Aerosol-generating system and haptic output element for an aerosol-generating system

Abstract

According to an embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus (10 / 20) is provided. The aerosol generating apparatus (10 / 20) may include a housing (11 / 21). The housing (11 / 21) optionally includes an air inlet (15), an air outlet (22), and an airflow path (23) extending between the air inlet and the air outlet. The aerosol generating apparatus (10 / 20) includes an aerosol generating element disposed within the housing (11 / 21) and configured to generate aerosols. The aerosol generating apparatus (10 / 20) includes a plurality of tactile output elements (30 / 51 / 61). The aerosol generating apparatus (10 / 20) includes a circuit (13) operatively coupled to the plurality of tactile output elements (30 / 51 / 61) and configured to independently actuate each of the plurality of tactile output elements (30 / 51 / 61).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an aerosol generation system, an apparatus for use with the system, and a method for generating aerosols. Specifically, the invention relates to a handheld aerosol generation system and apparatus that vaporize an aerosol-forming matrix by heating to generate an aerosol for inhalation or exhalation by a user, and that the system and apparatus include interface elements. Background Technology

[0002] One type of aerosol generation system is an electrically heated smoking system that generates aerosols for a user to inhale or smoke. Electrically heated smoking systems come in various forms. Some types of electrically heated smoking systems are electronic cigarettes, which vaporize a liquid or gel matrix to form an aerosol, or release an aerosol from a solid matrix by heating it to a temperature below the combustion temperature of that solid matrix.

[0003] A handheld electrically operated aerosol generating device and system is known, comprising a device portion including a battery and control electronics, a portion for containing or receiving an aerosol forming matrix, and an electrically operated heater for heating the aerosol forming matrix to generate an aerosol. It also includes a mouthpiece portion through which a user can inhale to draw the aerosol into their mouth.

[0004] Some devices and systems use a liquid or gel aerosol forming matrix stored in a storage section. Such devices can use a core to transport the liquid or gel aerosol forming matrix from the storage section to a heater, where it is aerosolized. These devices can also use a displacement mechanism, such as a pump and piston, to move the liquid or gel aerosol forming matrix from the storage section to the heater. Other types of aerosol generating devices and systems use a solid aerosol forming matrix comprising tobacco material. Such devices may include a recess for receiving a cigarette-shaped rod comprising a solid aerosol forming matrix, such as a folded sheet comprising tobacco material. When the rod is received in the recess, a blade-shaped heater disposed in the recess is inserted into the center of the rod. The heater is configured to heat the aerosol forming matrix to generate an aerosol without substantially burning the aerosol forming matrix.

[0005] Electrically heated smoking systems can provide a significantly different user experience compared to conventional combustion-based cigarettes. For example, the user interacts with the device instead of lighting a cigarette. In some cases, this interaction may not be limited to a single device but may include interaction with one or more peripheral devices.

[0006] Such a wide variety of systems, devices, and peripherals can refer to a multitude of different interactions with the user. For example, depending on the specific electrically heated smoking system, activation of a given electrically heated smoking system may be performed by a single press of a button, multiple presses of a button, or an extended press of a button. Additionally, depending on the specific electrically heated smoking system, some feedback may be provided to the user in response to activation, such as a vibration signal, an auditory signal, or a light signal, or feedback may be provided without response to actuation. Furthermore, depending on the specific electrically heated smoking system, the user may have to wait a certain period of time before the aerosol can be consumed, for example, before the heater reaches a sufficient temperature to generate an aerosol. The system may or may not indicate whether the waiting time is in progress, and may or may not provide an indication of the elapsed waiting time or the remaining waiting time. Such indications, if provided, may include one or more of the following: the number of lights illuminated, the brightness of one or more lights, the pulsating or intermittent illumination of the lights, a color change of one or more lights, or text or graphical interface output. Additionally, depending on the specific electrically heated fumigation system, the device may or may not provide feedback, such as vibration, audible, or visual signals, when the consumable (e.g., a liquid, gel, or solid aerosol forming matrix) is ready for consumption, indicating a waiting time as described above. Furthermore, some electrically heated fumigation systems may use the same output elements (such as light, vibration, or audible signals) to indicate different functions or states of the same system, which can be confusing for the user.

[0007] Additionally, auditory signals may be attenuated if the system is handheld, may be inaudible in noisy environments, if the user is listening with headphones, or if the user has a hearing impairment. Nevertheless, others within range may still hear such auditory signals and may be disturbed. Visual signals, such as those from lights or displays, may be obscured by the user's hands or fingers while operating the device, or may disturb others nearby, especially in dark environments. Vibration signals can be more reliable than auditory or visual signals if the user holds the device. However, for example, if the user puts the device down while waiting for it to warm up for use, the vibration signal may go unnoticed. In this case, the user may not receive a signal indicating that the device is ready for use, resulting in a degraded user experience. Furthermore, vibration signals from devices placed on surfaces can create unpleasant and disruptive sounds for the user and others within range. Moreover, vibration signals may be configured to convey only limited information, such as a confirmation button being pressed, the device being ready for use, or a simple warning signal. Additionally, while visual signals can be continuously displayed during waiting times (such as preheating the device before use or for cleaning), providing similar information via continuous vibration signals can be unpleasant and annoying to the user.

[0008] Therefore, some electrically heated smoke extraction systems may transmit limited information, which may be confusing, may interfere with the user or others, or may prevent the user from taking immediate or appropriate action on the information. This can result in a degraded user experience. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The objective of this invention is to provide users with easily understandable feedback that conveys meaningful information, while preferably minimizing or reducing interference with others. For example, some configurations of this invention can enhance user feedback by providing an interface in an aerosol generation system (such as a system including an aerosol generation device and multiple tactile output elements). The tactile output elements are configured to transmit information to the user via touch. The tactile output elements can be individually coupled to any suitable one or more components in the aerosol generation system that the user may interact with during use of the system, such as to the aerosol generation device, to one or more peripheral devices, or to both the aerosol generation device and one or more peripheral devices. The information provided to the user can be targeted to relate to a specific interaction the user has with the system at a given time. For example, the system can be configured to transmit certain information to the user via one or more of the tactile output elements when the user is holding the aerosol generation device, and can be configured to transmit certain additional information to the user via one or more other tactile output elements when the user is not holding the aerosol generation device. For example, by notifying users of relevant information that they can respond to appropriately, interference from users or others can be reduced or minimized.

[0010] Multiple tactile output elements may optionally be provided in the form of different components, each attached to the housing of the aerosol generating device or any peripheral device and controlled by appropriate circuitry. Preferably, any peripheral device associated with the aerosol generating device, including one or more tactile output elements, is configured to provide the same type of output to the user via such tactile output elements, allowing the user to interact with multiple components of the aerosol generating system in a consistent manner. Furthermore, the tactile output elements on the aerosol generating device and any peripheral device may have a similar appearance to each other, thereby aiding the user in becoming familiar with and understanding the information conveyed via such tactile output elements. Therefore, user experience and device management can be improved.

[0011] According to a first embodiment of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided. The aerosol generating apparatus includes a housing. The housing optionally includes an air inlet, an air outlet, and an airflow path extending between the air inlet and the air outlet. The aerosol generating apparatus includes an aerosol generating element disposed within the housing and configured to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating apparatus includes a plurality of tactile output elements. The aerosol generating apparatus includes circuitry operatively coupled to the plurality of tactile output elements and configured to independently actuate each of the plurality of tactile output elements.

[0012] In some configurations, at least some of the plurality of haptic output elements are optionally coupled to the housing. Additionally or alternatively, some configurations may further include a first sensor coupled to the housing and configured to generate a first status signal in response to a user holding the aerosol generating device. The circuitry is optionally configured to actuate the first haptic output element in response to the first status signal. Optionally, the first sensor is further configured to generate a second status signal in response to a user picking up the aerosol generating device. The circuitry is optionally further configured to actuate a second haptic output element in response to the second status signal.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, in some configurations, the aerosol generating device further includes an input element configured to generate a third state signal. The circuitry may optionally be further configured to actuate a third tactile output element among the plurality of tactile output elements in response to the third state signal. Optionally, the input element may be selected from mechanical buttons, membrane buttons, mechanical switches, rotary encoders, dials, knobs, capacitive touch buttons, resistive touch buttons, joysticks, sliders, trigger buttons, touchscreens, and magnetic switches.

[0014] Additionally or alternatively, in some configurations, the aerosol generating device may further include a communication interface operatively communicative to the circuitry. The circuitry is optionally configured to communicate with a peripheral device via the communication interface. The peripheral device may optionally include a fourth haptic output element among a plurality of haptic output elements. Optionally, the circuitry is further configured to instruct the peripheral device via the communication interface to actuate the fourth haptic output element in response to the absence of a first state signal. Additionally or alternatively, the peripheral device may optionally include a second sensor configured to generate a fifth state signal in response to a user holding the peripheral device. The circuitry is optionally further configured to instruct the peripheral device via the communication interface to actuate the fourth haptic output element in response to the fifth state signal. Additionally or alternatively, the peripheral device may optionally be selected from telephones, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, smart bracelets, fitness trackers, another aerosol generating device, computers, augmented reality or virtual reality headsets, and wireless headphones.

[0015] Additionally or alternatively, in some configurations, the first sensor may be selected from touch sensors, pressure sensors, optical sensors, and motion sensors.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, in some configurations, the tactile output elements of the plurality of tactile output elements may optionally be independently selected from mechanical actuators, piezoelectric actuators, and thermal output elements.

[0017] Additionally or alternatively, in some configurations, the aerosol generating matrix may optionally include a heater.

[0018] An aerosol generation system is also provided, which includes an aerosol generation apparatus as provided herein, and an aerosol generation matrix, wherein the aerosol generation matrix includes nicotine.

[0019] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation system" refers to a system that interacts with one or more other elements. One such element that the "aerosol generation system" may interact with is an aerosol-forming matrix that generates aerosols. Another such element that the "aerosol generation system" may interact with is a peripheral device. The "aerosol generation system" may optionally interact with both the aerosol-forming matrix (e.g., disposed within an aerosol-generating article) and any suitable number of peripheral devices.

[0020] As used herein, the term "peripheral device" refers to a device that is part of an aerosol generation system and interacts directly or indirectly with an aerosol generation device, but is not itself an aerosol generation device. Examples of peripheral devices include, but are not limited to, telephones, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, smart bracelets, fitness trackers, another aerosol generation device, computers, augmented reality or virtual reality headsets, and wireless headphones.

[0021] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix. Optionally, an aerosol-generating article may also include one or more additional components, such as a reservoir, carrier material, packaging, etc. An aerosol-generating article can generate aerosols that can be inhaled directly into a user's lungs through the user's mouth. An aerosol-generating article may be disposable. An aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming matrix (including tobacco) may be referred to as a tobacco stick.

[0022] As used herein, the term "aerosol forming matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form aerosols. Such volatile compounds are released by heating the aerosol forming matrix to form vapor. The vapor can condense to form aerosols, such as fine solid particles or liquid droplets suspended in a gas, such as air. The aerosol forming matrix can conveniently be part of an aerosol generating apparatus or system. In some configurations, the aerosol forming matrix comprises a gel or liquid, while in other configurations, it comprises a solid. An aerosol forming matrix may include both liquid and solid components.

[0023] As used herein, the term "connection" refers to an arrangement of elements that may come into direct or indirect contact with each other. Elements that are "directly" connected to each other are in contact with each other. Elements that are "indirectly" connected to each other are not in direct contact with each other, but are attached to each other via one or more intermediate elements. Depending on the specific arrangement, elements that are part of the same device or system may come into direct or indirect contact with each other.

[0024] As used herein, the term "interface" refers to an element through which information can be transmitted, received, or transmitted and received. Exemplary interfaces provided herein include tactile output elements for transmitting information and optionally user-actuable input elements for receiving information.

[0025] As used herein, the term "haptic output element" refers to an element configured to transmit information to a user via touch. For example, a haptic output element is configured such that when such an element is actuated, a user can sense and recognize such actuation via touch. Typically, a user can sense the actuation of the haptic output element through his or her touch at a defined portion of a device or system that the user is touching, for example, with his or her fingers, palm, or lips. For example, this defined portion of the actuated device or system can be, or may include, a defined external (peripheral) portion of the housing of the system device, or the haptic output element, or any other suitable element of the interface, device, or system coupled to the haptic output element. A haptic output element can be actuated in a manner that transmits information to a user via such actuation. A haptic output element can be configured to transmit information to a user via, for example, vibration, light touch, force, temperature changes (such as a heat pulse or cold pulse), or electrical signals. Haptic output elements can include, but are not limited to, mechanical actuators, piezoelectric actuators, and thermal output elements.

[0026] As used herein, the term "heat output element" refers to an element that provides information to a user by generating a temperature change that is perceptible to the user.

[0027] As used herein, the term "user-perceptible temperature change" refers to a temperature change that can be perceived and identified by a user. Typically, a user can sense a user-perceptible temperature change through his or her touch at a defined portion of a device or system that he or she is touching, for example, with his or her fingers, palm, or lips. A portion of the device or system that generates a user-perceptible temperature change may initially be at a first temperature, such as ambient temperature (room temperature), or warmer than ambient temperature, for example due to heat transferred to such elements by aerosol generating elements or due to heat transferred from the user's skin, such as fingers or lips. Actuation of a heat output element causes the temperature at the defined portion of the device or system to increase or decrease to a second temperature that is significantly different from the first temperature.

[0028] The tactile output element of the present invention can be suitably used with and included as part of any aerosol generation system or device, including as part of any peripheral device of such system. That is, the tactile output element of the present invention is not necessarily directly coupled to or provided as part of an aerosol generation element, but can be directly coupled to or provided as part of any suitable device that is an element of an aerosol generation system or device.

[0029] Aerosol generation systems or apparatus may include gel, liquid or solid aerosol forming matrices and may include suitably configured aerosol generating elements configured to generate aerosols therefrom.

[0030] In configurations where the aerosol-forming matrix includes a gel or liquid, the aerosol generation system or apparatus may include a reservoir containing the aerosol-forming matrix, the reservoir optionally comprising a carrier material for containing the aerosol-forming matrix. The carrier material may optionally be or may include a foam, sponge, or fibrous aggregate. The carrier material may optionally be formed from a polymer or copolymer. In one embodiment, the carrier material is or includes a spun polymer.

[0031] In some configurations, the aerosol generating system optionally includes a cartridge and a mouthpiece connectable to the cartridge. The cartridge optionally includes at least one of a reservoir and an aerosol generating element. Additionally or alternatively, the housing of the aerosol generating system optionally further includes an air inlet, an air outlet, and an airflow path extending between the air inlet and the air outlet, wherein vapor optionally condenses into an aerosol at least partially within the airflow path.

[0032] For example, in the various configurations provided herein, the cartridge may include a housing having a connection end and an opening end remote from the connection end, the connection end being configured to connect to a control body of the aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation element may be entirely located within the cartridge, entirely within the control body, or partially within both the cartridge and the control body. Power can be delivered from the connected control body to the aerosol generation element via the connection end of the housing. In some configurations, the aerosol generation element may optionally be located closer to the connection end than to the opening at the opening end. This allows for a simple and short electrical connection path between the power source in the control body and the aerosol generation element.

[0033] Optionally, the aerosol generating element, which may include a heating element, can be substantially planar. The heating element may include a resistive material, such as a material that generates heat in response to the flow of an electric current. In one configuration, the heating element includes one or more conductive filaments. The term "filament" refers to an electrical path arranged between two electrical contacts. The heating element may be or may include an array of filaments or wires, such as arranged parallel to each other. In some configurations, the filaments or wires may form a mesh. However, it should be understood that any suitable configuration and material of the heating element can be used.

[0034] For example, the heating element may include or be formed of any material having suitable electrical properties. Suitable materials include, but are not limited to: semiconductors, such as doped ceramics, electrically “conductive” ceramics (e.g., molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys, and composite materials made of ceramic and metallic materials. Such composite materials may include doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped silicon carbide. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum, and platinum group metals. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel; constantan; nickel-containing alloys, cobalt-containing alloys, chromium-containing alloys, aluminum-containing alloys, titanium-containing alloys, zirconium-containing alloys, hafnium-containing alloys, niobium-containing alloys, molybdenum-containing alloys, tantalum-containing alloys, tungsten-containing alloys, tin-containing alloys, gallium-containing alloys, manganese-containing alloys, and iron-containing alloys; and nickel, iron, and cobalt-based superalloys; stainless steel, Iron-aluminum based alloys, and iron-manganese-aluminum based alloys. "[Illegible]" is a registered trademark of Titanium Metals. Exemplary materials are stainless steel and graphite, more preferably 300 series stainless steels such as AISI 304, 316, 304L, and 316L. Alternatively, the heating element may include a combination of the above materials. In a non-limiting configuration, the heating element comprises or is made of wire. More preferably, the wire is made of metal, most preferably stainless steel.

[0035] The heater assembly may also include electrical contacts that are electrically connected to the heating element. The electrical contacts may be, or may include, two conductive contact pads. In a configuration including a housing, the contacts may be exposed through connection ends of the housing to allow contact with electrical contact pins in the control body.

[0036] The reservoir may include a reservoir housing. An aerosol generating element, a heating assembly including the aerosol generating element, or any suitable component thereof may be attached to the reservoir housing. The reservoir housing may include a molded component or mount molded onto the aerosol generating element or heating assembly. The molded component or mount may cover all or part of the aerosol generating element or heating assembly and may partially or completely isolate the electrical contact portion from one or both of the airflow path and the aerosol forming matrix. The molded component or mount may include at least one wall forming part of the reservoir housing. The molded component or mount may define a flow path from the reservoir to the aerosol generating element.

[0037] The housing can be formed from a moldable plastic material, such as polypropylene (PP) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The housing can form part or all of the walls of the reservoir. The housing and the reservoir can be formed integrally. Alternatively, the reservoir can be formed separately from the housing and assembled onto the housing.

[0038] In configurations where an aerosol generation system or apparatus includes a cartridge, the cartridge may include a removable mouthpiece through which a user inhales the aerosol. The removable mouthpiece may cover the mouth opening. Alternatively, the cartridge may be configured to allow a user to inhale directly through the mouth opening.

[0039] The cartridge can be filled with a liquid or gel aerosol matrix. Alternatively, the cartridge can be designed to be discarded when the liquid or gel aerosol matrix in the reservoir becomes empty.

[0040] In a configuration where the aerosol generation system or apparatus further includes a control body, the control body may include at least one electrical contact element configured to provide electrical connection with an aerosol generation element when the control body is connected to a cartridge. The electrical contact element may optionally be elongated. The electrical contact element may optionally be spring-loaded. The electrical contact element may optionally contact an electrical contact pad in the cartridge. Optionally, the control body may include a connection portion for engaging a connection end of the cartridge. Optionally, the control body may include a power source. Optionally, the control body may include control circuitry configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the aerosol generation element.

[0041] Optionally, the control circuit may include a microcontroller. The microcontroller is preferably a programmable microcontroller. The control circuit may include other electronic components. The control circuit may be configured to actuate the tactile output element of the present invention. The control circuit may be further configured to regulate the power supply to the aerosol generating element. Power may be supplied continuously to the aerosol generating element after system activation, or it may be supplied intermittently, such as on a per-inlet aspiration basis. Power may be supplied to the aerosol generating element in the form of current pulses.

[0042] The control unit may include a power supply arranged to power at least one of the control system, one or more tactile output elements, and an aerosol generating element. The aerosol generating element may include a separate power supply. The aerosol generating system or device may include: a first power supply arranged to power the control circuitry; a second power supply configured to power the aerosol generating element; and a third power supply configured to power one or more tactile output elements; or the aerosol generating system or device may include fewer power supplies, each configured to power any suitable combination of the control circuitry, the aerosol generating element, and one or more tactile output elements.

[0043] Each such power source may be or may include a DC power source. The power source may be or may include a battery. The battery may be or may include a lithium-based battery, such as a lithium cobalt, lithium iron phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium polymer battery. The battery may be or may include a nickel-metal hydride battery or a nickel-cadmium battery. The power source may be or may include another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. Optionally, the power source may require recharging and is configured for numerous charge-discharge cycles. The power source may have a capacity capable of storing sufficient energy for one or more user experiences; for example, the power source may have sufficient capacity to allow continuous aerosol generation over a period of approximately six minutes or multiples of six minutes, six minutes corresponding to the typical time spent smoking a regular cigarette. In another instance, the power source may have sufficient capacity to allow discontinuous activation of a predetermined number of vaping or heating components. Preferably, the power source may further have sufficient capacity to allow for any suitable number of actuations of the haptic output element.

[0044] The aerosol generating system or device may be or may include a handheld aerosol generating system. The handheld aerosol generating system can be configured to allow a user to inhale through the mouthpiece opening to draw in the aerosol. The aerosol generating system may have a size comparable to a conventional cigar or cigarette. Optionally, the aerosol generating system may have an overall length between approximately 30 mm and approximately 150 mm. The aerosol generating system may have an outer diameter between approximately 5 mm and approximately 30 mm.

[0045] Optionally, the housing may be elongated. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composites containing one or more of those materials, or thermoplastic materials suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polyethylene. The material may be lightweight and not easily broken. One or more of the tactile output elements may be coupled to any suitable portion of the housing.

[0046] The cylinder, control body, or aerosol generation system or device may include a suction detector in communication with control circuitry. The suction detector may be configured to detect when a user suctions through an airflow path. Additionally or alternatively, the cylinder, control body, or aerosol generation system may include a temperature sensor in communication with control circuitry. The cylinder, control body, or aerosol generation system or device may include user input, such as a switch or button. User input allows a user to turn the system on and off. Optionally, the user input may be coupled to one or more tactile output elements. Additionally or alternatively, the cylinder, control body, or aerosol generation system or device may optionally include an indicator for instructing a user on a defined amount of aerosol-forming matrix contained in the reservoir. Control circuitry may be configured to activate the indicator after determining the amount of aerosol-forming matrix contained in the reservoir. The indicator may optionally include one or more of the following: a light source such as a light-emitting diode (LED), a display such as an LCD display, an audible indicator such as a loudspeaker or buzzer, and a vibrating device. The control circuit can be configured to illuminate one or more of the lamps, display the amount on a display, emit sound via a loudspeaker or buzzer, and vibrate the vibrating device.

[0047] Preferably, the control circuitry is configured to individually actuate each haptic output element to deliver appropriate information to the user. For example, the control circuitry may optionally be configured to independently actuate each haptic output element in response to one or more of the following: the user turns on the system or device; the user turns off the system or device; the reservoir contains sufficient liquid or gel for the user experience; the reservoir contains insufficient liquid or gel for the user experience; the aerosol generating element becomes heated; the aerosol generating element is sufficiently heated to generate aerosol; the battery power is low; the battery power is sufficient for the user experience; or any other appropriate system state is indicated or any other appropriate user input is responded to.

[0048] Aerosol forming matrices can have any suitable composition. For example, an aerosol forming matrix can include nicotine. A nicotine-containing aerosol forming matrix can be or can include a nicotine salt matrix. An aerosol forming matrix can contain plant-based materials. An aerosol forming matrix can include tobacco. An aerosol forming matrix can include tobacco-containing materials containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the aerosol forming matrix upon heating. An aerosol forming matrix can include homogenized tobacco materials. An aerosol forming matrix can include non-tobacco-containing materials. An aerosol forming matrix can include homogenized plant-based materials.

[0049] A liquid aerosol forming matrix may include one or more aerosol forming agents. An aerosol forming agent is any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that, in use, facilitates the formation of a dense and stable aerosol and is substantially resistant to thermal degradation at the system's operating temperature. Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents include glycerol and propylene glycol. Suitable aerosol forming agents are well known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols, such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, and glycerol; esters of polyols, such as mono, di, or triacetic acid esters of glycerol; and fatty acid esters of mono, di, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanoate and dimethyl tetradecanoate. An aerosol forming matrix may include water, a solvent, ethanol, plant extracts, and natural or artificial flavorings. An aerosol forming matrix may include nicotine and at least one aerosol forming agent. The aerosol forming agent may be glycerol or propylene glycol. An aerosol forming agent may include both glycerol and propylene glycol. The aerosol forming matrix can have a nicotine concentration between about 0.5% and about 10%, for example, about 2%.

[0050] It should be understood that the tactile output element of the present invention is not limited to use with an aerosol generation system or apparatus configured for use with a liquid or gel aerosol forming matrix. For example, in other configurations, the tactile output element of the present invention may be used with or included in an aerosol generation system or apparatus configured for use with a solid aerosol forming matrix. One type of aerosol generation element that can be used with a solid aerosol forming matrix includes a heater configured to be inserted into the solid aerosol forming matrix, such as a tobacco stick.

[0051] In some configurations, the heater is substantially leaf-shaped to be inserted into the aerosol-forming matrix and optionally has a length between 10 mm and 60 mm, a width between 2 mm and 10 mm, and a thickness between 0.2 mm and 1 mm. Preferably, the length is between 15 mm and 50 mm, for example, between 18 mm and 30 mm. Preferably, the length is about 19 mm or about 20 mm. Preferably, the width is between 3 mm and 7 mm, for example, between 4 mm and 6 mm. Preferably, the width is about 5 mm. Preferably, the thickness is between 0.25 mm and 0.5 mm. Preferably, the thickness is about 0.4 mm. The heater may include an electrically insulating heater substrate and a resistance heating element supported by the heater substrate. The thickness through the heater optionally defines a through-hole. The heater mount may provide structural support to the heater and allow the heater to be located within the aerosol-generating apparatus. The heater mount may be formed of a moldable material molded around a portion of the heater and may extend through the through-hole to attach the heater to the heater mount. The heater may optionally have a tapered end or a pointed tip to facilitate insertion into the aerosol forming matrix.

[0052] The heater mounting is preferably molded into a portion of the heater that does not significantly increase in temperature during operation. This portion may be referred to as a retaining portion, and the heating element may have a lower resistivity at this portion so that it does not heat to a significant degree when an operating current passes through it. Through-holes may be located in the retaining portion. If provided, the through-holes may be formed in the heater before or after the resistance heating element is formed on the heater substrate. The device may be formed by fixing or coupling the heating assembly to or within a housing. The through-holes may be formed by machining, for example by laser machining or by drilling.

[0053] The heater mount provides structural support for the heater and allows it to be securely fixed within the aerosol generating device. Using a moldable material such as a moldable polymer allows the heater mount to be molded around the heater and thus securely hold it in place. This also allows for the inexpensive production of heater mounts with desired external shapes and dimensions.

[0054] Advantageously, the heating element can be formed of different materials. The first portion or heating portion of the heating element (i.e., the portion supported by the heater insertion or heating portion) can be formed of a first material, and the holding portion of the heating element (i.e., the portion supported by the heater holding portion) can be formed of a second material, wherein the first material has a larger resistivity coefficient than the second material. For example, the first material can be Ni-Cr (nickel-chromium), platinum, tungsten, or alloy wire, and the second material can be gold, silver, or copper. The dimensions of the first and second portions of the heating element can also differ to provide a lower resistance per unit length in the second portion.

[0055] The heater substrate is formed of an electrically insulating material and may be a ceramic material, such as zirconium oxide or alumina. The heater substrate can provide mechanically stable support for the heating element over a wide temperature range and can provide a rigid structure suitable for insertion into the aerosol-forming matrix. The heater substrate includes a planar surface on which the heating element is positioned and may include a tapered end configured to allow insertion into the aerosol-forming matrix. The heater substrate advantageously has a thermal conductivity of less than or equal to 2 watts per meter Kelvin.

[0056] The aerosol generating apparatus preferably includes a housing defining a cavity surrounding an insertion portion of a heater. The cavity is configured to receive an aerosol-forming article containing an aerosol-forming matrix. A heater mounting member may form a surface at one end of the closed cavity.

[0057] In some configurations, the device is preferably a portable or handheld device, which is suitable for holding between the fingers of a single hand.

[0058] The power source for the device can be any suitable power source, such as a DC voltage source, like a battery. In one embodiment, the power source is a lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power source can be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery such as a lithium-cobalt, lithium-iron-phosphate, lithium titanate, or lithium-polymer battery.

[0059] The device preferably includes a control element. The control element may be a simple switch. Alternatively, the control element may be a circuit and may include one or more microprocessors or microcontrollers configured to control the heater and independently control each tactile output element.

[0060] This disclosure provides an aerosol generation system including an aerosol generation apparatus as described above and one or more aerosol forming articles configured to be received in a cavity of the aerosol generation apparatus.

[0061] During use, the aerosol generating article containing the aerosol forming matrix can be partially housed within the aerosol generating apparatus. The aerosol generating article can be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol generating article can be substantially elongated. The aerosol generating article can have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to said length. The aerosol forming matrix can be substantially cylindrical in shape. The aerosol forming matrix can be substantially elongated. The aerosol forming matrix can also have a length and a circumference substantially perpendicular to said length. The aerosol generating article can have an overall length between approximately 30 mm and approximately 100 mm. The aerosol generating article can have an outer diameter between approximately 5 mm and approximately 12 mm.

[0062] The solid aerosol forming matrix may include tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds that are released from the matrix upon heating. Alternatively, the solid aerosol forming matrix may include non-tobacco material. The solid aerosol forming matrix may further include aerosol forming agents that contribute to the densification and stabilization of aerosol formation. Examples of suitable aerosol forming agents are glycerol and propylene glycol.

[0063] Solid aerosol forming matrix may include one or more of the following: powder, granules, pellets, flakes, strips, bands, or sheets containing one or more of the following: herbaceous plant leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco vein fragments, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, cast tobacco, and expanded tobacco. The solid aerosol forming matrix may be in loose form or provided in a suitable container or tube. Optionally, the solid aerosol forming matrix may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile aroma compounds that are released upon heating of the matrix. The solid aerosol forming matrix may also contain capsules, such as those containing additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile aroma compounds, and such capsules may melt during heating of the solid aerosol forming matrix.

[0064] As used herein, homogenized tobacco refers to a material formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco. Homogenized tobacco material may be in sheet form. Homogenized tobacco material may contain an aerosol forming agent at a content greater than 5% by dry weight. Alternatively, homogenized tobacco material may contain an aerosol forming agent at a content between 5% and 30% by dry weight. The sheet of homogenized tobacco material may be formed by agglomerating particulate tobacco obtained by grinding or otherwise combining one or both of tobacco leaves and tobacco stems. Alternatively or additionally, the sheet of homogenized tobacco material may include one or more of tobacco dust, tobacco particles, and other particulate tobacco byproducts formed, for example, during the processing, handling, and transportation of tobacco. The sheet of homogenized tobacco material may include one or more inherent binders as endogenous binders of tobacco, one or more exogenous binders as exogenous binders of tobacco, or a combination thereof, to help agglomerate tobacco particles; alternatively or additionally, the sheet of homogenized tobacco material may include other additives, including but not limited to tobacco and non-tobacco fibers, aerosol forming agents, humectants, plasticizers, flavoring agents, fillers, aqueous solvents and non-aqueous solvents, and combinations thereof.

[0065] Optionally, the solid aerosol forming matrix can be disposed on or embedded in a thermally stable carrier. The carrier can be in the form of powder, granules, microspheres, fragments, strips, ribbons, or sheets. Alternatively, the carrier can be a tubular carrier with a thin layer of solid matrix deposited on its inner surface, its outer surface, or both its inner and outer surfaces. Such tubular carriers can be formed from materials such as paper or similar paper, nonwoven carbon fiber pads, low-mass open-mesh metallic screens, perforated metal foils, or any other thermally stable polymer substrate.

[0066] In some configurations, the aerosol-forming matrix comprises an aggregated, curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "curled sheet" refers to a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations. Preferably, when the aerosol-generating article is assembled, the substantially parallel ridges or corrugations extend along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. This advantageously facilitates the aggregation of the curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material to form the aerosol-forming matrix. However, it should be understood that the curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material included in the aerosol-generating article may alternatively or additionally have a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations arranged at acute or obtuse angles to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article when the aerosol-generating article is assembled. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming matrix may comprise an aggregated sheet of homogenized tobacco material that is textured substantially uniformly over its entire surface. For example, the aerosol forming matrix may include an aggregated curled sheet of homogenized tobacco material, the aggregated curled sheet comprising a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations spaced approximately evenly across the width of the sheet.

[0067] Solid aerosol forming matrix can be deposited on the surface of a carrier in the form of, for example, sheets, foams, gels, or slurries. The solid aerosol forming matrix can be deposited on the entire surface of the carrier, or alternatively, it can be deposited in a pattern to provide uneven fragrance delivery during use.

[0068] It should be understood that although some configurations described herein include aerosol generating elements that generate aerosols by resistive heating, any suitable aerosol generating element, such as an induction heating device, can be used.

[0069] In a second embodiment of the invention, a method for generating an output in an aerosol generating apparatus is provided. The aerosol generating system may include a housing. The housing optionally includes an air inlet, an air outlet, and an airflow path extending between the air inlet and the air outlet. The aerosol generating system includes an aerosol generating element disposed within the housing and configured to generate an aerosol. The method includes providing a plurality of tactile output elements. The method includes providing circuitry operatively coupled to the plurality of tactile output elements. The method includes independently actuating each of the plurality of tactile output elements by the circuitry.

[0070] The features of the aerosol generating apparatus of the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied to the second embodiment of the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0071] The configuration of the invention will now be described in detail by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0072] Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation system including a tactile output element according to the present invention;

[0073] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of another aerosol generation system including a tactile output element according to the present invention;

[0074] Figure 3 An operational flow in an exemplary method according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0075] The configuration provided herein relates to an improved interface for an aerosol generation system. The interface preferably includes a plurality of tactile output elements, each configured to transmit information to the user via touch. Complex information can be transmitted to the user by individually activating a selected tactile output element. Optionally, the interface can be further configured to detect the state of user interaction with the system, such that information appropriate to the context of the user's use of the aerosol generation system can be transmitted to the user by individually activating a selected tactile output element.

[0076] Advantageously, the tactile output elements of this disclosure can provide a secure and easily understood interaction between a user and one or more devices within an aerosol generation system. For example, the tactile output elements of the present invention can be configured to provide easily understood information essentially only to the user of the aerosol generation system, with minimal or no disturbance to others nearby. Additionally or alternatively, the tactile output elements of the present invention can transmit more complex information to the user than, for example, a single visual signal, a single auditory signal, or a single vibration signal. Such information may include, but is not limited to, the temperature of the aerosol generation element, battery status, elapsed waiting time, or remaining waiting time. The tactile output elements may be distributed across one or more devices within the aerosol generation system, and each of the tactile output elements can be activated individually. Thus, information can be transmitted separately by tactile output elements located at different positions on a given device in the system, and even by tactile output elements on different devices within the system. Such information may represent, for example, different states, levels, or state progressions of the system or its devices.

[0077] Furthermore, the tactile output elements of the present invention can transmit information to the user more efficiently than, for example, a single visual signal, a single auditory signal, or a single vibration signal. For example, this information can be transmitted in response to a specific user request or a targeted notification. For instance, the system may be optionally configured to determine whether a user is holding a specific device of the system (e.g., an aerosol generating device). For targeted notifications, the system may be configured to selectively activate one or more tactile output elements of the specific device in response to determining that the user is holding it, and selectively activate one or more other tactile output elements of another device of the system in response to determining that the user is not holding the specific device. Such targeted notifications can be used to transmit information to the user in relation to the context of the user's use of the system at a given time. Illustratively, if the aerosol generating device warms up and is ready for use, but is determined not to be held by the user, the user can be notified via one or more tactile output elements on one or more other devices of the system (which are not the aerosol generating device itself) that the aerosol generating device is warmed up and ready for use. Thus, user experience and device management can be improved.

[0078] The tactile output element of the present invention can be used in any suitable device within an aerosol generation system, such as any suitable combination of an aerosol generation device and one or more peripheral devices. For example, Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generation system 100 according to the present invention, comprising a plurality of tactile output elements 30, 51, and 61. The system 100 includes a cylinder 20 containing a liquid or gel aerosol forming matrix, a control body 10, and any suitable number of peripheral devices, such as a first peripheral device 50 including a tactile output element 51 and a communication interface 52, and a second peripheral device 60 including a tactile output element 61 and a communication interface 62. Optionally, the first peripheral device 50 and the second peripheral device 60 are each independently selected from telephones, smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, smart bracelets, fitness trackers, another aerosol generation device, computers, augmented reality or virtual reality headsets, and wireless headphones. The connecting end of the cylinder 20 is removably connected to a corresponding connecting end of the control body 10.

[0079] The control body 10 includes a housing 11, within which are disposed: a battery 12, in one example being a rechargeable lithium-ion battery; a control circuit 13; a communication interface 17 connected to the control circuit 13; one or more tactile output elements 30 connected to the control circuit 13 via respective electrical interconnects 31; and one or more optional sensors 32 connected to the control circuit 13 via respective electrical interconnects 33. The control body 10 can be configured to independently actuate each of the tactile output elements 30, 51, and 61. For example, the control circuit 13 can be configured to individually actuate the tactile output element 30 by applying an appropriate signal to the respective electrical interconnect 31. The control circuit 13 can optionally be configured to receive user input from one or more of the sensors 32 via the electrical interconnects 33.

[0080] Additionally or alternatively, control circuitry 13 may be configured to actuate haptic output element 51 independently by transmitting an appropriate signal via communication interface 17 to communication interface 52 of first peripheral device 50. Additionally or alternatively, control circuitry 13 may be configured to actuate haptic output element 61 by transmitting an appropriate signal via communication interface 17 to communication interface 62 of second peripheral device 60. Communication interface 17 may be powered by battery 12. Communication interface 52 of first peripheral device 50 may be powered by battery or other power source (not specifically shown) of first peripheral device 50. Communication interface 62 of second peripheral device 60 may be powered by battery or other power source (not specifically shown) of second peripheral device 60. First peripheral device 50 may include appropriate circuitry (not specifically shown) configured to actuate haptic output element 51 in response to a signal received from control circuitry 13. Second peripheral device 60 may include appropriate circuitry (not specifically shown) configured to actuate haptic output element 61 in response to a signal received from control circuitry 13.

[0081] Communication interfaces 17, 52, and 62 can be configured to transmit signals between control circuitry 13 and first peripheral device 50 and second peripheral device 60 using any suitable communication mode, respectively. Such communication may include, for example, physical or magnetic contact utilizing connectors or wired connections (such as USB cables, Lightning connectors, HDMI cables, or AUX cables). Additionally or alternatively, such communication may include, for example, wireless connections such as Near Frequency Communication (NFC), Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Wireless USB, Wi-Fi, White-Fi, WiFi Halal Low, Wi-FAR, WRAN, WLAN, LPWAN (such as Sigfox, LoRa, Ingenu, Waviot, NB-IoT, LTE-M, Telensa, CYANconnode, or Weightless), WAN, telephone networks, or data connections (such as GPRS, LTD, 3G, 4G, or 5G), GPS, satellite, ultra-wideband, RFID, ZigBee, RuBee, TransferJet, radio frequency, or z-wave. Additionally or alternatively, such communications may include, for example, optical communications such as infrared, Li-Fi, etc.; sound-based communications such as acoustic or ultrasonic communications; or magnetically inductive communications such as near-field magnetic induction communications (NFMI).

[0082] At least the tube 20 and control body 10 of system 100 are portable. For example, when connected to each other, the tube 20 and control body 10 of system 100 may have a size comparable to that of a conventional cigar or cigarette. For example, when connected to each other, the tube 20 and control body 10 of system 100 are preferably sized and shaped for handheld use, and preferably sized and shaped for single-handed grip, for example, between the user's fingers.

[0083] The cylinder 20 includes a housing 21 that houses a heating assembly 25 and a reservoir 24. A liquid or gel aerosol forming matrix is ​​held within the reservoir 24. The upper portion of the reservoir 24 is connected to... Figure 1 The lower portion of the reservoir 24 is shown. A heating assembly 25 receives a matrix from the reservoir 24 and heats the matrix to generate vapor. For example, the heating assembly includes a resistive heating element connected to a controller 13 via electrical interconnects 26, 14 to receive power from the battery 12. One side of the heating assembly 25 is in fluid communication with the reservoir 24 (e.g., via a fluid channel 27) to receive the aerosol-forming matrix from the reservoir 24, for example, through capillary action. The heating assembly 25 is configured to heat the aerosol-forming matrix to generate vapor.

[0084] In the illustrated configuration, airflow path 23 extends from air inlet 15 (optionally, it may be between control body 10 and cylinder 20) through cylinder 20, past heating assembly 25, and through reservoir 24 to reach port opening 22 in cylinder housing 21. System 100 is configured such that a user can draw air through port opening 22 of cylinder 20 to draw aerosol into their mouth. In operation, when the user draws air through port opening 22, air flows as... Figure 1 The dashed arrows indicate that air is drawn from the air inlet 15 through the heating assembly 25 into the airflow path 23 and then through the airflow path to the mouth opening 22. When the system is activated, the control circuit 13 controls the power supply from the battery 12 to the cylinder 20 via the electrical interconnect 14 (in the control body 10) connected to the electrical interconnect 26 (in the cylinder 20). This, in turn, controls the amount and nature of the vapor produced by the heating assembly 25. The control circuit 13 may include an airflow sensor (not specifically shown) that supplies power to the heating assembly 25 when the airflow sensor detects a user inhaling on the cylinder 20. This type of control arrangement has long been used in aerosol generation systems such as inhalers and electronic cigarettes. When a user inhales at the mouth opening 22 of the cylinder 20, the heating assembly 25 is activated and vapor is generated, which is carried in the airflow through the airflow path 23. Optionally, the vapor is at least partially cooled within the airflow path 23 to form an aerosol within the airflow path, which is then drawn into the user's mouth through the mouth opening 22. In some configurations, the vapor is at least partially cooled within the user's mouth to form an aerosol within the user's mouth.

[0085] Each of the tactile output elements 30, 51, and 61 is configured to provide information to a user via touch. The tactile output elements 30, 51, and 61 need not be identical to each other. For example, each of the tactile output elements 30, 51, and 61 may be independently selected from mechanical actuators, piezoelectric actuators, or thermal output elements. An exemplary mechanical actuator is a vibration actuator. Examples of vibration actuators suitably included in one or more of the tactile output elements 30, 51, and 61 include, but are not limited to, eccentric rotating mass actuators and linear resonant actuators. Examples of piezoelectric actuators suitably included in one or more of the tactile output elements include, but are not limited to, piezoelectric discs, piezoelectric benders, piezoelectric resonant elements, and electro-vibrating elements. Examples of thermal output elements suitably included in one or more of the tactile output elements 30, 51, and 61 include, but are not limited to, resistive heaters and thermoelectric elements (such as Peltier elements). It should be appreciated that the tactile output elements 30, 51, and 61 may be located at any suitable portion of the aerosol generation system 100. For example, the interface element 30 can be located at any suitable location on the control body 10 or the cylinder 20, for example, it can be attached to any suitable part of the housing 11 or the housing 21 so that it can be touched by the user at any suitable external part of the cylinder 20 or the control body 10 or any other suitable part of the system 100 that can be touched by the user during use (e.g., by the user's lips, fingers or palm).

[0086] Optionally, the control circuit 13 may be configured to individually actuate one or more of the haptic output elements 30, 51, and 61 in response to input received via one or more sensors 32. In a particular configuration, one or more sensors 32 may optionally be configured to generate and transmit signals indicative of whether a user is holding the control body 10 or the cylinder 20 to the control circuit 13. Such signals may convey to the control circuit information about the background of the user's use of the system 100, such as whether the user's palm, fingers, or lips are in contact with the control body 10 or the cylinder 20, and therefore whether information can be readily transmitted to this palm, finger, or lip via the haptic output element 30, or whether this information should instead be transmitted to the user via one or both of the haptic output elements 51 or 61. The control circuit 13 may be configured to actuate the haptic output element 30, at least in part, in response to a signal indicative of the user holding the control body 10 or the cylinder 20, in order to transmit information to the user. Control circuitry 13 may be configured to actuate one or more of haptic output elements 51 or 61, at least in part, in response to a signal indicating that a user is not holding control body 10 or cylinder 20, in order to transmit information to the user. Additionally or alternatively, each of the sensors 32 may be selected from touch sensors, pressure sensors, optical sensors, and motion sensors. Exemplary sensors 32 may individually include, but are not limited to, buttons, touch sensors, switches, joysticks, trackballs, touchscreens, microphones, dial pads, knobs, pressure sensors, capacitive sensors, airflow sensors, infrared sensors, scanners, optical sensors, cameras, fingerprint scanners or other biometric sensors, chemical sensors, temperature sensors, tilt sensors, or motion sensors. Sensors particularly useful for detecting whether a user is holding the device include, but are not limited to, touch sensors (such as capacitive touch sensors, conductive touch sensors, resistive touch sensors), pressure sensors, optical sensors (such as infrared sensors, photodetectors, or cameras), or motion sensors (such as tilt sensors, accelerometers, or gyroscopes). Note that, additionally or alternatively, any suitable number and type of such sensors 32 may be provided on one or both of peripheral devices 50 or peripheral devices 60.

[0087] In a non-limiting configuration, one or more sensors 32 include a user-actuable input element. Optionally, at least one of the haptic output elements 30 is located sufficiently close to the user-actuable input element 32 such that a user can perceive the actuation of the haptic output element during or after actuation of the user-actuable input element 32.

[0088] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an alternative aerosol generation system 200, which includes components that can be used with reference to... Figure 1The optional first peripheral device 50' and second peripheral device 60' are configured similarly to the first peripheral device 50 and the second peripheral device 60; they can be respectively compared with the referenced Figure 1 The tactile output elements 30', 51', and 61' are similarly configured; and can be compared with reference to Figure 1 The described sensor 32 is similarly configured with an optional sensor 32'.

[0089] System 200 includes an aerosol generating apparatus having a housing 39 and an aerosol forming article 40, such as a cigarette. The aerosol forming article 40 includes an aerosol forming matrix 41 pushed into the housing 39 to achieve thermal proximity with a portion of a heater 36. In response to heating by the heater 36, the aerosol forming matrix 41 will release a series of volatile compounds at different temperatures.

[0090] A power source 32, such as a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, is housed within the housing 39. A controller 33 is connected to the heater 36 via electrical interconnect 34, to the power source 32, to one or more tactile output elements 30' via electrical interconnect 31', to one or more sensors 32' via electrical interconnect 33', and to a communication interface 37 configured similarly to communication interface 17. The controller 33 controls the power supplied to the heater 36 to regulate its temperature. Typically, the aerosol forming matrix is ​​heated to a temperature between 250 and 450 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the controller 33' may optionally respond to signals received from the sensors 32', as illustrated herein by reference, for example... Figure 1 The actuation of the tactile output element 30' is controlled in the manner described above. Additionally, the controller 33' may optionally be configured similarly to the reference... Figure 1 The method is to communicate with peripheral devices 50' and 60' via communication interfaces 37, 52' and 62' in order to send signals that cause corresponding and independent actuation of tactile output elements 51' and 61'.

[0091] The housing 39 of the aerosol generating apparatus defines a cavity that opens at its proximal end (or orifice) for receiving the aerosol-generating article 40 for consumption. Optionally, the system 200 includes an element 37 disposed within the cavity, which, together with the housing 39, forms an air inlet passage 38. A heating assembly including a heater 36 and a heater mount 35 spans the distal end of the cavity. The heater 36 is held by the heater mount 35 such that the effective heating area (heating portion) of the heater 36 is located within the cavity. In one example, the heater 36 includes a through-hole (not specifically shown) through which material of the heater mount 35 extends to further secure the heater 36 in place. When the aerosol-generating article 40 is fully received within the cavity, the effective heating area of ​​the heater 36 is positioned within the distal end of the aerosol-generating article 40. The heater mount 35 is optionally formed of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) and may be molded around a retaining portion of the heater. The heater 36 is optionally shaped as a blade terminating at a point. That is, heater 36 may optionally have a length dimension greater than its width dimension, which is greater than its thickness dimension. The first and second surfaces of heater 36 may be defined by the width and length of the heater.

[0092] like Figure 2 As shown, the exemplary aerosol forming article 40 can be described as follows. The aerosol forming article 40 includes three or more elements: an aerosol forming matrix 41, an intermediate element 42, and a mouthpiece filter 43. These three elements are arranged sequentially and coaxially aligned, and assembled from cigarette paper (not specifically shown) to form a strip. In a non-limiting configuration, when assembled, the aerosol forming article 40 may have a length of 45 mm and a diameter of 7 mm, but it should be understood that any other suitable combination of sizes may be used.

[0093] The aerosol forming matrix 41 may optionally comprise a bundle of curled, cast sheet tobacco packaged in filter paper (not shown) to form a filter tip segment. The cast sheet tobacco comprises one or more aerosol forming agents, such as glycerin. An intermediate element 42 may be positioned adjacent to the aerosol forming matrix 41. The intermediate element 42 may be configured to position the aerosol forming matrix 41 toward the distal end of the article 40 such that it can contact the heater 36. Additionally or alternatively, the intermediate element 42 may be configured to inhibit or prevent the aerosol forming matrix 41 from being pushed along the article 40 toward the mouthpiece when the heater 36 is inserted into the aerosol forming matrix 41. Additionally or alternatively, the intermediate element 42 may be configured to allow volatile substances released from the aerosol forming matrix 41 to be conveyed along the article toward the mouthpiece filter 43. The volatile substances may be cooled within the conveying section to form an aerosol. In a non-limiting configuration, the intermediate element 42 may comprise or be formed from a cellulose acetate tube directly coupled to the aerosol forming matrix. In a non-limiting configuration, the tube defines an opening with a diameter of 3 mm. Additionally or alternatively, intermediate element 42 may include or be formed from a thin-walled tube of 18 mm in length, directly coupled to or formed from the mouthpiece filter 43. In an exemplary configuration, intermediate element 42 includes both tubes. The mouthpiece filter 43 may be a conventional mouthpiece filter formed of cellulose acetate and approximately 7.5 mm in length. Elements 41, 42, and 43 may optionally be assembled by tightly wrapping them within cigarette paper (not specifically shown), such as standard (conventional) cigarette paper with standard characteristics or classifications. The paper in this specific embodiment is conventional cigarette paper. The interface between the paper and each element 41, 42, 43 positions the element and defines an aerosol-forming article 40.

[0094] When the aerosol forming article 40 is pushed into the cavity, the conical point of the heater 36 engages with the aerosol forming matrix 41. By applying force to the aerosol forming article 40, the heater 36 penetrates the aerosol forming matrix 41. When the aerosol forming article 40 is properly engaged, the heater 36 is inserted into the aerosol forming matrix 42. When the heater 36 is actuated, the aerosol forming matrix 41 heats up and generates or releases volatile substances. When a user inhales through the mouthpiece filter 43, air is drawn into the aerosol forming article 40 via the air inlet passage 38, and the volatile substances condense to form an inhalable aerosol. This aerosol passes through the mouthpiece filter 43 of the aerosol forming article 40 and enters the user's mouth.

[0095] It should be recognized that in the aerosol generation system provided in this article, referring to Figure 1 The aerosol generation system 100 and the reference Figure 2The aerosol generation system 200 provides non-limiting examples where the tactile output elements of a plurality of tactile output elements can be independently located on any suitable device within the system and on any suitable element of such device. For example, in some configurations, at least some of the plurality of tactile output elements may be optionally coupled to the housing of the aerosol generation device. Illustratively, one or more tactile output elements 30 are coupled to the housing 11 of the control body 10 of system 100, or one or more tactile output elements 30' are coupled to the housing 39 of system 200. It should be appreciated that any suitable number of such tactile output elements may be coupled to the housing of the aerosol generation device within the aerosol generation system. For example, one tactile output element may be coupled to the housing of the aerosol generation device. As another example, more than one tactile output element may be coupled to the housing of the aerosol generation device. In various exemplary configurations, two or more, three or more, four or more, five or more, or even ten or more tactile output elements may be coupled to the housing of the aerosol generation device. For example, one to ten tactile output elements may be connected to the housing of the aerosol generating device, or between two and five output elements may be connected to the housing of the aerosol generating device. However, not all (or even any) tactile output elements must be connected to the housing of the aerosol generating device. As an option, one or more of the tactile output elements may be connected to one or more peripheral devices, and one or more of the tactile output elements may be connected to the housing of the aerosol generating device. As another option, all tactile output elements may be connected to one or more peripheral devices, and none of the tactile output elements may be connected to the aerosol generating device in the aerosol generating system. That is, some, all, or no tactile output elements may be connected to the aerosol generating device in the aerosol generating system.

[0096] The tactile output elements of a given device coupled to the aerosol generation system can have any suitable arrangement within the device. For example, the tactile output elements may optionally be distributed along the length of the device. The spacing between different tactile output elements coupled to a given device may be unequal. Alternatively, the spacing between different tactile output elements coupled to a given device may be equal. For example, any suitable number of tactile output elements may be evenly distributed on the device to which they are coupled. One or more tactile output elements coupled to a given device may be located on the outer surface of the housing of the device, for example, exposing one or more tactile output elements. Additionally or alternatively, one or more tactile output elements coupled to a given device may be located below the outer surface of the housing of the device, for example, making the tactile output elements not exposed. Preferably, such tactile output elements are positioned close enough to the outer surface of the housing that their actuation can be felt by a user holding the device or a portion thereof. One or more of the tactile output elements coupled to a given device may be located on the central (longitudinal) axis of the device.

[0097] The aerosol generating apparatus and system of the present invention may optionally include sensors that can be used to determine the state of interaction between a user and the aerosol generating apparatus or system, and to provide the user with information relating to the state. For example, system 100 includes one or more sensors 32 coupled to housing 11, and system 200 includes one or more sensors 32' coupled to housing 39. A first sensor among such sensors 32, 32' is optionally configured to generate a first state signal in response to a user holding the aerosol generating system. Circuitry (e.g., control circuitry 13 or control circuitry 33) is configured to actuate a first tactile output element among a plurality of tactile output elements in response to the first state signal. In one example, the first tactile output element thus actuated is a tactile output element 30 or 30' of the corresponding aerosol generating apparatus. Illustratively, it may be advantageous to actuate tactile output element 30 or 30' based on a first state signal corresponding to a user holding the corresponding aerosol generating apparatus, since the user is already touching the apparatus and can therefore easily receive information via actuation of such tactile output elements. Additionally or alternatively, when a certain time has elapsed or a certain state has been achieved and it is detected that the user is holding the device, the device or system may provide feedback to the user via one or more of the tactile output elements. In some configurations, the first tactile output element thus actuated is tactile output element 51 or 51' of the corresponding first peripheral device 50, 50', or tactile output element 61 or 61' of the corresponding second peripheral device 60, 60'. Illustratively, it may be advantageous to actuate the tactile output elements 51, 51', 61, or 61' based on a first state signal corresponding to the user not holding the corresponding aerosol generating device, since the user is not touching the device, and therefore information can be received more easily from the corresponding peripheral device than from the aerosol generating device itself.

[0098] Any suitable status signals generated by sensors respectively connected to the housing of the aerosol generating device or one or more peripheral devices (e.g., the housing connected to such peripheral devices) can be used by the control circuitry to determine the context in which a user is using the aerosol generating system and to provide information to the user in a manner appropriate to that context. For example, a first sensor may be optionally configured to generate a second status signal in response to the user picking up the aerosol generating device, for example, to distinguish whether the user is already holding the device or not. The circuitry (e.g., control circuitry 13 or 33) may be further configured to actuate a second tactile output element among the plurality of tactile output elements in response to the second status signal. The second tactile output element may be different from the first tactile output element. Thus, based on the user picking up the aerosol generating device, the device may transmit different information to the user via the second tactile output element, or the same information may be transmitted to the user in a manner different from whether the user is already holding the device or not. The aerosol generating device may optionally be in an idle or charging state before being picked up by the user, and may become active when the user is detected picking up the device, and may notify the user of this change of state by actuation of a second tactile output element.

[0099] Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol generating device may optionally include an input element (e.g., sensor 32 or sensor 32' or a user-actuable input element) configured to generate a third state signal. Circuitry (e.g., control circuitry 13 or 33) may optionally be further configured to actuate a third tactile output element among a plurality of tactile output elements in response to the third state signal. Additionally or alternatively, the third tactile output element may be different from one or both of the first and second tactile output elements. Based on the actuation of the input element, the device may transmit different information to the user via the third tactile output element, or transmit the same information to the user in a manner different from whether the user has picked up the device, is holding the device, or is not holding the device. Non-limiting examples of input elements and sensors are provided elsewhere herein.

[0100] Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol generating device may optionally include a communication interface (e.g., 17 or 37) operatively communicating with circuitry (e.g., control circuitry 13 or 33). The circuitry may optionally be configured to communicate with peripheral devices (e.g., peripheral devices 50, 50', 60, or 60') via the communication interface (e.g., any suitable combination of 17, 52, and 62 or 37, 52', and 62'). The peripheral devices (e.g., peripheral devices 50, 50', 60, or 60') may optionally include a fourth tactile output element among a plurality of tactile output elements (e.g., tactile output elements 51, 51', 61, or 61'). The circuitry may optionally be further configured to instruct the peripheral devices via the communication interface to actuate the fourth tactile output element in response to the absence of a first state signal. For example, as described above, the first state signal may correspond to a user holding the aerosol generating device, in response to which information may preferably be transmitted to the user via a tactile output element (e.g., element 30 or 30') coupled to the aerosol generating device. The absence of a first state signal may correspond to the user not holding the aerosol generating device. In response, information can preferably be transmitted to the user via a tactile output element (e.g., element 51, 51', 61, or 61') connected to a peripheral device (e.g., peripheral device 50, 50', 60, or 60') that communicates with the aerosol generating device. Thus, the aerosol generating system can be configured to transmit information to the user using a tactile output element appropriate to the context in which the user is using the system.

[0101] Additionally or alternatively, the peripheral device may optionally include a second sensor (not specifically described) that can be configured similarly to sensor 32 or 32'. The second sensor may be optionally configured to generate a fifth status signal in response to a user holding the peripheral device (e.g., peripheral device 50, 50', 60, or 60'). Circuitry (e.g., control circuitry 13 or 33) may also be optionally configured to instruct the peripheral device via a communication interface (e.g., any suitable combination of 17, 37, 52, 52', 62, or 62') to actuate a fourth tactile output element in response to the fifth status signal. Illustratively, the fifth status signal generated by the second sensor may correspond to a user holding a peripheral device including the second sensor, upon which a tactile output element coupled to said peripheral device may be actuated to transmit information to the user, for example, in a manner appropriate to the context in which the user is using the system. Non-limiting examples of peripheral devices are provided elsewhere herein.

[0102] In some configurations, the aerosol generation system further includes an aerosol forming matrix, wherein the aerosol forming matrix optionally includes nicotine.

[0103] The tactile output element of the present invention can be used to transmit any suitable information to a user via touch. For example, the control circuitry of the aerosol generating apparatus or system can be configured to actuate the tactile output element in response to an input signal. The input signal can have any suitable source within the aerosol generating apparatus or system. For example, the condition of the aerosol generating apparatus can cause the circuitry to generate an input signal, based on which the tactile output element is actuated. That is, the input signal can optionally correspond to the condition of the aerosol generating apparatus or the context of a user using the aerosol generating system. Various suitable conditions, states, and contexts can be readily envisioned.

[0104] Illustratively, the aerosol generation system of the present invention can be configured to individually actuate tactile output elements in a manner that indicates different states, levels, or state progressions of the system.

[0105] For example, the different states, levels, or state progressions to be conveyed may be, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: device battery status; energy consumption; identification of aerosol-generating products; consumption of aerosol-generating products, nicotine, or other doses; duration of one or more inhalations; number of inhalations; quantity of aerosol-generating products; vapor density; vapor smoothness; vapor temperature; vapor characteristics; total scene time; exposure time; elapsed time; user health; user workout information; user heart rate; user lung capacity; device temperature; heating element temperature; heater power; temperature of aerosol-generating element; power of aerosol-generating element; heater voltage; voltage of aerosol-generating element; one or more environmental parameters; user identification; connection status; waiting time; elapsed waiting time; activity of another device; status of another device.

[0106] In one exemplary configuration, a tactile output element is activated at a specific location of the device to which it is connected to indicate a specific state, level, or state progression of the device.

[0107] Additionally or alternatively, one or more tactile output elements may be activated sequentially from one location to another adjacent location to indicate a specific state, level, or state progression of the device.

[0108] Additionally or alternatively, one or more tactile output elements may be activated simultaneously to correspond to a specific segment of the device to which they are connected, in order to indicate a specific state, level, or state progression of the device.

[0109] Additionally or alternatively, one or more tactile output elements may be activated simultaneously with one or more of different intensities, durations, frequencies, procedures, or modes to emphasize specific segments of the device to which they are connected, to indicate a specific state, level, or state progression of the device.

[0110] Additionally or alternatively, the duration, frequency, program, or mode of actuation of the tactile output element is used to emphasize a particular state, level, or state progression of the device to which the element is connected.

[0111] In an exemplary configuration, when it is detected that a user is not holding the aerosol generating device but optionally a certain time has passed or a certain state has been reached, the aerosol generating device may be configured to transmit information to the user via one or more tactile output elements connected to one or more peripheral devices, rather than via one or more tactile output elements connected to the aerosol generating device itself. The user may, for example, wear, carry, hold, or use the peripheral device, or otherwise contact such a peripheral device, allowing the user to feel the actuation of the tactile output elements connected to it. Optionally, such peripheral devices may include sensors configured as described herein, the output of which can be used to determine, via suitable circuitry configured as described herein, whether the user is in contact with the peripheral device. Based on this determination of the context of the user using the system, the system can select an appropriate device to use for transmitting information to the user via the tactile output elements. Optionally, the system may be configured to select the device for transmitting such information based on a predefined priority. For example, the control circuitry of the aerosol generating device may communicate with multiple peripheral devices and may be configured to have defined priorities for sending information to the user via such peripheral devices. Optionally, such priorities are defined by the user and stored in suitable memory or circuitry of the system.

[0112] Optionally, the system can be configured to transmit information to a user via one or more peripheral devices. Such peripheral devices may, but do not necessarily, include one or more tactile output elements of the present invention. Alternatively, such peripheral devices can be configured to transmit information to a user via any suitable output element. For example, the output element of the peripheral device may include a tactile output element to transmit information to the user via, for example, vibration, touch, force, temperature changes (such as heat or cold pulses), or electrical signals. Additionally or alternatively, the output element may be configured to generate visual signals (such as light signals, symbols, text messages, etc.) or auditory signals (such as sounds, a series of sounds, spoken messages, etc.).

[0113] In one exemplary configuration, the peripheral device is a personal wearable or mobile device that includes a tactile output element for transmitting information. In another exemplary configuration, the peripheral device is a device that a user is currently using and transmits information to the user via visual or auditory signals. In yet another exemplary configuration, the peripheral device is a personal wearable or mobile device that includes a tactile output element that transmits information via the user's touch when the user is not actively using the peripheral device, and another output element that transmits information via visual or auditory signals when the user is actively using the peripheral device.

[0114] Figure 3 An operational flow in an exemplary method 300 is illustrated. Although the operation of method 300 is described with reference to the elements of systems 100 and 200, it should be appreciated that the operation can be implemented by any other appropriately configured system.

[0115] Method 300 includes providing a plurality of tactile output elements (310). Preferably, the plurality of tactile output elements are disposed within and coupled to one or more devices within an aerosol generation system. Such devices may independently include, but are not limited to, aerosol generation devices and peripheral devices. The aerosol generation device may include aerosol generation elements configured to generate an aerosol using any suitable aerosol forming matrix (such as a liquid, gel, or solid). The tactile output elements may be provided as part of an interface that optionally includes any suitable combination of one or more other elements, such as one or more sensors, one or more input elements (such as user-actuable input elements), or one or more logic circuits, in any suitable configuration relative to each other and relative to the housing or peripheral devices of the aerosol generation device. (Refer to the above) Figure 1 and Figure 2 Non-limiting examples of aerosol generating devices and peripheral devices that may include tactile output elements are described.

[0116] Figure 3 The method 300 shown includes providing circuitry (320) coupled to a plurality of tactile output elements. For example, in reference... Figure 1 and 2 In some of the described configurations, the tactile output element (30, 51, or 61, or 30', 51', or 61') can be connected to the control circuitry (13 or 33) of the aerosol generating device via a suitable communication path, and the control circuitry is configured to actuate the tactile output element. Any other suitable circuitry connected to the tactile output element may be provided.

[0117] Figure 3 The method 300 shown also includes independently actuating each of the plurality of tactile output elements (330) by circuitry. For example, in reference to... Figure 1 and 2 In some of the described configurations, the circuitry may optionally actuate each tactile output element in response to any suitable condition, state, or use of one or more devices in the aerosol generation system.

[0118] Although some configurations of the invention have been described with respect to systems comprising a control body and separate but connectable cylinders, it should be clear that the elements may be suitably provided in a single-piece aerosol generation system.

[0119] It should also be understood that alternative configurations are possible within the scope of this invention. For example, the tactile output element of this invention can be suitably integrated into any type of device or system, and is not limited to use in aerosol generation devices and systems. Illustratively, the tactile output element of this invention can be included in medical devices, smartphones, etc.

Claims

1. An aerosol generation system, comprising an aerosol generation device and peripheral devices, the aerosol generation device comprising: A housing, the housing including an air inlet, an air outlet and an airflow path extending between the air inlet and the air outlet; An aerosol generating element is disposed within the housing and configured to generate aerosols within the airflow path; Multiple tactile output elements; A circuit operatively connected to the plurality of tactile output elements and configured to independently actuate each of the plurality of tactile output elements; A first sensor, coupled to the housing and configured to generate a first status signal in response to a user holding the aerosol generating device. The circuit is configured to actuate a first tactile output element among the plurality of tactile output elements in response to the first state signal; as well as A communication interface operatively communicating with the circuit, wherein the circuit is configured to communicate with the peripheral device via the communication interface. The peripheral device includes another tactile output element, and the circuitry is configured to independently actuate the other tactile output element. The circuitry is further configured to instruct the peripheral device via the communication interface to actuate the other tactile output element in response to the absence of the first state signal.

2. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1, wherein at least some of the plurality of tactile output elements are coupled to the housing.

3. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first sensor is further configured to generate a second status signal in response to the user picking up the aerosol generation device, and The circuit is further configured to actuate a second tactile output element among the plurality of tactile output elements in response to the second state signal.

4. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the aerosol generation device further comprises an input element configured to generate a third state signal, and The circuit is further configured to actuate a third tactile output element among the plurality of tactile output elements in response to the third state signal.

5. The aerosol generation system according to claim 4, wherein the input element is selected from the group consisting of: buttons, touch sensors, switches, joysticks, trackballs, touch screens, microphones, dial pads, knobs, pressure sensors, capacitive sensors, airflow sensors, infrared sensors, scanners, optical sensors, cameras, biometric sensors, chemical sensors, temperature sensors, tilt sensors, or motion sensors.

6. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first sensor is selected from the group consisting of: touch sensor, pressure sensor, optical sensor and motion sensor.

7. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the tactile output elements of the plurality of tactile output elements are independently selected from the group consisting of: mechanical actuators, piezoelectric actuators, and thermal output elements.

8. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the aerosol generation element includes a heater.

9. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1 or claim 2 further includes an aerosol generation matrix, wherein the aerosol generation matrix includes nicotine.

10. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the peripheral device includes a second sensor configured to generate a fifth state signal in response to a user holding the peripheral device, and The circuitry is further configured to instruct the peripheral device to actuate the other tactile output element in response to the fifth state signal via the communication interface.

11. The aerosol generation system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the peripheral device is selected from the group consisting of: telephone, smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, smart bracelet, fitness tracker, another aerosol generation device, computer, augmented reality or virtual reality headset, and wireless headphones.

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