JP2024164276A - Smoking Substitution System - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a smoking substitution device that enables a user to clean a heating element by physically accessing the heating element more conveniently, which facilitates more frequent cleaning routine.SOLUTION: A smoking substitution device 201 has a body 209, a heating element extending from the body, and a cap 210 removably attached to the body. The cap is movable between a first position and a second position along a longitudinal axis of the body. At the first position, the heating element is hidden in the cap. At the second position, the heating element is at least partially exposed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[1] The present invention relates to a smoking substitution system, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a smoking substitution system including a smoking substitution device and a tool for the device.

[2] Tobacco smoking is generally regarded as exposing smokers to potentially harmful substances. It is generally believed that significant amounts of potentially harmful substances are produced through the burning of tobacco and/or the heat caused by tobacco combustion, as well as through the constituents of burnt tobacco in the tobacco smoke itself.

[3] Conventional combustible smoking articles, such as cigarettes, typically include a cylindrical tobacco rod comprising strips of tobacco surrounded by a wrapper, and typically also include a cylindrical filter axially aligned in abutting relationship with the rolled tobacco rod. The filter typically includes a filtration material circumscribed by a plug wrap. The rolled tobacco rod and filter are held together by a rolled strip of tipping paper that circumscribes the entire length of the filter and adjacent portions of the rolled tobacco rod. Conventional cigarettes of this type are used by lighting the end opposite the filter to burn the tobacco rod. The smoker receives mainstream smoke into his or her mouth by drawing on the mouth or filter end of the cigarette.

[4] Combustion of organic materials such as tobacco is known to produce tar and other potentially harmful by-products. A variety of smoking substitution systems (or "substitute smoking systems") have been proposed to avoid tobacco smoking.

[5] Such smoking-substitution systems can form part of nicotine replacement therapy aimed at people wishing to quit smoking and overcome their dependence on nicotine.

[6] Smoking substitution systems include electronic systems that allow a user to simulate the act of smoking by producing an aerosol (also called "vapor") that is drawn (inhaled) through the mouth into the lungs and then exhaled. The inhaled aerosol typically contains nicotine and/or flavorings without or with fewer of the odors and health risks associated with traditional smoking.

[7] In general, smoking substitution systems are intended to provide a substitute for the habit of smoking while providing users with an experience and satisfaction similar to that experienced with traditional smoking and combustible tobacco products. Some smoking substitution systems use smoking substitution articles (also called "consumables") that are designed to resemble a traditional cigarette and are cylindrical in shape with a mouthpiece at one end.

[8] The popularity and use of smoking-substitution systems has grown rapidly over the past few years. Although originally marketed as aids to assist regular smokers wishing to quit smoking cigarettes, consumers increasingly view smoking-substitution systems as a desirable lifestyle accessory.

[9] There are several different categories of smoking substitution systems, each of which utilizes a different smoking substitution approach.

[10] One approach for smoking substitution systems is the so-called heated tobacco ("HT") approach, in which tobacco (not "e-liquid") is heated or warmed to release vapor. HT is also known as "heat-not-burn" ("HNB"). The tobacco may be leaf tobacco or reconstituted tobacco. The vapor may contain nicotine and/or flavorings. In the HT approach, the intention is that the tobacco is heated without being burned, i.e., the tobacco does not undergo combustion.

[11] A typical HT smoking substitution system may include a device and a consumable. The consumable may include tobacco material. The device and consumable may be configured to be physically coupled together. For example, the consumable may be inserted into a cavity or heating chamber, thereby establishing physical contact with a heating element located within the cavity. In use, heat may be applied to the tobacco material by the heating element of the device, and airflow through the tobacco material causes components in the tobacco material to be released as vapor. The vapor may also be formed from a carrier in the tobacco material (which may include, for example, propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin), as well as volatile compounds released from the tobacco. The released vapor may be entrained in the airflow drawn through the tobacco.

[12] As the vapor passes through the consumable (entrained in the airflow) from the point of evaporation to the outlet of the consumable (e.g., the mouthpiece), the vapor cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by the user. The aerosol typically contains volatile compounds.

[13] In HT smoking-substitution systems, it is believed that heating, as opposed to burning, tobacco material results in fewer or lower amounts of more harmful compounds typically produced during smoking. As a result, HT approaches can reduce odor and/or health risks that can result from tobacco burning, tobacco combustion, and pyrolytic degradation.

[14] During use, physical contact between the heating element and the tobacco material causes residues to form on the surface of the heating element. Thus, HT devices often require frequent cleaning with specialized tools to avoid the accumulation of residues on the heater surface. For example, users may need to clean the heating element using a brush or a disposable solvent swap. However, currently available HT systems may only provide access to the heating element through an opening facing toward the end of the cavity. Furthermore, users may need to remove a cap covering said opening to gain access to the heating element before cleaning. Such a configuration may be inconvenient. Thus, some users may only clean the heating element after the device has consumed a given number of consumables, e.g., 20 consumables, by which time the accumulation of residues may be detrimental to the experience, e.g., a burnt taste may be perceived.

[15] Improved designs of smoking substitution devices, particularly HT smoking substitution devices, are needed to enhance the user experience and improve the functionality of HT smoking substitution devices.

[16] This disclosure was devised in light of the above problems.

[17] Most generally, the invention relates to a smoking substitution system including a smoking substitution device having a cap movable between two positions to selectively conceal or expose the heating element of the smoking substitution device. This allows a user to more conveniently physically access the heating element to clean the heating element, thereby facilitating more frequent cleaning routines. The invention also relates to a tool for removing the cap from the device, thereby preventing inadvertent removal of the cap. The tool may further include cleaning means for conveniently allowing a user to clean the heating element after the cap has been removed by the tool.

[18] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a smoking substitution device having a body, a heating element extending from the body, and a cap removably attached to the body. The cap is movable along a longitudinal axis of the body between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the heating element is concealed within the cap, and in the second position, the heating element is at least partially exposed.

[19] For example, in a first position, the cap covers a window or opening in a sidewall of the body that extends into the transverse cavity that houses the heating element, thereby hiding the heating element. In a second position, the cap may be moved or slid into place so that it no longer covers the opening, thereby leaving the heating element at least partially exposed through the opening. More specifically, the opening may be located adjacent an exposed portion of the heating element, thus providing physical access to said exposed portion of the heating element.

[20] By providing a device that includes a cap that is movable between two positions, the heating element may be more conveniently cleaned. For example, when the cap is moved to the second position, the heating element may be exposed from the side of the device through a window or opening, and the heating element may then be visually inspected or cleaned through the opening. Advantageously, a user may thereby perform simple cleaning on the heating element without the need for a dedicated cleaning tool. For example, a user may simply blow air through the opening or physically shake, tilt, and/or tap the device to remove loose debris that has formed on the heating element. A user may also physically clean the exposed portion of the heating element, such as the base of the heating element, by using a tool, such as a brush. Additionally, the smoking substitution device disclosed herein may extend the usefulness of the device before it requires thorough cleaning or other such maintenance.

[21] Optional features are described below. These may be applied alone or in any combination with any aspect.

[22] Optionally, the cap may be retained on the body in the second position by a retaining means. Optionally, the retaining means may be any suitable retaining means, for example an interference fit or a latching mechanism. Advantageously, the retaining means may allow the cap to be positioned and retained in the second position during visual inspection and/or cleaning, and may stop the cap from moving further along the longitudinal axis after it reaches the second position, thereby preventing the cap from being inadvertently removed from the body.

[23] Optionally, the retaining means includes at least one flexible locking arm extending from the body and a locking projection disposed on the at least one locking arm. The locking projection may be configured to engage a slot defined in the cap to retain the cap on the body. Optionally, the locking projection may be retained in the slot when the cap moves between the first and second positions. Advantageously, the locking projection may slide along the slot when the cap moves from the first position to the second position, thereby preventing relative rotation between the cap and the body.

[24] Optionally, the body may define a transverse cavity opening through a first sidewall of the body, the opening being juxtaposed with the base of the heating element to at least partially expose the base of the heating element when the cap is in the second position. For example, an opening in a sidewall of the body leads to said transverse cavity. The transverse cavity may be juxtaposed laterally to the base of the heating element, or in other words, the transverse cavity may open in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body.

[25] Optionally, the transverse cavity can extend from a first side wall of the body to a second side wall opposite the first side wall. In other words, the transverse cavity can be a through hole that extends through both the first and second side walls of the body. This can advantageously allow for effective evacuation of loose debris through an opening or through hole.

[26] Optionally, the locking projection is configured to prevent separation of the cap from the device by abutting an end of the slot after the cap has moved to the second position, thus blocking further movement of the cap. In other words, the locking projection can prevent removal of the cap by blocking movement of the cap by abutting a peripheral surface of the cap that defines the slot when the cap is in the second position.

[27] Optionally, the cap can define a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-forming article. Optionally, the slot can be connected to or open into the cavity.

[28] In a second aspect of the present invention, a tool is provided for separating the cap from the body of the disclosed smoking substitution device. The tool may be used to separate or remove the cap from the device for thorough cleaning of the heating element. The tool has an unlocking means at one end and a cleaning means at the other end. The tool can provide compact and easy maintenance of the smoking substitution device of the smoking substitution system of the present disclosure.

[29] The tool may have at least one unlocking arm and an unlocking projection disposed on the unlocking arm. The unlocking projection may be configured to displace a corresponding locking projection disposed on a locking arm extending from the body of the device to disengage the locking projection from a slot in the cap. Advantageously, the tool prevents inadvertent removal of the cap from the body of the device.

[30] Optionally, the tool further comprises cleaning means for cleaning the heating element. The cleaning means advantageously allows a user to physically clean the heating element after the cap has been removed by the tool, thereby enabling a more thorough cleaning of the heating element, e.g., performing a "deep clean" of the heating element. Optionally, the cleaning means comprises at least one cleaning brush. Advantageously, in use, the brush can scrub the surface of the heating element, thereby enabling a more efficient cleaning of the heating element.

[31] Optionally, the tool further includes a central rod, the at least one unlocking arm extending in a first direction along a longitudinal axis of the central rod, and the cleaning means extending in a second direction opposite the first direction.

[32] Optionally, the tool includes a collar around a central rod having unlocking arms extending in a first direction, the collar being movable between an insertion position and an unlocked position, in which the at least one unlocking arm is permitted to bend, and in which the central rod prevents bending of the unlocking arms. The collar may comprise a ring-shaped collar. The collar may be positioned concentrically about the central rod.

[33] Optionally, the tool further includes a first cover configured to cover the at least one unlocking arm and a second cover configured to cover the cleaning means.

[34] Optionally, the tool has an exterior profile similar to an aerosol-forming article for a smoking substitution system.

[35] The device may include an elongated body. An end of the elongated body may be configured to engage an aerosol-forming article. For example, the body may be configured to engage a heated tobacco (HT) consumable (or a non-burning heated (HNB) consumable). The terms "heated tobacco" and "non-burning" are used interchangeably herein to describe a type of consumable that is heated rather than burned (or to describe a device for use with such a consumable). The device may include a cavity configured to receive (i.e., engage) at least a portion of the consumable. The aerosol-forming article may be of a type that includes an aerosol former (e.g., carried by an aerosol-forming substrate).

[36] The body may define a transverse cavity extending perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body. The transverse cavity may extend laterally and may be located in the body such that at least a base of the heating element is juxtaposed with the transverse cavity.

[37] Additionally, at least one locking arm can extend from the body. The locking arm can lock or retain the cap to the body. The locking arm can include a locking projection at a distal end. The locking projection can extend transversely to a longitudinal axis of the body. The locking arm can be positioned such that when the cap is attached to the body, the locking arm can engage the cap to retain the cap with the body.

[38] The cap may include a slot extending along a longitudinal axis of the body (when the cap is retained on the body), and the locking projection may be configured to engage the slot. The slot may be elongated such that the cap is moved or slid relative to the body along the longitudinal axis of the body. The locking projection may have an abutment surface for engaging a peripheral surface of the cap that defines the slot for retaining or locking the cap on the body.

[39] The cap may be movable between a first position and a second position. When the cap is in the first position, the cap may conceal the heating element. When the cap is in the second position, the heating element may be at least partially exposed, for example, through a window or opening in a sidewall of the body. When the heating element is partially exposed, the heating element may be visually inspected to see if cleaning of the heating element is required. If required, when the cap is in the second position, the heating element may be at least partially cleaned by blowing air through the opening to dislodge and remove debris or by simply gently shaking, tilting, and/or tapping the device.

[40] The smoking substitution system of the present disclosure may further include a tool for separating the cap from the body. The tool may be configured to displace the locking arm to allow separation of the cap from the body. The tool may include at least one unlocking arm. The unlocking arm may be adapted to engage and displace the locking arm to separate the cap from the body. Each unlocking arm may include an unlocking protrusion. The unlocking protrusion may extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the unlocking arm. The unlocking protrusion may be adapted to engage and displace the locking protrusion to release the cap from the body.

[41] The tool may further include a central rod. A collar may be concentrically positioned on the central rod. The collar may be movably disposed on the rod such that the collar moves relative to the central rod along a longitudinal axis of the central rod. The unlocking arms may extend from the collar along a longitudinal axis of the central rod. The collar may be movable on the central rod between an insertion position and an unlocked position. In the insertion position, the central rod may be maintained away from the unlocking projection and the unlocking arms may be bent radially inwardly relative to the longitudinal axis of the central rod. In the unlocked position, the central rod may move adjacent the unlocking projection to prevent the unlocking arms from bending in a radially inward direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the central rod. The collar may be biased to move toward the insertion position using any suitable means, such as a coil spring.

[42] The tool may be configured to be inserted into the cavity. The unlocking projection may be configured such that when the unlocking arm is inserted into the cavity, the unlocking arm displaces the locking arm to disengage the locking arm from the slot. The unlocking projection may have a dimension that interferes with the width of the cavity. To allow insertion of the unlocking arm into the cavity, in the insertion position, the central rod may be spaced from the distal end of the unlocking arm, allowing the distal end of the unlocking arm to bend radially inwardly to allow insertion of the unlocking arm with the unlocking projection into the cavity. The bending may be achieved when the unlocking projection abuts and slides against an inner surface of the cap that defines the internal cavity. As shown in the embodiment, the unlocking projection may include a tapered surface to guide the bending movement of the unlocking arm into and out of the cavity and slot.

[43] The tool may further include cleaning means for cleaning the heating element. The cleaning means may be in the form of a cleaning brush. The cleaning brush may be rubbed against an exterior surface of the heating element to remove or scrape any debris or residue from the heating element.

[44] The tool may include a first cover for covering the unlocking arm when not in use. Additionally, a second cover may be provided for covering the cleaning brush when not in use.

[45] The device may include a heater for heating the aerosol-forming article. The heater may include a heating element, which may be in the form of a rod extending from a body of the device. The heating element may extend from an end of the body configured to engage the aerosol-forming article.

[46] The heater (and thus the heating element) may be rigidly attached to the body. The heating element may be elongated to define a longitudinal axis and may, for example, have a substantially circular transverse profile (i.e., transverse to the longitudinal axis of the heating element) (i.e., the heating element may be generally cylindrical). Alternatively, the heating element may have a rectangular transverse profile (i.e., the heater may be a "blade heater"). Alternatively, the heating element may be tubular in shape (i.e., the heater may be a "tubular heater"). The heating element may take other shapes (e.g., the heating element may have an oval transverse profile). The shape and/or size (e.g., diameter) of the transverse profile of the heating element may be generally consistent throughout (or substantially throughout) the length of the heating element.

[47] The heating element may be 15 mm to 25 mm long, for example 18 mm to 20 mm long, for example about 19 mm long. The heating element may have a diameter of 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm, for example 2 mm to 2.3 mm, for example about 2.15 mm.

[48] The heating element may be formed from a ceramic. The heating element may include a core (e.g., a ceramic core) comprising Al2O3. The heating element core may have a diameter of 1.8 mm to 2.1 mm, e.g., 1.9 mm to 2 mm. The heating element may include an outer layer (e.g., an outer ceramic layer) comprising Al2O3. The outer layer may have a thickness of 160 μm to 220 μm, e.g., 170 μm to 190 μm, e.g., about 180 μm. The heating element may include a heating track, which may extend longitudinally along the heating element. The heating track may be sandwiched between the outer layer and the core of the heating element. The heating track may include tungsten and/or rhenium. The heating track may have a thickness of about 20 μm.

[49] The heating element may be located in the cavity (of the device) and may extend from the interior base of the cavity toward the opening of the cavity (e.g., along the longitudinal axis). The length of the heating element (i.e., the length along the longitudinal axis of the heater) may be less than the depth of the cavity. Thus, the heating element may extend over only a portion of the length of the cavity. That is, the heating element may not extend through (or beyond) the opening of the cavity.

[50] The heating element may be configured to be inserted into the aerosol-forming article (e.g., an HT consumable) when the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. In that regard, a distal end of the heating element (i.e., distal from a base of the heating element attached to the device) may include a tapered portion, which may facilitate insertion of the heating element into the aerosol-forming article. When the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity, the heating element may fully penetrate the aerosol-forming article. That is, the entire length or substantially the entire length of the heating element may be received in the aerosol-forming article.

[51] The heating element may have a length less than or substantially the same as the axial length of the aerosol-forming substrate forming part of the aerosol-forming article (e.g., HT consumable). Thus, when such an aerosol-forming article is engaged with a device, the heating element may penetrate only the aerosol-forming substrate and not other components of the aerosol-forming article. The heating element may penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate over substantially the entire axial length of the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article. Thus, when penetrated by the heating element, heat may be transferred from the heating element (e.g., its outer circumferential surface) to the surrounding aerosol-forming substrate. That is, heat may be transferred radially outward (in the case of a cylindrical heating element) or, for example, radially inward (in the case of a tubular heater).

[52] When the heater is a tubular heater, the heating element of the tubular heater can surround at least a portion of the cavity. When a portion of the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity, the heating element can surround (i.e. heat) a portion of the aerosol-forming article. In particular, the heating element can surround an aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article. That is, when the aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device, the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article can be located adjacent to an inner surface of the (tubular) heating element. When the heating element is activated, heat can be transferred radially inward from the inner surface of the heating element to heat the aerosol-forming substrate.

[53] The cavity may include a (e.g., circumferential) wall (or walls) and the (tubular) heating element may extend around at least a portion of this wall. In this manner, the wall may be located between an inner surface of the heating element and an outer surface of the aerosol-forming article. The wall (or walls) of the cavity may be formed from a thermally conductive material (e.g., metal) to allow for heat conduction from the heating element to the aerosol-forming article. Thus, heat may be conducted from the heating element through the cavity wall (or walls) to an aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article received in the cavity.

[54] In some embodiments, the device can include a cap disposed on an end of the body configured to engage the aerosol-forming article. When the device includes a heater having a heating element, the cap can at least partially surround the heating element. The cap can be movable between an open or second position in which access to the heating element is provided and a closed position in which the cap at least partially surrounds the heating element. The cap can be slidably engaged to the body of the device and can be slidable between the open and closed positions.

[55] The cap may define at least a portion of the cavity of the device. That is, the cavity may be completely defined by the cap, or the cap and the body may each define a portion of the cavity. If the cap completely defines the cavity, the cap may include an opening for receiving the heating element into the cavity (when the cap is in the closed position). The cap may include an opening to the cavity. The opening may be configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-forming article. That is, the aerosol-forming article may be inserted into the cavity (engaged to the device) through the opening.

[56] The cap may be configured such that when the aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device (e.g., received in the cavity), only a portion of the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. That is, a portion of the aerosol-forming article (not received in the cavity) may protrude from the opening (i.e., extend beyond the opening). This (protruding) portion of the aerosol-forming article may be an end (e.g., a mouth end) of the aerosol-forming article that may be received in the mouth of a user for purposes of inhaling the aerosol formed by the device.

[57] The device may include a power source or may be connectable to a power source (e.g., a power source separate from the device). The power source may be electrically connectable to the heater. In that regard, changing (e.g., toggling) the electrical connection of the power source to the heater may affect the state of the heater. For example, toggling the electrical connection of the power source to the heater may toggle the heater between an on state and an off state. The power source may be a power store. For example, the power source may be a battery or a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium ion battery).

[58] The device may include an input connection (e.g., a USB port, a Micro USB port, a USB-C port, etc.). The input connection may be configured to connect to an external power source, such as a power outlet. The input connection may optionally be used as a substitute for an internal power source (e.g., a battery or a rechargeable battery). That is, the input connection may be electrically connectable to a heater (to provide power to the heater). Thus, in some forms, the input connection may form at least a portion of the power source for the device.

[59] If the power source includes a rechargeable power source (such as a rechargeable battery), the input connection may be used to charge and recharge the power source.

[60] The device may include a user interface (UI). In some embodiments, the UI may include input means for receiving operational commands from a user. The input means of the UI may allow a user to control at least one aspect of the operation of the device. In some embodiments, the input means may include a power button for switching the device between an on state and an off state.

[61] In some embodiments, the UI may additionally or alternatively include an output means for communicating information to a user. In some embodiments, the output means may include a light for indicating a status of the device (and/or the aerosol-forming article) to the user. The status of the device (and/or the aerosol-forming article) indicated to the user may include a status indicative of operation of the heater. For example, the status may include whether the heater is in an off state or an on state. In some embodiments, the UI unit may include at least one of a button, a display, a touch screen, a switch, a light, and the like. For example, the output means may include one or more (e.g., two, three, four, etc.) light emitting diodes ("LEDs"), which may be located on the body of the device.

[62] The device may further include a puff sensor (e.g., an airflow sensor), which forms part of the input means of the UI. The puff sensor may be configured to detect when a user has inhaled at an end (i.e., the distal (oral) end) of the aerosol-forming article. The puff sensor may be, for example, a pressure sensor or a microphone. The puff sensor may be configured to produce a signal indicative of a puff state. The signal may indicate when a user has inhaled (aerosol from the aerosol-forming article), for example in the form of a binary signal. Alternatively or additionally, the signal may indicate a characteristic of the inhalation (e.g., flow rate of the inhalation, length of time of the inhalation, etc.).

[63] The device may include or be connectable to a controller, which may be configured to control at least one function of the device. The controller may include a microcontroller, which may be mounted, for example, on a printed circuit board (PCB). The controller may also include a memory, for example a non-volatile memory. The memory may include instructions that, when executed, cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of a method. If the device includes an input connection, the controller may be connected to the input connection.

[64] The controller is configured to control the operation of the heater (and, e.g., the heating element). Thus, the controller may be configured to control evaporation of an aerosol-forming portion of an aerosol-forming article engaged with the device. The controller may be configured to control the voltage applied by the power supply to the heater. For example, the controller may be configured to toggle between applying the full output voltage (of the power supply) to the heater and applying no voltage to the heater. Alternatively, or in addition, the control unit may implement a more complex heater control protocol.

[65] The device may further include a voltage regulator for regulating the output voltage provided by the power supply to form a regulated voltage. The regulated voltage may then be applied to the heater.

[66] In some embodiments, where the device includes a UI, the controller may be operatively connected to one or more components of the UI. The controller may be configured to receive command signals from an input means of the UI. The controller may be configured to control the heater in response to the command signals. For example, the controller may be configured to receive "on" and "off" command signals from the UI and in response thereto can control the heater to a corresponding on or off state.

[67] The controller may be configured to send output signals to components of the UI. The UI may be configured to communicate information to a user via the output means in response to such output signals (received from the controller). For example, if the device includes one or more LEDs, the LEDs may be operatively connected to the controller. The controller may thus be configured to control illumination of the LEDs (e.g., in response to the output signals). For example, the controller may be configured to control illumination of the LEDs according to a state of a heater (e.g., on or off).

[68] Where the device includes a sensor (e.g., a puff/airflow sensor), the controller may be operatively connected to the sensor. The controller may be configured to receive a signal from the sensor (e.g., indicative of a state of the device and/or an engaged aerosol-forming article). The controller may be configured to control the heater, or a configuration of the output means, based on the signal from the sensor.

[69] The device may include a wireless interface configured to communicate wirelessly (e.g., via Bluetooth (e.g., a Bluetooth low energy connection) or WiFi) with an external device. Similarly, the input connection may be configured to make a wired connection to an external device to provide communication between the device and the external device.

[70] The external device may be a mobile device. For example, the external device may be a smartphone, a tablet, a smartwatch, or a smart car. The external device (e.g., a mobile device) may have an application (e.g., an app) installed on it. The application may facilitate communication between the device and the external device via a wired or wireless connection.

[71] The wireless or wired interface may be configured to communicate signals between the external device and a controller of the device. In this regard, the controller may control the configuration of the device in response to signals received from the external device. Alternatively, or in addition, the external device may be responsive to signals received from the device (e.g., the controller of the device).

[72] In a third aspect, there is provided a system (e.g., a smoking substitution system) comprising a device according to the first aspect and an aerosol-forming article. The aerosol-forming article may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate at an upstream end of the aerosol-forming article. The article may be in the form of a smoking substitution article, for example a heated tobacco (HT) consumable (also known as a heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable).

[73] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are intended to refer to the direction of vapor/aerosol flow, i.e., the downstream end of the article/consumable is the mouth end or outlet where the aerosol exits the consumable for inhalation by the user. The upstream end of the article/consumable is the end opposite the downstream end.

[74] The aerosol-forming substrate is capable of being heated to release at least one volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be located at the upstream end of the article/consumable.

[75] To generate an aerosol, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least one volatile compound that is intended to be vaporized/aerosolized and that, when inhaled, can provide a recreational and/or medicinal effect to the user. Suitable chemically and/or physiologically active volatile compounds include the group consisting of nicotine, cocaine, caffeine, opiates and opoids, cathine and cathinone, kavalactones, mysticin, beta-carboline alkaloids, salvinorin A, together with any combinations, functional equivalents, and/or synthetic substitutes of the above.

[76] Aerosol-forming substrates can include plant material. Plant materials include Amaranthus dubius, Arctostaphylos va-ursi (bearberry), Argemone mexicana, Amica, Artemisia vulgaris, Yellow Tees, Galea zacatechichi, Canavalia maritima (Baybean), Cecropia mexicana (Guamura), Cestrum noctumum, Cynoglossum virginianum (wild comfrey), Cytisus scoparius, damiana, Entada rheedii, Eschscholzia califomica (California Poppy), Fittonia albivenis, Hippobroma longiflora, Humulus japonica (Japanese Hops), Humulus lupulus (Hops), Lactuca virosa (Lettuce Opium), Laggera alata, Leonotis leonurus, Leonurus cardiaca (Motherwort), Leonurus sibiricus (Honeyweed), Lobelia cardinalis, Lobelia inflata (Indian-tobacco), Lobelia siphilitica, Nepeta cataria (Catnip), Nicotiana species (tobacco), Nymphaea alba (White Lily), Nymphaea caerulea (Blue Lily), Opium poppy, Passiflora incamata (Passionflower), Pedicularis densiflora (Indian Warrior), Pedicularis groenlandica (Elephant's Head), Salvia divinorum, Salvia dorrii (Tobacco Sage), Salvia spp. (Sage), Scutellaria galericulata, Scutellaria lateraliflora, Scutellaria nana, Scutellaria spp. (Skullcap), Sida acuta (Wireweed), Sida rhombifolia, Silene capensis, Syzygium aromaticum (Clove), Tagetes lucida (Mexican Tarragon), Tarchonanthus camphoratus, Tumera diffusa (Damiana), Mullein (Mullein), Zamia latifolia (Maconha Brava), together with any combination, functional equivalent, and/or synthetic alternative of the above.

[77] The plant material may be tobacco. Any type of tobacco may be used, including, but not limited to, flue-cured, burley, Maryland, dark air-cured, Oriental, dark flue-cured, perique, and rustica. This also includes blends of the aforementioned tobaccos.

[78] Tobacco can include one or more of leaf tobacco, stem tobacco, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenized tobacco, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobacco, and/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g., slurry recon or paper recon).

[79] The aerosol-forming substrate may include a homogenous (e.g., paper/slurry recon) tobacco collecting sheet, or collecting strips/strips formed from such a sheet.

[80] The aerosol-forming substrate may include one or more additives selected from humectants, flavoring agents, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solvents, and binders.

[81] The flavorings may be provided in solid or liquid form. Flavorings may include menthol, licorice, chocolate, fruit flavors (e.g., including citrus, cherry, etc.), vanilla, spices (e.g., ginger, cinnamon), and tobacco flavors. The flavorings may be uniformly dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate or may be provided at discrete locations and/or varying concentrations throughout the aerosol-forming substrate.

[82] The aerosol-forming substrate may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape such that the article/consumable resembles a conventional cigarette. The aerosol-forming substrate may have a diameter of 5-10 mm, such as 6-9 mm or 6-8 mm, for example about 7 mm. The aerosol-forming substrate may have an axial length of 10-15 mm, for example 11-14 mm, such as about 12 or 13 mm.

[83] The article/consumable may include at least one filter element. A terminal filter element may be located at the downstream/mouth end of the article/consumable.

[84] The or at least one filter element (e.g., an end filter element) may be constructed from cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow. The or at least one filter element (e.g., an end filter element) may be constructed from activated carbon. The or at least one filter element (e.g., an end element) may be constructed from paper. The or each filter element may be at least partially (e.g., entirely) circumscribed by a plug wrap, e.g., a paper plug wrap.

[85] A terminal filter element (the downstream end of the article/consumable) can be joined to an upstream element to form the article/consumable by a circumscribing tipping layer, e.g., a tipping paper layer. The tipping paper can have an axial length greater than the axial length of the terminal filter element, such that the tipping paper completely circumscribing the terminal filter element and the wrap layer surrounding any adjacent upstream elements.

[86] In some embodiments, the article/consumable may include an aerosol cooling element adapted to cool the aerosol generated (by heat exchange) from the aerosol-forming substrate before it is inhaled by the user.

[87] The article/consumable may include a spacer element that defines a space or cavity between the aerosol-forming substrate and the downstream end of the consumable. The spacer element may include a paper tube. The spacer element may be circumscribed by a (paper) wrap layer.

[88] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a kit comprising a device according to the first aspect and a tool according to the second aspect.

[89] The present invention includes combinations of the described embodiments and preferred features, except where such combinations are expressly unacceptable or expressly avoided.

[90] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, unless mutually exclusive, any feature or parameter described in connection with any one of the above embodiments may also be applied to any other embodiment. Further, unless mutually exclusive, any feature or parameter described herein may be applied to any embodiment and/or may be combined with any other feature or parameter described herein.

[91] So that the invention may be understood, and further aspects and features thereof may be realized, embodiments illustrating the principles of the invention will now be described in more detail, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[92] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a smoking substitution system. [93] FIG. 2A is a front view of a first embodiment of a smoking substitution system with a consumable engaged to the device. [94] FIG. 2B is a front view of a first embodiment of a smoking substitution system with the consumables separated from the device. [95] FIG. 2C is a cross-sectional view of a consumable of a first embodiment of a smoking substitution system. [96] FIG. 2D is a detailed view of the end of the device of the first embodiment of the smoking substitution system. [97] FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a smoking substitution system. [98] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the smoking substitution system, with the cap in a second position. [99] FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a smoking substitution system with a cap in a first position. [100] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the smoking substitution system, with the cap in a second position. [101] Figure 5A is a perspective view of a tool according to one embodiment. [102] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of the tool of FIG. 5A with the first cover removed. [103] FIG. 5C is a perspective view of the tool of FIG. 5A with the second cover removed. [104] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment with the tool inserted into the cavity in the insertion position. [105] FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the first embodiment with the tool inserted into the cavity in the unlocked position. [106] Figures 7(a)-7(e) show steps in separating the cap from the body of the smoking substitute device of the first embodiment using a tool.

[107] Aspects and embodiments of the present invention are discussed below with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[108] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram providing a general overview of a smoking substitution system 100. The system 100 includes a substitute smoking device 101 and an aerosol-forming article in the form of a consumable 102, which includes an aerosol former 103. The system is configured to vaporize the aerosol former 103 by heating the aerosol former 103 (forming a vapor/aerosol for inhalation by a user).

[109] In the system shown, a heater 104 forms part of the device 101 and is configured to heat an aerosol former 103. Heat from the heater 104 causes the aerosol former 103 to evaporate, producing a vapour. The vapour then condenses to form an aerosol, which is ultimately inhaled by a user.

[110] The system 100 further includes a power source 105, which forms part of the device 101. In other embodiments, the power source 105 may be located external to the device 101 (but may be connected to the device 101). The power source 105 may be electrically connectable to the heater 104 such that the power source 105 may provide power to the heater 104 (i.e., for heating the aerosol formation body 103). Thus, controlling the electrical connection of the power source 105 to the heater 104 provides control of the state of the heater 104. The power source 105 may be a power store, such as a battery or a rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium ion battery).

[111] The system 100 further includes an I/O module that includes a connector 106 (e.g., in the form of a USB port, a Micro USB port, a USB-C port, etc.). The connector 106 is configured to connect to an external power source, e.g., a power outlet. The connector 106 may be used as a substitute for the power source 105; that is, the connector 106 may be electrically connectable to the heater 104 to provide electricity to the heater 104. In such an embodiment, the device may not include a power source, and instead the power source of the system may include the connector 106 and the external power source (with the connector 106 providing the electrical connection).

[112] In some embodiments, connector 106 may be used to charge and recharge power source 105 if power source 104 includes a rechargeable battery.

[113] System 100 also includes a user interface (UI) 107. Although not shown, UI 107 may include input means for receiving commands from a user. The input means of UI 107 allows a user to control at least one aspect of the operation of system 100. The input means may be in the form of, for example, buttons, a touch screen, switches, a microphone, etc.

[114] The UI 107 also includes output means for communicating information to the user. The output means may include, for example, lights (e.g., LEDs), a display screen, a speaker, a vibration generator, etc.

[115] The system 100 further includes a controller 108 configured to control at least one function of the device 101. In the embodiment shown, the controller 108 is a component of the device 101, but in other embodiments, the controller 108 may be separate from (but connectable to) the device 101. The controller 108 may be configured to control the operation of the heater 104, for example, to control the voltage applied to the heater 104 from the power source 105. The controller 108 may be configured to toggle the supply of power to the heater 105 between an on state, in which the full output voltage of the power source 105 is applied to the heater 104, and an off state, in which no voltage is applied to the heater 104.

[116] Although not shown, the system 100 may also include a voltage regulator for regulating the output voltage from the power supply 105 to form a regulated voltage. The regulated voltage may then be applied to the heater 104.

[117] In addition to being connected to the heater 104, the controller 108 is operatively connected to the UI 107. Thus, the controller 108 can receive input signals from the input means of the UI 107. Similarly, the controller 108 can transmit output signals to the UI 107. In response, the output means of the UI 107 can communicate information to a user based on the output signals.

[118] Figures 2A and 2B show a heated tobacco (HT) smoking substitute system 200. System 200 is an example of system 100 described in relation to Figure 1. System 200 includes an HT device 201 and an HT consumable 202. The description of Figure 1 above is also applicable to system 200 of Figures 2A and 2B and therefore will not be repeated.

[119] The device 201 and the consumable 202 are configured such that the consumable 202 can be engaged with the device 201. FIG. 2A shows the device 201 and the consumable 202 in an engaged state, and FIG. 2B shows the device 201 and the consumable 202 in a detached state.

[120] The device 201 includes a body 209 and a cap 210. In use, the cap 210 is engaged at an end of the body 209. Although not apparent from these views, the cap 210 is movable relative to the body 209. In particular, the cap 210 is slidable and can slide along the longitudinal axis of the body 209.

[121] As shown in FIG. 7(e), the body 209 defines a transverse cavity 227 that extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the body 209. The transverse cavity 227 opens through a first sidewall of the body 209 and extends from the first sidewall of the body 209 toward and surrounds at least a portion of the heating element. The transverse cavity 227 is located in the body 209 such that at least the base 228 of the heating element is juxtaposed with the transverse cavity 227. The transverse cavity 227 extends from the first sidewall of the body 209 to and through a second sidewall opposite the first sidewall of the body 209. That is, the transverse cavity 227 forms a through hole that extends through the body 209.

[122] The device 201 includes output means (forming part of the UI of the device 201) in the form of a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) 211 arranged in a linear fashion on the outer surface of the body 209 of the device 201 along the longitudinal axis of the device 201. A button 212 is also arranged on the outer surface of the body 209 of the device 201 and is spaced axially (i.e., along the longitudinal axis) from the plurality of LEDs 211.

[123] FIG. 2C shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the consumable 202 of the system 200. The consumable 202 generally resembles a cigarette. In that regard, the consumable 202 has a generally cylindrical shape with a diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of 70 mm. The consumable 202 includes an aerosol-forming substrate 213, a terminal filter element 214, an upstream filter element 215, and a spacer element 216. In other embodiments, the consumable can further include a cooling element. The cooling element can exchange heat with the vapor formed by the aerosol-forming substrate 213 to cool the vapor to facilitate condensation of the vapor.

[124] The aerosol-forming substrate 213 is substantially cylindrical, is located at the upstream end 217 of the consumable 202, and contains the aerosol former of the system 200. At that point, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 is configured to be heated by the device 201 to emit a vapor. The emitted vapor is then entrained in an airflow passing through the aerosol-forming substrate 213. The airflow is created by the action of a user inhaling at the downstream end 218 (i.e., the distal or oral end) of the consumable 202.

[125] In this embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 includes a tobacco material, which may include, for example, any suitable part of a tobacco plant (e.g., leaves, stems, roots, husks, seeds, and flowers). The tobacco may include one or more of leaf tobacco, stem tobacco, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenized tobacco, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobacco, and/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g., slurry recon or paper recon). For example, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 may include a collecting sheet of homogenous (e.g., paper/slurry recon) tobacco, or collecting strips/strips formed from such a sheet.

[126] To generate an aerosol, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 includes at least one volatile compound that is intended to be evaporated/aerosolized and that, when inhaled, can provide a recreational and/or medicinal effect to the user. The aerosol-forming substrate 213 can further include one or more additives. For example, such additives can be in the form of humectants (e.g., propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerin), flavorings, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solvents, and/or binders.

[127] The terminal filter element 214 is also substantially cylindrical and is located at the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202, downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate 213. The terminal filter element 214 is in the form of a hollow filter element with holes 219 (e.g., for air flow) formed therein. The holes 219 have a diameter of 2 mm. The terminal filter element 214 is formed from a porous (e.g., monoacetate) filter material. As mentioned above, the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 (i.e., where the terminal filter 214 is located) forms the mouthpiece portion of the consumable 202 into which the user inhales. Airflow is drawn from the upstream end 217, through the components of the consumable 202, and out the downstream end 218. The airflow is driven by the user inhaling at the downstream end 218 (i.e., the mouthpiece portion) of the consumable 202.

[128] The upstream filter element 215 is located axially adjacent to the aerosol-forming substrate 213, between the aerosol-forming substrate 213 and the terminal filter element 214. Like the terminal filter 214, the upstream filter element 215 is in the form of a hollow filter element with holes 220 extending axially therethrough. In this manner, the upstream filter 215 can act as an airflow restrictor. The upstream filter element 215 is formed from a porous (e.g., monoacetate) filter material. The holes 220 of the upstream filter element 214 have a larger diameter (3 mm) than the terminal filter element 214.

[129] Spacer 216 is in the form of a paper tube and defines a cavity or chamber between upstream filter element 215 and terminal filter element 214. Spacer 216 acts to allow both cooling and mixing of the vapor/aerosol from aerosol-forming substrate 213. The spacer has an outer diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of 14 mm.

[130] Although it is not apparent from these figures, the aerosol-forming substrate 213, the upstream filter 215, and the spacer 216 are circumscribed by a paper wrap layer. The terminal filter 214 is circumscribed by a tip layer, which also circumscribes a portion of the paper wrap layer (to connect the terminal filter 214 to the remaining components of the consumable 202). The upstream filter 215 and the terminal filter 214 are circumscribed by a further wrap layer in the form of a plug wrap.

[131] Referring again now to the device 201, FIG. 2D shows a detailed view of an end of the device 201 configured to engage the consumable 202. The cap 210 of the device 201 includes an opening 221 to an internal cavity 222 defined by the cap 210 (as is more evident from FIG. 2D). The opening 221 and the cavity 222 are formed to receive at least a portion of the consumable 202. When the consumable 202 is engaged with the device 201, a portion of the consumable 202 is received through the opening 221 and into the cavity 222. After engagement (see FIG. 2B), the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 protrudes from the opening 221 and thus from the device 201. The opening 221 includes laterally disposed notches 226. When the consumable 202 is received in the opening 221, these notches 226 remain open and may be used, for example, to hold a cover to cover the end of the device 201.

[132] FIG. 2E shows a cross-sectional view taken at a central longitudinal plane through the device 201. The device 201 is shown with the consumable 202 engaged. Additionally, as shown, at least one locking arm 229 extends from the body 209. The locking arm 229 locks or retains the cap 210 to the body 209. In the embodiment shown, there are two locking arms 229. In one embodiment, any suitable number of locking arms 229 may be provided. The locking arms 229 extend substantially along the longitudinal axis of the body 209 as shown. The locking arms 229 include a locking projection 231 at a distal end, i.e., at an end distal from the end of the locking arm 229 connected to the body 209. The locking projection 231 extends transversely to the longitudinal axis of the body 209. The locking arm 229 is positioned so that when the cap 210 is attached to the body 209, the locking arm 229 engages the cap 210 to hold the cap 210 to the body 209.

[133] In the embodiment shown, the cap 210 may include a slot 232 extending along the longitudinal axis of the body 209 (when the cap 210 is retained on the body 209), and the locking projection 231 may be configured or positioned to engage the slot 232. The slot 232 may be elongated such that the cap 210 may be moved or slid relative to the body 209 along the longitudinal axis of the body 209. The locking projection 231 may have an abutment surface 233 for engaging a peripheral surface 234 of the cap 210 that defines the slot 232. The abutment surface 233 may prevent movement of the cap 210 in one direction by abutting the peripheral surface 234 to retain or lock the cap 210 on the body 209.

[134] The cap 210 is movable between a first position and a second position. Figures 2A, 2B, and 2D, as well as Figure 4A, show the device 200 with the cap 210 in the first position. As shown, when the cap 210 is in the first position, the cap 210 hides the heating element 223. In the first position, the cap 210 completely covers the transverse cavity 227 to hide the heating element 223.

[135] Figures 3 and 4B show the device 200 with the cap 210 in the second position. When the cap 210 is in the second position, the cap 210 at least partially exposes the heating element 223. In the second position, the cap 210 does not cover the transverse cavity 227, partially exposing the heating element 223. When the heating element 223 is partially exposed, the heating element 223 may be visually inspected to see if cleaning of the heating element 223 is required. If required, when the cap 210 is in the second position, the heating element 223 may be cleaned by blowing air through the opening or by simply gently shaking, tilting, or tapping the device to dislodge and remove any loose debris. As discussed in the above description, in the second position, the abutment surface 233 of the cap 210 may abut against the peripheral surface 234.

[136] The device 201 includes a heater 204, which includes a heating element 223. The heater 204 forms part of the body 209 of the device 201 and is rigidly attached to the body 209. In the embodiment shown, the heater 204 is a rod heater and the heating element 223 has a circular transverse profile. In other embodiments, the heater may be in the form of a blade heater (e.g., a heating element having a rectangular transverse profile) or a tubular heater (e.g., a heating element having a tubular shape).

[137] The heating element 223 of the heater 204 protrudes from the interior base of the cavity 222 along the longitudinal axis towards the opening 221. As is evident from this view, the length of the heating element (i.e., the length along the longitudinal axis) is less than the depth of the cavity 222. In this manner, the heating element 223 does not protrude from or extend beyond the opening 221.

[138] When the consumable 202 is received in the cavity 222 (as shown in FIG. 2E), the heating element 223 penetrates the aerosol-forming substrate 213 of the consumable 202. In particular, when inserted, the heating element 223 extends substantially the entire axial length of the aerosol-forming substrate 213. Thus, when the heater 204 is activated, heat is transferred radially from the outer circumferential surface of the heating element 223 to the aerosol-forming substrate 213.

[139] The smoking substitute system of the present disclosure may further include a tool 235 for separating the cap 210 from the body 209. The tool 235 may be configured to displace the locking arm 229 to allow separation of the cap 210 from the body 209. Figures 5A, 5B, and 5C show the tool 235 according to one embodiment. The tool 235 has at least one unlocking arm 230. In the embodiment shown, two unlocking arms 230 are provided. The number of unlocking arms 230 may be provided as needed. In one embodiment, the number of unlocking arms 230 may correspond to the number of locking arms 229. The unlocking arms 230 are adapted to engage and displace the locking arms 229 to separate the cap 210 from the body 209. Each unlocking arm 230 may include an unlocking protrusion 236. The unlocking protrusion 236 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the unlocking arm 230. The unlocking projection 236 is adapted to engage and displace the locking projection 231 to release the cap 210 from the body 209.

[140] The tool 235 can include a central rod 237. A collar 238 can be concentrically positioned around the central rod 237. The collar 238 can be movably disposed on the rod such that the collar 238 moves relative to the central rod 237 along the longitudinal axis of the central rod 237. The unlocking arms 230 can extend from the collar 238 along the longitudinal axis of the central rod 237. The collar 238 can be movable on the central rod 237 between an insertion position and an unlocked position. In the insertion position, the central rod 237 can be maintained away from the unlocking projection 236 and the unlocking arms 230 can bend radially inward relative to the longitudinal axis of the central rod 237. In Figures 5B and 6A, the collar 238 is shown in the insertion position. In the unlocked position, the central rod 237 moves into juxtaposition with the unlocking projection 236, preventing the unlocking arm 230 from bending in a radially inward direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the central rod 237. FIG. 6B shows the collar 238 in the unlocked position. Suitable configurations of the collar 238 and rods may be provided to enable and/or guide the movement of the collar 238 between the insertion position and the unlocked position. The collar 238 may be biased to move toward the insertion position using any suitable means, such as a coil spring.

[141] As shown in Figures 7(a)-7(e), the tool 235 may be configured to be inserted into the cavity 222. The unlocking projection 236 is configured such that when the unlocking arm 230 is inserted into the cavity 222, the unlocking arm 230 displaces the locking arm 229 to disengage the locking arm 229 from the slot 232. In the illustrated embodiment, the unlocking projection 236 is configured such that when the unlocking projection 236 is inserted into the cavity 222 to remove the cap 210 from the body 209, the unlocking projection 236 enters the slot 232 defined in the cap 210 to displace the locking projection 231. The unlocking projection 236 may have a dimension that fits within the width of the cavity 222. Thus, in the insertion position, the central rod 237 is spaced from the distal end of the unlocking arm 230 to allow the distal end of the unlocking arm 230 to bend radially inward to allow the unlocking arm 230 with the unlocking projection 236 to be inserted into the cavity 222. The bending can be achieved when the unlocking projection 236 slides against the inner surface 239 of the cap 210 that defines the internal cavity 222. As shown in the embodiment, the unlocking projection 236 can include a tapered surface 240 to guide the bending movement of the unlocking arm 230 into and out of the cavity 222 and slot 232. FIG. 7(a) shows the tool 235 being inserted into the cavity 222 with the collar 238 in the insertion position.

[142] In an initial stage, the tool 235 can be pushed toward the body 209 (as indicated by the arrow in FIG. 6A) to insert the unlocking arm 230 into the cavity 222, after which the collar 238 abuts against the opening of the cavity 222, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 7(b). At this stage, the unlocking arm 230 enters the slot 232 defined in the cap 210, as shown in FIG. 6A. At this stage, the unlocking projection 236 has not fully displaced the locking projection 231 as required for separation of the cap 210. Furthermore, the central rod 237 can be pushed into the cavity 222 to move the collar 238 (relative to the central rod 237) to the unlocked position shown in FIG. 6(c). By pressing the central rod 237, the unlocking projections 236 are pushed radially outward to properly enter and occupy the slots 232 as shown in FIG. 6B, displacing the locking projections 231 radially outward (as indicated by the arrows) so that they can be removed from the slots 232. The cap 210 can then be pulled away from the body 209 together with the tool 235 to separate the cap 210 from the body 209 as shown in FIG. 7(d). FIG. 7(e) shows the cap 210 completely separated from the body 209.

[143] The tool 235 may further include cleaning means for cleaning the heating element 223. The cleaning means may be in the form of a cleaning brush 241, as shown in FIG. 5C. The cleaning brush 241 may extend from the central rod 237 in a direction opposite to the direction that the unlocking arm 230 extends, as shown in FIG. 5C. The cleaning brush 241 may be rubbed against the exterior surface of the heating element 223 to remove or scrape any debris or residue from the heating element 223.

[144] The tool 235 may include a first cover 242 for covering the unlocking arm 230 when not in use. Additionally, a second cover 243 may be provided for covering the cleaning brush 241 when not in use. The covers 242, 243 may be designed such that the tool 235 visually resembles a consumable item for a smoking substitution system. Suitable configurations may be provided for retaining the covers on the tool 235.

[145] The device 202 further includes an electronics cavity 224. A power source in the form of a rechargeable battery 205 (a lithium ion battery) is located in the electronics cavity 224.

[146] The device 202 includes a connector in the form of a USB port 206 (i.e., forming part of the IO module of the device 201). For example, the connector may alternatively be, for example, a micro USB port or a USB-C port. The USB port 206 may be used to recharge the rechargeable battery 205.

[147] The device 202 includes a controller (not shown) located in the electronics cavity 224. The controller includes a microcontroller mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The USB port 206 is also connected to the controller 208 (i.e., connected to the PCB and to the microcontroller).

[148] The controller 208 is configured to control at least one function of the device 202. For example, the controller 208 is configured to control the operation of the heater 204. Such control of the operation of the heater 204 may be achieved by the controller toggling an electrical connection of the rechargeable battery 205 to the heater 204. For example, the controller 208 is configured to control the heater 204 in response to a user pressing a button 212. Pressing the button 212 may cause the controller to enable a voltage (from the rechargeable battery 205) to be applied to the heater 204 (heating the heating element 223).

[149] The controller is also configured to control the LEDs 211 in response to a (e.g., detected) state of the device 201 or the consumable 202. For example, the controller may control the LEDs to indicate whether the device 201 is in an on or off state (e.g., one or more of the LEDs may be illuminated by the controller when the device is in an on state).

[150] The device 202 includes a further input means (i.e., in addition to the button 212) in the form of a puff sensor 225. The puff sensor 225 is configured to detect when a user inhales (i.e., inhales) at the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202. The puff sensor 225 may be in the form of, for example, a pressure sensor, a flow meter, or a microphone. The puff sensor 225 is operatively connected to the controller 208 within the electronics cavity 224 such that a signal from the puff sensor 225 indicative of a puff state (i.e., inhalation or non-inhalation) forms an input to (and may be responded to by) the controller 208.

[151] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the following claims, or in the accompanying drawings, may be expressed in their specific form, or in terms of means for performing a disclosed function, or a method or process for obtaining a disclosed result, as appropriate, and may be utilized separately or in any combination of such features to realize the invention in its many and varied forms.

[152] While the present invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments set forth above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative rather than limiting. Various changes may be made to the described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[153] For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purpose of improving the understanding of the reader. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.

[154] All headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[155] Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context otherwise requires, the words "have," "comprise," and "include," as well as variations such as "having," "comprises," "comprising," and "including," will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other integers or steps or group of integers or steps.

[156] As used herein and in the appended claims, it should be noted that the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As used herein, ranges may be expressed as "about" one particular value and/or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, by use of the prefix "about," when values are expressed as approximations, it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term "about" in connection with numerical values is optional and means, for example, ±10%.

[157] The words "preferred" and "preferably" are used herein to refer to embodiments of the invention that may provide certain benefits, under some circumstances. It is to be understood, however, that other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or different circumstances. Thus, reference to one or more preferred embodiments does not mean or imply that other embodiments are not useful, nor is it intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the disclosure or the claims.

Claims (15)

an unlocking means adapted to remove the cap of the smoking substitution device from the body of the smoking substitution device;
and cleaning means adapted to clean said smoking substitution device once said cap is removed from said body. The removal tool of claim 1, wherein the unlocking means and the cleaning means are located at different ends of the removal tool. The removal tool of claim 1 or 2, wherein the cleaning means includes at least one cleaning brush. A smoking substitution system comprising a removal tool according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and a smoking substitution device. The smoking substitution system of claim 4, wherein the smoking substitution device has a tubular heater. The smoking substitution system of claim 4, wherein the cap is movable between a first position and a second position to selectively hide or expose a heating element of the smoking substitution device. The smoking substitution system of claim 6, wherein the cap is retainable on the body in the second position by a retaining means. The holding means is
at least one flexible locking arm extending from the body;
8. The smoking substitution system of claim 7, further comprising: a locking protrusion disposed on the at least one locking arm, the locking protrusion configured to engage a slot defined in the cap to retain the cap on the body. The smoking substitution system of claim 8, wherein the locking projection is retained within the slot when the cap moves between the first position and the second position. The smoking substitution system of any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the body defines a transverse cavity opening through a first side wall of the body, the transverse cavity being juxtaposed with a base of the heating element so as to at least partially expose the base of the heating element when the cap is in the second position. The smoking substitution system of claim 10, wherein the transverse cavity extends from the first side wall of the body to a second side wall opposite the first side wall and through the second side wall. The smoking substitution system according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the locking projection is configured to abut an end of the slot after the cap has moved to the second position, thereby preventing separation of the cap from the device and thus inhibiting further movement of the cap. The smoking substitution system of claim 12, wherein the cap defines a cavity for receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-forming article. The smoking substitution system according to any one of claims 4 to 13, further comprising an aerosol-forming article for the smoking substitution device. A smoking substitution system comprising the removal tool according to any one of claims 1 to 3 and an aerosol-forming article for a smoking substitution device.