RU2828037C1 - Aerosol-generating device, aerosol-generating system, method for inserting and releasing cartridge from aerosol-generating device, and method for inserting and releasing cartridge from aerosol-generating system - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: smoking accessories.

SUBSTANCE: group of inventions relates to the tobacco industry, in particular to devices simulating the tobacco smoking process. Aerosol-generating device comprises an aerosol-generating element comprising a main part and a reservoir for accommodating a cartridge containing an aerosol-forming substrate. Device comprises a vessel having a liquid filling level and defining an outlet hole of the free space above the liquid filling level. Device includes tube for transfer of air flow from reservoir into vessel and cover made with possibility of engagement with main part. Cover comprises a frame containing a cavity and having a central axis. Cavity is made to accommodate the cartridge. Gripping element is configured to release the cartridge placed in the reservoir. Aerosol-generating system comprises an aerosol-generating device and a cartridge recycling device comprising a recycling vessel with an opening and a cartridge release member designed to be coupled with the cap gripping member to activate the cartridge release. To implement the method of inserting and releasing the cartridge from the aerosol-generating device, the cartridge is inserted into the reservoir of the aerosol-generating element. Cover is placed on the aerosol-generating element so that the cartridge is gripped by the gripping element. Cover is pushed towards the reservoir to release the cover from the aerosol-generating element. Cover is removed from the aerosol-generating element, and the gripping element is brought into contact with the cartridge release element, providing the cartridge release from the gripping element. Disclosed is a method of inserting and releasing a cartridge from an aerosol generating system.

EFFECT: increased safety of using the device by eliminating the possibility of contact with a hot cartridge.

16 cl, 24 dwg

Description

The present invention relates to aerosol generating devices and systems for capturing and releasing cartridges containing an aerosol forming substrate for use in aerosol generating devices. The present invention also relates to systems for removing and disposing of cartridges used in aerosol generating devices. In particular, the present invention relates to capturing and releasing systems that can be used to remove and dispose of cartridges used in hookah devices.

Traditional hookah devices are used to smoke tobacco and are designed so that the vapor and smoke pass through a container of water before being inhaled by the user. Hookah devices may contain a single outlet or more than one outlet so that the device can be used by more than one user at a time. Some view the use of hookah devices as a leisure activity and a social experience.

Traditional hookahs are typically used in combination with a substrate, sometimes referred to in the art as hookah tobacco, tobacco molasses, or simply molasses. Traditional hookah substrates contain relatively high levels of sugar (in some cases up to ~50%, compared to the ~20% typically found in conventional tobacco substrates such as combustible cigarettes). The tobacco used in hookah devices may be mixed with other ingredients, for example to increase the volume of vapor and smoke produced, to alter the flavor, or both.

Traditional hookah devices use charcoal, such as charcoal pellets, to heat and sometimes burn a tobacco substrate to generate an aerosol for the user to inhale. Using charcoal to heat tobacco can cause the tobacco or other ingredients to be completely or partially burned. Additionally, charcoal can generate harmful or potentially harmful products, such as carbon monoxide, which can mix with the hookah vapor and travel through the water reservoir to the outlet.

Document RU 2707893 C2 describes a technical solution related to an electronic cigarette of the personal vaporizer type, also known as an electronic cigarette (e-cig or e-cigarette), comprising an evaporator, an upgraded kit, a personal vaporizer (PV), advanced personal vaporizers (APVs) or an electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS). A portable personal container for storing and transporting atomized liquid for a PV (personal vaporizer) comprises a power source for recharging a battery in the PV; a user-replaceable reservoir for storing the atomized liquid; and an electric or electronic pump adapted to deliver the atomized liquid from the reservoir to the PV chamber, wherein the pump is configured to deliver a predetermined or variable amount of atomized liquid from the reservoir. The technical result of the technical solution is the creation of an e-cigarette of the PV type in the form factor of a regular cigarette, but with better performance and user experience.

One way to reduce the formation of carbon monoxide and combustion byproducts is to use e-liquid instead of tobacco. Hookah devices that use e-liquid eliminate combustion byproducts, but hookah users are deprived of the traditional sensations associated with vaping a tobacco product.

Other hookah devices have been proposed that use electrical heaters to heat, rather than burn, the tobacco. Such electrically heated, combustion-free hookah devices heat the tobacco substrate to a temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol from the substrate without burning the substrate, and therefore reduce or eliminate the byproducts associated with tobacco combustion.

Hookah devices may employ a cartridge to contain an aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge may be filled with such an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain tobacco, preferably a hookah substrate such as molasses - a mixture of tobacco, water, sugar and other components such as glycerin, flavorings, etc. The heating system of an electrically heated hookah device heats the contents of the cartridge to generate an aerosol that is carried along the air flow path to the user.

To facilitate the flow of air through the cartridge and the flow of aerosol from the cartridge, the hookah cartridge may have one or more openings in one or more walls. Prior art cartridges typically have one or more openings in at least one of the walls of the cartridge, such as one or both of the upper and lower walls. At least some of the openings or holes in the upper and lower walls may be covered during storage with a removable (e.g. peelable) sealing layer, such as a film, sticker or cover layer. The removable layer may protect the contents (e.g. molasses) from exposure to air and oxygen. The removable layer may be removed (e.g. pulled off or peeled off) by the user before the first use of the cartridge.

After using the hookah device, the cartridge can be removed and disposed of. However, the cartridge may still contain material, such as the aerosol-forming substrate used. The cartridge may also still be hot if it has not had time to cool. According to embodiments of the present invention, a system for removing and disposing of a cartridge is provided.

It would be desirable to provide a system for removing a used cartridge from an aerosol generating device. It would be desirable to provide a system for disposing of a cartridge used in an aerosol generating device. It would be desirable to provide a system for removing a used cartridge from an aerosol generating device, which can be integrated as a part of the aerosol generating device. It would be desirable to provide a system for removing a used cartridge from an aerosol generating device, which is convenient and easy to use. It would be desirable to provide a system for disposing of a used cartridge, which is convenient and easy to use. It would be desirable to provide a system for removing a used cartridge from an aerosol generating device, which does not require the user to directly operate the cartridge. It would be desirable to provide a system for disposing of a used cartridge, which does not require the user to directly operate the cartridge.

According to embodiments of the present invention, a system is provided that can be used to capture a cartridge in an aerosol-generating device and to release the cartridge. According to one embodiment, the system can be used to remove the cartridge from the aerosol-generating device. According to one embodiment, the system can be used to dispose of the cartridge. For example, the system can be used with hookah devices. The system can be used to capture a hookah cartridge. The system can be used to remove the hookah cartridge from the hookah device. The system can be used to release the hookah cartridge. The system can be used to dispose of the hookah cartridge. The system can be used to dispose of the hookah cartridge into a disposal vessel.

The system for capturing and releasing the cartridge may be called an extractor. The extractor may be part of a cap used with an aerosol generating device. The cap may be built into the hookah device.

The system for capturing and releasing the cartridge may comprise a cover designed to be mounted on the aerosol generating device. The cover comprises a main part with a cavity for accommodating the cartridge and a gripping element. The gripping element is designed to capture and release the cartridge.

The system for gripping and releasing the cartridge can be controlled by inserting the cartridge into the aerosol generating device. The cover can be placed on the device (for example, on the reservoir of the aerosol generating element), and the cover can be pressed so that the gripping element engages with the cartridge. The gripping element can grip the cartridge. The aerosol generating device can be a hookah device, and the cartridge can be a hookah cartridge.

The system according to the present invention can provide various advantages. Some of the advantages are that the system for gripping and releasing the cartridge is convenient, simple and safe to use. The user can remove the cartridge in use without the need for direct control of the cartridge, avoiding direct contact with a hot object. The cartridge can be disposed of without the need for direct control of the cartridge, reducing the likelihood of leaks and other malfunctions.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an extractor is provided for removing a cartridge from an aerosol generating device. The extractor may comprise a cavity configured to accommodate the cartridge. The extractor may comprise a gripping element configured to grip with the possibility of releasing the cartridge accommodated in the cavity. The extractor may be configured to engage with the aerosol generating device. The extractor may be provided as part of a lid. The extractor may comprise one or more piercing elements for piercing the cartridge. The extractor may be provided as part of the aerosol generating device.

According to an embodiment of the present invention, a lid comprising an extractor is provided. The lid may comprise a cavity configured to accommodate a cartridge. The extractor may comprise a gripping element configured to grip with the ability to release a cartridge accommodated in the cavity. The extractor may be placed inside the cavity of the lid. The extractor may be configured to remove the cartridge from the aerosol-generating device. The lid may be configured to engage with the aerosol-generating device. The lid may comprise one or more piercing elements for piercing the cartridge. The lid and the extractor may be provided as part of the aerosol-generating device.

According to one embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol generating device may comprise an aerosol generating element with a main part and a reservoir for accommodating a hookah cartridge containing an aerosol generating substrate. The aerosol generating device may comprise a vessel having a liquid filling level and defining an outlet opening of the free space above the liquid filling level; and a tube for transferring an air flow from the reservoir to the vessel. The aerosol generating device may comprise an extractor. The extractor may form part of a lid. The lid may be designed to engage with the main part of the aerosol generating element. The lid may comprise a frame with a cavity and a central axis, wherein the cavity is designed to accommodate a cartridge. The lid may comprise a gripping element. The gripping element may be designed to grip with the possibility of releasing a cartridge placed in the reservoir.

According to another embodiment of the present invention, the aerosol generating device comprises an aerosol generating element with a main part and a reservoir for accommodating a cartridge containing an aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol generating device comprises a vessel having a liquid filling level and defining an outlet opening of the free space above the liquid filling level; and a tube for transferring an air flow from the reservoir to the vessel. The aerosol generating device comprises an extractor. The extractor forms part of the lid. The lid is designed to engage with the main part of the aerosol generating element. The lid comprises a frame with a cavity and a central axis, wherein the cavity is designed to accommodate the cartridge. The lid comprises a gripping element designed to grip with the possibility of releasing the cartridge placed in the reservoir. The gripping element may comprise one or more spring-loaded fingers. The gripping element may comprise a ring-shaped element and one or more spring-loaded fingers extending from the ring-shaped element. According to one embodiment, the aerosol generating system may comprise an aerosol generating device and a cartridge disposal device comprising a disposal vessel with an opening; and a cartridge release element. The cartridge release element may be designed to mate with a cap grip element to activate the release of the cartridge.

One or more spring fingers may extend axially toward the closed end of the cavity. One or more spring fingers extend radially inward from the ring-shaped member toward the central axis.

The cover may comprise an outer casing. The cover may comprise an inner casing located inside the outer casing, wherein the inner casing forms a cavity. The gripping element may be at least partially located inside the cavity of the inner casing. The inner casing may be configured to move in the axial direction inside the outer casing. The cover may additionally comprise a spring element. The spring element may bias the inner casing in the axial direction from the outer casing. One of the inner casing and the outer casing may comprise one or more guide tracks, and the other of the inner casing and the outer casing may comprise one or more pins for tracks configured to interact with one or more guide tracks.

The lid has a working position. The working position may be a position in which the lid is designed in such a way that the gripping element grips the cartridge placed in the reservoir. The lid has a lid release position. The release position may be a position in which the cartridge can be released from the gripping element. The lid may have an intermediate position. In some embodiments, the lid is designed in such a way that in the intermediate position the cartridge remains gripped by the gripping element, even after the lid has disengaged from the main part.

The aerosol generating system may comprise an aerosol generating device and a cartridge disposal device comprising a disposal vessel with an opening. The system may comprise a cartridge release element designed to mate with a lid grip element to activate the cartridge release. The cartridge release element may comprise a pressing ring in the region of the opening of the disposal vessel, wherein the pressing ring is designed to bend one or more spring-loaded fingers. The pressing ring may have a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the grip element ring, but larger than the diameter of the cartridge. The cartridge release element may comprise a rim of the disposal vessel.

A method of using an aerosol generating device may include inserting a cartridge into a reservoir of an aerosol generating element and placing a cap in the aerosol generating element, so that the cartridge is captured by a gripping element. The cap can be pushed toward the reservoir to release the cap from the aerosol generating element. The cap and the cartridge can be removed from the aerosol generating element. The gripping element can contact a cartridge release element, ensuring that the cartridge is released from the gripping element.

The cartridge release element may comprise a rim of the disposal vessel. The rim may have a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the ring-shaped element of the gripping element, but larger than the diameter of the cartridge. Providing contact of the gripping element with the cartridge release element may include engaging the rim of the cartridge disposal device between the cartridge and the ring-shaped element of the gripping element to bend one or more spring-loaded fingers, releasing the cartridge from the gripping element.

One or more spring-loaded fingers may be biased, and the lid may comprise a release mechanism configured to prevent the bias, thereby releasing the cartridge. A method of using an aerosol generating device may include providing a gripping element to the cartridge, wherein one or more spring-loaded fingers are biased toward the cartridge; and activating the release mechanism to prevent the bias, thereby releasing the cartridge.

The term "aerosol" is used herein to refer to a suspension of solid particles or liquid droplets, or a combination of solid particles and liquid droplets in a gas. The gas may be air. The solid particles or liquid droplets may contain one or more volatile flavor compounds. The aerosol may be visible or invisible. The aerosol may contain vapors of substances that are typically liquid or solid at room temperature. The aerosol may contain vapors of substances that are typically liquid or solid at room temperature, in combination with solid particles, or in combination with liquid droplets, or in combination with both solid particles and liquid droplets. In some embodiments, the aerosol contains nicotine.

The term "aerosol-forming substrate" is used herein to refer to a material capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may be heated to vaporize one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol. As an alternative to heating or combustion, in some cases, the volatile compounds may be released by a chemical reaction or by mechanical action, such as ultrasonic action. The aerosol-forming substrate may be located within a cartridge. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid or a liquid, or may contain both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may be applied to a substrate or support by adsorption, coating, impregnation, or otherwise. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a material of plant origin. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material comprising volatile tobacco flavouring compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may alternatively comprise a material that does not contain tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a homogenised material of plant origin. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a homogenised tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise at least one substance for forming the aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise other additives and ingredients, such as flavouring agents.

The terms "inseparable" and "integral" are used in this document to describe elements that are integrally formed (as a single, non-detachable piece). Integral or integrally formed components may be designed in such a way that they cannot be separated from each other without causing structural damage to the piece.

In the context of this document, singular forms also include embodiments with reference to the plural, unless the content clearly indicates otherwise.

In the context of this document, the conjunction "or" is generally used in its meaning, which includes "one or the other or both", unless the content clearly indicates otherwise.

The term "approximately" is used in this document in conjunction with numerical values to include normal variations in measurements expected by those skilled in the art and is intended to have the same meaning as "about". The term "approximately" is understood to cover a typical error. A typical error may be, for example, ±5% of the stated value.

In the context of this document, the words "have", "having", "include", "including", "contain", "containing" or the like are used in their broad sense and generally mean "including, but not limited to". It will be understood that the expressions "consisting essentially of", "consisting of", etc., are included in the category of "comprising", etc.

The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the present invention that may provide certain advantages under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the description of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not applicable, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present invention, including the claims.

In the context of this document, the term "substantially" may be understood as modifying the term that follows it by at least approximately 90%, at least approximately 95%, or at least approximately 98%. In the context of this document, the term "not substantially" may be understood as having the opposite meaning of the term "substantially", that is, as modifying the term that follows it by no more than 10%, no more than 5%, or no more than 2%.

Any direction mentioned in this document, such as "up", "down", "left", "right", "upper", "lower", and other directions or orientations are described in this description for clarity and conciseness, but are not intended to limit the actual device or system. The devices and systems described in this document can be used in different directions and orientations.

The aerosol generating device may comprise an aerosol generating element with a main part and a reservoir for accommodating a cartridge containing an aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol generating device may comprise a vessel having a liquid filling level and defining an outlet opening of the free space above the liquid filling level; and a tube for transferring an air flow from the reservoir to the vessel. The aerosol generating device may comprise a lid configured to engage with the main part. The lid may comprise a frame with a cavity and a central axis. The cavity may be configured to accommodate a cartridge. The lid may comprise a gripping element configured to grip with the possibility of releasing a cartridge placed in the reservoir. The gripping element may comprise one or more spring-loaded fingers. The gripping element may comprise a ring-shaped element and one or more spring-loaded fingers extending from the ring-shaped element. The gripping element may be engaged with a release mechanism for releasing the cartridge.

The aerosol generating device may be a hookah device. The hookah device may comprise an aerosol generating element with a main part and a reservoir for accommodating a cartridge containing an aerosol forming substrate. The hookah device may comprise a vessel having a liquid filling level and defining an outlet opening of free space above the liquid filling level; and a tube for transferring an air flow from the reservoir to the vessel. The hookah device may comprise a cover configured to engage with the main part. The cover may comprise a frame with a cavity and a central axis. The cavity may be configured to accommodate a hookah cartridge. The cover may comprise a gripping element configured to grip with the possibility of releasing the cartridge placed in the reservoir. The gripping element may comprise one or more spring-loaded fingers. The gripping element may comprise a ring-shaped element and one or more spring-loaded fingers extending from the ring-shaped element. The gripping element may be engaged with a release mechanism for releasing the hookah cartridge.

The lid may comprise a frame comprising a cavity and having a central axis. The cavity may be configured to accommodate a cartridge. The lid may optionally comprise a piercing unit arranged within the cavity and configured to pierce the wall of the cartridge. The lid may comprise an extractor. The extractor may comprise a gripping element configured to grip with the ability to release a cartridge accommodated in the reservoir. The lid may be advantageously used to grip the cartridge and to remove the cartridge from the reservoir. This allows the user to remove the cartridge without having to directly come into contact with the cartridge in use. The lid with the gripping element may be used with a disposal vessel. This allows the user to dispose of the cartridge without having to directly come into contact with the cartridge in use. The devices and systems according to the present invention may help prevent direct contact with a hot cartridge. The devices and systems according to the present invention may also help prevent leaks and malfunctions in an open cartridge.

The cover may comprise an outer frame. The outer frame may have any suitable shape. In some embodiments, the outer frame is formed by a cylindrical outer wall extending between the first end wall and the open second end. The first end wall may be an upper wall. The outer frame may be open at the bottom. The outer frame may define a cavity for accommodating a gripping element. The cover and the gripping element may define a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis may be a central axis. The longitudinal axis may be coaxial with the hollow tube of the shaft.

According to one embodiment, the lid comprises a gripping element configured to grip the cartridge. The gripping element may comprise a ring-shaped element and one or more gripping fingers extending from the ring-shaped element. The one or more gripping fingers may be configured to rest against the cartridge flange. For example, the one or more gripping fingers may be configured to rest against the cartridge flange when the cartridge is placed in the reservoir and the lid is positioned above the cartridge.

One or more gripping fingers may comprise spring-loaded fingers. One or more gripping fingers extend from the ring-shaped element to the upper ends of the gripping fingers. The number of gripping fingers may be 1 or more, 2 or more, 3 or more, or 4 or more. The number of gripping fingers may be 12 or less, 10 or less, 8 or less, 6 or less, or 4 or less. In one embodiment, the gripping element has 2 to 5 gripping fingers. In one embodiment, the gripping element has 3 gripping fingers. In some embodiments, where the gripping element comprises several gripping fingers, the gripping fingers may be located at an equal distance from each other around the ring-shaped element.

According to one embodiment, the lid comprises an outer casing defining a cavity. The outer casing may comprise a cylindrical outer wall extending between the first end wall and the open second end. The outer casing may define a cavity for receiving the inner casing.

According to one embodiment, the cover comprises an inner casing. The inner casing may be designed to be at least partially located inside the cavity of the outer casing. The inner casing may have an outer wall comprising a first part and a second part. The first and second parts may be cylindrical elements with different diameters. The first part may be a cylindrical wall with a first diameter, and the second part may be a cylindrical wall with a second diameter. The second diameter may be larger than the first diameter. The second part may be coaxial with the first part and located below it, thus forming a shoulder at the transition between the first and second parts. The shoulder may support a compression spring. The compression spring may be located around the first part. The compression spring may extend from the shoulder to the first end wall of the outer casing.

The outer wall of the inner casing may extend between the first end wall and the open second end. The inner casing may define a cavity for accommodating the cartridge and for containing the gripping element.

The gripping element may be located inside the cavity of the lid. In some embodiments, the gripping element is located inside the inner casing. The gripping element may be oriented so that one or more gripping fingers face upward from the ring-shaped element. The one or more gripping fingers may be inclined radially inward to the longitudinal (central) axis. When the cartridge is placed in the inner casing, the ring-shaped element may surround the main part of the cartridge. The one or more gripping fingers may be designed so that the ends of the gripping fingers rest against the upper flange of the cartridge. The one or more gripping fingers may have a length that is less than the height of the cartridge. The inner diameter of the ring-shaped element may be larger than the largest diameter of the cartridge. When the lid is removed from the aerosol generating device, the cartridge is removed (e.g. lifted) with the lid, as a result of which the gripping fingers rest against the flange, and thus the cartridge is prevented from falling out of the cavity.

The cover may optionally comprise a piercing unit (for example, an upper piercing unit). The cover may comprise an outer casing and a piercing element on the inner wall of the outer casing. The piercing element may extend axially downwards inside the cavity of the outer casing. The piercing element may be oriented toward a cartridge placed inside the reservoir of the hookah device. The piercing element may be made as a single unit with the outer casing or may be attached to the inner part of the first end wall of the outer casing.

The inner casing may have an opening on its first end wall. The opening may be configured to accommodate a piercing element. The opening may further comprise one or more recesses or channels that facilitate the passage of an air flow through the first end wall of the inner casing when the piercing element is positioned in the opening.

The cover may comprise an outer frame. The outer frame may comprise a projection extending into the cavity of the outer frame from the inside of the first end wall. The projection may be designed to press on the outer casing. The projection may serve to leave a gap between the outer frame of the cover and the outer casing.

The upper piercing element may have any suitable shape for piercing the wall of the cartridge. For example, the upper piercing element may comprise one or more piercing edges or piercing points. The piercing edges or piercing points are configured to pierce the wall (for example, the upper wall) of the cartridge. The number of piercing points or edges is not particularly limited. The piercing element may have only one piercing point or edge. The piercing element may have several piercing points or edges. For example, the piercing element may have 2 or more, 3 or more, 4 or more, 5 or more, 6 or more, or 8 or more piercing points or edges. The piercing element may have 20 or less, 15 or less, 12 or less, 10 or less, or 8 or less piercing points or edges. In one embodiment, the piercing element has the shape of an inverted crown with several piercing points extending downwards. The inverted crown may have from 4 to 10 or from 6 to 8 piercing points or edges.

The outer and inner casings may comprise a track and pin system for guiding the movement of the outer and inner casings relative to each other. The outer casing may be configured to move in a vertical, horizontal, or both vertical and horizontal directions. The inner casing may be configured to move in a vertical, horizontal, or both vertical and horizontal directions. In one embodiment, the inner casing forms a track, and the outer casing comprises one or more pins. Alternatively, the track may be formed in the outer casing, and the one or more pins may be on the inner casing. In one embodiment, the outer casing comprises one or more pins extending radially inward from its cylindrical outer wall. The inner casing may comprise one or more tracks corresponding to one or more pins. One or more tracks may be located on the second (lower) portion of the inner casing. One or more tracks may define several positions of the outer casing. For example, one or more tracks can define a first position, which is a rest position, a second position, which is a piercing position, and a third position, which is a use position. When the outer casing is in the second position, the compression spring biases the outer casing upward. One or more tracks can also define a fourth position, which is a lid release position. The release position can be used to release the lid from the aerosol generating device. When the outer casing is in the fourth position, the compression spring biases the outer casing upward. When the compression spring biases the outer casing upward, it also biases the outer frame of the lid upward.

The outer casing can be pressed (for example, by pressing the outer frame of the lid by the user) from the first position to the second position. When entering the second position, the piercing element engages the cartridge and pierces it. When the outer casing is released from the pressure, the compression spring returns the outer casing upward to the third position. In the third position, the air flow path is open through the openings formed in the cartridge. The air flow path can be open between the external aerosol-generating device (for example, a hookah device) and the vessel. The user can use the aerosol-generating device by drawing through the mouthpiece. To release and remove the lid, the user can press the outer casing again (for example, by pressing the outer frame of the lid), causing the outer casing to move to the fourth position. From the fourth position, the compression spring returns the outer casing to the initial first position (the rest position). In this position, the upper part of the lid may extend over the upper edge of the aerosol generating element and may be gripped by the user. While the outer frame of the lid and the outer casing move between different positions, the cartridge may remain gripped by the gripping element in at least some positions. The cartridge remains gripped by the gripping element at least in the lid release position, in which the lid may be released from the aerosol generating device.

The lower part of the outer frame of the lid may be attached to a support plate. The support plate may be configured to retain various parts (for example, a gripping element, an outer casing and an inner casing) within a cavity of the outer frame. The support plate may be a substantially circular plate with a central opening passing through the plate. The opening may have a size allowing a cartridge to be placed therein. The opening may also have a size allowing a reservoir to be accommodated in which the cartridge may be placed. The opening may have an inclined inner edge tapering inward on its upper side. The inclined inner edge may facilitate engagement of the lid with the aerosol generating element and placement of the cartridge in the lid. The support plate may be attached in any suitable manner, for example by means of an adhesive or a fastening element such as screws, clamps, a threaded connection, a snap connection or a friction fit.

The various parts of the cover and the gripping element may be made of any suitable material. Suitable materials include plastic, metal, ceramic, glass, and combinations thereof. The different parts of the system may be made of different materials. For example, some parts, such as the outer casing and the inner casing, may be made of plastic, while other parts, such as the spring, may be made of metal. Other combinations are also possible. The gripping element is preferably made of a material that is bendable. For example, the gripping element may be made of metal, plastic, or a combination thereof.

The hookah device may also optionally comprise a piercing unit (e.g., a lower piercing unit). The lower piercing unit may be located at the upper end of the shaft under the cartridge. The lower piercing unit may extend from the base of the reservoir into the reservoir in a direction from the base of the reservoir (e.g., upward). When the cap is pressed, the cartridge may also be pressed against the lower piercing unit. The cap may be pierced by both piercing units. The piercing units may pierce the upper and lower walls of the cartridge.

The cartridge may be released from the gripping element using a release mechanism. The release mechanism may be part of the disposal system. The disposal system may comprise a cartridge release element. The cartridge release element may be configured to bend the gripping fingers radially outward. The cartridge release element may be configured to push the gripping fingers outward to release the cartridge. In some embodiments, the cartridge disposal device comprises a disposal vessel with an opening. The cartridge release element may be located in the region of the opening. The cartridge release element may be a clamping ring. In some embodiments, the cartridge release element comprises a rim or a neck of the disposal vessel.

The cartridge release element (for example, the pressing ring or rim) may have a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the ring-shaped element of the gripping element. The cartridge release element (for example, the pressing ring or rim) may have a diameter that is larger than the largest diameter of the cartridge. Providing contact of the gripping element with the cartridge release element may include inserting the rim of the cartridge disposal device between the cartridge and the ring-shaped element of the gripping element to bend one or more fingers for gripping, releasing the cartridge from the gripping element.

In some embodiments, the release mechanism is part of the lid. The release mechanism can be activated to release the cartridge from the gripping member.

The cartridge may comprise any suitable housing that forms a cavity. The aerosol-forming substrate may be contained in the cavity of the cartridge. The main part is preferably formed from one or more heat-resistant materials, such as a heat-resistant metal or polymer. The main part may comprise a heat-conducting material. For example, the main part may comprise any of aluminum, copper, zinc, nickel, silver, any alloys thereof, and combinations thereof. Preferably, the main part comprises aluminum.

The cartridge may have any suitable shape. For example, the cartridge may have a shape that is capable of being placed in a hookah device. The cartridge may have a substantially cubic shape, a cylindrical shape, a truncated-conical shape, or any other suitable shape. Preferably, the cartridge has a generally cylindrical shape or a truncated-conical shape.

An aerosol generating device (e.g. a hookah device) is configured to heat an aerosol forming substrate in a cartridge. The device may preferably be configured to heat the aerosol forming substrate in the cartridge by conduction. The cartridge is preferably made in such a shape and such dimensions that provide contact with the heating element of the hookah device or minimize the distance from it to ensure efficient heat transfer from the heating element to the aerosol forming substrate in the cartridge. Heat may be generated by any suitable mechanism, such as resistive heating or induction. To facilitate induction heating, the cartridge may be provided with a current collector. For example, the main part of the cartridge may be made of or contain a material (e.g. aluminum) that is capable of acting as a current collector, or the current collector material may be provided in the cartridge cavity. The current collector material may be provided in the cartridge cavity in any form, such as powder, a solid block, pieces, etc.

Any suitable aerosol-forming substrate may be provided in the cavity defined by the main part of the cartridge. The aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds. The aerosol-forming substrate is preferably a substrate capable of releasing compounds that can form an aerosol. The volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. The volatile compounds may be released by a chemical reaction or by mechanical action, such as ultrasonic action. The aerosol-forming substrate may be solid or liquid, or may contain both solid and liquid components. The aerosol-forming substrate may be applied to a substrate or support by adsorption, coating, impregnation, or otherwise.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain nicotine. The nicotine-containing aerosol-forming substrate may contain a nicotine salt matrix. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain a material of plant origin. The aerosol-forming substrate preferably contains tobacco. The tobacco-containing material preferably contains volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized tobacco material. The homogenized tobacco material may be formed by agglomerating tobacco particles. The aerosol-forming substrate may alternatively or additionally contain a material that does not contain tobacco. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain homogenized plant material. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain at least one substance for forming an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain other additives and ingredients, such as flavorings. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate is a hookah substrate. A hookah substrate is a consumable suitable for use in a hookah device. The hookah substrate may contain molasses.

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, for example, one or more of: powder, granules, pellets, pieces, fine threads, strips or sheets. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more of the following: grass leaf, tobacco leaf, tobacco rib fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco and expanded tobacco.

The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise at least one aerosol-forming agent. Suitable aerosol-forming agents include compounds or mixtures of compounds that facilitate the formation of a dense and stable aerosol upon use and that are substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the operating temperature of the hookah device. Suitable aerosol-forming agents are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyhydric alcohols such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol; esters of polyhydric alcohols such as glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate; and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Particularly preferred aerosol-forming agents are polyhydric alcohols or mixtures thereof such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and most preferably glycerol. The aerosol-forming substrate may contain any suitable amount of aerosol-forming substance. For example, the content of aerosol-forming substance in the substrate may be equal to or greater than 5% by dry weight, and preferably greater than 30% by weight by dry weight. The content of aerosol-forming substance may be less than about 95% by dry weight. Preferably, the content of aerosol-forming substance is up to about 55%.

The aerosol-forming substrate preferably comprises nicotine and at least one aerosol-forming substance. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substance is glycerol or a mixture of glycerol and one or more other suitable aerosol-forming substances, such as those listed above.

The aerosol-forming substrate may contain other additives and ingredients such as flavors, sweeteners, etc. In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate contains one or more sugars in any suitable amount. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate contains invert sugar. Invert sugar is a mixture of glucose and fructose obtained by separating sucrose. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate contains from about 1% to about 40% by weight of a sugar, such as invert sugar. In some example, one or more sugars may be mixed with a suitable carrier such as corn starch or maltodextrin.

In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate contains one or more sensory enhancing agents. Suitable sensory enhancing agents include flavors and sensory affecting agents such as cooling agents. Suitable flavors include natural or synthetic menthol, peppermint, spearmint, coffee, tea, spices (such as cinnamon, cloves, ginger, or combinations thereof), cocoa, vanilla, fruit flavors, chocolate, eucalyptus, geranium, eugenol, agave, juniper, anethole, linalool, and any combination thereof.

In some examples, the aerosol-forming substrate is in the form of a suspension. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise molasses. As used herein, "molasses" means a composition of the aerosol-forming substrate that comprises about 20% or more sugar. For example, molasses may comprise at least about 25% by weight sugar, such as at least about 35% by weight sugar. Typically, molasses will comprise less than about 60% by weight sugar, such as less than about 50% by weight sugar.

Any suitable amount of aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., molasses or tobacco substrate) can be placed in the cavity. In some preferred embodiments, from about 3 g to about 25 g of aerosol-forming substrate is placed in the cavity. The cartridge can contain at least 6 g, at least 7 g, at least 8 g, or at least 9 g of aerosol-forming substrate. The cartridge can contain up to 15 g, up to 12 g, up to 11 g, or up to 10 g of aerosol-forming substrate. Preferably, from about 7 g to about 13 g of aerosol-forming substrate is placed in the cavity.

The aerosol-forming substrate may be provided on or embedded in a thermally stable carrier. The term "thermostable" is used herein to denote a material that does not substantially decompose at temperatures to which the substrate is typically heated (e.g., from about 150 °C to about 300 °C). The carrier may comprise a thin layer on which the substrate is applied to a first major surface, a second major outer surface, or both the first and second major surfaces. The carrier may be formed, for example, from paper or a paper-like material, a non-woven mat of carbon fibers, a lightweight open-cell metal mesh, or a perforated metal foil, or any other thermally stable polymer matrix. Alternatively, the carrier may be in the form of powder, granules, beads, grains, thin tubes, strips, or sheets. The carrier may be a non-woven web or a bundle of fibers in which tobacco components are incorporated. The nonwoven web or fibre bundle may contain, for example, carbon fibres, natural cellulose fibres or fibres from cellulose derivatives.

The main part of the cartridge may comprise one or more walls. In some embodiments, the main part comprises an upper wall, a lower wall, and a side wall. The side wall may be cylindrical or truncated-conical, extending from the lower part to the upper part. The main part may comprise one or more parts. For example, the side wall and the lower wall may be made as a single whole by a single part. The side wall and the lower wall may be two parts made with the possibility of engaging with each other in any suitable way. For example, the side wall and the lower wall may be made with the possibility of engaging with each other by a threaded engagement or an interference fit. The side wall and the lower wall may consist of two parts connected together. For example, the side wall and the lower wall may be connected together by welding or adhesive. The upper wall and the side wall may be made as a single whole by a single part. The side wall and the top wall may be two parts configured to engage with each other in any suitable manner. For example, the side wall and the top wall may be configured to engage with each other by threaded engagement or an interference fit. The side wall and the top wall may consist of two parts connected together. For example, the side wall and the top wall may be connected together by welding or adhesive. The top wall, the side wall and the bottom wall may be made as a single whole by a single part. The top wall, the side wall and the bottom wall may be three separate parts configured to engage with each other in any suitable manner. For example, the top wall, the side wall and the bottom wall may be configured to engage by threaded engagement, an interference fit, welding or adhesive.

One or more walls of the main part may form a heated wall or surface. In the context of this document, the terms "heated wall" and "heated surface" mean an area of the wall or surface to which heat can be transferred directly or indirectly. The heated wall or surface may function as a heat transfer surface along which heat can be transferred from the outside of the main part into the cavity or to the inner surface of the cavity.

Preferably, the main part of the cartridge has a length (e.g., an axial length along the vertical central axis) of about 15 cm or less. In some embodiments, the main part has a length of about 10 cm or less. The main part may have an inner diameter of about 1 cm or more. The inner diameter of the main part may be about 1.75 cm or more. The cartridge may have a heated surface area in the cavity of about 25 cm ² to about 100 cm ² , such as about 70 cm ² to about 100 cm ² . The volume of the cavity may be from about 10 cm ³ to about 50 cm ³ ; preferably from about 25 cm ³ to about 40 cm ³ . In some embodiments, the main part has a length in the range from about 3.5 cm to about 7 cm. The inner diameter of the main part may be from about 1.5 cm to about 4 cm. The main part may have a heated surface area in the cavity from about 30 cm ² to about 100 cm ² , such as from about 70 cm ² to about 100 cm ² . The volume of the cavity may be from about 10 cm ³ to about 50 cm ³ ; preferably from about 25 cm ³ to about 40 cm ³ . Preferably, the main part has a cylindrical or truncated-conical shape.

The main part of the cartridge may comprise one or more openings or ventilation openings passing through one or more walls of the main part. The ventilation openings may be inlet openings, outlet openings, or both. The ventilation openings may be located on the bottom wall, on the top wall, on the sides, or in a combination thereof of the cartridge. In some embodiments, the cartridge does not comprise pre-formed openings or ventilation openings. In some embodiments, the cartridge comprises pre-formed openings or ventilation openings in only one wall. For example, the cartridge may comprise openings or ventilation openings only in the bottom wall. In some embodiments, one or more inlet openings or one or more outlet openings are formed in the walls of the cartridge by piercing assemblies to ensure air passage through the aerosol-forming substrate when the cartridge is used with a hookah device. In some embodiments, one or more inlet openings and outlet openings are formed in the walls of the cartridge by the piercing unit to provide air passage through the aerosol-forming substrate when the cartridge is used with a hookah device. In some embodiments, the bottom wall of the cartridge may define one or more openings to form one or more outlet openings of the cartridge. Preferably, the one or more inlet openings and outlet openings are of such sizes and shapes that provide a suitable resistance to draw (RTD) through the cartridge. In some examples, the RTD through the cartridge from the inlet opening or openings to the outlet opening or openings may be from about 10 mm _H2O to about 50 mm _H2O , preferably from about 20 mm _H2O to about 40 mm _H2O . The RTD of a sample refers to the static pressure difference between the two ends of the sample during air flow through it under steady-state conditions, in which the volumetric flow is 17.5 milliliters per second at the outlet end. The RTD of a sample can be measured using the method described in ISO 6565:2002.

One or more openings formed on the main part may cover 5% or more, 10% or more, 15% or more, 20% or more, or 25% or more of the area of the wall on which the openings are. For example, if the openings are on the top wall, the openings may cover at least 5% of the area of the top wall. One or more openings on the main part may cover 75% or less, 50% or less, 40% or less, or 30% or less of the area of the wall on which the openings are.

The cartridge may further comprise a seal or layer that closes one or more pre-formed openings prior to use. The cartridge may comprise a first removable seal that closes one or more inlet openings and a second removable seal that closes one or more outlet openings. The first and second seals are preferably sufficient to prevent air flow through the inlet openings and outlet openings to prevent leakage of the cartridge contents and to extend shelf life. The seal may comprise a peelable sticker label, foil or the like. The seal may comprise a pierceable sticker label, foil or the like. The label, sticker or foil may be attached to the cartridge in any suitable manner, such as by adhesive, corrugation, welding or otherwise attaching to the container. The seal may comprise a tab that can be grasped to peel off or remove the label, sticker or foil from the cartridge.

In some embodiments, the cartridge is a hookah cartridge that can be used with any suitable hookah device. Preferably, the hookah device is configured to sufficiently heat the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge to form an aerosol from the aerosol-forming substrate, but without burning the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the hookah device can be configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature in the range of about 150 ºC to about 300 ºC; more preferably from about 180 ºC to about 250 ºC or from about 200 ºC to about 230 ºC.

The hookah device may comprise a reservoir for containing a cartridge. The hookah device may comprise a heating element configured to contact or be in close proximity to the main part of the cartridge when the cartridge is placed in the reservoir. The heating element may form at least a portion of the reservoir. For example, the heating element may form at least a portion of the surface of the reservoir. The hookah cartridge may be configured to transfer heat from the heating element to the aerosol-forming substrate in the cavity due to conductivity. In some embodiments, the heating element comprises an electric heating element. In some embodiments, the heating element comprises a resistive heating component. For example, the heating element may comprise one or more resistive wires or other resistive elements. The resistive wires may be in contact with a heat-conducting material to distribute the generated heat over a larger area. Examples of suitable conductive materials include aluminum, copper, zinc, nickel, silver, and combinations thereof. The heating element may form at least a portion of the surface of the reservoir.

The hookah device may comprise control electronics operatively connected to the heating element. The control electronics may be configured to control heating of the heating element. The control electronics may be configured to control the temperature to which the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge is heated. The control electronics may be provided in any suitable form and may, for example, comprise a controller or a memory device and a controller. The controller may comprise one or more of the following: a state machine based on an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor, a gate array, a microprocessor or an equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuit. The control electronics may comprise a memory device that stores instructions causing one or more components of the circuit to perform a function or aspect of the control electronics. The functions inherent in the control electronics in the present invention may be implemented as one or more of software, firmware and hardware.

The electronic circuit may contain a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The electronic circuit may be configured to regulate the supply of power. Power may be supplied to the element in the form of a heater in the form of pulses of electric current.

In some examples, the control electronics may be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element and to control the supply of power to the heating element depending on the electrical resistance of the heating element. In this way, the control electronics may regulate the temperature of the resistive element.

The hookah device may comprise a temperature sensor, such as a thermocouple. The temperature sensor may be operatively coupled to the control electronics for controlling the temperature of the heating element. The temperature sensor may be located in any suitable location. For example, the temperature sensor may be configured to be inserted into a cartridge when placed inside a reservoir for monitoring the temperature of a heated substrate that forms an aerosol. In addition or alternatively, the temperature sensor may be in contact with the heating element. In addition or alternatively, the temperature sensor may be positioned to detect the temperature at the outlet for the aerosol of the hookah device or a part thereof. The sensor may transmit signals regarding the measured temperature to the control electronics. The control electronics, in response to the signal, may regulate the heating of the heating elements to achieve a suitable temperature at the sensor.

The control electronics may be operatively connected to a power supply unit. The hookah device may comprise any suitable power supply unit. For example, the power supply unit of the hookah device may be a battery or a set of batteries. The batteries of the power supply unit may be rechargeable, removable and replaceable, or rechargeable, removable and replaceable. Any suitable battery may be used. For example, high-power batteries or standard batteries available on the market, such as those used for high-power industrial power tools. Alternatively, the power supply unit may be an electric power supply unit of any type, including a super- or hypercapacitor. Alternatively, the unit may be connected to an external power source and electrically and electronically designed for such a purpose. Regardless of the type of power supply unit used, the power supply unit preferably provides sufficient energy for normal operation of the unit during at least one hookah smoking session until the aerosol is consumed from the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge, before recharging or the need to connect to an external power source. Preferably, the power supply provides sufficient power to operate the node normally for at least approximately 70 minutes of continuous operation of the device before recharging or requiring connection to an external power source.

In one example, the hookah device comprises an aerosol generating element that comprises a cartridge reservoir, a heating element, an aerosol outlet, and an air inlet. The cartridge reservoir is configured to accommodate a cartridge according to the present invention that contains an aerosol-forming substrate. The heating element may form at least a portion of the surface of the reservoir.

The hookah device includes an air inlet in fluid communication with a reservoir. In use, when the substrate inside the cartridge is heated, the aerosol forming agent components in the substrate evaporate. Air entering from the air inlet through the cartridge is captured by the aerosol generated from the aerosol forming agent components in the cartridge.

Some electrically heated hookah devices use preheated air and typically use an air flow path that keeps the air close to the heat source when you draw. Additionally, some electrically heated hookah devices use elements that increase the transfer of heat by radiation by increasing the heated surface area.

The air inlet channel may comprise one or more openings passing through the cartridge reservoir, so that air from outside the hookah device may flow through the channel and into the cartridge reservoir through one or more openings. If the channel comprises more than one opening, the channel may comprise a manifold for directing air flowing through the channel into each opening. Preferably, the hookah device comprises two or more air inlets.

As described above, the cartridge comprises one or more openings (such as inlet openings or outlet openings) formed in the main part, allowing air flow through the cartridge. If the reservoir comprises one or more inlet openings, at least some of the inlet openings in the cartridge may align with openings in the upper part of the reservoir. The cartridge may comprise an alignment element configured to mate with a complementary alignment element of the reservoir to align the inlet openings of the cartridge with the openings of the reservoir when the cartridge is inserted into the reservoir.

Air entering the cartridge may flow through, or through, or both through and through the aerosol-forming substrate, capturing the aerosol, and exiting the cartridge and reservoir through the aerosol outlet. From the aerosol outlet, the aerosol-carrying air enters the vessel of the hookah device through the shaft.

The hookah device may comprise any suitable vessel that forms an internal volume capable of containing liquid and that forms an outlet in the free space above the liquid filling level. The vessel may comprise an optically transparent or opaque body so that the consumer can see the contents contained in the vessel. The vessel may comprise a liquid filling restriction element, such as a liquid filling line. The vessel body may be formed from any suitable material. For example, the vessel body may comprise glass or a suitable rigid plastic material. Preferably, the vessel is designed to be separated from the portion of the hookah assembly that contains the aerosol generating element, allowing the consumer to fill, empty or clean the vessel.

The consumer may fill the container to the fill level with liquid. The liquid preferably comprises water, to which one or more colorants, flavors, or colorants and flavors may optionally be added. For example, one or both of the plant or herbal additives may be added to the water.

The aerosol captured in the air exiting the aerosol outlet of the reservoir may pass through a tube located in the container. The tube may be connected to the aerosol outlet of the aerosol generating element and may have an opening below the liquid fill level of the container, so that the aerosol flowing through the container flows through the opening of the tube, then through the liquid, into the headspace of the container and exits through the headspace outlet for delivery to the consumer.

The outlet of the free space may be connected to a hose containing a mouthpiece for delivering the aerosol to the consumer. The mouthpiece may contain an activation element, such as a switch activated by the user, a puff detector configured to detect the user puffing on the mouthpiece, or both: a switch activated by the user and a puff detector. The activation element is operatively connected to the control electronics of the hookah device. The activation element may be connected via wireless communication with the control electronics. Activation of the activation element may ensure activation of the heating element by the control electronics instead of a constant supply of energy to the heating element. Accordingly, the use of the activation element may contribute to energy savings compared to devices in which such elements are not used to provide heating on demand instead of constant heating.

As an example, one method of using the hookah device described in this document is presented below in chronological order. The vessel may be detached from other components of the hookah device and filled with water. One or more of natural fruit juices, herbal additives and herbal additives may be added to the water for flavoring. The amount of liquid added should cover part of the tube, but should not exceed the fill level mark, which may optionally be present on the vessel. The vessel is then reinserted into the hookah device. The cartridge may be placed in the reservoir. A lid may be placed on the reservoir and the cartridge so that the cartridge is placed in a cavity inside the lid. A gripping member grips the cartridge when the gripping fingers slide under the top of the cartridge. The user may press the lid onto the cartridge so that the piercing member (e.g., an upper piercing unit, a lower piercing unit, or both upper and lower piercing units) engages the cartridge to pierce one or more walls of the cartridge. The device may then be turned on. Turning on the device may initiate a heating profile of the heating element to heat the aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature that is at or above the vaporization temperature, but below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate vaporize, generating an aerosol. The user may puff through the mouthpiece as needed. The user may continue to use the device for as long as desired or until the aerosol is no longer visible or no longer delivered. In some embodiments, the device may be configured to automatically turn off when the usable aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge is used up or the cartridge is separated. The user may press the lid to release the lid. The top of the lid may rise above the top level of the main part of the aerosol-generating element, allowing the user to grip the top of the lid. The user may remove the lid, also removing the cartridge, which is gripped by the gripping element. In some embodiments, the consumer may refill the device with a new cartridge, for example, after receiving a signal from the device that the aerosol-forming substrate in the cartridge is exhausted or nearly exhausted. The hookah device may be switched off by the consumer at any time, for example by disconnecting the device. The user may dispose of the cartridge by ensuring contact of the gripping element with the release element of the device for disposal or by activating the release mechanism on the lid.

The hookah device may be characterized by any suitable control of air movement. In one example, a user's puff will create a suction effect resulting in low pressure inside the device, which will cause external air to flow through the air inlet of the device into the air inlet channel and into the reservoir. The air may then flow through the cartridge into the reservoir and be entrained by the aerosol produced from the aerosol-forming substrate. The air with the entrained aerosol then exits from the aerosol outlet of the reservoir, flows through the tube into the liquid inside the container. The aerosol will then bubble up from the liquid and into the headspace in the container above the liquid level, out of the headspace outlet and through the hose and mouthpiece for delivery to the consumer. The flow of external air and the flow of aerosol inside the hookah device may be driven by a puff from the user.

Reference will now be made to the drawings, which illustrate one or more embodiments described in the present invention. However, it should be understood that other embodiments not illustrated in the drawings are within the scope and spirit of the present invention. The same numbers used in the figures refer to the same components. The use of different numbers to designate components in different figures is not intended to indicate that components of different numbers may not be the same as components of different numbers or similar. The figures are presented for the purpose of illustration and not limitation. The schematic representations presented in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of a hookah device.

Fig. 2A and 2B are schematic perspective views from above and below, respectively, of a main part of a hookah cartridge for use in the hookah device of Fig. 1 according to an embodiment.

Fig. 3A is a schematic top view of a hookah cartridge after piercing with a piercing unit according to one embodiment.

Fig. 3B is a schematic bottom view of the use of a hookah cartridge in the hookah device of Fig. 1 according to one embodiment.

Fig. 4A and 4B are schematic views of a hookah device and lid in use according to one embodiment.

Fig. 5A is a cross-sectional side view of the cover of Fig. 4A according to one embodiment.

Fig. 5B is an exploded view of the cover of Fig. 5A.

Fig. 6 is a schematic perspective view of the frame of the cover of the said cover of Fig. 4A according to one embodiment.

Fig. 7 is a schematic perspective view of the outer casing of the cover of Fig. 4A according to one embodiment.

Fig. 8 is a schematic perspective view of the cover spring of Fig. 4A according to one embodiment.

Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view of the inner casing of the lid of Fig. 4A according to one embodiment.

Fig. 10 is a schematic perspective view of the support plate of the cover of Fig. 4A according to one embodiment.

Fig. 11 is a schematic perspective view of the lid gripping member of Fig. 4A according to one embodiment.

Fig. 12A and 12B are schematic side and top views, respectively, of the gripping member of Fig. 4A according to one embodiment.

Fig. 13A-13D are side views of the track and pin in different positions during use of the cover of Fig. 4A according to one embodiment.

Fig. 14A and 14B are schematic side and top views, respectively, of a cartridge disposal device according to one embodiment.

Fig. 15 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the use of the lid of Fig. 4A and the cartridge disposal device of Figs. 14A and 14B according to one embodiment.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic sectional view of an example of a hookah device 100. The device 100 comprises a vessel 17 defining an internal volume configured to contain a liquid 19 and defining an outlet 15 of free space above the filling level for the liquid 19. The liquid 19 preferably comprises water, to which one or more colorants, one or more flavorings, or one or more colorants and one or more flavorings may optionally be added. For example, one or both of plant additives or herbal additives may be added to the water.

The device 100 also comprises an aerosol generating element 130. The aerosol generating element 130 comprises a reservoir 140 configured to accommodate a cartridge 200 containing an aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol generating element 130 may also comprise a heating element 160. The heating element 160 may form at least one surface of the reservoir 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the heating element 160 forms the side surfaces of the reservoir 140. The aerosol generating element 130 also comprises an air inlet channel 170 that draws air into the device 100. In some embodiments, a portion of the air inlet channel 170 is formed by the heating element 160 for heating the air before the air enters the reservoir 140. Then, the preheated air enters the cartridge 200, which is also heated by the heating element 160 to carry the aerosol generated by the aerosol forming substance and the aerosol forming substrate. The air exits from the outlet of the aerosol generating element 130 and enters the tube 190.

The tube 190 transfers air and aerosol into the vessel 17 below the level of the liquid 19. The air and aerosol can bubble up through the liquid 19 and exit from the outlet 15 of the headspace of the vessel 17. The hose 20 can be attached to the outlet 15 of the headspace to transfer the aerosol to the user's mouth. The mouthpiece 25 can be attached to the hose 20 or form part of it.

An illustrative air flow path of the device during use is shown by the bold arrows in Fig. 1.

The mouthpiece 25 may comprise an activation element 27. The activation element 27 may be a switch, a button or the like, or may be a puff sensor or the like. The activation element 27 may be located in any other suitable location of the device 100. The activation element 27 may be wirelessly connected to the control electronics 30 to bring the device 100 into a state of use or to ensure activation of the heating element 160 by the control electronics, for example by supplying power to the heating element 160 by the power supply unit 35.

The control electronics 30 and the power supply unit 35 may be located in any suitable location of the aerosol generating element 130, including locations other than the bottom of the element 130, as shown in Fig. 1.

Referring to Fig. 2A and 2B, various embodiments of the main part 210 of the cartridge are shown. The main part 210 may comprise a side wall 212, an upper wall 215 and a lower wall 213 defining a cavity 218. As shown, the side wall 212 may be cylindrical or have the shape of a truncated cone. Fig. 2A shows the main part 210 with a portion of the upper part 215 removed, showing a cavity 218 within the main part. The main part 210 may define a central axis A passing through the main part 210. The upper part may comprise a flange 219 extending from the side wall 212, as shown in Fig. 2B.

Referring now to Fig. 3A and 3B, one or both of the upper part 215 and the lower part 213 of the main part may have several openings 217, 216 to provide air flow through the cartridge when the cartridge is in use. Some or all of the openings 217, 216 may be formed by a piercing unit. For example, the openings 217 of the upper part 215 may be formed by an upper piercing unit 401. The openings 216 of the lower part 213 may be formed by a lower piercing unit 301. The cartridge 200 may also or alternatively comprise openings along the side wall 212. In embodiments where the upper part or the lower part comprises pre-formed openings, the openings may be blocked by a peelable seal or gasket when the cartridge is stored before use.

A partial schematic view of the hookah device 100 with a cover 400 and a gripping element 450 is shown in Fig. 4A. The gripping element 450 is configured to grip the cartridge 200. The cover 400 may comprise an outer frame 410 that accommodates the gripping element 450. The gripping element 450 may comprise a ring-shaped element 451 and one or more gripping fingers 452. The one or more gripping fingers may be configured to rest against the flange 219 of the cartridge 200 when the cartridge 200 is placed in the reservoir and the cover 400 is placed over the cartridge 200.

The lid 400 may optionally comprise a piercing unit 401 (for example, an upper piercing unit). The lid 400 may comprise an outer casing 420 and a piercing element 440 on the inner wall of the outer casing 420. In some embodiments, such as those illustrated, the piercing element 440 may be located on the inner end wall 421. The piercing unit 401 may further comprise an inner casing 430, at least partially located inside the outer casing. The piercing element 440 may be oriented toward the cartridge 200 located inside the reservoir of the hookah device 100. The hookah device 100 may also optionally comprise a piercing unit 301 (for example, a lower piercing unit) at the upstream end of the shaft 190. After piercing the cartridge 200 with one or both piercing units 301, 401, an air flow path is created through the cartridge 200, as shown in Fig. 4B.

An example of a cover 400 and a gripping element 450 are shown in Fig. 5A and 5B. Detailed views of each of the elements of the cover 400 and the gripping element 450 are shown in Fig. 6-11. The cover 400 and the gripping element 450 can define a longitudinal axis A. The longitudinal axis A can be a central axis. When the cover 400 is located on the hookah device 100, the longitudinal axis A can be coaxial with the hollow tube of the shaft 190.

The outer frame 410 of the lid shown in Fig. 6 may comprise a cylindrical outer wall 413 extending between the first end wall 411 and the open second end 412. The outer frame 410 may define a cavity 419 for accommodating the piercing unit 401. The first end wall 411 may have a projection 414 extending from the inner wall. The projection 414 may be configured to press on the outer casing 420, while leaving a gap between the outer frame 410 of the lid and the outer casing 420.

According to one embodiment, the cover 400 comprises a gripping element 450 configured to grip the cartridge 200. The gripping element 450, shown in Fig. 11, 12A and 12B, may comprise a ring-shaped element 451 and one or more gripping fingers 452. The one or more gripping fingers 452 may comprise spring-loaded fingers. The one or more gripping fingers 452 extend from the ring-shaped element 451 to the upper ends 453. In some embodiments, where the gripping element 450 comprises several gripping fingers 452, the gripping fingers 452 may be located equidistant from each other around the ring-shaped element 451.

The gripping element 450 can be located inside the cavity of the lid 400. The gripping element 450 can be located inside the inner casing 430, as shown in Fig. 5A. The gripping element 450 can be oriented so that one or more gripping fingers 452 face upward from the ring-shaped element 451. The one or more gripping fingers 452 can be inclined radially inwardly to the longitudinal (central) axis A. The one or more gripping fingers 452 can be designed so that the ends of the gripping fingers 452 abut the upper flange 219 of the cartridge 200, when the cartridge 200 is placed in the inner casing 430. The inner diameter of the ring-shaped element 451 can be larger than the largest diameter of the cartridge 200.

The outer casing 420 shown in Fig. 7 is designed to be at least partially received within the cavity 419 of the outer frame 410 of the lid. The outer casing 420 may comprise a cylindrical outer wall 423 extending between the first end wall 421 and the open second end 422. The outer casing 420 may define a cavity 429 for accommodating the piercing element 440 and the inner casing 430. The outer casing 420 may comprise a piercing element 440. The piercing element 440 extends axially downwards inside the cavity of the outer casing 420. The piercing element 440 is centered relative to the longitudinal axis A of the outer casing 420. The piercing element 440 may be formed as a single unit with the outer casing 420 or may be attached to the inner part of the first end wall 421 of the outer casing 420. The piercing element 440 may comprise one or more piercing edges or piercing points 441. The piercing edges or piercing points 441 are configured to pierce the wall (for example, the upper wall) of the cartridge 200. The piercing element 440 can be designed in such a way that the piercing element 440 can be placed through the opening 437 on the inner casing 430. The outer casing 420 can comprise a lower flange 427. The lower flange 427 can extend outward from the lower part of the outer wall 423.

The inner casing 430 shown in Fig. 9 is designed to be at least partially received inside the cavity 429 of the outer casing 420. The inner casing 430 may have an outer wall comprising a first part 433 and a second part 434. The first part 433 may be a cylindrical wall with a first diameter, and the second part 434 may be a cylindrical wall with a second diameter. The second diameter may be larger than the first diameter. The first and second parts 433, 434 may be separated by a shoulder 435. The shoulder 435 may be designed to support a compression spring 470 (shown in Fig. 8). The compression spring 470 can be placed around the first part 433. The end of the compression spring 470 can be supported on the arm 435 so that the spring can be compressed relative to the arm 435. The outer wall of the inner casing 430 can extend between the first end wall 431 and the open second end 432. The inner casing 430 can define a cavity 439 for receiving the gripping element 450 and for placing the cartridge 200. The inner casing 430 can have an opening 437 on the first end wall 431. The opening 437 can be configured to receive the piercing element 440. The opening 437 can further comprise one or more channels 438 that facilitate the flow of air through the inner casing 430 when the piercing element 440 is placed in the opening 437.

The outer frame 410 may optionally comprise threaded openings 462 configured to secure the support plate 460 (FIG. 10) to the lower portion of the outer frame 410. Alternatively, the support plate 460 may be secured by other means, such as by adhesive. The support plate 460 may be a substantially circular plate with a central opening 461 passing through the plate. The support plate 410 may be sized to retain the outer and inner casings 420, 430 within the cavity 419 of the outer frame 410, as shown in FIG. 5A. The support plate 410 may also retain the gripping member 450 within the cavity 419 of the outer frame 410.

The outer and inner casings 420, 430 may comprise a track and pin system for guiding the movement of the outer and inner casings 420, 430 relative to each other. The outer casing 420 may comprise one or more pins 425 extending radially inward from its cylindrical outer wall 423. The inner casing 430 may comprise one or more tracks 436 corresponding to one or more pins 425. An example of a track 436 and a path along which the track 436 guides is shown in Fig. 13A-13D. The positions of the track 436 and the pin 425 may determine the relative positions of the outer and inner casings 420, 430. Initially, the outer frame 410 of the lid and the outer casing 420 are in the first position P1. That is, the pin 425 is in the first position P1 inside the track 436. The first position P1 can be considered a rest position. The guide track can comprise a first part and a second part. The guide track can have a second position P2, which can be a piercing position of the piercing element. The first position can determine a first distance between the first position P1 and the second position P2. The first part can determine a third position P3. The third position P3 can be a use position. The second position can determine a second distance between the third position P3 and the fourth position P4. The second distance can be shorter than the first distance. The first part can guide the pin for the track in the axial direction and in the radial direction.

In the first position P1, the gripping element 450 is engaged with the cartridge 200. For example, the upper ends 453 of the gripping fingers 452 can slide past the flange 219 of the cartridge (under it), when the lid is placed in the first position P1. Alternatively, the gripping element 450 can be engaged with the cartridge 200 later, when the lid 400 is pressed. A force can be applied to the outer frame 410 of the lid and the outer casing 420, for example, the lid 400 can be pressed (for example, by the user) to move the pin from the first position to the second position P2 (see the arrow in Fig. 13A). In the second position P2, the piercing element 440 can also be engaged with the cartridge 200 and pierce it. When the force is removed, for example, when the outer frame 410 of the lid and the outer casing 420 are released from the pressure (for example, when removed by the user), the compression spring 470 returns the outer frame 410 of the lid and the outer casing 420 to the third position P3. The movement of the lid during the initial pressing on the lid for piercing the cartridge and the release of the lid to allow the lid to return to the third position (use) are determined by the first part of the track. In the third position P3, the gripping element 450 remains engaged with the cartridge 200. In the third position P3, the air flow path is open through the openings formed in the cartridge 200 and is open between the outer part of the hookah device and the vessel. To release and remove the lid 400, the user can press the outer frame 410 of the lid again, causing the outer frame 410 of the lid and the outer casing 420 to move to the fourth position P4, from which the compression spring 470 returns the outer frame 410 of the lid and the outer casing 420 to the initial first position P1. The movement of the lid during the second moment of pressing the lid to release the lid is determined by the second part of the track. When the lid returns to the first position P1, the gripping element 450 remains engaged with the cartridge 200, lifting the cartridge 200 upward with the lid. The upper part of the lid 400 can be raised above the upper edge of the aerosol generating element. The user can then remove (for example, lift) the lid from the aerosol generating element, thereby removing the cartridge 200 with the lid.

In some embodiments, the disposal system 600 shown in Fig. 14A and 14B can be used with the hookah device 100 and the lid 400. The disposal system 600 can be used to remove and optionally dispose of the cartridge 200. The disposal system 600 can comprise a device 601 for disposing of the cartridge. The device 601 for disposing of the cartridge can comprise a cartridge releasing element 610. The cartridge releasing element 610 can be a pressing ring. The cartridge releasing element 610 can be designed so as to mate with the gripping element 450. The cartridge releasing element 610 (for example, the pressing ring or rim) can have a diameter D610 that is smaller than the inner diameter D451 of the element 451 in the form of a ring of the gripping element 450, but larger than the largest diameter of the cartridge 200.

The fingers 452 for gripping the gripping element 450 can be shifted to a standard position. Providing the contact of the gripping element 450 with the cartridge releasing element 610 can push the fingers 452 for gripping outwardly away from the standard position. Providing the contact of the gripping element 450 with the cartridge releasing element 610 can include engaging the cartridge releasing element 610 between the cartridge 200 and the element 451 in the form of a ring of the gripping element 450 for bending one or more fingers 452 for gripping, releasing the cartridge 200 from the gripping element 450.

The disposal system 600 may comprise a disposal vessel 620 with an opening 621. The shape of the disposal vessel 620 is not particularly limited and is shown in dotted lines. The cartridge release element 610 may be located in the region of the opening 621. In some embodiments, the cartridge release element 610 comprises a rim or a neck of the opening 621. Ensuring the contact of the gripping element 450 with the cartridge release element 610 may include engaging the rim of the cartridge disposal device 601 between the cartridge 200 and the element 451 in the form of a ring of the gripping element 450.

The operation of the hookah device 100 and the cover 400 and the removal of the cartridge 200 using the disposal system 600 are schematically shown in Fig. 15. The hookah device 100 comprises an aerosol generating element 130 with a reservoir 140 configured to accommodate a cartridge 200 containing an aerosol forming substrate. The aerosol generating element 130 may also comprise a heating element 160. The heating element 160 may form part of the reservoir 140. The user may begin by placing the cartridge 200 in the reservoir 140 (step 1) and placing the lid 400 on the cartridge 200 (step 2) so that the cartridge 200 is placed in the inner casing 430, and so that the gripping element 450 slides past the top of the cartridge 200 so that the fingers 452 for gripping grip the cartridge 200. If the lid comprises a piercing unit, the user may press on the lid to pierce the cartridge 200 (step 3). After removing the lid 400, the spring 470 pushes the frame 410 of the lid and the outer casing 420 into the operating position (step 4). In the operating position, the air path through the cartridge 200 is open, and the user can use the hookah device as usual. The gripping element 450 remains engaged with the cartridge 200. After using the hookah device, the user can press the lid 400 again to release the lid (step 5). The track and pin system will guide the movement of the lid 400, allowing the spring 470 to return the lid 400 to its initial position (step 6). The gripping element 450 remains engaged with the cartridge 200, lifting the cartridge 200 upwards with the lid 400. The user can then remove the lid 400 from the device (step 7). The cartridge 200 is retained in the inner casing 430 by means of the gripping element 450. The cartridge 200 can be removed by ensuring contact of the gripping element 450 with the cartridge releasing element 610 of the device 601 for disposing of the cartridge (step 8). The cartridge releasing element 610 can be configured to bend the fingers 452 for gripping. The cartridge release member 610 may be configured to push the gripping fingers 452 radially outward to release the cartridge 200.

Alternatively, the cartridge 200 may be removed by activating the release mechanism on the lid 400, which allows the fingers 452 to be released to grip the cartridge 200.

Thus, systems for gripping and releasing cartridges for hookah devices are described. Various modifications and variations of the present invention will be obvious to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Although the present invention has been described with respect to specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the claimed invention should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described embodiments of the present invention that are obvious to those skilled in the arts of engineering, chemistry and the manufacture of an aerosol-generating article, or in related fields, should be included within the scope of the claims presented below.

Claims (40)

1. An aerosol generating device comprising: an aerosol generating element comprising a main portion and a reservoir for accommodating a cartridge containing an aerosol forming substrate; a vessel having a liquid filling level and defining an outlet for the free space above the liquid filling level; a tube for transmitting the air flow from the reservoir to the vessel; and a cover adapted to engage with the main part, the cover comprising: a frame comprising a cavity and having a central axis, wherein the cavity is configured to accommodate a cartridge; and a gripping element configured to grip and release a cartridge located in the reservoir. 2. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, characterized in that the gripping element comprises one or more spring-loaded fingers. 3. An aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs 1, 2, characterized in that the gripping element comprises a ring-shaped element and one or more spring-loaded fingers extending from the ring-shaped element, and optionally one or more spring-loaded fingers extending axially toward the closed end of the cavity, and optionally, one or more spring-loaded fingers extend radially inward from the ring-shaped element. 4. An aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs 1-3, characterized in that the cover additionally comprises an outer casing and an inner casing located inside the outer casing, wherein the inner casing forms a cavity and a gripping element at least partially located inside the cavity of the inner casing. 5. An aerosol generating device according to claim 4, characterized in that the inner casing is designed with the possibility of movement in the axial direction inside the outer casing. 6. An aerosol generating device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the cover additionally contains a spring element that displaces the inner casing in the axial direction from the outer casing. 7. An aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs 4-6, characterized in that the inner casing contains one or more guide tracks, and the outer casing contains one or more pins for tracks, designed with the possibility of interaction with one or more guide tracks. 8. An aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs 1-7, characterized in that the cover contains a piercing element designed with the possibility of piercing the cartridge. 9. An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the gripping element comprises one or more spring-loaded fingers that are biased into a position for gripping the cartridge, and wherein the cover comprises a release mechanism configured to counteract said bias by thus moving one or more fingers in a direction away from the position for gripping the cartridge to release the cartridge located in the cavity. 10. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to any one of paragraphs 1-9, and a cartridge disposal device comprising: a disposal vessel with a hole; and a cartridge release member designed to be mated with a lid grip member to activate the release of the cartridge. 11. An aerosol generating system according to claim 10, wherein the gripping element comprises a ring-shaped element and one or more spring-loaded fingers extending from the ring-shaped element, and wherein the cartridge release element comprises a pressure ring in the region of the opening of the disposal vessel, wherein the pressure ring is designed with the possibility of bending one or more spring-loaded fingers. 12. An aerosol generating system according to claim 10, wherein the gripping element comprises a ring-shaped element and one or more spring-loaded fingers extending from the ring-shaped element, and wherein the cartridge release element comprises a rim of a disposal vessel, wherein the rim has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the ring-shaped element of the gripping element, but larger than the diameter of the cartridge. 13. A method for inserting and releasing a cartridge from an aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the method includes the steps of: insert the cartridge into the reservoir of the aerosol generating element; placing the cap on the aerosol generating element such that the cartridge is captured by the capture element; pushing the cap toward the reservoir to release the cap from the aerosol generating element; removing the cap from the aerosol generating element; and ensure contact of the gripping element with the cartridge release element, ensuring release of the cartridge from the gripping element. 14. Method according to paragraph 13, characterized in that the gripping element comprises a ring-shaped element and one or more spring-loaded fingers extending from the ring-shaped element; and wherein the cartridge release element comprises a rim of a disposal vessel, wherein the rim has a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the ring-shaped element of the gripping element, but larger than the diameter of the cartridge; and wherein ensuring contact of the gripping element with the cartridge release element includes engaging the rim of the cartridge disposal device between the cartridge and the ring-shaped element of the gripping element to bend one or more spring-loaded fingers, releasing the cartridge from the gripping element. 15. The method according to paragraph 13, characterized in that the method includes the steps of: provide for the gripping element to grip the cartridge, wherein one or more spring-loaded fingers are biased in the direction toward the cartridge; and activate the release mechanism to prevent displacement, thus releasing the cartridge. 16. A method for inserting and releasing a cartridge from an aerosol generating system according to any one of claims 10-12, wherein the method includes the steps of: insert the cartridge into the reservoir of the aerosol generating element; placing the cap on the aerosol generating element such that the cartridge is captured by the capture element; pushing the cap toward the reservoir to release the cap from the aerosol generating element; removing the cap from the aerosol generating element; and ensure contact of the gripping element with the cartridge release element, ensuring release of the cartridge from the gripping element.