TW202435774A - Aerosol provision device - Google Patents

Abstract

An aerosol provision device (300) comprising a chamber having an opening (305) arranged to receive an aerosol generating article. The device (300) further comprises a cover (303) arranged to move between a first position in which the opening (305) of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover (303) and a second position in which the opening (305) is not substantially blocked by the cover (303). The cover (303) is configured to be activated by a user such that at least one activation of the cover (303) results in at least one corresponding operation of the aerosol provision device (300).

Description

Aerosol delivery device

Invention Field

The present invention relates to an aerosol providing device, an aerosol providing system and a method for generating aerosol.

Invention Background

Smoking products (such as cigarettes, cigars, etc.) burn tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these products by creating products that release compounds without burning them. Examples of such products are so-called "heat-not-burn" products or tobacco heating devices or products, which release compounds by heating but not burning a material. The material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products that may or may not contain nicotine.

Aerosol delivery systems covering the above devices or products are known. Common systems use a heater to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium, which is then inhaled by the user. Often, the medium used needs to be replaced or changed to provide a different aerosol for inhalation. It is known to use an induction heating system as a heater to generate an aerosol from a suitable medium. An induction heating system typically consists of a magnetic field generating device for generating a varying magnetic field, and a susceptor or heating material that can be heated by penetrating the varying magnetic field to heat the suitable medium.

Conventional aerosol delivery devices include a cylindrical heated chamber into which a rod-shaped consumable is inserted.

Summary of the invention

According to one aspect, an aerosol providing device is provided, comprising: a chamber having an opening arranged to receive an aerosol generating product; and a cover arranged to move between a first position, in which the opening of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover, and a second position, in which the opening is substantially not blocked by the cover; wherein the cover is configured to be activated by a user, such that at least one activation of the cover causes at least one corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device.

According to another aspect, an aerosol providing system is provided, comprising: an aerosol providing device, the aerosol providing device being arranged to receive an aerosol generating product; a charging unit, the charging unit being used to charge the aerosol providing device, the charging unit comprising a cavity having an opening, the opening being arranged to receive the aerosol providing device; and a cover, the cover being arranged to move between a first position and a second position, in which the opening of the cavity is at least partially blocked by the cover, and in which the opening is substantially not blocked by the cover; wherein the cover is configured to be activated by a user, so that at least one activation of the cover causes at least one corresponding operation of the providing device and/or the charging unit.

Optionally, at least one of the activations comprises physical movement of the cover.

Optionally, at least one activation comprises a user pressing a lid.

Optionally, the at least one activation comprises a plurality of different activations, and wherein each activation causes a different corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device.

Optionally, at least one activation comprises moving the cover from a first position to a second position, and wherein the corresponding operation comprises activating the aerosol providing device and/or the charging unit. For example, in the case of an aerosol generator, activation of the aerosol providing device may comprise activation of the aerosol generator.

Optionally, at least one activation comprises moving the cover to the first position (e.g. from the second position), and wherein the corresponding operation comprises deactivating the aerosol providing device and/or the charging unit. For example, in the case of comprising an aerosol generator, the deactivation may comprise deactivating the aerosol generator.

Optionally, the cover is arranged to slide between a first position and a second position.

Optionally, the cover is configured to slide linearly between the first position and the second position.

Optionally, the cover is arranged to move to a third position which is not on a path between the first position and the second position.

Optionally, at least one activation comprises moving the cover to a third position.

Optionally, the cover is arranged to move from: (i) the first position to the third position without passing through the second position, or (ii) from the second position to the third position without passing through the first position.

Optionally, the direction of movement of the cover to the third position is different from the direction of movement of the cover when moving between the first position and the second position.

Optionally, the cover is configured to rotate about a rotation axis, and at least one activation includes rotating the cover about the axis.

Optionally, the axis of rotation is substantially aligned with, or perpendicular to, the direction of movement of the cover when moving between the first position and the second position.

Optionally, the aerosol delivery device or aerosol delivery system is elongated, having a longitudinal axis, and wherein the axis of rotation is not aligned with the longitudinal axis.

Optionally, the cover includes at least one button, and at least one activation includes a user pressing the at least one button.

Optionally, at least one button includes multiple buttons, each button corresponding to a different activation.

Optionally, the at least one button comprises at least one capacitive button.

Optionally, the at least one button comprises at least one mechanical button.

Optionally, the corresponding operation of the aerosol delivery device is dependent on at least one activation and at least one of: (i) the position of the lid when it is activated; and (ii) the state of the aerosol delivery device or aerosol delivery system.

Optionally, the aerosol providing device or the aerosol providing system further comprises a communicating device configured to communicate information for receipt by a user.

Optionally, the communicating device comprises at least one of: (i) a light source; (ii) a tactile component; and (iii) a speaker.

Optionally, the communicating means comprises a wireless connection means for connecting to an external device, or a wired connection means for connecting to an external device.

Optionally, the corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device includes operating a communication device to communicate information for receipt by a user.

Optionally, the information communicated by the communication means depends on at least one activation and at least one of: (i) the position the lid is initially in when activated; and (ii) the state of the aerosol delivery device or aerosol delivery system.

Optionally, the communication device is configured to output information only when the aerosol delivery device or charging unit is in use, within a predetermined time period after operation of the aerosol delivery device or charging unit, and/or when a separate user interface is activated.

Optionally, the information received by the user includes information related to the status of the aerosol delivery device or aerosol delivery system.

Optionally, the information relating to the status of the aerosol delivery device or aerosol delivery system includes one or more of the following information: (i) battery charge; (ii) available amount of aerosol generating material; and (iii) available type of aerosol generating material.

Optionally, in the first position, the opening is completely blocked by the cover.

Optionally, in the second position, the opening is not obstructed by the cover.

Optionally, the aerosol providing device comprises an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating product received therein during use.

Optionally, the aerosol generator comprises a heating element configured to heat an article comprising an aerosol generating material so as to generate an aerosol from the aerosol generating material.

Optionally, the aerosol providing device or the aerosol providing system further comprises a controller configured to cause corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device or the charging unit, and wherein at least one activation causes at least one corresponding control signal to be sent or detected by the controller.

Optionally, at least one corresponding operation includes at least one of: activating or deactivating the aerosol providing device or the aerosol providing system, causing the aerosol providing device or the aerosol providing system to operate in a special operating mode, activating or deactivating the aerosol generator (if provided), and causing the communication device to output or stop outputting information for the user to receive.

Optionally, the cover is at least partially transparent.

According to another aspect, an aerosol providing device is provided, comprising: a chamber having an opening arranged to receive an aerosol generating product; and a cover arranged to move between a first position, in which the opening of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover, and a second position, in which the opening is substantially open; wherein at least a portion of the cover is at least partially transparent.

According to another aspect, an aerosol providing system is provided, comprising: an aerosol providing device, the aerosol providing device being arranged to receive an aerosol generating product; a charging unit, the charging unit being used to charge the aerosol providing device, the charging unit comprising a cavity having an opening, the opening being arranged to receive the aerosol providing device; and a cover, the cover being arranged to move between a first position and a second position, in which the opening of the cavity is at least partially blocked by the cover and in which the opening is substantially open; wherein at least a portion of the cover is at least partially transparent.

Optionally, the average optical transmittance over the wavelength range of 380-700 nm is at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 95%.

Optionally, the aerosol delivery device or aerosol delivery system further comprises a communication device, which comprises a visual indicator device for providing a visual indication to a user.

Optionally, the visual indicator means is arranged such that the visual indicator means is substantially visible to a user when the cover is moved to any position between and including the first position and the second position.

Optionally, the visual indicator is arranged such that the visual indicator is substantially visible to a user when the lid is in the first position and the second position.

Optionally, wherein the visual indicator is arranged such that when the lid is in the first position, the visual indicator is substantially visible to the user, and when the lid is in the second position, the visual indicator is substantially not visible to the user.

Optionally, the visual indicator is arranged such that when the lid is in the first position, the visual indicator is substantially invisible to the user, and when the lid is in the second position, the visual indicator is substantially visible to the user.

Optionally, the visual indicator device is arranged such that when the cover is in the second position, the visual indicator device is at least partially covered by the cover.

Optionally, the visual indicator means is arranged such that when the lid is in the second position, the visual indication is at least partially visible to a user through an at least partially transparent portion of the lid.

Optionally, the visual indicator means comprises a light source.

Optionally, the light source comprises at least one LED.

Optionally, the light source comprises a plurality of LEDs.

Optionally, the plurality of LEDs comprises at least one LED of a first color and at least one LED of a second color different from the first color.

Optionally, the light source comprises a screen.

Embodiments are also contemplated in which the cover may include a photonic coating. For example, the UV light source may be arranged to emit electromagnetic radiation, and the photonic coating may be arranged to emit fluorescence. Embodiments are also contemplated in which the cover emits light.

According to an embodiment, a removable cover for an aerosol providing device is provided, wherein the cover is arranged to receive electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of < 380 nm and to emit electromagnetic radiation in the visible spectrum of 380-700 nm.

According to one aspect, an aerosol providing device is provided, comprising: a chamber having an opening arranged to receive an aerosol generating product; and a cover arranged to move between a first position, in which the opening of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover, and a second position, in which the opening is substantially unblocked by the cover; wherein the cover is configured to be activated by a user to send a control signal to a controller.

The cover may be activated mechanically or physically, for example by being depressed by a user, or alternatively, the cover may be activated via capacitive sensing.

According to one aspect, a removable cover for an aerosol providing device is provided, wherein the cover is actuatable by a user to send a control signal to a controller.

According to one aspect, an aerosol providing system is provided, comprising: an aerosol providing device, the aerosol providing device being as described above; and an aerosol generating article, the aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating material.

According to one aspect, a method for generating an aerosol is provided, comprising: providing an aerosol providing device as described above; inserting an aerosol generating article including an aerosol generating material at least partially into the aerosol providing device; and activating the aerosol providing device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

According to the present disclosure, a "non-flammable" aerosol delivery system is a system in which the constituent aerosol generating materials (or components thereof) of the aerosol delivery system are not combusted or ignited in order to facilitate delivery of at least one substance to a user.

In some embodiments, the delivery system is a non-flammable aerosol delivery system, such as a powered non-flammable aerosol delivery system.

In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol delivery system is an e-cigarette, also referred to as an inhalation device or an electronic nicotine delivery system (END), although it is noted that the presence of nicotine in the aerosol generating material is not required.

In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol providing system is an aerosol generating material heating system, also referred to as a heat-not-burn system. An example of such a system is a tobacco heating system.

In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol providing system is a hybrid system to generate an aerosol using a combination of aerosol generating materials, one or more of which can be heated. Each of the aerosol generating materials can be in the form of a solid, liquid, or gel, for example, and may or may not contain nicotine. In some embodiments, the hybrid system includes a liquid or gel aerosol generating material and a solid aerosol generating material. The solid aerosol generating material can include, for example, tobacco or a non-tobacco product.

Typically, a non-flammable aerosol providing system may include a non-flammable aerosol providing device and consumables for use with the non-flammable aerosol providing device.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to consumables that include aerosol generating materials and are configured to be used with a non-flammable aerosol providing device. These consumables are sometimes referred to as articles throughout the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol providing system, such as a non-flammable aerosol providing device thereof, may include a power source and a controller. For example, the power source may be an electric power source or an exothermic power source. In some embodiments, the exothermic power source includes a carbon substrate that can be powered to distribute power in the form of heat to an aerosol generating material or a heat transfer material proximate to the exothermic power source.

In some embodiments, a non-flammable aerosol delivery system may include an area for receiving a consumable, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a mouthpiece, a filter, and/or an aerosol modifier.

In some embodiments, consumables for use with a non-flammable aerosol providing device may include an aerosol generating material, an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transfer component, an aerosol generator, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a packaging, a filter, a mouthpiece and/or an aerosol modifier.

Aerosol-generating materials are materials that are capable of generating an aerosol, for example when heated, irradiated or energized in any other manner. For example, aerosol-generating materials may be in the form of a solid, liquid or semi-solid (such as a gel), which may or may not contain an active substance and/or a flavoring agent.

The aerosol-generating material may include a binder and an aerosol-forming agent. Optionally, an active substance and/or a 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 aerosol-generating material is substantially free of plant material. In particular, in some embodiments, the aerosol-generating material is substantially free of tobacco.

The aerosol-generating material may include or be an aerosol-generating film. The aerosol-generating film may be formed by combining a binder (such as a gelling agent) with a solvent (such as water), an aerosol-forming agent, and one or more other components (such as an active substance) to form a slurry, and then heating the slurry to volatilize at least some of the solvent. The slurry may be heated to remove at least about 60 wt%, 70 wt%, 80 wt%, 85 wt%, or 90 wt% of the solvent. The aerosol-generating film may be a continuous film or a discontinuous film, such as an arrangement of discontinuous portions of the film on a support. The aerosol-generating film may be substantially free of tobacco.

The aerosol-generating film may comprise or be a sheet, which may optionally be shredded to form shredded sheets.

The aerosol-generating material may include one or more active substances and/or flavoring agents, one or more aerosol shaping agent materials, and optionally one or more other functional materials.

An aerosol generator is a device configured to cause an aerosol to be generated from an aerosol generating material. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is a heater configured to cause the aerosol generating material to be affected by thermal energy so as to release one or more volatile substances from the aerosol generating material to form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator is configured to cause the aerosol to be generated from the aerosol generating material without heating. For example, the aerosol generator can be configured to cause the aerosol generating material to be affected by one or more of vibration, pressure increase, or electrostatic energy.

A consumable is an article that includes or consists of an aerosol generating material, part or all of which is intended to be consumed by a user during use. A consumable may include one or more other components, such as an aerosol generating material storage area, an aerosol generating material transfer component, an aerosol generating area, a housing, a packaging, a mouthpiece, a filter and/or an aerosol modifier. A consumable may also include an aerosol generator, such as a heater, which generates heat during use to cause the aerosol generating material to generate an aerosol. For example, a heater may include a combustible material, a material that can be heated by electrical conduction, or a receptor.

A susceptor is a heating material that can be heated by penetration with a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field. The susceptor can be a conductive material, such that penetration with a varying magnetic field causes inductive heating of the heating material. The heating material can be a magnetic material, such that penetration with a varying magnetic field causes hysteresis heating of the heating material. The susceptor can be both conductive and magnetic, such that the susceptor can be heated by two heating mechanisms. An aerosol providing device configured to generate a varying magnetic field is referred to herein as a magnetic field generator.

The non-flammable aerosol providing system may include a modular assembly including both a reusable aerosol providing device and a replaceable aerosol generating product. In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol providing device may include a power source and a controller (or control circuit system). For example, the power source may include a power source such as a battery or a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the non-flammable aerosol providing device may also include an aerosol generating component. However, in other embodiments, the aerosol generating product may partially or completely include an aerosol generating component.

Induction heating is a process in which a conductive object, called a susceptor, is heated by penetrating the object with a varying magnetic field. The process is described by Faraday's law of induction and Ohm's law. An induction heater may include an electromagnet and a device for passing a varying electric current (such as alternating current) through the electromagnet. When the electromagnet and the object to be heated are properly positioned relative to each other so that the resulting varying magnetic field produced by the electromagnet penetrates the object, one or more eddy currents are generated within the object. The object has a resistance to the flow of electric current, and when such eddy currents are generated in the object, they oppose the flow of the object's resistance causing the object to be heated. The process is called Joule, Ohm, or resistance heating.

Hysteresis heating is a process in which an object made of a magnetic material is heated by penetrating the object with a varying magnetic field. Magnetic materials can be thought of as comprising many atomic-scale magnets, or magnetic dipoles. When a magnetic field penetrates such a material, the magnetic dipoles align with the magnetic field. Thus, when a varying magnetic field, such as an alternating magnetic field, such as that produced by an electromagnet, penetrates the magnetic material, the orientation of the magnetic dipoles changes with the varying applied magnetic field. This reorientation of the magnetic dipoles causes heat to be generated in the magnetic material.

When an object is both conductive and magnetic, penetrating the object with a changing magnetic field can induce both Joule heating and hysteresis heating in the object. In addition, the use of magnetic materials can intensify the magnetic field, which can intensify Joule heating.

The aerosol delivery system according to various embodiments will now be described in more detail.

Figure 1 shows an aerosol provision system comprising an aerosol provision device 100, which is shown located within a cavity of a charging unit 101. The aerosol provision device 100 is arranged to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating article which may be inserted into the aerosol provision device 100 in use.

The aerosol providing device 100 comprises an elongated structure extending along a longitudinal axis. In addition, the aerosol providing device 100 has a proximal end, which is closest to the user (e.g., the user's mouth) when used by the user to inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol providing device 100, and a distal end, which is farthest from the user when in use. The proximal end may also be referred to as a mouth end. The aerosol providing device 100 therefore also defines a proximal direction, which points to the user when in use, i.e., in a direction from the distal end to the proximal end. In addition, the aerosol providing device 100 also defines a distal direction, which is far away from the user when in use, i.e., in a direction from the proximal end to the distal end.

The aerosol providing device 100 can be removably inserted into the charging unit 101 for charging. The charging unit 101 includes a cavity for receiving the aerosol providing device 100. The aerosol providing device 100 can be inserted into the cavity via the opening 111. The cavity is not visible in Figure 1 because it is occupied by the aerosol providing device 100. However, the shape of the cavity is basically the same as that of the aerosol providing device 100. The cavity may also include a longitudinal opening. A portion of the aerosol providing device 100 may include a first side. One or more user-operable control elements or user interfaces, such as a button 106 that can be used to operate the aerosol providing device 100, may be provided on the first side of the aerosol providing device 100. The first side of the aerosol providing device 100 can be received in a longitudinal opening provided in the charging unit 101.

As will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 2 and 3, and as described below, the aerosol provider may include a heating element 202 (see Figure 2). Referring back to Figure 1, the user interface 106 provided on the aerosol provider 100 may include two buttons. A first button may be provided to operate the aerosol provider 100 in a standard or basic operating mode, in which a predetermined heating curve may be set for the heating element 202. A second button may be provided to operate the aerosol provider 100 in an enhanced or boosted operating mode, in which the heating curve set for the heating element 202 may be changed. For example, in the enhanced or boosted operating mode, the set or desired temperature of the heating element 202 may be increased over a period of time.

The usage period may be determined to relate to a period of time during which a user is able to inhale multiple puffs of aerosol generated by the aerosol generating material without replacing or replenishing the aerosol generating material.

The aerosol providing device 100 can operate in at least a first (e.g., basic) operating mode and a second (e.g., enhanced) operating mode. The user can select the operating mode by selecting one of two buttons 106 provided as part of the user interface, or by any other suitable means.

The heating element 202 may be configured such that in a first mode, the aerosol providing device 100 is ready for use within a first time period after the start of the use period, and in a second mode, the aerosol providing device 100 is ready for use within a second time period after the start of the period. The first time period may be different from the second time period. The aerosol providing device 100 may be ready for use at a time t1 after the start of the use period in a first (basic) operating mode, and may be ready for use at a time t2 after the start of the use period in a second (enhanced) operating mode, where t2 < t1.

Providing an aerosol delivery device 100, such as a tobacco heating product, whose heating assembly can operate in multiple modes (e.g., a basic mode and an enhanced mode) gives consumers more choices, especially when each mode is associated with a different maximum heater temperature. In addition, such an aerosol delivery device 100 is able to provide different aerosols with different characteristics because the volatile components in the aerosol generating material will evaporate at different rates and concentrations at different heater temperatures. This allows the user to select a particular mode based on the desired characteristics of the inhalable aerosol, such as the degree of tobacco flavor, nicotine concentration, and aerosol temperature. For example, a mode in which the aerosol delivery device 100 is ready for use sooner (e.g., the second or "boosted" mode) may provide a quicker first puff, or a higher nicotine content per puff, or a more concentrated flavor per puff. Conversely, a mode in which the aerosol delivery device 100 is ready for use later in the use period (e.g., the first or basic mode) may provide a longer overall use period, a lower nicotine content per puff, and a more sustained delivery of flavor.

The user interface 106 may include one or more lights or LEDs that indicate the status of the charging unit 101 and/or the aerosol providing device 100. For example, the user interface 106 may indicate the charging status of the aerosol providing device 100. The one or more lights or LEDs may be considered to be in the form of a communication device configured to output information to the user. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the user interface 106 may include two LEDs. If zero LEDs are displayed or otherwise illuminated, then a low charging status of the aerosol providing device 100 may be indicated to the user. If one LED is displayed or otherwise illuminated, then an intermediate charging status of the aerosol providing device 100 may be indicated to the user. If two LEDs are displayed or otherwise illuminated, then a full or nearly full charging status of the aerosol providing device 100 may be indicated to the user.

The cavity of the charging unit 101 may have a cross-sectional profile that only allows the aerosol providing device 100 to be inserted into the charging unit 101 in a single orientation. The outer profile of the aerosol providing device 100 may include an arcuate portion and a linear portion. The cross-sectional profile of the cavity provided in the charging unit 101 may also include similar arcuate portions and linear portions. The linear portion of the cross-sectional profile of the cavity may correspond to the longitudinal opening.

The aerosol providing device 100 comprises an opening to a chamber in which heating of the aerosol generating product occurs. Thus, the chamber may be considered a heating chamber. A rod-shaped aerosol generating product comprising an aerosol generating material may be inserted through the opening and may be retained within the heating chamber of the aerosol providing device 100. The aerosol generating product may be heated by an aerosol generator, for example comprising a heating element, so that an aerosol or other inhalable medium may be generated, which may then be inhaled by a user of the aerosol providing device 100.

The charging unit 101 may include a lid 103, which may be arranged to slide and cover an opening 111 for receiving the aerosol generating device 100. The lid 103 may be configured to be activated so that at least one activation of the lid 103 causes a corresponding operation of the charging unit 101 or the aerosol providing device 100 arranged therein. This will be discussed in more detail further below. The lid 103 may be considered an activatable lid 103. In Figure 1, the opening 111 of the cavity is below the lid 103, which is shown in a first, for example closed, position. When the aerosol providing device 100 is inserted into the charging unit 101 for recharging, the cover 103 can be moved to the first position to cover the opening 111 into the aerosol providing device 100. Therefore, the cover 103 can play a role in keeping the aerosol providing device 100 in the charging unit 101.

The charging unit 101 may include a communication device, for example in the form of a user display 108. As shown in FIG. 1 , the user display 108 may be disposed on an upper portion of the charging unit 101 and visible to the user regardless of the position of the lid 103. However, other arrangements are envisioned in which the user display 108 may be concealed by the lid 103 when the lid is moved to a second (e.g., open) position. Then, when the lid 103 is moved to a first (e.g., closed) position, the user display 108 may be presented to the user. In the first position, as shown in FIG. 1 , the opening 111 is substantially blocked by the lid 103. When the lid 103 is in the second position, the opening 111 is substantially not blocked by the lid 103. Therefore, the aerosol providing device 100 can be separated from the charging unit 101 through the opening 111, and similarly inserted into the charging unit 101 through the opening 111.

The lid 103 is movable between a first (e.g., closed) position (shown in FIG. 1 ) and a second (e.g., open) position (not shown), in which the opening 111 is substantially unobstructed by the lid 103. As discussed above, the lid 103 is configured to be operated by a user so that activation of the lid 103 causes a corresponding operation of the aerosol provider 100 or the charging unit 101. Activation of the lid 103 may include moving the lid 103 from a first position to a second position. The activation may have any appropriate corresponding operation. For example, the activation of the lid 103 may cause the aerosol provider 101 to operate in a preheating phase, whereby an aerosol generator disposed within the aerosol provider 101 begins preheating. Similarly, the corresponding operation may cause a communication device, such as a user display 108 provided on the charging unit 101, to output an indication of the current charge or the expected amount of puffs that can be obtained from the aerosol providing device 100. This can inform the user whether the aerosol providing device 100 has enough charge for its intended use. In a similar manner, at least one activation of the cover 103 may include moving the cover 103, for example, from the second position to the first position. Moving in this manner may cause any appropriate corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device 100 or the charging unit 101. For example, it may cause an operation including activating the user display 108. For example, the user display 108 may be caused to indicate the expected time until the aerosol providing device is charged. In other embodiments, the operation may include deactivating the aerosol providing device 100.

A cover 103 that can be activated to cause corresponding operations of the aerosol providing device 100 or the charging unit 101 can provide convenient interaction between the user and the system. For example, it can minimize the amount of physical operations that the user must go through when using the system. The movement of the cover 103 that then triggers the special operation can therefore make the system easier to use. In addition, the cover 103 effectively serves as an input device that at least partially controls the operation of the aerosol providing device 100 or the charging unit 101. Therefore, providing such a cover 103 can remove the need for further input devices on the charging unit 101. Triggering the operation when the cover 103 is moved can also increase the speed at which the special operation occurs compared to when the user must operate a separate input device. For example, this may mean that the user can obtain information about the charging unit 101, the aerosol delivery device 100, or start operating the charging unit 101 or the aerosol delivery device 100 more quickly.

FIG2 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol providing device 100 for illustrative purposes. The aerosol providing device 100 includes a main housing 200 forming a chamber 201. Heating of the aerosol generating product occurs in the chamber 201, and thus the chamber 201 can be considered a heating chamber 201. The main housing 200 can include a wall 200a, which is a tubular wall 200a and can extend along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol providing device 100 and surround the heating chamber 201. The wall 200a can at least partially define the heating chamber 201 of the aerosol providing device 100 as a volume enclosed within the tubular wall 200a. The wall 200a may be a shape other than tubular, and may be any shape that surrounds (e.g., surrounds) and defines the heating chamber 201 therein. The aerosol providing device 100 may include an aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating product received in the aerosol providing device 100. The aerosol generator may take any suitable form capable of generating an aerosol from an aerosol generating product. In some embodiments, the aerosol generator includes a heating element 202, which may be disposed in a portion of the main housing 200, and the heating element 202 may extend or protrude into the heating chamber 201. The heating element 202 may include a base portion 202a, which may be located in a recess provided in a portion of the main housing 200.

The heating element 202 may comprise a resistive heating element. The heating element 202 may comprise a pin which, in use, may be inserted into the distal end of an aerosol generating product received within the heating chamber 201 so as to internally heat the aerosol generating product.

Alternatively, the heating element 202 may comprise a resistive heating element comprising a planar portion and a pointed portion. The pointed portion of the resistive heating element may be arranged to be inserted into the distal end of the aerosol generating article in use so as to internally heat the aerosol generating article.

According to another arrangement, the heating element 202 may include an inductive heating element, which may be arranged to heat the aerosol generating article internally. The inductive heating element may similarly include a pin or blade that acts as a susceptor. In such embodiments, the magnetic field generating device, such as an inductor coil, may at least partially, for example completely surround the heating chamber 201. It is also envisioned that the heating element may form part of the aerosol generating article, rather than being a component of the aerosol providing device 100. Therefore, the aerosol generating article may include a susceptor arranged therein. Therefore, the aerosol generator may include an inductive heating arrangement.

The aerosol providing device 100 may further include a removal mechanism 204, which may be removably retained to the main housing 200 of the aerosol providing device 100. The removal mechanism 204 may be retained to the main housing 200 so that at least a portion of the removal mechanism 204 extends into the heating chamber 201. The removal mechanism 204 may include a longitudinal portion (such as a tubular portion 207a) and a base portion 207b. The base portion 207b may have a hole 206 through which the heating element 202 may protrude. In order to retain the removal mechanism 204 to the main housing 200, the removal mechanism 204 may be pushed into engagement with the main housing 200 in a distal direction, i.e., toward the distal end of the main housing 200, until the removal mechanism 204 cannot be further moved in the distal direction. In the following description, when the removal mechanism 204 is referred to as being retained to the main housing 200, the removal mechanism 204 is engaged with the main housing 200 at this time and cannot be further moved in the distal direction.

The tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b can together define and enclose a product chamber for receiving an aerosol-generating product. The product chamber includes an inner surface that can be configured to contact the aerosol-generating product. The inner surface can include a longitudinally extending portion provided by the tubular portion 207a and an end portion provided by the base portion 207b. When the aerosol-generating product is received in the heating chamber, the aerosol-generating product can contact both the longitudinally extending portion of the inner surface and the end portion of the inner surface. In particular, the product chamber (i.e., the tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b) can be configured to receive at least a portion of an aerosol generating product, which is in the form of a longitudinally extending and cylindrical rod, such that when received in the product chamber, the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating product is parallel to (and optionally in line with) the longitudinal axis of the aerosol providing device 100.

The product chamber may also be referred to as a receiving portion. When the removal mechanism 204 is retained to the main housing 200, in use, the product chamber of the removal mechanism 204 may be at least partially arranged within the heating chamber 201. The heating element 202 may be arranged so as to protrude into the product chamber through an aperture 206 provided in a base portion 207b of the removal mechanism 204. Thus, the removal mechanism 204 is configured to receive at least a portion of an aerosol generating product in use.

The removal mechanism 204 may include a first magnet or magnetizable material 208. The main housing 200 may include a second magnet or magnetizable material 209. In use, the removal mechanism 204 may be magnetically retained to the main housing 200 by the interaction of the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209.

The removal mechanism 204 can be completely removed from the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 can be retained to the main housing 200 by the magnetic attraction between the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209. The removal mechanism 204 can be removed from the main housing 200 by overcoming the magnetic force between the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209. Alternatively, the removal mechanism 204 can be removably retained to the main housing 200 by other means. For example, the removal mechanism 204 can be configured to be removably retained to the main housing 200 by an interference fit with the main housing.

3 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol providing device 100 and shows a main housing 200 with a heating element 202 extending into a heating chamber 201, wherein a removal mechanism 204 is removably retained to the main housing 200. The removal mechanism 204 surrounds the heating element 202. An aerosol generating product 300 is shown at least partially located within the product chamber, and therefore also within the heating chamber 201, such that the aerosol generating product 300 is positioned onto the heating element 202.

When retained to the main housing 200, the outer cap portion 210 forms a portion of the housing of the aerosol providing device 100. The outer cap portion 210 can radially surround the tubular element 207a, wherein a gap is provided between the inner element (e.g., the tubular element 207a) and the outer cap 210, the gap extending along a portion of the length of the removal mechanism 204 and configured to receive a portion of the main housing 200, such as the wall 200a. The removal mechanism 204 can define an opening 203 to the product chamber, through which the aerosol generating product 300 can be inserted in a first direction so as to be inserted into the product chamber. The first direction is a distal direction and can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol providing device 100. In an embodiment, the opening 203 may be configured to contact the aerosol generating article 300.

The first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209 may be located in the removal mechanism 204 and the main housing 200, respectively, so that when the removal mechanism 204 is retained to the main housing 200, they are sufficiently close to each other to generate an attractive force between each other so that the removal mechanism 204 is magnetically retained to the main housing 200. For example, the first magnet or magnetizable material may be located at the proximal end of a portion of the main housing 200, such as at the proximal end of a wall 200a that is inserted into a gap within the removal mechanism 204 (i.e., between the outer cover 210 and the inner elements 207a, 207b) when the removal mechanism 204 is retained to the main housing 200, wherein the second magnet or magnetizable material 209 is located at a corresponding position in the removable mechanism 204. Thus, when the removal mechanism 204 is engaged to the main housing 200, the second magnet or magnetizable material 209 is positioned sufficiently close to the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 so that the attraction between the first magnet or magnetizable material 208 and the second magnet or magnetizable material 209 keeps the removal mechanism 204 retained to the main housing 200.

In use, a user may insert or partially insert an aerosol-generating product 300 into the aerosol providing device 100 through the opening 203. The aerosol-generating product 300 is received within the tubular portion 207a of the removal mechanism 204, and thus the aerosol-generating product 300 is received into a product chamber defined by the tubular portion 207a and the base portion 207b, and is additionally received into the heating chamber 201. The heating element 202 may be arranged to pierce the distal end of the aerosol-generating product 300, such that the heating element 202 is located within the aerosol-generating product 300, and is arranged to heat the aerosol-generating product 300 via internal heating.

Once the aerosol generating article 300 is inserted into the aerosol providing device 100, the user may then proceed to a session of use. During the session of use, the aerosol generating article 300 may be heated by the heating element 202. It should be understood that the session of use may last for several minutes. For example, according to various embodiments, the session of use may last for 2-3 minutes, 3-4 minutes, or 4-5 minutes.

At the end of the usage period, the user may wish to remove the used aerosol generating product 300 from the aerosol providing device 100, and optionally replace the used aerosol generating product 300 with a new aerosol generating product 300. According to an embodiment, in order to remove the used aerosol generating product 300 after the usage period, the user can remove the removal mechanism 204 from the main housing 200 by applying a force to the removal mechanism 204 so as to overcome the magnetic attraction between the first magnet 208 provided in the removal mechanism 204 and the second magnet provided in the main housing 200.

Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the uppermost portion of an aerosol delivery system according to various embodiments, and Figure 5 shows a top view of the aerosol delivery system shown in Figure 4.

According to various embodiments, the charging unit 101 includes a cover 103 configured to be activated by a user. The cover 103 is movable between a first position and a second position. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the cover 103 is shown in the second position, which corresponds to a position through which the opening 111 leading to the cavity receiving the aerosol providing device 100 is substantially unobstructed by the cover 103, i.e., an open position, wherein the aerosol providing device 100 can be inserted into the charging unit 101 or removed from the charging unit.

As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the cover 103 can be moved to a first position, whereby the opening 111 is at least partially (e.g. completely) blocked by the cover 103. This can be considered a closed position. This is described in further detail below.

In the second position, the cover 103 can be positioned so that the opening 111 in the charging unit is accessible so that the aerosol providing device 100 can be inserted into and removed from the cavity 112 in the charging unit 101. In the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, the aerosol providing device 100 is shown in the cavity 112. The charging unit 101 can include a housing 113 that houses the components of the charging unit 101.

The aerosol providing device 100 may include a communication device in the form of a user display and/or user interface 106a. Movement of the cover 103 may activate and/or deactivate the user display and/or user interface 106a provided on the aerosol providing device 100.

Embodiments such as those shown in FIG. 1 are contemplated in which a user display 108 may be disposed on the charging unit 101 and may be separate from a user interface 106 that may be disposed on the aerosol providing device 100 (as shown in FIG. 1 ). However, other embodiments are contemplated in which, as shown in FIG. 4 , a user interface and/or user display 106a may be disposed only on the aerosol providing device 100. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 , the user interface and/or user display 106a is disposed on a side panel of the aerosol providing device 100 that is visible to a user when the aerosol providing device 100 is parked in the charging unit 101. Other embodiments are contemplated in which a user interface and/or user display may be disposed on the charging unit 101. For example, it is contemplated that the user display may be disposed on the charging unit 101 beneath the lid 103 such that when the lid is in a second, e.g., open, position, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the user display is hidden, but when the lid 103 is in a first, e.g., closed, position, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the user display is revealed or visible to the user.

According to an embodiment, the user interface 106, 106a can, for example, be arranged on the aerosol providing device 100. The lid 103 can be activated by moving the lid to the second position and/or by moving the lid 103 to the first position. The activation by moving to the second position can have a corresponding operation, which includes activating the user interface 106, 106a. Similarly, the activation by moving to the first position can have a corresponding operation, which includes deactivating the user interface 106, 106a. For example, when the lid 103 is moved in the first (e.g. closed) position, then the aerosol providing system can be arranged to deactivate the user interface 106, 106a arranged on the aerosol providing device 100. This can prevent the aerosol providing device 100 from being accidentally activated when it is parked in the aerosol charging unit 101.

The lid 103 can be moved by the user from a first position, such as a closed position, to a second position, such as an open position, and when the lid 103 returns to the first position, the user interface 106, 106a on the aerosol providing device 100 can be activated, thereby enabling the user to control various operations of the aerosol providing device 100.

According to an embodiment, at least a portion of the user display 108 may be located on the charging unit 101, as shown in Figure 1. However, other embodiments are contemplated, as shown in Figure 4, in which at least a portion of the user display 106a is located on the aerosol providing device 100. According to an embodiment, the user display 106a may be provided only on the aerosol providing device 100.

In the operating mode, a user display 108 (see FIG. 1 ) provided on the charging unit 101 or a user display 106a (see FIG. 4 ) provided on the aerosol providing device 100 may be arranged to indicate the charging state of the charging unit 101. For example, referring to FIG. 1 , the user display 108 provided on the charging unit 101 may include a series of concentric circles, wherein the number of illuminated concentric circles indicates the charging state of the charging unit 101. Alternatively, the user display 108 may include a circle divided into four quadrants, wherein the number of illuminated quadrants may indicate the charging state of the charging unit 101. Other embodiments are also contemplated in which the color of the user display 108 may indicate the charging state of the charging unit 101. For example, red may be used to indicate a low charge state, yellow may be used to indicate an intermediate charge state, and green, blue, or white may be used to indicate a full or nearly full charge state.

Referring to FIG. 4 , the user display 106a may be additionally or alternatively disposed on the aerosol providing device 100. According to an embodiment, the user display 106a may include a sequence or array of two, three, four or more lights or LEDs. For example, according to an embodiment, two lights or LEDs may be provided, and the lights or LEDs may be gradually illuminated to indicate the charging state. Zero lights or LEDs illuminated may indicate a low charging state (or a charging state of < 33%), one light or LED illuminated may indicate an intermediate charging state (or a charging state of 33-66%), and two lights or LEDs may indicate a fully or nearly fully charged state (or a charging state of > 66%). Other embodiments are also contemplated in which the color of the user display 106a may indicate the charging state of the charging unit 101. For example, red may be used to indicate a low charge state, yellow may be used to indicate an intermediate charge state, and green, blue, or white may be used to indicate a full or nearly full charge state.

In the operating mode, the user display 108 provided on the charging unit 101 or the user display 106, 106a on the aerosol providing device 100 can be arranged to indicate the charging status of the aerosol providing device 100. For example, referring to FIG. 1, the user display 108 can include a series of concentric circles, wherein the number of illuminated concentric circles indicates the charging status of the aerosol providing device 100. Alternatively, the user display 108 can include a circle divided into four quadrants, wherein the number of illuminated quadrants can indicate the charging status of the aerosol providing device 100. Other embodiments are also contemplated in which the color of the user display 108 can indicate the charging status of the aerosol providing device 100. For example, red may be used to indicate a low charge state, yellow may be used to indicate an intermediate charge state, and green, blue, or white may be used to indicate a full or nearly full charge state.

Other embodiments are contemplated in which the user display is not provided on the aerosol providing device 100. For example, according to an embodiment, the user display may be provided only on the charging unit 101. According to another embodiment, the user display may not be provided at all, i.e., the user display is not provided on either the aerosol providing device 100 or the charging unit 101.

In the operating mode, the user display 108 provided on the charging unit 101 and/or the user display 106a provided on the aerosol providing device 100 may be arranged to indicate an error or fault state of the charging unit 101 and/or the aerosol providing device 100. In the operating mode, the user display 108 provided on the charging unit 101 and/or the user display 106a provided on the aerosol providing device 100 may be arranged to indicate the remaining time of the usage period.

According to various embodiments, the second position includes an open position in which the aerosol providing device 100 can be inserted into and removed from the cavity of the charging unit 101. According to various embodiments, the first position includes a closed position in which the upper portion of the cavity of the charging unit 101 is closed by the cover 103.

The cover 103 may be configured to move (e.g., slide or pivot) between a first position and a second position. The charging unit 101 may include a housing having one or more tracks or grooves, and the cover 103 may include one or more tabs or protrusions arranged to engage the one or more tracks or grooves. Alternatively, the charging unit 101 may include a housing having one or more tabs or protrusions, and the cover 103 may include one or more tracks or grooves, and wherein the one or more tabs or protrusions engage the one or more tracks or grooves.

4 and 5 , the cover 103 may be configured to slide between a first position and a second position. The sliding of the cover 103 may be achieved by any suitable arrangement. The charging unit 101 may include a groove 114. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the groove 114 may be arranged on the inner edge of the housing 113. The cover 103 may include a tab 116 that engages the groove 114. The engagement of the tab 116 with the groove 114 may constrain the cover 103 so that it can slide relative to the main housing 113.

Other embodiments are envisioned in which the charging unit 101 includes a track instead of the groove 114. Similarly, the cover 103 may include a protrusion having a form other than the tab 116, which may engage the groove 114 or the track. The groove 114 or the track may be arranged on the cover 103 instead of the housing 113, and the tab 116 or the protrusion may be arranged on the housing 113 or other suitable part of the charging unit 101 instead of on the cover 103. The groove 114 and/or the track together with the tab 116 and/or the protrusion, regardless of their location, serve to constrain the movement of the cover 103. Any number of grooves 114, tracks, tabs 116 or protrusions may be provided.

6 shows a perspective view of the uppermost portion of the aerosol providing system, wherein the lid 103 is in a first position. In some embodiments, the first position of the lid 103 comprises a closed position, in which the opening 111 at the upper portion of the cavity 112 is closed by the lid 103. This can prevent a user from being able to remove the aerosol providing device 100 from the cavity 112 of the charging unit 101.

FIG7 shows a top view of the aerosol delivery system, wherein the lid 103 is in a first position. The groove 114 on the housing 113 of the charging unit 101 and the tab 116 on the lid 103 are visible. When the lid 103 moves from the second (e.g., open) position shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 to the first (e.g., closed) position shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the tab 116 slides in the groove 114 and thereby guides the sliding movement of the lid 103.

Other embodiments are also contemplated whereby the cover 103 moves between the first position and the second position in any other suitable manner, such as by rotational and/or pivotal movement.

As discussed above, in the above embodiments, the lid 103 of the charging unit 100 is configured to be activated. Activating the lid 103 may include moving the lid 103 to a second position, such as from a first position, or to a first position, such as from a second position. The lid 103 may be moved from an intermediate position between each of the first position and the second position to each of the first position or the second position. The corresponding operation for each activation may be any suitable operation, depending on the particular configuration of the aerosol providing system. An activation including movement to the second position may include a corresponding operation, thereby activating the user display 108 and/or (multiple) user interfaces 106, 106a. Similarly, an activation including movement to the first position may include deactivating the user display 108 and/or (multiple) user interfaces 106, 106a. Therefore, activating the cover 103 of the charging unit may cause corresponding operation of the charging unit 101 or the aerosol providing device 100 received in the charging unit 101. Although the above description describes activation in the form of moving the cover 103 between the first position and the second position, it should be understood that the cover 103 may be activated in any other suitable manner.

In the above-described embodiment, the aerosol providing device 100 is shown together with the charging unit 101. However, this is not necessary, and the aerosol providing device may include an independent aerosol providing device. An aerosol providing device including a lid will now be described in more detail below, the lid being configured to be activated by at least one activation to cause a corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device. It should be understood that, unless otherwise indicated, the features of the aerosol providing device, in particular its lid, may be applied to the aerosol providing system discussed above. Similarly, the features of the aerosol providing system may be applied to the aerosol providing device described below. The features of any of the aerosol providing devices described below may also be combined in any suitable manner, unless otherwise indicated.

FIG8 shows a perspective view of an aerosol providing device 300 according to various embodiments. The aerosol providing device 300 can be charged by the charging unit 101 as described above, or it can be charged by any other suitable device. The aerosol providing device 300 can include features corresponding to the aerosol providing device 100 described above. For example, the aerosol providing device can include an aerosol generator configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol generating product received in the aerosol providing device 300.

The housing 328 of the aerosol providing device 300 can be larger than the above-mentioned aerosol providing device 100, and therefore can accommodate a battery of larger capacity. Therefore, compared with the above-mentioned aerosol providing device 100, the aerosol providing device 300 can increase the usage time period. Therefore, the aerosol providing device 300 may not need to be charged as often as the above-mentioned aerosol providing device 100. The aerosol providing device 300 includes an opening 305, which leads to the chamber (not visible in this figure) in the same manner as the aerosol providing device 100 discussed above. The aerosol providing device 300 may also include an aerosol generator, which includes a heating arrangement similar to the heating arrangement of the aerosol providing device 100 discussed above.

The aerosol providing device 300 may include a cover 303 arranged to move between a first position in which the opening 305 is at least partially blocked (see FIG. 9 ) and a second position in which the opening is substantially unblocked by the cover, as depicted in FIG. 8 . Thus, the cover 303 may be used to selectively provide access to the opening 305, thereby allowing a user to insert and/or remove an aerosol generating product from the opening 305 when the cover 303 is in the second position.

The lid 303 is configured to be activated by a user. At least one activation of the lid 303 may cause a corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device 300. This is discussed in more detail further below. As shown by arrow 330, the lid 303 may be configured to slide. However, it is contemplated that the lid 303 may move between the first position and the second position in any suitable manner. For example, the lid 303 may instead pivot between the first position and the second position. In some embodiments, the lid 303 may include a button 332. The button 332 may be arranged at any suitable position on the lid 303, such as at the front thereof.

When in the first position, the cover 303 can completely block the opening 305. This can prevent any foreign matter from entering the opening 305, which may otherwise interfere with the normal operation of the aerosol providing device 300. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG8 , the second position can be a position in which the opening 305 is not blocked by the cover 303. Thus, the second position can correspond to a position in which the cover 303 is positioned so that the opening 305 is open to receive the aerosol generating product.

Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of an aerosol providing device 300, wherein the cover 303 is in a first position, in which the opening 305 (not visible in this figure) is at least partially blocked. In the depicted embodiment, the opening 305 is completely blocked.

FIG. 10 shows a top view of the aerosol providing device 300 , wherein the cover 303 is in a first position.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the aerosol providing device 300 , wherein the cover 303 is in a second position, in which the opening 305 is substantially unobstructed.

Fig. 12 shows a view of the aerosol providing device 300 when viewed from above. This corresponds to the position of the lid shown in Fig. 8.

The operation of the aerosol delivery device 300 will now be described. When a user initially wishes to use the aerosol delivery device 300, the user first needs to insert an aerosol generating product into the aerosol delivery device 300. To do this, the user may move the cover 303 from a first position shown in Figures 9 and 10 to a second position shown in Figures 11 and 12 to reveal an opening 305 leading to a chamber for receiving the aerosol generating product (not visible in these Figures).

The lid 303 is configured to be activated so that at least one activation of the lid 303 causes a corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device 300. In the embodiments depicted in Figures 8 to 12, the lid 303 can be configured to be activated by physical movement of the lid 303. For example, moving the lid 303 from a first position to a second position can be activating the lid 303. The corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device 300 can depend on how the device is configured to operate. For example, in some embodiments, an activation including moving the lid 303 from a first position to a second position can have a corresponding operation, which is activating the aerosol providing device 300. Such activation can have any suitable form. For example, activating the aerosol providing device 300 may start a preheating process, such as by activating an aerosol generator of the aerosol providing device 300. In other embodiments, activation may include activating a communication device configured to output information to a user. For example, the communication device may output information related to the current state of the aerosol providing device 300, such as a charging state.

An activatable cap 303 (whose activation causes a corresponding operation of the aerosol provider 300) can provide a convenient way for the user to interact with the control operation of the aerosol provider 300. For example, it can remove the need to provide a separate user interface on the aerosol provider 300. This can simplify the aerosol provider 300 because it can reduce the total number of parts. The operation triggered by the movement of the cap 303 can reduce the total number of inputs that the user must provide when using the aerosol provider 300, thereby potentially making the aerosol provider 300 easier to use. The operation can include preheating the aerosol provider 300. This may mean that the aerosol providing device 300 can generate aerosol faster than a device in which the user must separately operate a user interface, such as a power button, after opening the lid.

Once the user has finished using the aerosol providing device 300, the user can remove the aerosol generating product therefrom and proceed to move the cover 303 from the second position shown in Figures 11 and 12 to the first position shown in Figures 9 and 10. Once in this position, the cover 303 can at least partially, for example, completely block the opening 305 and thereby prevent any foreign matter from entering the chamber below the opening 305. The movement of the cover 303, for example, from the second position to the first position can be another activation, which causes another corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device 300. For example, the corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device 300 can include deactivating the aerosol generator within the aerosol providing device 300 and/or deactivating a communication device, such as a user display. Deactivating the aerosol delivery device 300 in this way may provide a convenient way to deactivate the aerosol delivery device 300. This may mean that the aerosol delivery device 300 does not continue to consume power unnecessarily when the user is no longer using the aerosol delivery device 300. Combining the deactivation with movement of the lid 303 may provide a convenient way to trigger deactivation.

The lid 303 can be moved between the first position and the second position in any suitable manner. In the embodiments shown in Figures 8 to 12, the lid 303 is arranged to slide between the first position and the second position. Sliding the lid 303 can make it particularly easy for the user to operate when holding the aerosol providing device 300. In some embodiments, the lid 303 is arranged to slide in a straight line between the first position and the second position. Again, sliding the lid 303 on a straight line can make it easy for the user to operate. However, it should be understood that the lid 303 can follow any other suitable path, such as a curved path.

As described above, the activation cover 303 may include multiple different activations. For example, moving the cover from a first position to a second position may be a first activation having a first corresponding operation (e.g., activating the aerosol provider), and moving the cover 303 from the second position to the first position may be a second activation having a second corresponding operation (e.g., deactivating the aerosol provider). However, it is contemplated that any number of activations and corresponding operations of the aerosol provider 300 may be implemented. In the above-described embodiments, the activation cover 303 includes physically moving the cover 303. However, it should be understood that the activation cover 303 may be achieved in other ways, for example, by pressing the cover 303. Referring back to Figure 8, the cover 303 may include a button 332. The user pressing the button 332 may be another activation having another corresponding operation. For example, the corresponding operation may include activating the enhanced operation mode of the aerosol providing device 303.

In the above embodiments, activation need not necessarily include moving the cover 303 from the first position to the second position. Instead, activation may simply include moving the cover 303 to the first position or the second position, regardless of the starting position. For example, activation may include moving the cover 303 from the first position and back to the first position, without the cover ever reaching the second position. The same may apply to the second position.

Figure 13 shows a further embodiment of an aerosol providing device 400 which is substantially the same as the above described aerosol providing device 300 in that it comprises an opening 405, a cover 403 which is arranged to slide and comprises a button 432 at its front end. As shown, the housing 428 may have different shapes.

Various variations of an aerosol providing device including a lid configured to be activated will now be described. In each of the described embodiments, the aerosol providing device is substantially the same as the aerosol providing device described above, except for how the lid function is activated. Therefore, any of the aerosol providing devices may include any of the features of the aerosol providing device described above.

FIG. 14 shows a perspective view of an aerosol providing device 500 according to another embodiment. The aerosol providing device 500 includes a lid 503, which is arranged to move between a first position and a second position in the same manner as the lids 303, 403 described above. The movement of the lid 503 between the first position and the second position may correspond to the activation of a corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device 500 in the same manner as the lid 303 described above. In other embodiments, the movement of the lid 503 between the first position and the second position may not correspond to activation, and therefore the movement of the lid 503 between the first position and the second position may not change the operating state of the aerosol providing device 500.

The lid 503 may be arranged to rotate about the rotation axis 534. The lid 503 may be rotated when the lid 503 is in the second position, in which the opening 505 is substantially unobstructed by the lid 503 (as shown in FIG. 14 ), and/or when the lid 503 is in the first position, in which the opening 505 is substantially obstructed (not shown). Rotating the lid 503 may correspond to activating the lid 503, which may cause a corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device 500. Activating the lid by rotating the lid 503 may provide a further degree of movement, which may increase the number of different activations possible using the lid 503. For example, sliding the cover 503 to the second position may be one form of activation of the cover 503, and rotating the cover 503 may then be a second form of activation. Rotating the cover 503 also requires a significantly different form of manual input from the user when compared to sliding the cover 503. Therefore, the user may be more likely to input a different form of activation with the cover 503, and thereby activate the desired operation.

In the embodiment depicted in Figure 14, the lid 503 is arranged to slide along the same axis 534 about which the lid 503 is arranged to rotate. Therefore, when moving between the first position and the second position, the rotation axis can be considered to be substantially aligned with the direction of movement of the lid 503. In other embodiments, the lid 503 can be arranged to rotate about an axis 535, which is perpendicular to the direction of movement of the lid 503 when moving between the first position and the second position. As will be appreciated, the aerosol providing device 500 can generally be an elongated shape having a longitudinal axis, and the axes 534, 535 (about which the lid 503 is arranged to rotate) may not be aligned with the longitudinal axis of the aerosol providing device 500.

Figures 15 to 17 each show a cross-sectional view of the aerosol providing device 500 shown in Figure 14 when viewed from the front end of the aerosol providing device 500 through line A-A. Figure 16 shows the cover 503 when it is in a non-rotated position, i.e. when it is not rotated relative to the axis 534. Figure 15 shows the cover 503 when it is rotated around the axis 534 in a first direction, and Figure 17 shows the cover 503 when it is rotated around the axis 534 in a second direction. The rotation in each of the different directions can each be a different activation, each corresponding to a different operation of the aerosol providing device 503. For example, rotating to the left, as shown in FIG. 15 , can activate the standard operating mode, while rotating to the right, as shown in FIG. 17 , can activate the enhanced operating mode. In some embodiments, the cover 503 may only be rotated to one side, for example, the cover 503 may only be rotated in the first direction shown in FIG. 15 , and then returned to the center position shown in FIG. 16 . In such embodiments, the rotation in the first direction can correspond to the activation of a corresponding operation. The cover 503 can be elastically biased to move back to the non-rotated position shown in FIG. 16 . Therefore, the user can apply a force to rotate the cover 503, and then release the force to allow the cover 503 to move back to the non-rotated position.

In some embodiments, activation and its corresponding operation may depend not only on the direction in which the cover 503 is rotated, but also on the time period that the cover 503 remains in a particular rotational position. For example, if the cover 503 is held in the first rotational position for 2 seconds, as shown in Figure 15, this can be a first activation with a first corresponding operation, such as a basic operating mode, and if the cover is held in the first rotational position for 5 seconds, this can be a second activation with a second corresponding operation, such as an enhanced operating mode. This can be applied to any type of activation. For example, moving to the second position within a first time period can cause a first operating mode, while moving to the second position within a second time period can cause a second operating mode. This is also applicable to embodiments described in more detail below in which the cover includes at least one button.

FIG18 shows an example of an aerosol providing device 600 according to another embodiment. The aerosol providing device 600 includes a removable cover 603 that moves in a similar manner to the various embodiments described above. The cover 603 also includes a first button 636 at the front end of the cover 603. The cover 603 may also include a second button 638 arranged at the rear end of the cover 603. In such embodiments, activating the cover 603 may include a user pressing the cover 603, such as by pressing one or both of the first button 636 and the second button 638. Although two buttons 636, 638 are depicted, it should be understood that the cover 603 may include any number of buttons, and the number of buttons may depend on the possible operation type of the device. The first button 636 and the second button 638 may each correspond to a different activation, and therefore a different operation, of the aerosol generating device 600. For example, the first button 636 may correspond to a standard operating mode, while the second button 638 may correspond to an enhanced operating mode. Alternatively, different operating modes may be achieved by pressing a single button multiple times, or by pressing the buttons for different amounts of time.

The first button 636 and the second button 638 may include capacitive buttons or mechanical buttons. The operation caused by pressing the first button and the second button may also depend on the position of the cover 603 when they are pressed. For example, when either the first button 636 or the second button 638 is pressed, i.e., activated, if the cover 603 is in the second position, as shown in FIG. 18 , the aerosol providing device 600 may operate to start heating the aerosol generating product inserted therein. In contrast, if the cover 603 is in the first position when one of the buttons 636, 638 is pressed, i.e. activated, this may cause a different operation, for example, it may cause the communication device (e.g., a screen) to provide an indication of the battery status or remaining usage of the aerosol providing device 600. Therefore, the operation of the aerosol providing device 600 may therefore depend on the activation, and the position of the cover 603 at the time of activation. In some embodiments, the operation may also depend on the state of the aerosol providing device 600 at the time of activation. For example, if the lid 603 is in the second position, as depicted, and the aerosol providing device 600 is already operating to heat an aerosol generating product inserted therein, further pressing one of the first button 636 or the second button 638 may trigger a different mode of operation, such as heating at a reduced power or heating for a different time period. Movement of the lid 603 between the first position and the second position may also correspond to activation of the lid 603. By taking into account the position of the lid 603 and/or the state of the aerosol providing device 600, the number of different operations initiated using the lid 603 may be increased without increasing the number of different activations required.

In the above-mentioned embodiment, the lid moves between the first position and the second position, and the movement of the lid between these positions can correspond to the activation of the lid. Figures 19 and 20 show further embodiments, according to which the lid can be moved to the third position. Figure 19 shows a top view of an aerosol providing device 700 including a lid 703, wherein the lid 703 is in the first position. Figure 20 shows a view of an aerosol providing device 700, which shows how the lid 703 can be moved to the second position (shown in dotted line 741) and the third position (shown in dotted line 740). The third position 740 can be reached by directly moving the lid 703 from the first position to the third position without passing through the second position. Therefore, in some embodiments, the third position is not located on the path between the first position and the second position of the lid 703. The movement of the cover 703 to the third position can be a form of activation of the cover 703. As will be appreciated, the movement to the third position as shown in Figure 20 is in a different direction than the movement to the second position. As will be appreciated, due to the different directions of movement, the user can more easily provide different activations with the cover 703.

In this embodiment, when moving from the first position to the third position without passing through the second position, the cover 703 can continue to substantially block the opening (not visible in this figure) that would otherwise receive the aerosol generating product. Therefore, activation of moving the cover 703 to the third position can cause, for example, operation of the aerosol providing device 700, thereby describing information to the user via the communication device.

Figure 21 shows a top view of a further embodiment of an aerosol providing device 800, wherein lid 803 is movable to the third position, which is different from the third position described above about Figures 19 and 20. In Figure 21, lid 803 is shown in the first position. Figure 22 shows an aerosol providing device 800, wherein lid 803 is in the second position, and the third position is shown by dotted line 842. As should be understood, in order to move lid 803 to the third position, lid 803 must first be moved to the second position. As described in the figure, when lid 803 was moved to the third position, opening 805 was opened substantially. This may be advantageous, because the user can first move lid 803 to the second position, thereby allowing them to place aerosol generating products into opening 805. The user can activate the lid 803 by moving the lid 803 to the third position shown by the dashed line 842. The activation may have a corresponding operation, for example, which includes causing the aerosol providing device 800 to start heating the aerosol generating product. Therefore, the lid 803 can be used to activate the heating of the aerosol providing device 800, thereby possibly removing the need for further user interface. This can simplify the form of the aerosol providing device 800.

Figure 23 shows a perspective view of another embodiment of an aerosol providing device 900. The aerosol providing device 900 can function in the same manner as any of the embodiments discussed above. The aerosol providing device 900 includes a communication device 943, which is configured to communicate information for a user to receive. For example, the information can be related to the current state of the aerosol providing device 900. The communication device 943 may include a light source, for example, to provide a visual indicator device. In some embodiments, the communication device 943 may include a tactile component, which is configured to provide information to the user, such as providing information to the user by vibration when a special operating mode is activated. In some embodiments, the communication device 943 may include a speaker configured to output audible information for the user to receive. In other embodiments, the communication device 943 may include a wireless connection for connecting to an external device, for example, including a wireless transmitter. For example, the external device may include a mobile phone. In such embodiments, the communication device 943 may transmit information to the external device, which may then output the information for the user to receive. For example, the information may be displayed on the mobile phone. In other embodiments, the communication device 943 may include a wired means for connecting to the external device.

In embodiments including a communication device 943, activation of the lid 903, such as by moving the lid between a first position and a second position, may have a corresponding operation, including operation of the communication device 943, so as to communicate information for receipt by a user. For example, activation including moving the lid 903 to the second position may have a corresponding operation, thereby causing the communication device 943 to output information for receipt by the user. For example, moving the lid 903 to the second position may cause the communication device 943 to display the current battery charge of the aerosol providing device 900. Any other suitable information may also be output. For example, activating the lid 903 may cause the communication device to output information related to the available amount of aerosol generating material and/or the available type of aerosol generating material.

The information communicated by the communication device 943 may depend on the activation. For example, sliding of the cover 903 may cause a particular type of information to be output, while activation by pressing the cover 903 may cause a different type of information to be output by the communication device 943. In some embodiments, the information output by the communication device 943 may depend not only on the particular activation, but also on the position of the cover 903 at the time of activation and/or the state of the aerosol providing device 900. For example, if the cover 903 is in the first position when it is activated, such as by pressing the cover 903, the communication device 943 may output information related to the battery status. Conversely, if the cover 903 is in the second position when it is activated, the communication device 943 may be caused to output information related to the current operating mode of the aerosol providing device 900.

In some embodiments, the communication device 943 may be configured to output information only when the aerosol providing device 900 is in use. In some embodiments, the communication device 943 may output information only within a predetermined time period after using the aerosol providing device 900. In other embodiments, the communication device 943 outputs information only when a user interface separate from the cover 903 is activated, such as when a separate button is pressed.

As depicted, the communication device 943 may include a screen 944 and one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) 946A, 946B. Each of the LEDs 946A, 946B may be a different color. Thus, the illumination of a corresponding LED in the LEDs 946A, 946B may be used to depict specific information to the user. For example, illuminating a first color LED may indicate that the aerosol delivery device is beginning to heat up, and illuminating a second color LED may indicate that the device is ready for use.

In some embodiments, the cover 903 is at least partially, for example, completely transparent. In such embodiments, the communication device 943, for example in the form of a visual indicator device, can be arranged below the cover 903 so that it is visible through the cover 903. The cover 903 can have an average optical transmittance across the wavelength range of 380-700 nanometers of at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 95%, so that the communication device 943 can be seen through the cover 903.

In the embodiment depicted in FIG23, the screen 944 and LEDs 946A, 946B are substantially visible to the user when the cover 903 is moved to any position between the first position shown in FIG23 and FIG24 and the second position shown in FIG25. In this embodiment, the entire cover 903 is transparent. Thus, the screen 944 and LEDs 946A, 946B, i.e., the visual indicators, are substantially visible to the user when the cover 903 is in the first position and in the second position.

In embodiments where the cover 903 is disposed above the delivery device 943, the cover 903 can function to cover the opening 905 of the chamber arranged to receive the aerosol generating product while protecting the delivery device 943, such as the screen 944 and the LEDs 946A, 946B. The screen 944 and/or the LEDs 946A, 946B can provide a user with a visual indication of the status of the aerosol delivery device 900.

FIG. 24 shows a top view of the aerosol providing device 900 when the lid 903 is in the first position. As shown, when in the first position, because the entire lid 903 is transparent, the communication device 943, in particular the screen 944 and the LEDs 946A, 946B are visible to the user. When in the first position, the screen 944 can display first information, such as the current battery status of the aerosol providing device 900. In the first position, the opening 905 is also visible. This can allow the user to check the opening 905 and the chamber arranged thereunder without having to open the lid 903.

Figure 25 shows a top view of the aerosol providing device 900 when the cover 903 is in the second position. When in the second position, the opening 905 is substantially unobstructed, so that the user can insert the aerosol generating product therein. As depicted in the figure, when in the second position, the visual indicator device 943 can continue to be visible. Specifically, the screen 944 and the LEDs 946A, 946B can continue to be visible. However, the information output of the screen 944 and the LEDs 946A, 946B can be changed. For example, the screen 944 can be changed to reflect the open state of the aerosol providing device 900. Obviously, any other suitable information can be output using the visual indicator device 943. The different information may be in the form of an operation corresponding to the activation of moving the cover 903 to the second position.

FIG26 shows a top view of another embodiment of an aerosol providing device 1000. The cover 1003 of the aerosol providing device includes a transparent portion 1048 and an opaque portion 1050. When the cover 1003 is in a first position, as shown in FIG26, the transparent portion 1048 is arranged above the screen 1044. Therefore, when the cover 1003 is in the first position, the screen 1044 is visible. Although the screen 1044 is shown, it should be understood that any other form of visual indicator device may be provided, for example, at least one LED.

Fig. 27 shows the cover 1003 in the second position, wherein the opening 1005 for receiving the aerosol generating product is substantially open. As shown, when in the second position, the opaque portion 1050 of the cover 1003 overlaps the screen 1044, so that the screen 1044 is no longer visible.

FIG. 28 shows a top view of another embodiment of an aerosol providing device 1100, wherein the lid 1103 includes a transparent portion 1148 and an opaque portion 1150. In this embodiment, the transparent portion 1148 and the opaque portion 1150 are opposite when compared with the embodiments shown in FIG. 26 and FIG. 27. Therefore, when the lid 1103 is in the first position, as shown in FIG. 28, the opening 1105 can be seen through the transparent portion 1148 of the lid, while the screen 1144 is blocked by the opaque portion 1150 of the lid 1103. When moving to the second position depicted in FIG. 29, the opaque portion 1150 moves, and the transparent portion 1148 moves over the screen 1144, so that the screen 1144 can then be seen. This may allow the screen 1144 or any other suitable visual indicator device to be seen during use of the aerosol delivery device 1100.

The at least partially transparent cover of any of the above embodiments may be made of any suitable at least partially transparent material. For example, at least a portion of the cover may be made of a transparent acrylic resin or a transparent polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). Although the at least partially transparent cover is described in the context of an aerosol providing device, it should be understood that an aerosol providing system including an aerosol providing device and a charging unit may include an at least partially transparent cover in a similar manner.

In any of the above embodiments, the aerosol providing device and/or the aerosol providing system may include a controller or an appropriate control circuit system. The controller or control circuit system may be configured to cause corresponding operations of the aerosol providing device or the charging unit. For example, the controller or control circuit system may be connected to a communication device to cause the communication device to output information, or connected to an aerosol generator to cause the aerosol generator to start heating the aerosol generating product, or similarly cause the aerosol generator to stop heating the aerosol generating product. At least one activation of the cover of any of the above embodiments may cause a control signal to be sent to the controller or control circuit system, or detected by it. The control signal may be generated in any suitable manner.

The activation of the lid of any of the embodiments, such as movement or pressing of the lid, can be detected in any suitable manner. For example, at least one switch can be arranged to detect activation, such as movement or pressing of the lid. For example, at least one switch can be arranged to be contacted when the lid moves to the second position. The switch can provide a control signal to a controller or control circuit system. Similarly, the switch can be arranged to detect movement of the lid to the first position and can output a control signal to a controller of the control circuit system. Any other suitable device can be provided for detecting activation of the lid. In embodiments in which activation includes pressing of the lid, at least one switch or capacitive switch can be provided to detect pressing of the lid.

The various embodiments described herein are presented only to aid in understanding and teaching the claimed features. These embodiments are provided only as representative samples of embodiments and are not exhaustive and/or exclusive. It should be understood that the advantages, embodiments, examples, functions, features, structures and/or other aspects described herein should not be considered as limitations on the scope of the invention as defined by the claims or limitations of equivalent forms of the claims, and other embodiments may be utilized and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the claimed invention. In addition to the appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc. specifically described herein, various embodiments of the present invention may appropriately include, consist of, or consist essentially of appropriate combinations of disclosed elements, components, features, parts, steps, devices, etc. In addition, the present disclosure may include other inventions that are not currently claimed but may be claimed in the future.

100,400,500,700,800,900,1000,1100: aerosol supply device 101: charging unit, aerosol charging unit 103,303: cover, activatable cover 106: button, user interface, user display 106a: user interface, user display 108: user display 111,203,305,405,505,805,905,1005,1105: opening 112: cavity 113: shell, main shell 114: groove 116: tab 200: main shell 200a: tubular wall, wall 201: chamber, heating chamber 202: heating element 202a: base portion 204: removal mechanism, removable mechanism 206: hole 207a: tubular portion, tubular element, inner element 207b: base portion, inner element 208: first magnet or magnetizable material, first magnet 209: second magnet or magnetizable material 210: outer cap portion, outer cover 300: aerosol generating product, aerosol providing device 328,428: housing 330: arrow 332,432: button 403,503,603,703,803,903,1003,1103: cover 534,535: axis 600: aerosol supply device, aerosol generating device 636: first button, button 638: second button, button 740: dashed line, third position 741: second position 842: dashed line 943: communication device, visual indicator device, visual indicator device 944,1044,1144: screen 946A: light emitting diode, LED 946B: light emitting diode, LED 1048,1148: transparent part 1050,1150: opaque part t1,t2: time

Various embodiments will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: FIG. 1 shows an aerosol providing system according to an embodiment, the system comprising an aerosol providing device located within a charging unit, wherein the charging unit comprises an actuable cover; FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol providing device shown in FIG. 1 ; FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the aerosol providing device shown in FIG. 1 , wherein an aerosol generating product is inserted; FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the upper portion of the aerosol providing system according to an embodiment, wherein the cover on the charging unit is in a second (e.g., open) position; FIG. 5 shows a top view of the aerosol providing system shown in FIG. 4 ; FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the upper portion of the aerosol providing system shown in FIG. 4 , wherein the cover on the charging unit is in a first (e.g., closed) position; FIG. 7 shows a top view of the aerosol providing system shown in FIG. 6 ; FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of an aerosol providing device according to an embodiment, the aerosol providing device including an actuable cover; FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the aerosol providing device shown in FIG. 8 , wherein the cover is in a first (e.g., closed) position; FIG. 10 shows a top view of the aerosol providing device shown in FIG. 9 when the cover is in a first position; FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the aerosol providing device shown in FIG. 8 , wherein the cover is in a second (e.g., open) position; Figure 12 shows a top view of the aerosol providing device shown in Figure 11, wherein the cover is in the second position; Figure 13 shows a three-dimensional view of another aerosol providing device according to another embodiment; Figure 14 shows a three-dimensional view of an aerosol providing device according to an embodiment, wherein the aerosol providing device includes a cover arranged to rotate around an axis; Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol providing device shown in Figure 14, wherein the cover is rotated in a first direction; Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol providing device shown in Figure 14, wherein the cover is in a non-rotated position; Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol providing device shown in Figure 14, wherein the cover is rotated in a second direction; FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an aerosol providing device according to an embodiment, the aerosol providing device including a cover that can be activated by pressing the cover; FIG. 19 is a top view of an aerosol providing device according to an embodiment, the aerosol providing device including a cover configured to move to a third position; FIG. 20 is a top view of the aerosol providing device shown in FIG. 19, showing the third position; FIG. 21 is a top view of an aerosol providing device according to an embodiment, the aerosol providing device including a cover configured to move to a third position, which is different from the third position shown in the embodiment of FIG. 20; FIG. 22 is a top view of the aerosol providing device shown in FIG. 21, showing the third position; Figure 23 is a three-dimensional view of an aerosol providing device according to an embodiment, the aerosol providing device includes a conveying device, and thereby, the cover is at least partially transparent; Figure 24 shows a top view of the aerosol providing device shown in Figure 23, wherein the cover is in a first position; Figure 25 shows a top view of the aerosol providing device shown in Figure 23, wherein the cover is in a second position; Figure 26 shows a top view of an aerosol providing device according to an embodiment, the aerosol providing device includes a cover, the cover includes a transparent portion and an opaque portion, wherein the cover is in a first position; Figure 27 shows a top view of the aerosol providing device shown in Figure 26, wherein the cover is in a second position; FIG. 28 shows a top view of an aerosol providing device according to an embodiment, the aerosol providing device comprising a cover, the cover comprising a transparent portion and an opaque portion, wherein the cover is in a first position such that the opaque portion blocks the communication device; and FIG. 29 shows a top view of the aerosol providing device shown in FIG. 28, wherein the cover is in a second position such that the transparent portion is above the communication device.

300: aerosol generating products, aerosol providing devices

303: Cover

305: Open mouth

328: Shell

330:arrow

332:Button

Claims (25)

An aerosol providing device comprises: a chamber having an opening arranged to receive an aerosol generating product; and a cover arranged to move between a first position and a second position, wherein the opening of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover and the opening is substantially unblocked by the cover in the first position; wherein the cover is configured to be activated by a user such that at least one activation of the cover causes at least one corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device. An aerosol providing system, comprising: an aerosol providing device, arranged to receive an aerosol generating product; a charging unit, for charging the aerosol providing device, the charging unit comprising a cavity, the cavity having an opening, the opening arranged to receive the aerosol providing device; and a cover, arranged to move between a first position and a second position, in which the opening of the cavity is at least partially blocked by the cover and in which the opening is substantially not blocked by the cover; wherein the cover is configured to be activated by a user, so that at least one activation of the cover causes at least one corresponding operation of the providing device and/or the charging unit. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one activation includes physical movement of the cover. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as described in any of claims 1, 2 or 3, wherein the at least one activation includes a user pressing the cover. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one activation comprises a plurality of different activations, and wherein each activation causes a different corresponding operation of the aerosol delivery device. An aerosol providing device or an aerosol providing system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one activation comprises moving the lid from the first position to the second position, and wherein the corresponding operation comprises activating the aerosol providing device and/or the charging unit. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one activation comprises moving the lid into the first position, and wherein the corresponding operation comprises deactivating the aerosol delivery device and/or the charging unit. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the lid is arranged to slide between the first position and the second position. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein the lid is arranged to move to a third position, the third position is not on a path between the first position and the second position, and wherein the at least one activation includes moving the lid to the third position. An aerosol providing device or an aerosol providing system as described in claim 9, wherein the direction of movement of the cover to the third position is different from the direction of movement of the cover when moving between the first position and the second position. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein the cover is configured to rotate about a rotation axis, and the at least one activation includes rotating the cover about the axis. An aerosol providing device or an aerosol providing system as described in claim 11, wherein, when moving between the first position and the second position, the rotation axis is substantially aligned with the movement direction of the cover, or perpendicular to the movement direction of the cover. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the cover comprises at least one button, and the at least one activation comprises a user pressing the at least one button. An aerosol providing device or an aerosol providing system as described in claim 13, wherein the at least one button includes at least one capacitive button and/or at least one mechanical button. An aerosol providing device or an aerosol providing system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device is dependent on the at least one activation and at least one of: (i) the initial position of the lid when the lid is activated; and (ii) the state of the aerosol providing device or the aerosol providing system. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as described in any of the preceding claims, further comprising a communication device configured to communicate information for receipt by a user. An aerosol providing device or an aerosol providing system as described in claim 16, wherein the corresponding operation of the aerosol providing device includes operating the communication device to convey information for a user to receive. An aerosol providing device or an aerosol providing system as described in any of the preceding claims, further comprising a controller configured to cause corresponding operations of the aerosol providing device or the charging unit, and wherein the at least one activation causes at least one corresponding control signal to be sent or detected by the controller. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the cover is at least partially transparent. An aerosol providing device, comprising: a chamber having an opening, the opening being arranged to receive an aerosol generating product; and a cover being arranged to move between a first position, in which the opening of the chamber is at least partially blocked by the cover, and a second position, in which the opening is substantially open; wherein at least a portion of the cover is at least partially transparent. An aerosol providing system, comprising: an aerosol providing device, arranged to receive an aerosol generating product; a charging unit, for charging the aerosol providing device, the charging unit comprising a cavity, the cavity having an opening, the opening arranged to receive the aerosol providing device; and a cover, arranged to move between a first position and a second position, in which the opening of the cavity is at least partially blocked by the cover and in which the opening is substantially open; wherein at least a portion of the cover is at least partially transparent. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as described in any of claims 19, 20 or 21, further comprising a communication device, wherein the communication device comprises a visual indicator device for providing visual instructions to a user. An aerosol delivery device or an aerosol delivery system as described in claim 22, wherein the visual indicator device is arranged so that the visual indicator device is substantially visible to the user when the cover is moved to any position between and including the first position and the second position. An aerosol delivery system, comprising: an aerosol delivery device as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, 22 or 23; and an aerosol generating article, comprising an aerosol generating material. A method for generating an aerosol, comprising: providing an aerosol providing device as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, 22 or 23; inserting an aerosol generating article including an aerosol generating material at least partially into the aerosol providing device; and activating the aerosol providing device.