears is arranged to intermesh with the first and second actuating toothed portions 442a, 442b respectively. The second gear segment of the first and second gears 446a, 446b is arranged to intermesh with the first and second cover toothed portions 444a, 444b respectively. The first gear segment and the second gear segment are each provided on a separate gearwheel. The axis of rotation of the first gear segment of the first and the second gear 446a, 446b is parallel to the axis of rotation of the actuating member 430. The axis of rotation of the second gear segment of the first and the second gear 446a, 446b is parallel to the axis of rotation of actuating member 430. The axis of rotation of the first gear segment of the first gear 446a is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the second gear segment of the first gear 446a. The axis of rotation of the first gear segment of the second gear 446b is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the second gear segment of the second gear 446b. In some embodiments, the axes of rotation of the first and second gear segment of each of the first and second gear 446a, 446b are parallel and off-set from each other.

In the embodiment of Figures 4A and 4B, the first and second cover members 420a, 420b are actuated simultaneously by rotation of the actuating member 430. The first and second cover members 420a, 420b move between a first position and a second position. When the actuating member 430 is in a first circumferential position, the first and second cover members 420a, 420b are in the first position. When the actuating member 430 is in a second circumferential position, the first and second cover members 420a, 420b are in the second position. The first position is a relatively open position. The second position is a relatively closed position. As shown on Figure 4A, the first and second members 420a, 420b interface in the second position such that the opening 407 is fully covered. In embodiments, the first and second members 420a, 420b may partially overlap in the second position. This may allow for more compact design of the cover mechanism 400. In some embodiments, a gap may be provided between the first and second members 420a, 420b in the second position. This may provide improved ventilation for receptacle 109.

Translation of the first and second cover members 420a, 420b between the first and the second positon is directed by a guide 405 formed into the proximal surface 410 of the chassis 402. The guide 405 comprises guide tracks 408 arranged to engage with the first and second cover members 420a, 420b.

Figure 5A and 5B show schematic views of a cover mechanism 500 in a relatively closed position and a relatively open position respectively. The cover mechanism 500 may be used with the aerosol provision device 101 of Figures 1 and will be described by reference to that device. The cover mechanism 500 comprises a cover member 520 arranged to pivot relative to the body 107 of the device 101. The cover mechanism 500 is substantially similar to cover mechanism 300 described above and so a detailed description is omitted. The cover member 520 is arranged to pivot between a first position and a second position. Translation of the cover member 520 is arcuate. As shown on Figure 5A, the first position is a relatively closed position in which at least part of the article 102 is prevented from being inserted through the opening. As shown on Figure 5B, the second position is a relatively open position in which at least part of the article 102 is able to be inserted through the opening.

The gear mechanism 540 comprises an actuating toothed portion 542 and a gear 546. The cover member 520 is fixed in position relative to the gear 546 such that the gear 546 and the cover member 520 rotate simultaneously. The cover member 520 is configured to pivot between the first position and the second position. The axis of rotation of the cover member 520 is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the gear 546. The axis of rotation of the cover member 520 is offset from the axis of rotation of the actuating member 530. In this embodiment, the gear comprises a single gear segment arranged to interface with the actuating toothed portion 542 of the actuating member 530. The translation of the cover member 520 is directed by the guide 505. The guide 505 comprises a track 508. The track 508 is arcuate. The guide 505 engages with the cover member 520.

In embodiments, the gear 546 is provided integral to the cover member. In some embodiments, the cover member 520 comprises a cover toothed portion which acts as the gear 546.

The cover mechanism in some embodiments has different configurations.

In some embodiments, the gear mechanism comprises a gear train. The gear train comprises a number of gear wheels arranged to transmit motion from the actuating member to the cover member. A first segment of the gear train intermeshes with the actuating toothed portion of the actuating member. A second segment of the gear train intermeshes with the cover toothed portion of the cover member.

In some embodiments, the gear mechanism does not comprise any gears. In this set of embodiments, the actuating toothed portion of the actuating member directly intermeshes with the cover toothed portion of the cover member.

In some embodiments, the gear mechanism may not comprise a cover toothed portion. The gear mechanism may transmit the rotational motion of the actuating member to the cover member via any number of supporting mechanism.

For example, a cam mechanism, a mechanical linkage, or the like.

In the above described embodiments, the aerosol provision device comprises a heating arrangement that is an inductive heating arrangement. In embodiments, other types of heating arrangement are used, such as resistive heating. The configuration of the device is generally as described above and so a detailed description will be omitted. In such arrangements the aerosol generating assembly comprises a resistive heating generator including components to heat the heating element via a resistive heating process. In this case, an electrical current is directly applied to a resistive heating component, and the resulting flow of current in the heating component causes the heating component to be heated by Joule heating. The resistive heating component comprises resistive material configured to generate heat when a suitable electrical current passes through it, and the heating assembly comprises electrical contacts for supplying electrical current to the resistive material.

In embodiments, the heating element forms the resistive heating component itself. In embodiments the resistive heating component transfers heat to the heating element, for example by conduction.

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 for generating aerosol from aerosol-generating material, the device comprising: a body; a receptacle configured to receive at least part of an article comprising aerosol-generating material; the body having an opening communicating with the receptacle; and a cover mechanism comprising: a cover member arranged to selectively at least partially cover the opening, wherein the cover member is arranged to move relative to the body between a relatively open position in which at least part of an article is able to be inserted through the opening and a relatively closed position in which at least part of an article is prevented from being inserted through the opening; an actuating member arranged to move relative to the body; and a gear mechanism arranged to move the cover member upon movement of the actuating member.

2. The aerosol provision device of claim 1, wherein the actuating member is arranged to rotate relative to the body.

3. The aerosol provision device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the cover member is arranged to pivot relative to the body.

4. The aerosol provision device of claim 1 , 2 or 3, wherein the cover member is arranged to translate relative to the body.

5. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the gear mechanism comprises an actuating toothed portion on the actuating member.

6. The aerosol provision device of claim 5, wherein the gear mechanism comprises a cover toothed portion on the cover member and wherein movement of the actuating member relative to the body causes the cover member to move as motion is transmitted between the actuating toothed portion and the cover toothed portion.

7. The aerosol provision device of claim 6, comprising a gear arranged to intermesh with the actuating toothed portion and the cover toothed portion, wherein motion is transmitted from the actuating toothed portion to the toothed portion via the gear.

8. The aerosol provision device of claim 7, wherein the gear comprises a first gear segment and a second gear segment and wherein the first gear segment is arranged to intermesh with the actuating toothed portion and the second gear segment is arranged to intermesh with the cover toothed portion.

9. The aerosol provision device of claim 8, wherein the first gear segment drives the second gear segment.

10. The aerosol provision device of claim 8 or 9, wherein the first gear segment and the second gear segment are fixed relative to each other.

11. The aerosol provision device of claim 8, 9 or 10, wherein the first gear segment and the second gear segment differ in at least one aspect to provide a gear ratio.

12. The aerosol provision device of claim 6, wherein the actuating toothed portion directly intermeshes with the cover toothed portion of the cover member.

13. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 5 to 12, wherein the actuating member comprises a peripheral wall and wherein the actuating toothed portion is on an inner side of the peripheral wall.

14. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 1 to 13, wherein the cover mechanism comprises a guide arranged to guide the movement of the cover member.

15. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 5 to 14, wherein the actuating member comprises a housing portion covering at least part of the body.

16. The aerosol provision device of claim 15, wherein the housing portion comprises a gap through which at least a part of the cover member is arranged to be received.

17. The aerosol provision device of claim 16, wherein the cover member is arranged to be retracted from the gap in the relatively closed position and wherein the cover member is arranged to extend in the gap in the relatively open position.

18. The aerosol provision device of claim 16 or 17, wherein the body has a pocket for receiving the at least part of the cover member.

19. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 1 to 18, wherein the actuating member comprises an aperture arranged to receive at least a portion of the article comprising aerosol generating material.

20. The aerosol provision device of any claims 1 to 19, wherein the cover member is arranged to fully cover the opening in the relatively closed position.

21. The aerosol provision device of any of claims 1 to 20, wherein the cover member is arranged to be fully retracted from the opening in the relatively open position.

22. The aerosol provision device of claim 6 to 12, wherein the cover member comprises a first cover member and a second cover member and wherein the actuating toothed portion is arranged to transmit motion to the cover toothed portion of the first cover member and to the cover toothed portion of the second cover member.

23. The aerosol provision device of claim 22, wherein the actuating toothed portion comprises a first actuating toothed portion arranged to transmit motion to the cover toothed portion of the first cover member and a second actuated toothed portion arranged to transmit motion to the cover toothed portion of the second cover member.

24. The aerosol provision device of claim 22 or 23, wherein the first cover member and the second cover member are configured to interface in the relatively closed position.

25. An aerosol provision system comprising the aerosol provision device of any of claims 1 to 24; and an article comprising aerosol-generating material.