RU2827948C2 - Aerosol-generating device, method for application of soft elastic coating (versions), aerosol-generating system, and kit - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: aerosol-generating devices.

SUBSTANCE: aerosol-generating device, a method for generating an aerosol using an aerosol-generating device, and an aerosol-generating system containing an aerosol-generating device. An aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming material comprises: a housing; and a heating unit located in the housing and serving for inserting the aerosol-forming material therein, configured to heat the aerosol-forming material inserted therein; while at least part of the housing has a soft elastic coating; the housing contains a housing element, wherein the housing element comprises an outer surface, a connecting surface and an outer edge between the outer surface and the connecting surface, and the part of the housing element having a soft elastic coating is a continuous part, including a part of the outer surface, the connecting surface and the outer edges.

EFFECT: tactile attractiveness of the device.

23 cl, 23 dwg

Description

Field of technology to which the invention relates

The invention relates to an aerosol-generating device, a method for generating an aerosol using an aerosol-generating device, and an aerosol-generating system containing an aerosol-generating device.

State of the art

Smoking articles such as cigarettes, cigars, etc., use the process of burning tobacco to create tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to create alternative means in which the generation of an inhalable medium is carried out without using a combustion process. A device is known that heats a smoking material in order to evaporate at least one component of the smoking material, as a rule, to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user, without burning the smoking material. Such a device is called a "heating without combustion" device, a "tobacco heating device", "tobacco heating device", etc. Various devices are known for converting at least one component of a smoking material into a volatile state.

The material may be tobacco or other non-tobacco products, or a combination of both, such as a mixture that may or may not contain nicotine.

Document US 2015/128970 discloses an electronic cigarette. Document US 2013/319407 also discloses an electronic cigarette with an inhalation shell. Document CN 104522891 A relates to an electronic cigarette and an atomization device for an electronic cigarette. Document EA 26076 B1 describes an aerosol generation system for heating a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

Disclosure of invention

According to the first aspect of the present invention, an aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming material is disclosed. The aerosol-generating device comprises a housing and a heating unit located in the housing and serving to insert an aerosol-forming material into it, made with the possibility of heating the aerosol-forming material inserted into it. At least part of the housing has a soft elastic coating.

The body may comprise a body element, a base and an upper part, wherein the body element extends in a first direction from the support part to the upper part. In one of the possible embodiments, the base extends along a first plane, substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

In one possible embodiment, the housing element is a single piece.

The housing element can be made in the form of a substantially tubular element forming a cavity passing along the first axis in the first direction, wherein said tubular element is open both at the first end and at the second end. In one of the possible embodiments, the base and the upper surface of the housing are made with the possibility of closing the openings at the first end and at the second end.

The housing element may comprise an internal surface facing the first axis of the cavity and an external surface facing away from the first axis of the cavity. In one possible embodiment, the housing portion having a soft elastic coating includes a portion of the external surface of the housing element.

The body element may additionally comprise a connecting surface that connects the inner surface to the outer surface, wherein said connecting surface is connected to the inner surface along the inner edge, and is connected to the outer surface along the outer edge. The connecting surface may be substantially flat and may extend along the first plane. The outer edge may be made in the form of a rounded edge or in the form of a sharp edge.

In some embodiments, the soft elastic coating portion of the housing includes a connecting surface.

In some embodiments, the portion of the housing with the soft elastic coating includes a portion of the inner surface.

In a specific embodiment, the portion of the body with the soft elastic coating is a continuous portion extending along portions of the outer surface, the outer edge, the connecting surface, the inner edge and the inner surface.

In some embodiments, in which a portion of the inner surface comprises a soft elastic coating, the coating has an extension from the inner edge in the first direction of from 0.5 mm to 3 mm.

The heating unit of the device may comprise at least one induction heating module.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, a housing element for the housing of an aerosol-generating device is disclosed. The housing element is essentially a tubular element that forms a cavity extending along the first axis in the first direction, wherein said tubular element is open both at the first end and at the second end. The housing element comprises an inner surface facing the first axis of the cavity, and an outer surface facing in the opposite direction away from the first axis of the cavity, as well as a connecting surface connecting the inner surface to the outer surface. The connecting surface is connected to the inner surface along the inner edge and to the outer surface along the outer edge.

The connecting surface may be substantially planar and may extend in a first plane that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

In some embodiments, the outer edge is a rounded edge, and/or the inner edge forms a right angle between the connecting surface and the inner surface. The smallest distance between the inner edge and the outer edge along the connecting surface may be from 0.5 mm to 5 mm.

The housing element may further comprise a groove extending along the outer surface of the housing element. The groove may form a slot having a substantially constant width and depth along the length of the groove, wherein the width and/or depth of the groove may be from 0.4 mm to 1.2 mm. In some embodiments, the depth of the groove is less than or equal to the width of the groove.

In a specific embodiment, the groove comprises a base extending along the bottom of the groove, a first wall connecting the first edge of the groove base with the outer surface of the housing element, and a second wall connecting the second edge of the groove base with the outer surface of the housing element.

At least a portion of the housing element may be covered with a soft elastic coating.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, a method for applying a soft elastic coating to the above-described housing element is disclosed. The disclosed method includes: applying a primer for a soft elastic coating to a continuous portion of the housing element extending along portions of the outer surface, the outer edge, the connecting surface, the inner edge and the inner surface; and treating the primer with a soft elastic coating to create a soft elastic coating of the continuous portion.

In one possible embodiment, the continuous portion extends along the entire outer edge, the entire connecting surface, and the entire inner surface.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a method for applying a coating to a body element comprising a groove comprising a base and side walls, as described above, is disclosed. The disclosed method includes: applying a coating primer to a continuous portion of the body element extending along portions of the outer surface, the first and second side walls of the groove and the base of the groove; and treating the coating primer to create a coating of the continuous portion.

In one possible embodiment, the coating primer is a soft elastic coating primer for creating a soft elastic coating.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, an aerosol-generating system is disclosed, including the above-described aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-forming element.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a kit is disclosed, including an aerosol-generating device according to any of the above aspects and a removable casing for the aerosol-generating device.

Distinctive features described in the context of one aspect are clearly disclosed in combination with other aspects of the present invention, to the extent that they are compatible.

Further distinctive features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent after reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments thereof, given solely by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

Fig. 1A is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device comprising a housing according to the present invention;

Fig. 1B, 1C and 1D are, respectively, a front, side and top view of the device;

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an aerosol-generating device according to the present invention, showing a first plane;

Fig. 3 is a front view of an aerosol generating device according to the present invention, showing the angle of the upper side of the housing;

Fig. 4 is a side view of an aerosol generating device according to the present invention, showing a third plane;

Fig. 5 is a top view of an aerosol generating device according to the present invention showing a second plane;

Fig. 6A is a perspective view of a housing element with a soft elastic coating;

Fig. 6B is a bottom view of the housing element of the housing shown in Fig. 6A;

Fig. 6C is an enlarged view of the region in Fig. 6B;

Fig. 7A is a sectional view of the body element along plane B-B shown in Fig. 6B;

Fig. 7B is an enlarged view of the region in Fig. 7A;

Fig. 7C is an enlarged perspective view (bottom view) of the region in Fig. 7A;

Fig. 8A shows a characteristic shape of the connecting plane of a body element;

Fig. 8B-8D shows how the characteristic shape of the connecting surface can be represented using flat geometric figures;

Fig. 9A is a front view of a heating unit installed inside an aerosol generating device according to the present invention;

Fig. 9B is a sectional view of the heating block;

Fig. 10A is a schematic sectional view of an aerosol-forming smoking element for use in an aerosol-generating device according to the present invention;

Fig. 10B is a perspective view of an aerosol-forming smoking element;

Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a removable shell used together with an aerosol-generating device in a possible embodiment.

Implementation of the invention

In the context of the description of the present invention, the definite article "the" may be used both as a standard definite article "the" and to denote the expression "one or each of", depending on the circumstances. In particular, the features described for "at least one heating element" may be applicable to the first, second or additional heating elements, if any. Furthermore, the features described with respect to the "first" or "second" elements may be equally applicable to other elements. For example, the features described with respect to the "first" or "second" heating elements may be equally applicable to other heating elements in other embodiments. Likewise, the features described with respect to the "first" or "second" mode of operation may be equally applicable to other adjustable modes of operation.

In general, reference to a "first" heating element in a heating unit does not indicate that the heating unit comprises more than one heating element unless otherwise stated; rather, it means that a heating unit comprising a "first" heating element must simply comprise at least one heating element. Accordingly, a heating unit comprising only one heating element clearly falls within the definition of a heating unit comprising a "first" heating element.

Similarly, reference to a "first" and "second" heating element in a heating unit does not necessarily indicate that the heating unit comprises two heating elements; additional heating elements may also be present. Instead, in this case, the heating unit must simply comprise at least a first and a second heating element.

As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming material" refers to materials that, when heated, release volatile components, typically in the form of an aerosol. "Aerosol-forming material" includes any tobacco-containing material and may, for example, contain one or more of the following components: tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. "In addition, aerosol-forming material" may include other non-tobacco products that, depending on the type of product, may or may not contain nicotine. "Aerosol-forming material" may, for example, be a substance in the form of a solid, liquid, gel, paste, etc. Furthermore, "aerosol-forming material" may be, for example, a combination or mixture of different materials. Aerosol-forming material is also referred to as "smoking material". In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol-forming material is a non-liquid aerosol-forming material. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the non-liquid aerosol-forming material comprises tobacco.

A device is known that heats a smoking material to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol-forming material, typically to form an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user, without burning the aerosol-forming material. Such a device is sometimes called an "aerosol-generating device," "aerosol generating device," "non-combustion heating device," "tobacco product heating device," or "tobacco heating device," etc. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol-generating device according to the present invention is a tobacco heating device. The non-liquid aerosol-forming material for use with the tobacco heating device comprises tobacco.

Similarly, there are currently so-called electronic cigarette devices on the market, which are aerosol-generating devices that typically volatilize an aerosol-forming material in the form of a liquid that may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol-forming material may be in the form of or provided as part of a rod, cartridge, cassette, etc. inserted into the device. A heater for heating and volatilizing the aerosol-forming material may be provided as an "integral" part of the device.

An element containing an aerosol-forming material for heating, also called a "smoking element", can be inserted into the aerosol-generating device according to the present invention. The term "element", "aerosol-forming element" or "smoking element" in the context of the present invention serves to designate a component including or containing an aerosol-forming material heated during use in order to convert it into a volatile state, as well as, if necessary, other components. The user can insert the smoking element into the aerosol-generating device before heating in order to form an aerosol, subsequently inhaled by the user. The aforementioned element can have, for example, a predetermined or specific size, ensuring the possibility of inserting the element into a heating chamber of the device, made with the possibility of inserting said element therein.

The aerosol-generating device according to the present invention comprises a heating unit. The heating unit comprises at least one heating module, designed with the possibility of heating, but not burning, the aerosol-forming material during use.

A heating module is usually called a component made with the possibility of receiving electric energy from a source of electric energy and supplying thermal energy to an aerosol-forming material. The heating module contains a heating element. The heating element, as a rule, is a material that serves to transfer heat to the aerosol-forming material during use. The heating module, including the heating element, may also contain any other necessary components, for example, a component for converting electric energy received by the heating module. In other embodiments, the heating element itself may be made with the possibility of converting electric energy into thermal energy.

The heating module may comprise a winding. In some embodiments, the winding is designed so that during operation, heating of at least one electrically conductive heating element is ensured, so that thermal energy from at least one electrically conductive heating element is transferred to the aerosol-forming material for heating it.

In some embodiments, the winding is configured to create a changing magnetic field during operation, which, when passing through at least one heating element, causes induction heating and/or magnetohysteresis heating of at least one heating element. With such a configuration of the device, one or each of the heating elements may be called a "current collector". A winding configured to create a changing magnetic field during operation, penetrating into at least one electrically conductive heating element, causing induction heating of at least one electrically conductive heating element, may be called an "induction winding".

Such a device may comprise heating element(s), such as electrically conductive heating element(s), wherein the heating element(s) may preferably be arranged or movable relative to the winding in such a way as to enable such heating of the heating element(s). The heating element(s) may be arranged in a fixed position relative to the winding(s). Alternatively, at least one heating element, such as at least one electrically conductive heating element, may be included in the smoking element for insertion into the heating zone of the device, wherein the smoking element also comprises an aerosol-forming material and may be removed from the heating zone after use. Alternatively, both the device and the smoking element may comprise at least one corresponding heating element, such as at least one electrically conductive heating element, and the winding may ensure heating of the heating element(s) of both the device and the smoking element when the smoking element is in the heating zone.

In some embodiments, the winding has a spiral shape. In some embodiments, the winding passes around at least a portion of the heating zone of the device, configured to receive an aerosol-forming material.

In some embodiments, the winding is a helical winding surrounding at least a portion of the heating zone.

In some embodiments, the device comprises an electrically conductive heating element, at least partially surrounding the heating zone, and the winding is a spiral winding surrounding at least a portion of the electrically conductive heating element. In some embodiments, the electrically conductive heating element has a tubular shape. In some embodiments, the winding is an induction winding.

In some embodiments, the heating module is an induction heating module. In some embodiments, the heating module is a resistive heating module. The resistive heating module may consist of a resistive heating element. In other words, the resistive heating module does not necessarily have to include a separate component for converting electrical energy received by the heating module, since the resistive heating element itself converts electrical energy into thermal energy.

The heating unit may also comprise a controller for controlling the operation of each of the heating modules present in the heating unit. The controller may be implemented as a printed circuit board. The controller is configured to control the power supply to each heating module and to control the heating in accordance with a "programmed heating profile" for each heating module present in the heating unit. For example, the controller may be programmed to control the current supplied to a plurality of inductors in order to control the resulting temperature profiles of the corresponding induction heating elements. With regard to the above-mentioned temperature profile of the heating elements and the aerosol-forming material, the programmed heating profile of the heating element may not exactly correspond to the observed temperature profile of the heating element, for the same reasons that were indicated above.

The heating unit may operate in at least the first mode and the second mode. The heating unit may operate in a maximum of two modes or may operate in more than two modes, such as three modes, four modes, or five modes.

The device according to the present invention may be configured to operate the invention in this manner by means of a heating unit controller programmed to control the operation of the device in a plurality of modes. Accordingly, references in the present description to the configuration of the device according to the present invention or its components may refer to a heating unit controller programmed to control the device disclosed in the present invention.

Each operating mode may be associated with a predetermined heating profile for each heating module of the heating unit, such as a programmed heating profile. For example, the heating unit may be configured such that the controller receives a signal identifying the selected operating mode and issues a command to one or each of the heating elements included in the heating unit to operate in accordance with the predetermined heating profile. The controller selects which predetermined heating profile should be set for one or each of the heating modules based on the received signal.

One or more programmed heating profiles may be programmed by the user. Alternatively or additionally, one or more programmed heating profiles may be programmed by the manufacturer. In these examples, one or more programmed heating profiles may be fixed so that the end user cannot change one or more programmed heating profiles.

As used herein, the term "use cycle" is used to denote one period of use of an aerosol-generating device by a user. A use cycle begins when power is supplied to at least one heating module included in the heating unit. The device will be ready for use after a specified period of time has elapsed from the start of the use cycle. A use cycle ends when power is no longer supplied to any of the heating elements of the aerosol-generating device. The end of a use cycle may coincide with the point at which the smoking element is exhausted (the point at which the total particulate matter output (mg) per puff is deemed unacceptably low by the user). A use cycle includes multiple puffs. The duration of said use cycle may be less than 7 minutes, 6 minutes, 5 minutes, 4 minutes 30 seconds, 4 minutes, or 3 minutes 30 seconds. In some cases, the duration of the use cycle may be from 2 to 5 minutes, from 3 to 4.5 minutes, from 3.5 to 4.5 minutes, or, respectively, 4 minutes. The use cycle may be started by the user by pressing a button or switch on the device, which results in the heating of at least one heating element being turned on. The use cycle may end after a specified period of time, for example, programmed in the controller. The use cycle is also considered to be completed if the user switches off the device, for example, before the programmed end of the use cycle (switching off the device will result in the power supply to any of the heating elements of the aerosol-generating device being cut off).

The term "operating temperature" as used in this description with respect to a heating element or heating module is intended to mean the temperature of any heating element at which the element can heat the aerosol-forming material to produce a sufficient amount of aerosol for the user to perform a satisfactory puff, without burning the aerosol-forming material. The maximum operating temperature of a heating element is the highest temperature reached by the element during a use cycle. The minimum operating temperature of a heating element is the lowest temperature of the heating element at which the heating element can heat the aerosol-forming material in such a way that a sufficient amount of aerosol is formed for the user to perform a satisfactory puff. In the case where an aerosol-generating device has multiple heating elements, each heating element has a corresponding maximum operating temperature. The maximum operating temperature of each heating element can be the same or different for each heating element.

In some embodiments, each operating mode of the heating unit may have a specified duration of the use cycle (i.e., a predetermined duration of the use cycle) or a specified maximum operating temperature. In some embodiments, the duration of the use cycle of at least one mode is different from the duration(s) of the use cycle(s) for the other mode(s). In some embodiments, all modes may have different durations of the use cycle. In particular, the first mode may have a first duration of the use cycle, and the second mode may have a second duration of the use cycle. The first duration of the use cycle may be different from the second duration of the use cycle. Preferably, the first duration of the use cycle is longer than the second duration of the use cycle. In some embodiments, the duration of the first and/or second use cycle may be at least 2 minutes, 2 minutes 30 seconds, 3 minutes, 3 minutes 30 seconds, 4 minutes, 4 minutes 30 seconds, 5 minutes, 5 minutes 30 seconds, or 6 minutes. In some embodiments, the duration of the first and/or second use cycle may be less than 7 minutes, 6 minutes, 5 minutes 30 seconds, 5 minutes, 4 minutes 30 seconds or 4 minutes. Preferably, the duration of the first use cycle is from 3 minutes to 5 minutes, more preferably from 3 minutes 30 seconds to 4 minutes 30 seconds. Preferably, the duration of the second use cycle is from 2 minutes to 4 minutes, more preferably from 2 minutes 30 seconds to 3 minutes 30 seconds.

Each mode may correspond to a maximum temperature to which one or each of the heating modules of the heating unit heats up during use. In some embodiments, the heating unit is designed such that the first heating module reaches the maximum operating temperature of the first mode in the first mode and the maximum operating temperature of the second mode in the second mode. The maximum operating temperature of the first heating module in the first mode (herein called the "maximum operating temperature of the first mode" of the first heating module) may differ from the maximum operating temperature of the first heating module in the second mode (herein called the "maximum operating temperature of the second mode" of the first heating module). In some embodiments, the maximum operating temperature of the first mode is higher than the maximum operating temperature of the second mode; in other embodiments, the maximum operating temperature of the first mode is lower than the maximum operating temperature of the second mode. Preferably, the maximum operating temperature of the second mode of the first heating module is higher than the maximum operating temperature of the first mode of the first heating module.

The device according to the present invention comprises a housing. The housing is usually the component of the device with which the user interacts the most. Therefore, it is important to provide the housing with an attractive appearance, as well as an ergonomic, comfortable shape. Surprisingly, it has been found that providing at least a part of the housing with a covering, especially a soft elastic covering, can improve the visual appeal, as well as the tactile appeal of the device.

"Soft elastic coating" has a generally recognized meaning in the art. Undoubtedly, a part of a surface provided with a soft elastic coating creates a softer surface sensation for the user when touching it than a surface without a coating. Such a coating can be more attractive to the user and/or provide a higher-quality appearance. In addition, the soft elastic coating can be a scratch-resistant coating for the housing. In a preferred embodiment, the soft elastic coating has a matte structure.

The soft elastic coating may contain a dye. In other words, the soft elastic coating may impart a certain color to the body. In another embodiment, the soft elastic coating does not contain a dye and is uncolored. In a particular embodiment, the coating is substantially transparent. In the context of the present invention, the term "transparent" means that the coating allows light rays to pass through, so that the user can see the color of the surface located under the coating when looking at the device.

Surprisingly, it was found that a transparent soft elastic coating with a matte structure can improve the readability of text located under the soft elastic coating.

The coating may have any suitable thickness. For example, the coating thickness may be less than 2 mm or less than 1 mm.

Preparation for the application of a soft elastic coating can be accomplished by applying a primer to the surface of the body, followed by treating the primer to apply the coating.

In some embodiments, the primer is applied by means of a polyurethane dispersion and/or an emulsion of polyacrylate cross-linked with either polyisocyanates or carbodiimides and/or silicones.

In some embodiments, the primer may comprise a rosin varnish, a solvent, and a matting powder. In a particular embodiment, the primer may comprise a rosin varnish in an amount of 40 wt.% to 75 wt.%, a solvent in an amount of 20 wt.% to 45 wt.%, and a matting powder in an amount of 0 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 2 wt.% to 12 wt.%. The matting powder may comprise silicon dioxide or consist of silicon dioxide.

The application of the primer to the surface of the housing may be carried out by any suitable method. In a possible embodiment, the primer may be applied in the form of a liquid. For example, the primer may be applied in the form of paint. In such cases, the application of the primer may be carried out, for example, by the immersion method, the centrifugation method, the spraying method, or the screen printing method. In a possible embodiment, the primer may be applied in the form of a powder. In such cases, the application of the primer may be carried out, for example, by the spraying method.

In cases where the primer is applied in the form of a paint, the treatment of the primer may include drying it. The operation of drying the primer in the context of the present invention does not necessarily mean the active use of means for drying the primer; rather, drying the primer means passive methods, such as leaving the surface with the primer applied to it in the atmosphere, in which the primer dries, forming a coating.

In some embodiments, treating the soil may include curing it. The curing method will depend on the type of soil, but may include heating the soil, exposing the soil to electromagnetic radiation (such as ultraviolet radiation) to cure the soil, and creating a coating.

The configuration of the device comprising the coated housing may provide a reduction in the housing surface temperature that the device reaches during use, compared to devices of another type. In some embodiments, during the use cycle, the surface of the device reaches a temperature of less than 55°C, preferably less than 50°C, more preferably less than 48°C, even more preferably less than 45°C.

According to one aspect of the present invention, a kit is disclosed that includes an aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming material, and a removable shell for the aerosol-generating device. The removable shell is sometimes also called a "cup". The aerosol-generating device may be any suitable aerosol-generating device, such as the aerosol-generating device according to the present invention. In some embodiments according to this aspect of the invention, the housing of the aerosol-generating device comprises a soft elastic coating; in other embodiments, the housing of the aerosol-generating device does not have a soft elastic coating.

The removable shell has an internal surface designed in such a way that when the removable shell is installed on the aerosol-generating device, the internal surface of the removable shell contacts at least a part of the housing of the aerosol-generating device. In various embodiments, the internal surface limits the space in which the aerosol-generating device can be located during use.

Typically, the removable shell comprises an opening through which the aerosol-generating device can be inserted into or removed from the above-mentioned space; the removable shell can be installed on or removed from the device by pulling the removable shell off the device. In various embodiments, the removable shell is open (usually at opposite ends) and forms a gap (volume) extending along the axis between the open ends.

The removable shell has an outer surface designed in such a way that when the removable shell is installed on the aerosol-generating device, the user can touch the outer surface of the removable shell when interacting with the aerosol-generating device. In various embodiments, the removable shell forms a barrier between at least a portion of the housing of the aerosol-generating device and the user. The applicants have found that when the removable shell is positioned around the aerosol-generating device during its operation, the temperature of the outer surface of the removable shell is lower than the temperature of the surface of the housing.

The removable shell may be made of any suitable material. In various embodiments, virtually the entire removable shell is made of the same material. In various embodiments, the removable shell comprises a heat-insulating material. In various embodiments, the removable shell may be made of a fibrous material, for example, a material containing textile fibers. In various embodiments, the removable shell may be made of an elastomeric material, for example, the removable shell may contain silicone and/or consist of silicone. The elastomeric removable shell is easily removed from the aerosol-generating device if desired, and is also well retained on the device when necessary.

One of the advantages discovered by the applicants is that the surface temperature of the aerosol-generating device provided with a removable shell containing heat-insulating material is reduced, thereby improving the user's sensations.

Additionally, the use of an aerosol generating device in combination with a removable shell may provide a more desirable appearance, for example, by allowing the removable shell to have a distinctive color or surface texture.

The removable shell usually comprises one or more openings through which the user can interact with the device. In various embodiments, the removable shell comprises an opening whose location corresponds to the location of the user interface and/or indicator of the device, for example, the removable shell is designed such that when the device is inside the removable cover, this opening is located around the user interface and/or indicator, so that the removable shell does not cover the user interface and/or indicator of the device. The user interface usually comprises an actuator for controlling the device and/or a display. In various embodiments, the removable shell comprises an opening corresponding to a connector/inlet for inserting a cable for charging the battery of the device, for example, the removable shell is designed such that when the device is inside the removable shell, this opening is located around the connector/inlet, so that the power cable can pass through this opening to the connector/inlet.

Further aspects of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1A is a perspective view of an aerosol generating device 100 according to the present invention; Fig. 1B is a front view of the device 100; Fig. 1C is a side view of the device 100; Fig. 1D is a top view of the device 100.

The device 100 comprises a housing 102. The housing may comprise a base 104, an upper side 106 and a housing element 108. The housing element may comprise a front side 110, a rear side 112, a first side portion 114 and a second side portion 116.

The body extends in a first direction 120, a second direction 122 and a third direction 124. Each of these directions is perpendicular to the other specified directions; the first, second and third directions 120, 122, 124 form a three-dimensional space.

Fig. 1A-1C also show the first, second and third directions 120, 122, 124, as well as the passage of the housing 102. The characteristic dimension 130 of the housing 102 in the first direction 120 is not more than 85 mm. Preferably, the dimension 130 in the first direction 120 is more than 70 mm, more than 75 mm or more than 80 mm. Preferably, the dimension 130 in the first direction 130 is 82 mm. For convenience, the characteristic dimension 130 in the first direction 120 can be called the height 130 of the housing 102; this dimension is the largest dimension of the housing in this direction.

The characteristic dimension 132 of the housing 102 in the second direction 122 is not more than 45 mm. Preferably, the dimension 132 in the second direction 122 is more than 30 mm, 35 mm or 40 mm. Preferably, the dimension 132 in the second direction 132 is 43 mm. For convenience, the characteristic dimension 132 in the second direction 132 can be called the width 132 of the housing 102; this dimension is the largest dimension of the housing 102 in the second direction 122.

The characteristic dimension 134 of the housing 102 in the third direction 124 is not more than 23 mm. Preferably, the dimension 134 in the third direction 124 is more than 10 mm, 15 mm or 20 mm. Preferably, the dimension 134 in the third direction 124 is 21 mm.

The applicants have found that the housing 102, having the above dimensions, is surprisingly well suited for holding by the user's hand. Such dimensions provide the possibility of creating an ergonomic device that is comfortable for the user during the use cycle.

Inside the housing 102 there is a heating unit (not shown) used for inserting an aerosol-forming material therein, preferably in the form of an aerosol-forming smoking element. The heating unit is configured to heat the aerosol-forming material inserted into the heating unit. For example, the heating unit may form a chamber into which the aerosol-forming element can be inserted, and may contain one or more heating elements arranged around the chamber for heating the aerosol-forming element from the outside. In another embodiment, the heating unit may contain a heating module configured to be inserted into the aerosol-forming element inserted into the heating unit, such that when used, the heating module heats the aerosol-forming element from the inside, i.e., heats the aerosol-forming material from the inside of the aerosol-forming element. The heating unit forms an opening 140 through which the aerosol-forming element can be inserted into the heating unit. The opening 140 is preferably located on the upper surface 106 of the housing 102.

If necessary, the device comprises a sliding cover 142 located in the part of the housing 102. In the device shown in Fig. 1A-1D, the sliding cover 142 is located on the upper side 106. The sliding cover 142 is designed in such a way that the user can install the sliding cover 142 at least at the first point and at the second point. The sliding cover 142 is designed in such a way that in the first position the sliding cover closes the opening 140, thereby preventing unwanted particles from entering the heating unit. The sliding cover 142 is also designed in such a way that in the second point the sliding cover 142 does not close the opening 140, allowing the aerosol-forming smoking element to be inserted.

The device also contains a user interface 144 located in a part of the housing and allowing the user to control the operation of the device 100. If necessary, the user interface 144 can also be configured in such a way that the user can select the desired operating mode of the device 100 by interacting with the user interface 144 in a predetermined manner.

The device further comprises an indicator 146 for indicating the operation of the device 100 to the user. For example, the indicator 146 may be configured to indicate that the device 100 is turned on and/or that a heating cycle is in progress. In addition, in embodiments in which the device 100 can operate in multiple modes, the indicator 146 may indicate the selected operating mode to the user.

Preferably, the user interface 144 and the indicator 146 are located together on the surface of the housing 102. In a particularly preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the indicator 146 is located around the user interface 144.

The housing may also comprise an opening 148 for inserting an electrical connector/component of the device, such as a connector/port into which a cable for charging the battery of the device 100 may be inserted. For example, the connector may be a charging port, such as a USB charging port. In some embodiments, the connector may be used alternatively or additionally for transmitting data between the device 100 and another device, such as a computer. Preferably, the opening 148 is located in the first side portion 114 or in the second side portion 116. Such a configuration allows charging the device 100 when it is installed on the base 104 on a flat surface. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the battery is located inside the housing closer to the first side portion 114 than to the second side portion, the opening 148 is formed in the first side portion 114, and the charging port is provided in the opening 148.

The housing 102 may further comprise a contrast element 150. The contrast element 150 may have a different color and may be effectively used to indicate the model of the device. The contrast element 150 may be formed by a dye layer (i.e. created by applying paint) and may be located substantially flush with the surface of the housing 102. Alternatively, the contrast element 150 may be created by mechanical processing. For example, the contrast element 150 may be made in the form of a recess or groove on the surface of the housing. Alternatively, the contrast element 150 may have a different finish.

Preferably, the contrast element 150 is made in the form of a groove on the surface of the housing. This groove can be made in the form of a slot having a base, a first side wall connecting the surface of the housing with the first edge of the lower part, and a second side wall connecting the surface of the housing with the second edge of the lower part. This groove can have a practically constant width and depth along the entire length of the groove. The width of the groove is considered to be the smallest distance between the first side wall and the second side wall at any point along the length of the groove. The depth of the groove is considered to be the distance from the deepest point of the groove to the surface of the housing at any point along the length of the groove, measured in the direction perpendicular to the deepest point of the groove.

The groove may have a substantially constant width and depth along the length of the groove, wherein the width and/or depth of the groove may be from 0.4 mm to 1.2 mm. Preferably, the depth of the groove is less than or equal to the width of the groove.

In a preferred embodiment, the contrasting element 150 separates two parts of the housing 102 having a different appearance. For example, the contrasting element 150 can be located between one part of the housing having a first color and another part of the housing having a second color different from the first color. Alternatively or additionally, the contrasting element 150 can be located between parts of the housing having a different finish. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the contrasting element 150 is located between a part of the housing with a soft elastic coating and a part of the housing without a soft elastic coating.

According to another aspect of the present invention, a method of applying a primer to a portion of the body 102, such as a primer for a soft elastic coating, is disclosed. In one possible embodiment, the disclosed method includes applying the coating to a portion of the body abutting the contrast element 150. Preferably, the method includes applying the coating to a portion of the surface of the body abutting the contrast element, as well as to the first or second side wall of the contrast element 150 and, if necessary, to a portion of the base of the contrast element 150. This can provide for the creation of a coating, the edge of which is located in a groove, which at least partially prevents the possibility of "removing" the soft elastic coating by the user. Such an arrangement can also reduce the likelihood that the edge of the coating will be "knocked off" and peel off from the surface.

The housing may be made of any suitable material. In a preferred embodiment, at least part of the housing comprises aluminum. For example, at least 50%, 60%, 70% or 80% by weight of the housing 102 may be made of aluminum. In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least part of the housing 102 comprises anodized aluminum. For example, the housing 102 may have an aluminum metal base coated with a layer of anodized aluminum.

Fig. 2 shows a device 100. The housing 102 comprises a base 104. The base is located in a first plane 160, which is perpendicular to the first direction 120. The first plane 160 extends along a second direction 122 and a third direction 124. Such a configuration allows the aerosol-generating device 100 to be conveniently placed on a flat surface during periods of use. In addition, when the base 104 is substantially flat, as shown in the accompanying drawings, the device 100 can be displayed motionlessly on a flat surface.

The elements of the device can be alternatively located in a second plane 162, perpendicular to the second direction 122 and passing along the first and third directions 122, 124, or in a third plane 164, perpendicular to the third direction 124 and passing along the first and second directions 120, 122. Further, references will be made everywhere to the second and third planes 162, 164.

The housing 102 also comprises an upper side 106. The upper side is located opposite the base 104, on the other side of the plane 160. The upper side can be substantially coplanar with the base 104 and lie in the first plane 160. However, it is preferable that the upper side is not parallel to the base 104. It is preferable that the upper side, as shown in Fig. 3, extends in the fourth plane 166. The fourth plane 166 extends in the third direction 124 and forms a dihedral angle θ 160-166 with the first plane 160. Thus, the dihedral angle θ 160-166 is the angle between the base 104 and the upper side 106. The dihedral angle θ 160-166 is an angle greater than 0°. Preferably, the dihedral angle θ 160-166 is less than 5°, more preferably less than 4°, even more preferably less than 3°. Preferably, the dihedral angle is greater than 0.5°, 1°, 1.5° or 2°. In a preferred embodiment, this dihedral angle is approximately 2.5°. The applicants have found that when the upper side is inclined as indicated in the present invention, the device can be more comfortable for the user when he holds it in his hand.

The fourth plane 166 can also be defined as a plane passing along the third direction 124 and the fourth direction 126. The fourth direction 126 is perpendicular to the third direction 124 and is deviated by an angle θ 160-166 from the second direction 122.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the dihedral angle θ 160-166 is less than 5°, and the sliding cover 142 is designed to slide along the axis in the fourth direction 126. The applicants have found that such a configuration is more convenient for the user when he moves the sliding cover 142 to open or close the opening 140. The sliding cover 142 can be located substantially parallel to the upper side 106. In one possible embodiment, the thickness of the sliding cover is less than 10 mm, less than 9 mm, less than 8 mm, less than 7 mm, less than 6 mm, less than 5 mm, less than 4 mm, less than 3 mm or less than 2 mm. The thickness of the sliding cover 142 is considered to be the size of the sliding cover in the direction perpendicular to the fourth plane 166. The upper surface of the sliding cover can have a corrugated structure. Preferably, such a ribbed surface makes it easier for the user to move the sliding cover, since it provides better grip of the user's finger on the surface of the sliding cover.

The base 104 and the upper side 106 are connected by a housing element. The housing element comprises a front side 110, a rear side 112, a first side portion 114 and a second side portion 116.

As shown in Fig. 5, the first side portion 114 connects the front side 110 to the back side 112 along the first edges of the front and back sides 110, 112, and the second side portion 116 connects the front side 110 to the back side 112 along the second edges of the front and back sides 110, 112. The first side portion 114 is located opposite the second side portion 116. Preferably, the first side portion 114 is located opposite the second side portion 116 on the other side of the second plane 162.

Both the first side portion 114 and the second side portion 116 extend in the first direction. Preferably, each of the above-mentioned side portions has a curvilinear shape in the first plane 160.

In a preferred embodiment, the housing 102 has a shape that is substantially symmetrical with respect to the third plane 164 (i.e., as shown in Fig. 4, the portion of the housing to the left of the plane 164 is symmetrical with respect to the portion of the housing to the right of the plane 164). The applicants have found that users are likely to find the device 100 of such a configuration more comfortable to hold in the hand. In another possible embodiment, the shape of the housing 102 is preferably asymmetrical with respect to the second plane 162 and the first plane 160. In particular, it is preferable that the size of the device in the third direction 124 is not constant along the second direction 122 of the housing 102. The applicants have also found that users are likely to find the device 100 of such an asymmetrical configuration more comfortable to hold in the hand.

Fig. 6A-6C illustrate another aspect of the present invention, namely, the housing element 108 of the housing 102. A portion of the housing element 108 (and thus a portion of the housing 102) has a soft elastic coating, shown by hatching with a small interval. Fig. 6A shows a perspective view of the housing element 108; Fig. 6B shows a bottom view of the housing 102; Fig. 6C shows an enlarged view of the region in Fig. 6B.

The housing element of the housing is, in essence, a tubular element. Thus, the housing element forms a cavity 170, passing along the axis 168. The axis 168 passes in the first direction 120. The housing comprises a first end 172 and a second end 174; both the first and second ends 172, 174 of the housing are open. In another possible embodiment (not shown), the tubular element can be open only at one end. For example, the housing element 108 of the housing can comprise an upper part, closing an opening at the first end 172, such that the housing element 108 forms a cavity with only one opening at the second end 174. It is preferable, however, that the housing element 108 is open at both ends 172, 174, as shown in the attached drawings.

Such an embodiment may be particularly well suited for modular assembly of the device 100, since the housing element 108, open at both ends, may provide for a simpler assembly process, for example when installing a heating block in the housing 102.

When the housing element 108 is formed as a part of the housing 102 in the device 100, the base 104 and the upper side 106 preferably cover the openings in the first and second ends 172, 174 of the housing element 108. In some embodiments, the base 104 and/or the upper side 106 comprise a soft elastic coating. In a preferred embodiment, the lower part 104 and/or the upper side 106 does not comprise a soft elastic coating. In a particular embodiment, neither the base 104 nor the upper side 196 have a soft elastic coating.

The housing element comprises an inner surface 176. The inner surface 176 faces the axis 168 and is thus "inner" in the sense that it faces the internal elements of the device. The inner surface 176 is designated by hatching with a large interval.

The housing element also comprises an outer surface 178. The outer surface 178 faces the side opposite to the side to which the inner surface 176 faces, i.e. away from the axis 168, and is "outer" in the sense that it faces an environment that is external to the device 100. Preferably, as shown by the small-spaced shading, at least a portion of the soft elastic coating is located on a region 178a of the outer surface 178, i.e. on that portion of the housing element 108 that the user is most likely to hold in his hand, thereby experiencing a sensation of soft touch. Preferably, the coating is not applied to the entire outer surface 178. The region 178a comprising the coating is from 10% to 90% of the area of the outer surface 178, preferably from 20% to 85%, more preferably from 30% to 80%, even more preferably from 40% to 75%, and most preferably from 45% to 70% of the area of the outer surface 178. In some embodiments, the region 178a with the coating is at least 15%, 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 75%, 80% or 85% of the area of the outer surface 178. In some embodiments, the region 178a with the coating is less than 85%, 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, 60%, 55%, 50%, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%, 25%, 20% or 15% of the external surface area 178.

In a preferred embodiment, the housing element 108 is a single piece. This means that it is formed from a single, continuous piece of material and is not modular. In other embodiments, however, the housing element 108 may be formed from a plurality of modular parts.

The housing element 108 comprises a connecting surface 180. The connecting surface 180 is a surface that connects the inner surface 176 to the outer surface 178. Preferably, the connecting surface extends along the entire length of the edge of both the inner surface 176 and the outer surface 178. Depending on where the connecting surface 180 is located, it can be called either the upper surface 180 of the housing element 108 (when the connecting surface 180 is located on the first end 172 of the housing element 108), or the lower surface 180 of the housing element 108 (when the connecting surface 180 is located on the second end 174). Preferably, as shown in the accompanying drawings, the connecting surface 180 is the lower surface 180.

Preferably, the connecting surface 180 is substantially flat. As shown in the accompanying drawings, the connecting surface 180 is substantially flat and extends in a plane parallel to the first plane 160 (i.e. perpendicular to the first direction 120). The advantage of such an arrangement of the connecting surface 180 is that it provides a stable base for installing the device 100. In a particularly preferred embodiment, when the housing element 108 is part of the housing 102 in the device 100, the base 104 and the connecting surface 180 are designed in such a way that together they form a lower surface of the device. An even more preferable solution is one in which the base 104 and the housing element 108 are arranged in such a way that the connecting surface 180 projects relative to the lower part 104. In other words, the housing element 108 projects in the first direction 120 beyond the outer surface of the lower part 104, such that when the device is mounted on a flat surface parallel to the first plane 160, the base 104 does not directly contact this flat surface, but only the connecting surface 180 touches this flat surface when the device 100 is mounted on a flat surface parallel to the first plane 160. This can ensure that fewer scratches and abrasive wear of the base 104 are generated, as well as a reduction in the load on the components in the base 104.

As shown most clearly in Fig. 6C, the connecting surface 180 is connected to the inner surface 176 along the inner edge 182. The connecting surface 180 is connected to the outer side 178 along the outer edge 184.

Fig. 7A is a sectional view of the housing element 108 along the plane B-B shown in Fig. 6B; Fig. 7B is an enlarged view of the region in Fig. 7A; Fig. 7C is an enlarged perspective view (bottom view, along arrow 174) of the region in Fig. 7A.

As shown most clearly in Fig. 7B, the inner edge 182 connects the inner surface 176 to the connecting surface 180 at an acute angle; preferably, the inner edge 182 forms a right angle between the inner surface 176 and the connecting surface 180. The angle formed by the inner edge 182 is preferably constant along the entire perimeter of the inner surface. For example, the inner edge 182 preferably forms an angle of 90° along the entire perimeter of the housing element 108. In another embodiment (not shown), the inner edge 182 does not form a right angle, and the connecting surface 180 extends along a plane parallel to the first plane 160 and connects with a portion of the inner surface 176 in such a way that the inner edge forms an obtuse angle. In other words, the portion of the inner surface 176 connecting with the connecting surface 180 can be inclined from the inner edge 182 toward the axis 168.

The outer edge 184 connects the outer surface 178 to the connecting surface 180, forming a rounded corner. The rounded corner can make the user's experience more pleasant. In addition, the applicants have found that forming the outer edge 184 as a rounded edge can reduce the peeling of the soft elastic coating applied to the outer surface 178.

The soft elastic coating may be located on portions of the outer surface 178, the inner surface 176, the connecting surface 180, the inner edge 182 and/or the outer edge 184. As shown in Fig. 7B and 7C, the portion of the housing element 108 with the soft elastic coating is preferably a continuous region including a region 178a of the outer surface 178, a portion of the connecting surface 180 and a portion of the outer edge 184; in a particularly preferred embodiment, the soft elastic coating is applied to the entire connecting surface 180 and to the outer edge 184. The inventors have found that by applying the soft elastic coating in such a way that it covers a portion of the outer surface 178a, the outer edge 184 and the connecting surface 180, the peeling off of this soft elastic coating is reduced. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that by applying the coating in such a way that it extends beyond the edge onto the connecting surface 180, the likelihood that the coating will cling to any external elements and begin to peel off from the surface of the housing element 108 is reduced.

In addition, the continuous portion preferably extends along a portion of the inner edge 182 and a portion of the inner surface 176. For example, the continuous portion preferably extends along portions of the outer surface 178, the outer edge 184, the connecting surface 180, the inner side 182 and the inner surface 176. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the continuous portion extends along the entire inner edge 182 and a portion 176a of the inner surface 176. Preferably, the portion 176a of the inner surface with the soft elastic coating has a dimension 176b from the inner edge 182 along the inner surface 176 in the first direction 120 of from 0.5 mm to 3 mm, preferably from 1 mm to 2 mm. The boundary between the portion 176a and the remaining inner surface 176 can be conveniently referred to as the "end" of the coated portion. Preferably, the coated portion extends along portion 176a of inner surface 176 around the entire opening at second end 174.

In a particular preferred embodiment of the device 100, the housing element 108 with the inner coating 176a described immediately above is arranged with the base 104 in such a way that the base 104 tightly fits to the part 176a of the inner surface 176 having a soft elastic coating. In particular, the device is designed in such a way that the end of the covered part is located inside the device, so that the user cannot access it in the normal mode. Surprisingly, the user thus does not have a desire to separate the soft elastic coating from the housing element 108, which reduces the risk of peeling off the soft elastic coating. It has been found that a size of 176b of from 0.5 mm to 3 mm is particularly advantageous in that the end of the coated portion is sufficiently far from the outside of the device 100 and manufacturing costs are kept to a minimum possible level (since it prevents coating from being applied to too large an inner surface 176 that is not accessible to the end user).

This coated body element can be produced by applying a primer to a part to which a soft elastic coating is supposed to be applied, and by treating the applied primer in order to create a soft elastic coating on a continuous part. For example, the primer can be applied to a continuous part extending along the region 178a of the outer surface 178, the outer edge 184, the connecting surface 180, the inner edge 182 and the part 176a of the inner surface 176.

The smallest distance between the inner edge 182 and the outer edge 184 at any point along the perimeter of the housing element 108 may be conveniently referred to as the width of the connecting surface 180. Preferably, the width of the connecting surface is substantially constant along the perimeter of the entire housing element 108. According to the present invention, the width extends between the points at which the plane of the connecting surface 180 ends. In embodiments in which the edge is substantially sharp (e.g., the inner edge 182), the width may conveniently be measured from the sharp edge. In embodiments in which the edge is rounded (e.g., the outer edge 184), the connecting surface is considered to comprise only a flat portion; the edge is considered to extend from the point at which the curvature of the rounded corner begins. Thus, for the example shown in Fig. 7B, the width of the connecting surface 180 at any point along the perimeter of the housing element 108 is the minimum distance of the acute angle 182 to the outer edge of the plane of the connecting surface 180a. Preferably, the width of the connecting surface 180 along the perimeter of the housing element 108 is substantially constant and is from 0.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably from 0.5 mm to 2 mm, more preferably from 0.5 mm to 1 mm, for example, approximately 0.75 mm. The applicants of the present invention have found that a width of such a size provides a significant reduction in the likelihood of peeling of the coating and an increase in peel resistance compared to housing elements having a smaller or larger width of the connecting surface 180.

In areas where the outer surface 178 extends parallel to the inner surface 176 (for example, in areas where the minimum distance between the outer surface 178 and the inner surface 176 is substantially constant, and not in areas where the outer surface 178 tapers toward the inner surface 176), the average shortest distance between the outer surface 178 and the inner surface (for example, the thickness of the housing) is typically from about 0.8 to about 1.6 mm (the average value is the average of all measurements along the perimeter of the housing). In one possible embodiment, the average thickness is about 0.975 mm. In another possible embodiment, the average thickness is about 1.5 mm. The latter embodiment with a greater thickness of the housing wall is preferable since it provides a lower temperature of the outer surface during use of the device.

The connecting surface 180 may have a characteristic shape. This characteristic shape may correspond to the characteristic shape of the cross-section of the body element 108 along the first plane 160.

Fig. 8A shows a suitable characteristic shape of the connecting surface 180. This characteristic shape has a profile 190a forming an outer edge of the characteristic shape ("outer profile 190a") and a profile 190b forming an inner edge of the characteristic shape ("inner profile 190b"). In the context of the present invention, such a shape can be called an annular element. To avoid doubt, it should be noted that the definition of an annular element according to the present invention covers annular elements not only of a purely circular shape.

The shape of the inner profile 190b corresponds to the shape of the inner edge 182. The shape of the outer profile 190a corresponds to the far dimension of the connecting surface 180, i.e. the point at which the outer edge 184 ends (corresponds to the dimension 180a shown in Fig. 7B).

Preferably, as shown in Fig. 8A, the outer and inner profiles 190a, 190b are concentric. Thus, they have a common central point 186.

In one possible embodiment, both the outer profile 190a and the inner profile 190b can be represented as a combination of standard flat geometric figures. For example, as shown in Fig. 8B-8D, each profile 190a, 190b can be represented as a combination of an isosceles trapezoid 192 with a first convex part 194 and a second convex part 196. Each of the profiles 190a, 190b will necessarily have parameters that differ from the parameters of the other profile, but the description below is applicable separately to each of the profiles, except where otherwise indicated.

The isosceles trapezoid 192 forms the central part of the profile and has internal angles α and β: α = α, β = β, and α ≠ β. The height h of the isosceles trapezoid 192a is preferably no more than 25 mm. The height h can be more than 10 mm, 15 mm or 20 mm. Preferably, the height h of the trapezoid 192 is approximately 24 mm.

A trapezoid has two parallel sides (the "bases") and two non-parallel sides (the "legs"). The legs of a trapezoid 192 have the same length; the length of the base a is greater than the length of the base b.

The first convex portion 194 completely covers the base a. This means that the length of the base of the convex portion 194 is equal to the length of the base a. Preferably, as shown in the drawings, the first convex portion 194 essentially has the shape of a semicircle. In this embodiment, the convex portion 194 has a radius r1, and a = 2r1.

The radius r1 of the semicircular first convex portion 194a is no more than 12 mm. The radius r1 may be more than 5 mm, 8 mm or 10 mm. Preferably, the radius r1 is from 10 mm to 11 mm. Therefore, the base a is no more than 24 mm, preferably about 23 mm.

The second convex portion 196 completely covers the base b. This means that the length of the base of the convex portion 196 is equal to the length of the base b. Thus, b = 2r2. Preferably, as shown in the drawings, the second convex portion 196 essentially has the shape of a semicircle. In this embodiment, the convex portion 196 has a radius r2, and b = 2r2.

The radius r2 of the semicircular second convex portion 196a is no more than 11 mm. The radius r2 may be more than 5 mm, 7 mm or 9 mm. Preferably, the radius r2 is approximately 9 mm. Therefore, the base b is no more than 22 mm, preferably about 18 mm.

Preferably, if the characteristic shape is a ring-shaped element, the width 188 of the ring-shaped element (i.e. the shortest distance between the outer profile 190a and the inner profile 190b at each point along the perimeter of the ring-shaped element) is substantially constant along the entire perimeter of the ring-shaped element. In cases similar to those shown in the drawings, where the characteristic shape is not substantially circular, this will mean that the outer and inner profiles 190a and 190b are not congruent, i.e. do not have equally proportional side lengths and internal angles. Preferably, the width of the ring-shaped element is from 0.5 mm to 5 mm.

Fig. 9A shows an induction heating unit 200 of an aerosol-generating device according to the present invention; Fig. 9B shows an induction heating unit 200 of this device in cross-section.

The heating unit 200 comprises a first (proximal or mouthpiece) end 202 and a second or distal end 204. In use, the user inhales the generated aerosol from the mouthpiece end of the aerosol-generating device. The mouthpiece end may be open.

The heating unit 200 comprises a first induction heating module 210 and a second induction heating module 220. The first induction heating module 210 comprises a first induction winding 212 and a first heating element 214. The second induction heating module 220 comprises a second induction winding 222 and a second heating element 224.

In Fig. 9A and 9B, the smoking element 230 is shown inserted into the current collector 240. The current collector 240 forms a first induction heating element 214 and a second induction heating element 224. The current collector 240 can be made of any suitable material that can be heated by induction. For example, the current collector 240 can comprise a metal. In some embodiments, the current collector 240 can comprise a non-ferrous metal, such as copper, nickel, titanium, aluminum, tin or zinc, and/or a ferrous metal, such as iron, nickel or cobalt. Alternatively or additionally, the current collector 240 can comprise a semiconductor, such as silicon carbide, carbon or graphite.

Each induction heating element used in the aerosol-generating device may have a suitable shape. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 9B, the induction heating elements 214, 224 form a socket into which the aerosol-forming element is inserted and which produces heating from the outside of this aerosol-forming element. In other embodiments (not shown), one or more induction heating elements may have a substantially elongated shape, and may be designed with the possibility of being inserted inside the aerosol-forming element for heating it from the inside.

As shown in Fig. 9B, the first induction heating element 214 and the second induction heating element 224 may be formed together as a single element 240. This means that in some embodiments there is no physical boundary between the first 214 and the second 224 heating elements. The boundary between the first and second heating elements 210, 220 is not defined by any physical boundary, but by separate induction windings 212, 222 located around each of the induction heating elements 214, 224, so that these elements can be controlled independently of each other. In other embodiments (not described), physically separate induction heating elements may also be used.

The first and second induction windings 212, 222 are made of an electrically conductive material. In the example under consideration, the first and second induction windings 212, 222 are made of a high-frequency multi-core winding wire (litzenwire)/cable wound in the form of a spiral to create spiral induction windings 212, 222. The litzwire contains a plurality of separately insulated wires twisted together and forming a single wire. Litzwires serve to reduce skin effect losses in the conductor. In the embodiment of the induction heating unit 200 under consideration, the first and second induction windings 224, 226 are made of copper litzwire with a round cross-section. In other embodiments, the litzwire may have other cross-sectional shapes, for example, a rectangular shape.

The first induction winding 212 is configured to create a first changing magnetic field for heating the first induction heating element 214, and the second induction winding 222 is configured to create a second changing magnetic field for heating the second section of the current collector 224. The first induction winding 212 and the first induction heating element 214 together form the first induction heating module 210. Similarly, the second induction winding 222 and the second induction heating element 224 together form the second induction heating module 220.

In the considered example, the first induction winding 212 is located near the second induction winding 222 in the direction along the longitudinal axis of the heating unit 200 of the device (i.e. the first and second induction windings 212, 222 do not overlap). The current collector 240 can be a single current collector. The ends 250 of the first and second induction windings 212, 222 can be connected to a controller, such as a printed circuit board (not shown). Preferably, the printed circuit board is installed in such a way that it is located in the first plane. In other words, the smallest dimension of the printed circuit board extends in the first direction. Such a configuration can provide the possibility of creating a device with a smaller extension in the first direction than a comparable device containing a printed circuit board arranged so that it has the largest dimension in the first direction. The smallest dimension in the first direction may allow the user to more easily interact with the sliding cover located on the top of the device when holding the device in one hand. In preferred embodiments, the controller is a proportional-integral-derivative controller (PID controller).

The alternating magnetic field generates eddy currents in the first induction heating element 214, quickly heating the first induction heating element 214 to the maximum operating temperature within a short period of time from the start of the alternating current supply to the winding 212, for example, within 20, 15, 12, 10, 5 or 2 seconds. The location of the first induction heating module 210 configured to quickly achieve the maximum operating temperature closer to the mouthpiece end 202 of the heating unit 200 than to the second induction heating module 220 can ensure the fastest generation of an aerosol acceptable for use for the user as quickly as possible from the start of the use cycle.

It should be kept in mind that in some embodiments, the first and second induction windings 212, 222 may differ from each other in at least one of their characteristics. For example, the first induction winding 212 may have at least one characteristic that differs from the second induction winding 222. More specifically, in one possible embodiment, the first induction winding 212 may have an inductance value that differs from the inductance of the second induction winding 222. As shown in Fig. 9A and 9B, the first and second induction windings 212, 222 have different lengths, so that the first induction winding 212 covers a shorter portion of the current collector 240 than the second induction winding 222. Thus, the first induction winding 212 can contain a number of turns that differs from the number of turns of the second induction winding 222 (provided that the distance between the individual turns is substantially the same). In another example, the first induction winding 212 can be made of a material that differs from the material of the second induction winding 222. In some embodiments, the first and second induction windings 212, 222 can be substantially the same.

In the considered example, the first induction winding 212 and the second induction winding 222 are wound in the same direction. However, in other embodiments, the induction windings 212, 222 can be wound in opposite directions. This can be useful in the case when the induction windings are activated at different times. For example, the first induction winding 212 can be turned on first to heat the first induction heating element 214, and later the second induction winding 222 can be turned on to heat the second induction heating element 224. Winding the turns in opposite directions helps to reduce the current induced in the inoperative winding, when used with a certain type of control circuit. In a possible embodiment, the first induction winding 212 can be a right-handed coil, and the second induction winding 222 can be a left-handed coil. In another possible embodiment, the first induction winding 212 may be a left-handed coil and the second induction winding 222 may be a right-handed coil.

The windings 212, 222 may have any suitable geometry. Without resorting to theory, it should be noted that creating an induction heating element of smaller dimensions (for example, with a smaller pitch of the winding spiral, with a smaller number of spiral turns, with a shorter overall spiral length) can provide an increase in the speed of reaching the maximum operating temperature by this induction heating element. In some embodiments, the length of the first winding 212 may be less than about 20 mm, less than 18 mm, less than 16 mm, or about 14 mm in the longitudinal direction of the heating unit 200. Preferably, the first winding 212 has a shorter length than the second winding 224 in the longitudinal direction of the heating unit 200. Such a configuration can provide asymmetric heating of the aerosol-forming element along its length.

The current collector 240 in this embodiment is a hollow element, and thus represents a seat for inserting an aerosol-forming material. For example, a smoking element 230 can be inserted into the current collector 240. In the embodiment under consideration, the current collector 240 has a tubular shape with a circular cross-section.

Induction heating elements 214 and 224 are located around the smoking element 230 and heat it from the outside. The aerosol-generating device is designed in such a way that when the smoking element 230 is inserted into the current collector 240, the outer surface of the smoking element 230 is in tight contact with the inner surface of the current collector 240. This ensures the most efficient heating. The smoking element 230 in this embodiment contains an aerosol-forming material. This aerosol-forming material is placed inside the current collector 240. The smoking element 230 may also contain other components, such as a filter, wrapping materials and/or a cooling structure.

The heating unit 200 is not limited to two heating elements. In some embodiments, the heating unit 200 may comprise three, four, five, six, or even more than six heating elements. Each of these heating elements may be controlled independently of the other heating elements of the heating unit 200.

Fig. 10A and 10B show a partial sectional view and a perspective view of an aerosol-forming smoking element 300 in a possible embodiment thereof. The aerosol-forming element 300 shown in Fig. 10A and 10B corresponds to the aerosol-forming element 230 shown in Fig. 9A and 9B.

The aerosol-forming element 300 may have any shape suitable for use in the aerosol-generating device. The smoking material may be in the form of or provided as part of a cartridge, cassette or rod inserted into the device. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 9A-9B, the smoking element 300 is in the form of a substantially cylindrical rod including a block 302 of smoking material and a filter block 304 in the form of a rod. The filter block 304 includes three segments, namely, a cooling element 306, a filter element 308 and a mouthpiece segment 310. The smoking element 300 comprises a first end 312, also known as a mouthpiece end or proximal end, and a second end 314, also known as a distal end. The aerosolizable material block 302 is located closer to the distal end 314 of the smoking element 300. In a possible embodiment, the cooling element 306 is located near the aerosolizable material block 302 between the aerosolizable material block 302 and the filter element 308, so that the cooling element 306 closely fits the aerosolizable material 302 and the filter element 308. In other embodiments, there may be a separation between the aerosolizable material block 302 and the cooling 306, as well as between the aerosolizable material block 302 and the filter element 308. The filter element 308 is located between the cooling element 306 and the mouthpiece segment 310. The mouthpiece segment 310 is located at the proximal end 312 of the smoking element 300, near the filter element 308. In a possible embodiment In one embodiment, the filter element 308 is directly adjacent to the mouthpiece segment 310. In one possible embodiment, the overall length of the filter block 304 is from 37 mm to 45 mm, more preferably, the overall length of the filter block 304 is 41 mm.

In use, portions 302a and 302b of aerosolizable material block 302 may correspond to the first induction heating element 214 and the second induction heating element 224, respectively, of heating block 200 shown in Fig. 9B.

The smoking material block may comprise a plurality of parts 302a, 302b corresponding to a plurality of induction heating elements included in the aerosol-generating device. For example, the aerosol-forming element 300 may comprise a first part 302a corresponding to the first induction heating element 214, and a second part 302b corresponding to the second induction heating element 224. During the use cycle, these parts 302a, 302b may have temperature profiles that differ from each other, since the temperature profiles of the parts 302a, 302b may be determined, respectively, by the temperature profiles of the first induction heating element 214 and the second induction heating element 224.

If the block of aerosolizable material 302 consists of a plurality of parts 302a, 302b, any number of parts 302a, 302b of the aerosolizable material may have substantially the same composition. In a particular embodiment, all parts 302a, 302b of the aerosolizable material have substantially the same composition. In one possible embodiment, the block of aerosolizable material 302 is a single, integral element, and there is no physical boundary between the first and second parts 302a, 302b having substantially the same composition.

In one possible embodiment, the block of aerosolizable material 302 comprises tobacco. However, in other possible embodiments, the block of smoking material 302 may consist of tobacco, consist substantially entirely of tobacco, may contain tobacco and an aerosol-forming material other than tobacco, may be an aerosol-forming material other than tobacco, or may not contain tobacco. The aerosol-forming material may include an aerosol-forming agent such as glycerol.

In a particular embodiment, the aerosol-forming material may comprise one or more tobacco components, fillers, binders, and aerosol-forming agents.

Any suitable inorganic filler may be used as a filler. Suitable inorganic fillers include, but are not limited to, calcium carbonate (i.e., chalk), perlite, vermiculite, diatomaceous earth, colloidal silica, magnesium oxide, magnesium sulfate, magnesium carbonate, and suitable inorganic sorbents such as molecular sieves. Calcium carbonate is particularly suitable. In some cases, organic material such as wood pulp, cellulose, and cellulose derivatives is used as a filler.

Any suitable binder material may be used as a binder. In some embodiments, one or more of the following materials are used as a binder, namely: alginate, celluloses or modified celluloses, polysaccharides, starches or modified starches, and natural gum.

Suitable binders include, but are not limited to: salts of alginic acid containing any suitable cation, such as sodium alginate, calcium alginate and potassium alginate; celluloses or modified celluloses, such as hydroxypropyl cellulose and carboxymethyl cellulose; starches or modified starches; polysaccharides, such as salts of pectic acid containing any suitable cation, such as sodium, potassium, calcium or magnesium pectate; xanthan gum, guar gum, and any other suitable gum.

The binder may be included in the aerosol-forming material in any suitable quantities and concentrations.

"Aerosol-forming agent" is an agent that facilitates the formation of an aerosol. An aerosol-generating material may facilitate the formation of an aerosol by facilitating the initial evaporation and/or condensation of a gas into solid and/or liquid aerosol particles for inhalation. In some embodiments, an aerosol-generating material may enhance the delivery of a flavoring agent from a smoking element.

In general, the aerosol-forming material may include any suitable aerosol-forming agent or agents. Aerosol-forming agents include, but are not limited to, the following: polyols such as sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols such as propylene glycol or triethylene glycol; non-polyols such as monohydric alcohols, high-boiling hydrocarbons, acids such as lactic acid, glycerol derivatives, esters such as diacetin, triacetin, triethylene glycol diacenate, triethyl citrate or myristates including ethyl myristate and isopropyl myristate and aliphatic carboxylic acid esters such as methyl stearate, dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate.

In a specific embodiment, the aerosol-forming material contains a tobacco component in an amount of 60 wt.% to 90 wt.% of the tobacco composition, a filler in an amount of 0 wt.% to 20 wt.% of the tobacco composition, and an aerosol-forming agent in an amount of 10 wt.% to 20 wt.% of the tobacco composition. The tobacco component may contain reconstituted tobacco paper in an amount of 70 wt.% to 100 wt.% of the tobacco component.

In a possible embodiment, the length of the block 302 of aerosolizable material is from 34 mm to 50 mm, more preferably from 38 mm to 46 mm, and even more preferably 42 mm.

In a possible embodiment, the overall length of the smoking element 300 is from 71 mm to 95 mm, more preferably from 79 mm to 87 mm, and even more preferably 83 mm.

The end face of the aerosolizable material block 302 is visible at the distal end 314 of the smoking element 300. However, in other embodiments, the distal end 314 of the smoking element 300 may comprise an end member (not shown) that covers the end face of the aerosolizable material block 302.

The block 302 of the aerosolized material is connected to the filter block 304 by an annular layer of tipping paper (not shown), located essentially along the perimeter around the filter block 304, so that it surrounds the filter block 304 and partially extends onto the block 302 of the aerosolized material in the axial direction. In a possible embodiment, the tipping paper is made of standard 58GSM base tipping paper. In a possible embodiment, the length of the tipping paper layer is from 42 mm to 50 mm, more preferably, it is 46 mm.

In a possible embodiment, the cooling element 306 is an annular tube and forms an air gap with the filter unit. This air gap provides a chamber through which the heated volatile components generated by the aerosolized material unit 302 pass. The cooling element 306 is made hollow to form a chamber for collecting the aerosol, but at the same time to be sufficiently rigid to withstand axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during the manufacturing process and when inserting the smoking element 300 into the device 100. In a possible embodiment, the wall thickness of the cooling element 306 is approximately 0.29 mm.

Cooling element 306 physically separates aerosol-forming material 302 from filter element 308. The physical separation provided by cooling element 306 creates a temperature gradient along the length of cooling element 306. In a possible embodiment, cooling element 306 is configured to create a temperature difference of at least 40°C between heated volatile components entering the first end of cooling element 306 and heated volatile components exiting the second end of cooling element 306. In a possible embodiment, cooling element 306 is configured to create a temperature difference of at least 60°C between heated volatile components entering the first end of cooling element 306 and heated volatile components exiting the second end of cooling element 306. Such a temperature difference along the length of cooling element 306 protects heat-sensitive filter element 308 from exposure to high temperatures. aerosol-forming material 302 when it is heated by the heating unit 200 of the aerosol-generating device. If there were no physical separation between the filter element 308 and the block 302 of the aerosolized material and the heating elements 214, 224 of the heating unit 200, the heat-sensitive filter element 308 could be damaged during use and would not be able to effectively perform its required functions.

In a possible embodiment, the length of the cooling element 306 is at least 15 mm. In a possible embodiment, the length of the cooling element 306 is from 20 mm to 30 mm, in particular from 23 mm to 27 mm, more particularly from 25 mm to 27 mm, and even more particularly 25 mm.

The cooling element 306 is made of paper, which means that it does not emit problematic compounds, such as toxic compounds, when used near the heating unit 200 of the aerosol-generating device. In a possible embodiment, the cooling element 306 is made in the form of a paper tube with a spiral winding of paper, which creates a hollow internal chamber, while maintaining mechanical rigidity. Paper tubes with a spiral winding of paper are able to ensure compliance with strict dimensional accuracy requirements in high-speed manufacturing processes, imposed on the length, outer diameter, roundness and straightness of the tube.

In another possible embodiment, the cooling element 306 is a recess created from a dense ficella or tipping paper. The dense ficella or tipping paper is made with a rigidity sufficient to withstand axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during the manufacturing process and during use of the smoking element 300 when it is inserted into the device 100.

For each of the embodiments of the cooling element 306, the dimensional accuracy of the cooling element is sufficient to meet the accuracy requirements imposed by the high-speed manufacturing process.

The filter element 308 can be made of any filter material capable of removing one or more volatile components from heated and volatilized components of the heated smoking material. In one possible embodiment, the filter element 308 is made of a monoacetate material, such as acetyl cellulose. The filter element 308 provides cooling and a reduction in irritation of the mucous membrane by heated volatile components, without reducing the amount of heated volatile components to a level unsatisfactory for the user.

The density of the filter element 308 material made of acetyl cellulose fibers controls the pressure drop across the filter element 308, which in turn controls the draw resistance created by the smoking element 300. Thus, the choice of the filter element 308 material is important for controlling the draw resistance of the smoking element 300. In addition, the filter element 308 performs the filtration function in the smoking element 300.

In a possible embodiment, the filter element 308 is made of grade 8Y15 filter fiber material, which ensures the filtration of heated and volatile components of the aerosol-forming material, and at the same time reduces the size of the condensed aerosol droplets formed as a result of heating the volatile material, which, in turn, reduces the irritating effect of the heated volatile material on the user's larynx to an acceptable level.

The presence of the filter element 308 provides an insulating effect, providing additional cooling of the heated volatile components leaving the cooling element 306. This additional cooling effect reduces the temperature affecting the user's lips upon contact with the surface of the filter element 308.

One or more flavoring agents may be introduced into the filter element 308 either by directly injecting flavored liquids into the filter element 308 or by embedding/incorporating one or more destructible capsules or other flavoring agent carriers into the acetyl cellulose fibers of the filter element 308.

In a possible embodiment, the length of the filter element 308 is from 6 mm to 10 mm, more preferably 8 mm.

The mouthpiece segment 310 is an annular tube and forms an air gap inside the mouthpiece segment 310. This air gap provides a chamber through which the heated volatile components exiting the filter element 308 pass. The mouthpiece segment 310 is made hollow to form a chamber for collecting the aerosol, but at the same time to be sufficiently rigid to withstand axial compressive forces and bending moments that may occur during the manufacturing process and during use when inserting the smoking element into the device 100. In a possible embodiment, the wall thickness of the mouthpiece segment 310 is approximately 0.29 mm.

In a possible embodiment, the length of the mouthpiece segment 310 is from 6 mm to 10 mm, more preferably 8 mm. In a possible embodiment, the wall thickness of the mouthpiece segment is approximately 0.29 mm.

The mouthpiece segment 310 can be made in the form of a paper tube with a spiral winding of paper, which forms a hollow internal chamber, while maintaining the required mechanical rigidity. Paper tubes with a spiral winding of paper are capable of ensuring compliance with the strict requirements for dimensional accuracy in high-speed manufacturing processes, imposed on the length, outer diameter, roundness and straightness of the tube.

The mouthpiece segment 310 prevents the user's lips from coming into contact with any liquid condensate that accumulates at the outlet of the filter element 308.

It should be borne in mind that in a possible embodiment, the mouthpiece segment 310 and the cooling element 306 can be made in the form of a single tube, and the filter element 308 can be located inside this tube, separating the mouthpiece segment 310 from the cooling element 306.

In the smoking element 300, a ventilation region 316 is provided, allowing air from outside the smoking element 300 to enter the smoking element 300. In a possible embodiment, the ventilation region 316 is made in the form of one or more ventilation holes 316 made in the outer layer of the smoking element 300. The ventilation holes can be located in the cooling element 306 in order to facilitate cooling of the smoking element 300. In a possible embodiment, the ventilation region 316 comprises one or more rows of holes; preferably, each of the rows of holes is located circumferentially around the smoking element 300 in a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the smoking element 300.

In a possible embodiment, one to four rows of ventilation holes are provided, serving to ensure ventilation of the smoking element 300. Each of the rows of ventilation holes may contain from 12 to 36 ventilation holes 316. The diameter of the ventilation holes 316 may be, for example, from 100 pm to 500 pm. In a possible embodiment, the axial distance between the rows of ventilation holes 316 is from 0.25 mm to 0.75 mm, more preferably, is 0.5 mm.

In a possible embodiment, the ventilation holes 316 have the same size. In another possible embodiment, the ventilation holes 316 have different sizes. The ventilation holes can be made using any suitable technology, for example, using one or more of the following methods: laser technology, mechanical perforation of the cooling element 306, or preliminary perforation of the cooling element 306 before forming the smoking element 300. The ventilation holes 316 are arranged in such a way as to ensure effective cooling of the smoking element 300.

In a possible embodiment, the rows of ventilation holes 316 are located at a distance of at least 11 mm from the proximal end 312 of the smoking element, more preferably at a distance of 17 mm to 20 mm from the proximal end 312 of the smoking element 300. The ventilation holes 316 are located in such a way that the user does not block them when using the smoking element 316.

It is preferable to arrange the rows of ventilation holes at a distance of 17 mm to 20 mm from the near end 312 of the smoking element 300, since, as shown in Fig. 1, with such an arrangement, the ventilation holes 316 are outside the device 100, when the smoking element 300 is fully inserted into the device 100. When arranging the ventilation holes outside the device, unheated air from outside the device can enter the smoking element 300 through the ventilation holes, providing additional cooling of the smoking element 300.

The length of the cooling element 306 is such that when the smoking element 300 is fully inserted into the device 100, the cooling element 306 will be partially inserted into the device 100. The length of the cooling element 306 provides the first function of providing a physical gap between the heating device of the device 100 and the heat-sensitive filter element 308, and also the second function of allowing the ventilation holes 316 in the cooling element to be located in such a way that they are outside the device 100, when the smoking element 300 is fully inserted into the device 100. As shown in Fig. 1, the majority of the cooling element 306 is located inside the device 100. However, a part of the cooling element 306 protrudes outward from the device 100. It is in this part of the cooling element 306 protruding from the device 100 that the ventilation holes 316 are located.

Fig. 11 shows a removable shell 400 for the aerosol-generating device 100 shown in Figs. 1-8.

The removable shell 400 has an inner surface 402 designed in such a way that when the removable shell 400 is installed on the aerosol-generating device 100, the inner surface 402 of the removable shell contacts at least a part of the housing 102 of the aerosol-generating device. In the illustrated embodiment, in use, the inner surface 402 contacts at least a part of the front side 110, the back side 112, the first side part 114 and the second side part 116 of the housing element.

The inner surface 402 defines a space 404 in which the aerosol generating device 100 can be located during its use.

The removable shell 400 comprises an opening 406 through which the aerosol-generating device 100 can be inserted into the space 404 or removed from the space 404.

The removable shell 400 has an outer surface 408 designed in such a way that when the removable shell 400 is installed on the aerosol-generating device 100, the user, when interacting with the aerosol-generating device, can touch the outer surface 408 of the removable shell 400.

The removable shell 400 comprises a first opening 410, the location of which corresponds to the location of the user interface 144 and the indicator 146 of the device 100. Thus, when the device 100 is located inside the removable shell 400, the first opening 410 is located around the user interface 144 and the indicator 146, such that the removable shell 400 does not cover the user interface 144 or the indicator 146 of the device 100.

The removable shell 400 comprises a second opening 412, the location of which corresponds to the location of the connector/port for inserting the cable for charging the battery of the device 100. Thus, when the device 100 is located inside the removable shell 400, the second opening 412 is located around the connector/port, so that the power cable can pass through the second opening 412 to the connector/port of the device 100. The location of the second opening 412 usually corresponds to the location of the opening 148 of the housing 102.

The examples given in this description are illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Other embodiments of the present invention are also possible. It should be borne in mind that any distinctive feature described for any embodiment can be used both separately and in combination with one or more distinctive features of any other possible embodiment or any combination of any other possible embodiments. In addition, equivalent solutions and modifications can be used without going beyond the scope of the invention, as defined by the claims below.

Claims (33)

1. An aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming material, comprising: body; and a heating unit located in the housing and used for inserting an aerosol-forming material into it, designed with the possibility of heating the aerosol-forming material inserted into it; at the same time at least part of the body has a soft elastic coating; the housing comprises a housing element, wherein the housing element comprises an outer surface, a connecting surface and an outer edge between the outer surface and the connecting surface, and the portion of the body element having a soft elastic coating is a continuous portion that includes a portion of the outer surface, the connecting surface and the outer edge. 2. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing comprises a base and an upper part, wherein the housing element extends in a first direction from the support part to the upper part. 3. The device according to item 2, characterized in that the base extends along a first plane perpendicular to the first direction. 4. The device according to item 2 or 3, characterized in that the housing element is a single-piece element. 5. A device according to any one of paragraphs 2-4, characterized in that the housing element is a tubular element that forms a cavity extending along the first axis in the first direction, and said tubular element is open at both the first end and the second end. 6. The device according to item 5, characterized in that the base and the upper surface of the housing are designed with the possibility of closing the openings at the first end and at the second end. 7. The device according to item 5 or 6, characterized in that the housing element contains an internal surface facing the first axis of the cavity, and its external surface faces away from the first axis of the cavity. 8. The device according to item 7, characterized in that the part of the housing having a soft elastic coating includes a part of the outer surface of the housing element. 9. The device according to item 7 or 8, characterized in that the connecting surface of the body element connects the inner surface with the outer surface, wherein said connecting surface is connected to the inner surface along the inner edge, and is connected to the outer surface along the outer edge. 10. The device according to item 9, characterized in that the connecting surface is flat and passes along the first plane. 11. The device according to item 9 or 10, characterized in that the outer edge is a rounded edge. 12. A device according to any one of paragraphs 9-11, characterized in that the part of the housing having a soft elastic coating includes a connecting surface. 13. A device according to any one of paragraphs 9-12, characterized in that the part of the housing having a soft elastic coating includes a part of the inner surface. 14. The device according to claim 13, characterized in that the part having a soft elastic coating is a continuous part extending along parts of the outer surface, the outer edge, the connecting surface, the inner edge and the inner surface. 15. The device according to item 13 or 14, characterized in that the part of the inner surface having a soft elastic coating has an extension from the inner edge in the first direction of 0.5 to 3 mm. 16. A device according to any one of paragraphs 1-15, characterized in that the heating unit contains at least one induction heating module. 17. A device according to any one of paragraphs 1-16, characterized in that the housing element additionally contains a groove made on its outer surface and forming a slot. 18. A method for applying a soft elastic coating to a housing element of an aerosol-generating device according to any of paragraphs 1-17, comprising: applying a soft elastic coating primer to a continuous portion of the body member extending over the outer surface, outer edge, connecting surface, inner edge and inner surface portions; and processing of the soil of soft elastic coating to create a soft elastic coating of a continuous part. 19. The method according to claim 18, characterized in that the continuous portion extends along the entire outer edge, the entire connecting surface and the entire inner surface. 20. A method for applying a coating to a housing element of the housing of an aerosol-generating device according to paragraph 17, comprising: applying a coating primer to a continuous portion of the body element extending along the outer surface portions, the first and second side walls of the groove and the base of the groove; and processing of the coating soil to create a continuous part coating. 21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that the coating primer is a soft elastic coating primer for creating a soft elastic coating. 22. An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device according to any one of paragraphs 1-17 and an aerosol-forming element. 23. A kit comprising an aerosol-generating device according to any one of paragraphs 1-15 with a removable casing for the aerosol-generating device.

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