Internal sterilization of aerosol-generating devices

Abstract

The aerosol-generating device includes a housing, a cover, a mouthpiece, and at least one UV diode. The housing defines a bladder receiving cavity. The cover is configured to close the housing. The cover is fixedly coupled to the housing by a hinge at a first point and is releasably coupleable to the housing at a second point different from the first point. The mouthpiece can be coupled to the cover opposite the housing such that air entering the housing and sucked through the capsule receiving cavity is discharged from the mouthpiece. The at least one UV diode is configured to sterilize an interior of the aerosol-generating device when the at least one UV diode is actuated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] At least some exemplary embodiments relate to aerosol generating devices, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to internal sterilization of aerosol generating devices. Background Art

[0002] Some electronic devices are configured to heat the plant material to a temperature sufficient to release components of the plant material while maintaining the temperature below the ignition point of the plant material to avoid self-sustaining burning or self-sustaining combustion of the plant material (i.e., in contrast to where the plant material is ignited, such as in a cigarette with a lit end). Such devices may be characterized as generating an aerosol of components released by heating, and may be referred to as heat-not-burn aerosol generating devices, or heat-not-burn devices.

[0003] It is understood that, in some cases, heating the plant material to a temperature below its ignition point may produce incidental and trace amounts of oxidation byproducts or other thermal decomposition byproducts. However, in some embodiments, the heating temperature in the aerosol generating device is below the pyrolysis temperature of the plant material, thereby producing an aerosol without plant material thermal decomposition byproducts or an aerosol with trace amounts of plant material thermal decomposition byproducts. Therefore, in exemplary embodiments, pyrolysis of the plant material does not occur during the heating and thereby generating the aerosol. In other cases, incidental pyrolysis may occur, and the levels of oxidation or other thermal decomposition byproducts produced are negligible relative to the major components released by heating the plant material. Summary of the invention

[0004] Novel and useful systems, apparatus and methods for aerosol generating devices are set forth in the appended claims. Illustrative embodiments are also provided to enable one skilled in the art to make and use the claimed subject matter.

[0005] For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol generating device may include a housing, a cover, a mouthpiece, and at least one UV diode. The housing may define a capsule receiving cavity, and the cover may be configured to close the housing. The cover may be fixedly coupled to the housing at a first point by a hinge, and may be releasably coupled to the housing at a second point different from the first point. The mouthpiece may be coupled to the cover opposite the housing so that air that enters the housing and is drawn through the capsule receiving cavity is discharged from the mouthpiece. The at least one UV diode may be configured to sterilize the interior of the aerosol generating device when the at least one UV diode is actuated.

[0006] In some exemplary embodiments, the cover may include an inner cavity configured to receive the capsule receiving cavity when the cover is coupled to the housing at the second point. In some exemplary embodiments, at least one UV diode may be located within the inner cavity of the cover. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode may be directed toward the housing. The at least one UV diode may be configured to direct UV light toward the housing when the at least one UV diode is actuated. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode may be directed toward the mouthpiece. The at least one UV diode may be configured to direct UV light into the mouthpiece when the at least one UV diode is actuated.

[0007] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode may further include a power contact. The power contact may be configured to contact an electrical connection of the housing when the cover is coupled to the housing at the second point.

[0008] In some exemplary embodiments, the mouthpiece may include a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first end of the mouthpiece may be configured to be coupled to the cover, and the second end of the mouthpiece may include at least one outlet. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode may include a UV-C light ring diode surrounding the at least one outlet of the mouthpiece. In some exemplary embodiments, the UV-C light ring diode may be configured to direct UV light into the mouthpiece when the UV-C light ring diode is actuated.

[0009] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol generating device may further include: a controller located within the housing. In some exemplary embodiments, the controller may be configured to actuate at least one UV diode when the cover is coupled to the housing at the second point and the aerosol generating device is in a non-use mode. In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol generating device may be in a non-use mode when the aerosol generating device is coupled to a charging station. If the aerosol generating device is out of the non-use mode, the at least one UV diode may be configured to turn off. In some embodiments, the at least one UV diode may be configured to operate the at least one UV diode for a predetermined amount of time. The predetermined amount of time may be an amount of time required to sterilize the interior of the aerosol generating device.

[0010] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol generating device may further comprise a communication screen and a power button.The communication screen may be configured to output information related to the at least one UV diode.

[0011] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode may include a UV-C diode.

[0012] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode may be configured to emit UV light having a wavelength ranging from 100 nanometers to 280 nanometers.

[0013] Also described herein is a method of sterilizing the interior of an aerosol generating device. The method may include placing the aerosol generating device in a non-use mode, actuating at least one UV diode of the aerosol generating device, and operating the at least one UV diode for a predetermined amount of time. In some exemplary embodiments, placing the aerosol generating device in the non-use mode may include placing the aerosol generating device on a charging station to recharge the aerosol generating device. In some exemplary embodiments, the predetermined amount of time may be the amount of time required to sterilize the interior of the aerosol generating device. In some exemplary embodiments, if the aerosol generating device is taken out of the non-use mode, the at least one UV diode may be turned off.

[0014] The objects, advantages, and preferred ways of making and using the claimed subject matter may best be understood by referring to the drawings and combining with the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] When reviewing the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, the various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein will become more apparent. The accompanying drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. Unless expressly noted, the accompanying drawings are not to be considered drawn to scale. For clarity, the various dimensions of the accompanying drawings may have been exaggerated.

[0016] Figure 1 is an upper right front perspective view of an aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0017] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A lower right front perspective view of an aerosol generating device is shown.

[0018] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A bottom view of an aerosol generating device is shown.

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A top view of an aerosol generating device is shown.

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 An upper right front perspective view of the aerosol generating device is shown with the lid open.

[0021] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A rear perspective view of an aerosol generating device is shown.

[0022] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A top view of an aerosol generating device is shown.

[0023] Figure 8 It includes the cyst Figure 5 Upper right front perspective view of the aerosol generating device shown in .

[0024] Fig. 9 yes Figure 5 A side view of an aerosol generating device is shown.

[0025] Fig.10 yes Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device is shown.

[0026] Fig.11 yes Figure 8 A partial front perspective view of an aerosol generating device is shown with a portion of the housing removed.

[0027] Fig.12 is an upper right front perspective view of a mouthpiece according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0028] Fig.13 yes Fig.12 A front view of the cigarette holder is shown.

[0029] Fig.14 yes Fig.12 A first side view of a cigarette holder is shown in FIG.

[0030] Fig.15 yes Fig.12 Bottom view of the cigarette holder shown.

[0031] Fig.16 yes Fig.12 A top view of the cigarette holder is shown.

[0032] Fig.17 is in sterilization mode while coupled to the charging station Figure 1 A partial cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device.

[0033] Fig.18 is a partial cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generating device.

[0034] Fig.19 is in sterilization mode while coupled to the charging station Fig.18 A partial cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating device.

[0035] Fig. 20 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Some detailed exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein. However, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for the purpose of describing the exemplary embodiments. However, the exemplary embodiments may be implemented in many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth herein.

[0037] Therefore, although the exemplary embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, exemplary embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the exemplary embodiments to the specific forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the exemplary embodiments will cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives that fall within the scope of the exemplary embodiments. Throughout the description of the drawings, the same reference numerals represent the same elements.

[0038] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on another element or layer," "connected to another element or layer," "coupled to another element or layer," or "covering another element or layer," the element or layer may be directly located on, directly connected to, directly coupled to, or directly covering the other element or layer, or there may be intermediate elements or layers. Conversely, when an element is referred to as being "directly located on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intermediate elements or layers. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed associations.

[0039] It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used in this article to describe different elements, regions, layers and / or parts, these elements, regions, layers and / or parts should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, region, layer or part from another region, layer or part. Therefore, the first element, component, region, layer or part discussed below can be referred to as the second element, region, layer or part without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0040] For ease of description, spatially related terms (e.g., "below," "beneath," "lower," "above," "upper," etc.) may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as shown in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that, in addition to the orientations described in the accompanying drawings, spatially related terms are intended to include different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the accompanying drawings is turned over, an element described as "below other elements or features" or "below other elements or features" will be oriented to be "above other elements or features." Therefore, the term "below" can include both above and below orientations. The device can be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially related descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0041] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing different exemplary embodiments only and are not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should be further understood that the terms "includes", "including", "comprises", and / or "comprising" indicate the presence of stated features, wholes, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0042] When the term "approximately" or "substantially" is used in conjunction with a numerical value in this specification, it means that the relevant numerical value includes a manufacturing or operating tolerance around the numerical value (e.g., ±10%). In addition, when the term "approximately" or "substantially" is used in conjunction with a geometric shape, it means that the accuracy of the geometric shape is not required, but the freedom of the shape is within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, whether a numerical value or shape is modified to "approximately", "approximately" or "substantially", it should be understood that these values ​​and shapes should be interpreted as including a manufacturing or operating tolerance around the numerical value or shape (e.g., ±10%).

[0043] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments belong. It should also be understood that, unless explicitly defined herein, terms (including those defined in commonly used dictionaries) should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technical field and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0044] As used herein, "coupled" includes detachably coupled and permanently coupled. For example, when the elastic layer and the supporting layer are detachably coupled together, the elastic layer and the supporting layer can be separated as long as sufficient force is applied.

[0045] The hardware may be implemented using processing or control circuitry such as, but not limited to, one or more processors, one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microcontrollers, one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), one or more microcomputers, one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more systems on a chip (SoCs), one or more programmable logic units (PLUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or any other device capable of responding to and executing instructions in a defined manner.

[0046] Figures 1 to 11 is a diagram of an aerosol generating device 100 according to some exemplary embodiments. Figure 1 , showing a top perspective view of an aerosol generating device 100. In some embodiments, the body of the aerosol generating device 100 may have a generally oblong or pebble shape. The body of the aerosol generating device 100 may include a housing 102 and a lid 104. The housing 102 may have a first end 106 and a second end 108 opposite the first end 106. The lid may have a first end 110 and a second end 112 opposite the first end 110. The first end 110 of the lid 104 may be fixedly coupled to the second end 108 of the housing 102 at a first point 114 and may be releasably coupled to the second end 108 of the housing 102 at a second point 116. The first point 114 of the housing 102 may be located on a first side 118 of the aerosol generating device 100. The second point 116 of the housing 102 may be located on a second side 120 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0047] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol generating device 100 may further include a mouthpiece 122. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the mouthpiece 122 may include: a first end 124 and a second end 126 opposite the first end 124. The second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 may be coupled to the second end 112 of the cover 104. In some embodiments, the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 may be releasably coupled to the second end 112 of the cover 104. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece 122 may taper between the first end 124 and the second end 126. For example, the diameter or average length / width dimension of the first end 124 may be smaller than the diameter or average length / width dimension of the second end 126. Towards the first end 124, the taper may have: a slight inward curve 128, which is configured to receive the lips of an adult consumer and improve comfort and experience. In some embodiments, the first end 124 may have an oblong or oval shape and may include one or more outlets 130. For example, the first end 124 may include four outlets 130 so that four or more different areas or quadrants of an adult consumer's mouth may be engaged during use of the aerosol generating device 100. In other embodiments, the mouthpiece 122 may have fewer than four outlets 130 or more than four outlets 130.

[0048] In some exemplary embodiments, the housing 102 may include a consumer interface panel 132 disposed on the second side 120 of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the consumer interface panel 132 may be an oval panel extending along the second side 120 of the aerosol generating device 100. The consumer interface panel 132 may include a latch release button 134 and a communication screen 136 and / or a power button 138. For example, in at least some exemplary embodiments, the consumer interface panel 132 may include a communication screen 136 disposed between the latch release button 134 and the power button 138. As shown, the latch release button 134 may be disposed toward the second end 108 of the aerosol generating device 100, while the power button 138 may be disposed toward the first end 106 of the aerosol generating device 100. The latch release button 134 and the power button 138 may be adult consumer interaction buttons. The latch release button 134 and the power button 138 may have a generally circular shape with a central depression or recess configured to guide pressure applied by an adult consumer, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The power button 138 may turn the aerosol generating device 100 on and off. Although only two buttons are shown, it will be appreciated that more or fewer buttons may be provided depending on the available features and the desired adult consumer interface.

[0049] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the communication screen 136 may be an integrated thin film transistor ("TFT") screen. In other exemplary embodiments, the communication screen 136 is an organic light emitting diode ("OLED") or light emitting diode ("LED") screen. The communication screen 136 is configured for adult consumer engagement and may have a generally oblong shape.

[0050] In some exemplary embodiments, the first end 124 of the mouthpiece 122 may also include at least one UV light diode 140. Figure 1 As shown, the mouthpiece 122 may include: a plurality of UV light diodes 140, which are arranged inside or around the four outlets 130. In some embodiments, the plurality of UV light diodes 140 may be UV light ring diodes. More specifically, in some embodiments, the plurality of UV light diodes 140 may be UV-C light ring diodes or UV-C flexible diodes. In other embodiments, the plurality of UV light diodes 140 may be UV-C diodes. The plurality of UV light diodes 140 may be configured to emit UV light having a wavelength range of 100 nanometers to 280 nanometers. The plurality of UV light diodes 140 may be configured to direct UV light into the mouthpiece 122 when the plurality of UV light diodes 140 are actuated. In some embodiments, the communication screen 136 may be configured to output information about at least one UV light diode 140.

[0051] In some embodiments, the exterior of the housing 102 and / or the cover 104 may be formed of metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, etc.), aesthetically pleasing food-contact grade plastic (e.g., polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), copolyester plastic, or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic), or any combination thereof. The mouthpiece 122 may similarly be formed of metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, etc.), aesthetically pleasing food-contact grade plastic (e.g., polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), copolyester plastic, or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic), and / or plant-based materials (e.g., wood, bamboo, etc.). One or more interior surfaces of the housing 102 and / or the cover 104 may be formed of or coated with a high-temperature plastic (e.g., polyetheretherketone (PEEK) or liquid crystal polymer (LCP), etc.).

[0052] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 , showing a bottom perspective view of the aerosol generating device 100 and Figure 1100 . In some embodiments, the housing 102 may further include a charging connector or port 202. For example, the port 202 may be defined / disposed in the first end 106 of the housing 102. The port 202 may be configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB data cable) to charge the power source inside the aerosol generating device 100. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the port 202 may be a component defining a cavity 204 having a protrusion 206 therein. In an exemplary embodiment, the protrusion 206 does not extend beyond the edge of the cavity 204. In addition, the port 202 may also be configured to send data to or receive data from another aerosol generating device (e.g., a heat-not-burn (HNB) aerosol generating device) and / or other electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, tablets, computers, etc.). In at least one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 may be alternatively or additionally configured for wireless communication with other aerosol generating devices and / or electronic devices (e.g., via Bluetooth).

[0053] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the protective grille 208 is disposed around the port 202. The protective grille 208 can be configured to help reduce or prevent debris from intruding into the incoming airflow and / or inadvertently blocking the incoming airflow. For example, the protective grille 208 can define a plurality of holes 210 along its length or route. As shown, the protective grille 208 can have an annular form surrounding the port 202. In this regard, the plurality of holes 210 can also be arranged (e.g., arranged in series) around the port 202. Each of the plurality of holes 210 can have an elliptical or circular shape, but is not limited thereto. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the protective grille 208 can include an approved food contact material. For example, the protective grille 208 can include plastic, metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum), or a combination thereof. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the surface of the protective grille 208 can be coated (e.g., coated with a thin layer of plastic), and / or anodized.

[0054] The plurality of holes 210 in the protective grille 208 may serve as an inlet for air to be drawn into the aerosol generating device 100. During operation of the aerosol generating device 100, ambient air entering through the plurality of holes 210 in the protective grille 208 around the port 202 will converge to form a combined flow, which then passes through the aerosol generating device 100. More specifically, air may be drawn through the plurality of holes 210 in the protective grille 208 around the port 202, through the aerosol generating device 100, and out of the mouthpiece 122.

[0055] Figure 4 Shows Figures 1 to 31. A top view of the aerosol generating device 100 in FIG. 1. The UV light diodes 140 may be disposed around the four outlets 130 of the mouthpiece 122. The UV light diodes 140 may be coupled to the mouthpiece 122 by adhesive, welding, or another method or device of fixing the UV light diodes 140 in a suitable position at the mouthpiece 122. In some embodiments, the UV light diodes 140 may be connected via wires 402. The wires 402 may provide communication between each UV light diode 140 and the housing 102 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0056] Figure 5 and Figure 6 Different top perspective views of the aerosol generating device 100 are shown, wherein the lid 104 is in an open configuration. The lid 104 can be fixedly coupled to the housing 102 at a first point 114 by a hinge 502 or other similar connector, thereby allowing the lid 104 to move (e.g., swing and rotate) from an open position to a closed position. In some embodiments, the hinge 502 can be a torsion spring. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the housing 102 can include a recess 504 at the first point 114. The recess 504 can be configured to receive a portion of the lid 104 so as to allow the lid 104 to move easily and smoothly from an open position to a closed position (or vice versa). The recess 504 can have a structure corresponding to a relative portion of the lid 104. For example, as shown, the recess 504 can include a substantially curved portion 506 having a generally concave shape that corresponds to the curvature of the lid 104 having a generally convex shape.

[0057] The lid 104 can be releasably coupled to the housing 102 at the second point 116 via a latch 508 or other similar connector, thereby allowing the lid 104 to be installed or secured in a closed position and easily released to allow the lid 104 to be moved from the closed position to the open position. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the latch 508 can be coupled to a latch release mechanism disposed within the housing. The latch release mechanism can be configured to move the latch 508 from a first or closed position to a second or open position.

[0058] When the cover 104 is in the Figure 5 In the open position shown, the capsule receiving cavity 510 of the housing 102 is exposed. The capsule connector 512 can define the capsule receiving cavity 510 of the housing 102. In some embodiments, the capsule connector 512 can be mounted or otherwise secured to a printed circuit board (PCB) within the housing 102.

[0059] In some embodiments, the housing 102 may also include at least one communication point 514. The at least one communication point 514 may be a power contact point or a communication point that may be configured to interact with the at least one UV light diode 140 when the lid 104 is in the closed position. The at least one communication point, power contact point, or communication point are electrical contacts, and these terms may be used interchangeably throughout the specification. In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one communication point 514 may be a sensor that may be configured to sense when the lid 104 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, when the at least one communication point 514 senses that the lid 104 is in the closed position, the at least one UV light diode 140 may be actuated. Figure 5 As shown, at least one communication point 514 can be more than one communication point, such as three communication points. For example, in an embodiment where at least one communication point 514 is three communication points, one communication point can be: a positive power supply electrode, which can be configured to provide power between the housing 102 and the lid 104. Another communication point can be: a negative power supply electrode, which can be configured to work with the positive power supply electrode to provide power between the housing 102 and the lid 104. The last communication point can be: a logic current line, which can be configured to facilitate communication between the housing 102 and the lid 104.

[0060] In some embodiments, the logic current line may be an off switch that prevents the at least one UV light diode 140 from being actuated when the cover 104 is in an open position relative to the housing 102. The logic current line may also control the current output from the housing 104 to the at least one UV light diode 140. The logic current line may be configured to control the operation of the at least one UV light diode 140. For example, the logic current line may be configured to operate the at least one UV light diode at different amounts and / or different wavelengths based on communications from a printed circuit board of the housing 104. In some embodiments, the logic current line may also be configured to facilitate communication of the overall performance of the at least one UV light diode 140 between the at least one UV light diode 140 and the printed circuit board of the housing 104. For example, the printed circuit board may be configured to send a maximum amount of current to the at least one UV light diode 140 via the logic current line. Based on the current received via the logic current line or one of the other communication points 514, the printed circuit board may be configured to determine the overall performance of the at least one UV light diode 140. If the at least one UV light diode 140 is not operating as expected, a message may be output from the aerosol generating device 100 that may inform the user of the overall performance of the at least one UV light diode. In some embodiments, the printed circuit board may include a logic chip that may enable the printed circuit board to communicate with the at least one UV light diode 140 via logic current lines.

[0061] The lid 104 may include an interior cavity 516 that may be adapted to receive the housing 102 when the lid is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the interior cavity 516 of the lid 104 may include an impact or engagement member or surface 520 that is configured to engage the capsule when the lid 104 is pivoted to transition to the closed position. The surface 520 of the lid 104 may include a recess that may correspond to the size and shape of the capsule and / or the elastic material to enhance the interface with the capsule to provide a desired seal. In some embodiments, the lid 104 may also include an opening 522 that may be adapted to receive the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122. The mouthpiece 122 may include at least one extension 524 that may be received by the opening 522 of the lid 104 to secure the mouthpiece 122 to the lid 104. In some embodiments, the lid 104 may also include a protrusion that may be configured to couple with the recess 526 of the housing 102. The protrusion may fit within the recess 526 when the lid 104 is coupled to the housing 102 in the closed position.

[0062] Reference Figure 7 , shows a top view of the aerosol generating device 100, wherein the lid 104 is in an open configuration. The capsule receiving cavity 510 can have a base 702, which can be located inside the housing 102. In some embodiments, the base 702 can include a first contact point 704 and a second contact point 706. The first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706 can be configured to be coupled to contact points of a capsule that can be received by the capsule receiving cavity 510.

[0063] Reference Figure 8 , showing a top perspective view of the aerosol generating device 100. The capsule 802 can be received by the capsule receiving cavity 510. In some embodiments not shown herein, a gasket can be provided around the capsule 802 to help secure the capsule 802 in place within the housing 102. The capsule 802 can include a housing 804 configured to accommodate an aerosol-forming substrate and a heater. In some embodiments, the housing 804 can take the form of a cover such as a housing or a packaging box envelope. In some embodiments, the housing 804 can include a first end cap 806 and a second end cap. The second end cap can be opposite to the first end cap 806, such that: when the capsule 802 is received by the capsule receiving cavity 510, the second end cap is arranged inside the housing 102.

[0064] The first end cap 806 may include a first opening 808. In some embodiments, the first opening 808 may be a series of openings disposed through the first end cap 806. Similarly, the second end cap may include a second opening, which may be a series of openings in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the first end cap 806 and / or the second end cap may be transparent so as to function as a window configured to allow viewing of the contents / components within the capsule 802 (e.g., an aerosol-forming substrate and / or a heater).

[0065] When the capsule 802 is inserted into the capsule receiving cavity 510, the weight of the capsule 802 itself may not be sufficient to compress the first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706. Therefore, the capsule 802 may simply rest on the exposed pins of the first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706 without any compression (or any significant compression) of the electrical contacts of the first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706. In addition, when the lid 104 itself is pivoted to transition to the closed position, its weight may not compress the electrical contacts of the first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706 to any significant extent, but may simply rest on the capsule 802 in the intermediate, partially open / closed position. In this case, the intentional action of closing the lid 104 (e.g., a downward force) will cause the surface 520 of the lid 104 to press downwardly onto the capsule 802 to provide the desired seal, and also cause the capsule 802 to compress, thereby fully engaging the electrical contacts of the first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706. Additionally, full closing of the lid 104 may result in engagement with the latch 508, which may maintain the closed position and the desired mechanical / electrical engagement with the capsule 802 until released (e.g., via the latch release button 134). The force required to close the lid 104 may help ensure and / or improve the air / aerosol seal, and provide a more robust electrical connection as well as improve device, thermal efficiency, and battery life by reducing or eliminating early power consumption and / or parasitic heating of the capsule 802.

[0066] Reference Fig. 9, shows a side view of the aerosol generating device 100, wherein the lid 104 is in an open configuration. At least one UV light diode 140 can be seen through one or more outlets 130 of the mouthpiece. In some embodiments, the at least one UV light diode 140 can be a first UV light diode. A second UV light diode 902 can be disposed within the inner cavity 516 of the lid 104. Similar to the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902 can be a UV-C diode. In some embodiments. The second UV light diode 902 can be configured to emit UV light in a wavelength range of 100 nanometers to 280 nanometers. The second UV light diode 902 can be configured to transmit UV light to the interior of the housing 102 (e.g., the capsule receiving cavity 510) and any gasket around the capsule receiving cavity 510 when the lid 104 is in the closed position. More specifically, the second UV light diode 902 can be configured to disinfect the interior of the housing 102 when the lid 104 is coupled to the housing 102 in the closed position and the second UV light diode 902 is actuated.

[0067] At least one contact point 904 may be disposed within the inner cavity 516 of the lid 104. The at least one contact point 904 may be configured to couple to at least one communication point 514 of the housing 102. In some embodiments, the at least one contact point 904 may be a copper disk contact point, and the at least one communication point 514 may be a copper spring-loaded contact point. In other embodiments, the at least one contact point 904 may be a copper spring-loaded contact point, and the at least one communication point 514 may be a copper disk contact point. In any of the above configurations, the copper disk contact point may be coupled with the copper spring-loaded contact point to communicatively couple the lid 104 and the housing 102. The at least one contact point 904 and the at least one communication point 514 may provide communication between the lid 104 and the housing 102. In some embodiments, the at least one contact point 904 may be more than one contact point, such as three contact points. In an embodiment having three contact points, each of the three contact points may be aligned with one of the at least one communication point 514. For example, two of the three contact points may be coupled with a positive power source and a negative power source to provide power between the housing 102 and the lid 104. The last contact point can be coupled to a logic current line to facilitate communication between the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 and the electronic components (e.g., a printed circuit board) of the housing 102. In some embodiments, at least one contact point 904 can be coupled to one or both of the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902.

[0068] Protrusion 906 (similar to the above reference Figure 5The protrusion 906 described above can be disposed adjacent to the second UV light diode 902. The protrusion 906 can be received by the recess 526 when the cover 104 is coupled to the housing 102 in the closed position.

[0069] Reference Fig.10 , shows a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device 100, wherein the lid 104 is opened and the capsule 802 is received by the housing 102. In some exemplary embodiments, the housing 102 surrounds or houses the latch release mechanism 1002 as well as the power source 1004 and the processing or control circuitry (e.g., the controller 1006). The latch release mechanism 1002 can communicate with the latch release button 134. The latch release button 134 can be configured to: activate the latch release mechanism 1002 (i.e., move the latch 508 from a first or closed or fixed position to a second or pressure applying position, and move / return the latch 508 from an open position to a fixed or closed position). As described above with reference to Figure 1 As described, the latch release button 134 can be an adult consumer interactive button disposed on the second side 120 of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, when the adult consumer presses the latch release button 134, the latch release mechanism 1002 can move from a first or closed or fixed position to a second or pressure-applying position, thereby moving the latch 508 from a fixed or closed position to an open position. The latch release button 134 can have a substantially circular shape, wherein a central depression or recess is configured to guide the pressure applied by the adult consumer, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. One or more sensors (not shown) configured to detect the opening and closing of the lid 104 can be embedded or otherwise disposed within the housing 102 and / or one or more elements thereof (e.g., the latch 508, the latch release mechanism 1002, the latch release button 134).

[0070] The controller 1006 can be: hardware including logic circuits; a hardware / software combination, such as a processor that executes software; or a combination thereof. For example, the controller 1006 can include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a system on a chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc. The controller 1006 can be configured to actuate the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 when the lid 104 is coupled to the housing 102 in a closed position. In some embodiments, the controller 1006 can be configured to modify the wavelength of light emitted by the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 according to the desired sterilization. The current supply of the power source 1004 can be responsive to manual operation (e.g., button activation) or automatic operation (e.g., suction activation). The power source 1004 can include one or more batteries (e.g., a rechargeable dual battery device, a lithium-ion battery, and / or a fuel cell). In at least some example embodiments, the controller 1006 may also include a haptic motor, which may be disposed on one side of the power source 1004 .

[0071] In some embodiments, there may be at least one wire (e.g., a first wire 1010) that can couple the at least one UV light diode 140 of the mouthpiece 122 to the lid 104. In some embodiments, there may be a contact point on the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 that can couple the at least one UV light diode 140 to the lid 104. The contact point on the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 can be coupled to at least one contact point 904 of the lid 104 to provide communication between the mouthpiece 122 and the lid 104. In some embodiments, the second UV light diode 902 can also be coupled to the contact point on the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122. In other embodiments, there may be a second wire 1012 that couples the second UV light diode 902 to the at least one contact point 904. There may be a third wire 1014 that can couple the at least one communication point 514 of the housing to the controller 1006. In some embodiments, the first wire 1010, the second wire 1012, and the third wire 1014 can all be flat wires with minimal profile and can be disposed inside the mouthpiece 122, the lid 104, and the housing 102, respectively. The first wire 1010, the second wire 1012, and the third wire 1014 can all be configured to provide communication between the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902, and the controller 1006. In some embodiments, the at least one UV light diode 140 and the UV light diode 902 can have a voltage of about 6.5 volts to about 7.2 volts and a current of about 5 milliamps to about 30 milliamps. The wire gauge of each of the first wire 1010, the second wire 1012, and the third wire 1014 can be about 37 American wire gauge (AWG) to about 38 AWG so that the UV diode 138 works as expected.

[0072] Reference Fig.11, showing a partial perspective view of the aerosol generating device 100. A portion of the housing 102 has been removed to show various internal components of the aerosol generating device 100. In some embodiments, the housing 102 encloses or houses an air hose 1102. The air hose 1102 can extend between the capsule receiving cavity 510 and the plurality of holes 210 and / or physically connect the capsule receiving cavity 510 with the plurality of holes 210. The air channel assembly 1104 can also be provided as an intermediary between the air hose 1102 and the plurality of holes 210. In this case, the air channel assembly 1104 can be configured to direct the incoming airflow (inhaled through the plurality of holes 210) to the air hose 1102. In some embodiments, the air channel assembly 1104 can include an airflow restrictor configured to provide optional control of the airflow through the aerosol generating device 100. In some embodiments, one or more flow sensors 1106 can be provided within the air channel assembly or along the air channel assembly 1104 and / or along the air hose 1102. In at least one exemplary embodiment, one or more flow sensors 1106 include a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) flow or pressure sensor or another type of sensor configured to measure air flow, such as a hot wire anemometer. In at least one exemplary embodiment, one or more flow sensors 1106 may include a pressure sensor (e.g., a capacitive pressure sensor) configured to measure negative pressure during a puff event. In at least one exemplary embodiment, air channel assembly 1104 may omit one or more flow sensors 1106.

[0073] Reference Figures 12 to 16 , the mouthpiece 122 is shown from several different angles. Fig.12 is a top right front perspective view of the cigarette holder 122, Fig.13 is a front view of the cigarette holder 122, Fig.14 is a first side view of the cigarette holder 122, Fig.15 is a bottom view of the cigarette holder 122, and Fig.16 1 is a top view of the mouthpiece 122. The second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 may include a ledge 1202, one or more ridges 1204, and one or more coupling structures 1206, which may be configured to position or align the mouthpiece 122 relative to the cover 104. The one or more coupling structures 1206 may be a convex or protruding coupler. For example, as shown, the mouthpiece 122 may include four convex or protruding couplers, two disposed along each major length of the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122.

[0074] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 122 may further include a contact point 1208, which may be disposed on the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122. The contact point 1208 may be similar to the contact point 1208 described above with reference to Fig.10 The contact point on the second end 126 of the cigarette holder 122.

[0075] In some embodiments, at least one UV light diode 140 can be directed from one or more outlets 130 toward the interior of the mouthpiece 122. The at least one UV light diode can be configured to sterilize the interior of the mouthpiece 122 when the mouthpiece 122 is coupled to the cover 104 and the at least one UV light diode 140 is actuated by the controller 1006.

[0076] Reference Fig.17 , showing the aerosol generating device 100 coupled to the charging station 1702, and the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 being activated. When an adult consumer uses the aerosol generating device 100, the adult consumer may place his lips on the first end 124 of the mouthpiece 122 and breathe or inhale air through the mouthpiece 122. As a result of using the aerosol generating device 100, air and saliva exhaled by the adult consumer may be introduced into the interior of the mouthpiece 122, the cover 104, and the housing 102. When the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 are activated, any bacteria, mold, viruses, or other potentially harmful contaminants may be sterilized by the UV light emitted by the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902.

[0077] like Fig.17 As shown, the first wire 1010 can couple the at least one UV light diode 140 to the contact point 1208. The fourth wire 1704 can couple the contact point 1208 to the at least one contact point 904. The fourth wire 1704 can be substantially similar to the first wire 1010, the second wire 1012, and / or the third wire 1014 described above. The second wire 1012 can couple the second UV light diode 902 to the at least one contact point 904. When the lid 104 is closed, the at least one contact point 904 can be coupled to the at least one communication point 514 of the housing 102. When the at least one contact point 904 is coupled to the at least one communication point 514, the controller 1006 can be coupled to or communicate with the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902.

[0078] In some embodiments, the first end 106 of the aerosol generating device 100 may be configured to be coupled to a charging station 1702. For example, in some embodiments, the port 202 may be received by the charging station 1702. When the aerosol generating device 100 is coupled to the charging station 1702, it may be in a non-use mode. When in the non-use mode, the controller 1006 may actuate the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902.

[0079] When the at least one UV light diode 140 is actuated by a processing or control circuit such as the controller 1006, it may emit UV light 1706 into the interior of the mouthpiece 122. When the at least one UV light diode 140 is a UV light ring diode, the UV light 1706 may be emitted from a plurality of UV light diodes such that the entire interior of the mouthpiece 122 is sterilized by the UV light 1706. In some embodiments, the UV light 1706 may exit the second end 126 of the mouthpiece to enter the cover 104 and the housing 102 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0080] When the second UV light diode 902 is actuated by a processing or control circuit such as the controller 1006, it may emit UV light 1708 inside the lid 104 from the second end 112 of the lid 104 toward the first end 110 of the lid 104. The UV light 1708 may be directed toward the housing 102 such that the capsule 802 and the capsule receiving cavity 510 may be sterilized by the UV light 1708. In some embodiments, when the aerosol generating device 100 is coupled to the charging station 1702, the capsule 802 may not be disposed inside the capsule receiving cavity 510. When the capsule 802 is not inside the capsule receiving cavity 510, the UV light 1708 may be emitted from the second UV light diode 902 and may reach the interior of the capsule receiving cavity 510 and may continue into the interior 102 of the housing. When the adult consumer uses the aerosol generating device 100, the UV light 1708 may sterilize the lid 104 and the interior of the housing 102 that may come into contact with air or saliva exhaled by the adult consumer.

[0081] In some embodiments, the controller 1006 may be configured to operate the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 for a predetermined amount of time that is configured to sterilize the interior of the aerosol generating device 100. If the lid 104 is released from the housing 102 while the at least one UV light diode 140 or the second UV light diode 902 is actuated, the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 may be turned off. Similarly, if the aerosol generating device 100 is removed from the charging station 1702 while the at least one UV light diode 140 or the second UV light diode 902 is actuated, the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 may be turned off.

[0082] Reference Fig.18, another embodiment of the aerosol generating device 100 is shown. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a third UV light diode 1802. The third UV light diode 1802 may be configured to direct UV light from the second end 112 of the cover 104 to the interior of the mouthpiece 122. In some embodiments, a fifth wire 1804 may be configured to couple the third UV light diode 1802 to at least one contact point 904 of the cover 104. The fifth wire 1804 may be substantially similar to the first wire 1010, the second wire 1012, and / or the third wire 1014 described above. Similar to the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902, the third UV light diode 1802 may be a UV-C diode. In some embodiments. The third UV light diode 1802 may be configured to emit UV light having a wavelength range of 100 nanometers to 280 nanometers.

[0083] Reference Fig.19 , Fig.18 The aerosol generating device 100 is shown connected to a charging station 1702, with the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902 and the third UV light diode 1802 being activated. Fig.19 Can be used with Fig.17 1702. The aerosol generating device 100 may be substantially similar, such that the first end 106 of the aerosol generating device 100 may be configured to be coupled to the charging station 1702. When the aerosol generating device 100 is coupled to the charging station 1702, it may be in a non-use mode. When in the non-use mode, the controller 1006 may actuate the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902, and the third UV light diode 1802.

[0084] When the at least one UV light diode 140 is activated, it may emit UV light 1706 to the interior of the mouthpiece 122. When the at least one UV light diode 140 is a UV light ring diode, the UV light 1706 may be emitted from a plurality of UV diodes such that the entire interior of the mouthpiece 122 is sterilized by the UV light 1706. In some embodiments, the UV light 1706 may exit the second end 126 of the mouthpiece to enter the cover 104 and the housing 102 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0085] When the second UV light diode 902 is activated, it may emit UV light 1708 inside the lid 104 from the second end 112 of the lid 104 toward the first end 110 of the lid 104. The UV light 1708 may be directed toward the housing 102 so that the capsule 802 and the capsule receiving cavity 510 may be sterilized by the UV light 708. In some embodiments, when the aerosol generating device 100 is coupled to the charging station 1702, the capsule 802 may not be disposed within the capsule receiving cavity 510. When the capsule 802 is not within the capsule receiving cavity 510, the UV light 1708 may be emitted from the second UV light diode 902, may reach the interior of the capsule receiving cavity 510, and may continue into the interior of the housing 102. The UV light 1708 may sterilize the lid 104 and the interior of the housing 102 that may come into contact with air or saliva exhaled by the adult consumer when the aerosol generating device 100 is used.

[0086] When the third UV light diode 1802 is activated, it can emit UV light 1902 from the second end 112 of the cover 104 toward the mouthpiece 122. The third UV light diode 1802 can be configured to sterilize the second end 112 of the cover and the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 near where the mouthpiece 122 and the cover 104 are coupled together. In some embodiments, the UV light 1902 can enter the interior of the mouthpiece 122 and cooperate with the UV light 1706 to sterilize the interior of the mouthpiece 122.

[0087] In some embodiments, the controller 1006 may be configured to operate the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902, and the third UV light diode 1802 for a predetermined amount of time that is configured to sterilize the interior of the aerosol generating device 100. If the lid 104 is released from the housing 102 while the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902, or the third UV light diode 1802 is actuated, the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902, and the third UV light diode 1802 may be turned off. Similarly, if the aerosol generating device 100 is removed from the charging station 1702 while the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902, or the third UV light diode 1802 is actuated, the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902, and the third UV light diode 1802 may be turned off.

[0088] Reference Fig. 20 , a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. In one example, the aerosol generating device may be an aerosol generating device 100 .

[0089] like Fig. 20As shown, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, the control subsystem 2000 may include a controller 2005, a power supply 2010, an actuator control 2015, a capsule electrical / data interface 2020, a device sensor 2025, an input / output (I / O) interface 2030, an aerosol indicator 2035, at least one antenna 2040, at least one UV diode 2045 and / or a storage medium 2050, etc., but the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the control subsystem 2000 may include additional elements. However, for the sake of brevity, the additional elements are not described. In other exemplary embodiments, the capsule electrical / data interface 2020 may be only an electrical interface, etc. In some embodiments, the capsule electrical / data interface 2020 may include a heater for the capsule.

[0090] The controller 2005 may be: hardware including logic circuits; a hardware / software combination, such as a processor that executes software; or a combination thereof. For example, the controller 2005 may include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a system on a chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.

[0091] In the case where the controller 2005 is or includes a processor that executes software, the controller 2005 is configured as a special purpose machine (e.g., a processing device) to execute software stored in a memory accessible to the controller 2005 (e.g., the storage medium 2050 or another storage device) to perform the functions of the controller 2005. The software may be embodied as program code that includes instructions for performing and / or controlling any or all of the operations described herein as being performed by the controller 2005.

[0092] As disclosed herein, the term "storage medium", "computer-readable storage medium" or "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" may refer to: one or more devices for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, magnetic core memory, magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices and / or other tangible machine-readable media for storing information. The term "computer-readable medium" may include, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media capable of storing, containing or carrying instructions and / or data.

[0093] The controller 2005 communicates with a power source 2010, an actuator control 2015, a capsule electrical / data interface 2020, a device sensor 2025, an input / output (I / O) interface 2030, an aerosol indicator 2035, at least one UV diode 2045, an in-product control 2055, and / or at least one antenna 2040, etc. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the in-product control 2055 may include any device that can be manually operated by an adult operator to indicate the selection of a value. Exemplary embodiments include, but are not limited to, one or more buttons, dials, capacitive sensors, and sliders, etc.

[0094] The controller 2005 (or storage medium 2050) stores key materials and proprietary algorithm software for encryption. For example, encryption algorithms rely on the use of random numbers. The security of these algorithms depends on the randomness of these numbers. These numbers are usually pre-generated and encoded into a processor or memory device. Exemplary embodiments can increase the randomness of the numbers used for encryption by using aerosol puff parameters (e.g., the duration of an aerosol puff instance, the interval between aerosol puff instances, or a combination thereof) to generate more random and individual numbers than pre-generated random numbers. All communications between the controller 2005 and the capsule 802 can be encrypted.

[0095] The controller 2005 is configured to operate a real-time operating system (RTOS), control the control subsystem 2000, and the controller 2005 can be updated by reading and / or sensing update information from a tag, chip and / or label (e.g., a security tag, a security chip, etc.) included on the capsule 802; by communicating with the NVM or CC-NVM; and / or when the control subsystem 2000 is connected to other devices (e.g., a smart phone) via the I / O interface 2030 and / or the at least one antenna 2040. For example, the update information may include parameter information related to the corresponding capsule, such as heater parameter information and / or heater profile information customized and / or for the aerosol-forming substrate contained in the installed capsule 802, capsule authentication update information, and information related to the capsule authentication method (e.g., security settings related to the capsule, updates of security keys used during authentication, etc.), programming updates, etc. In addition, the I / O interface 2030 and the at least one antenna 2040 allow the control subsystem 2000 to be connected to various external devices, such as smart phones, tablets, and computers, etc. For example, the I / O interface 2030 may include a USB-C connector, a micro USB connector, etc. The USB-C connector (e.g., port 202) may be used by the control subsystem 2000 to charge the power source 2010 (e.g., which may correspond to the power source 1004), and may also be used to send and / or receive data from at least one external device, such as an aerosol profile, a heater profile, device performance log data (e.g., controller performance data, memory performance data, battery performance data, heater performance data, etc.), firmware upgrades, software upgrades, etc., but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0096] The controller 2005 may include onboard RAM and flash memory for storing and executing code including analysis, diagnosis, and software upgrades. As an alternative, the storage medium 2050 may store the code. In addition, in another exemplary embodiment, the storage medium 2050 may be carried by the controller 2005.

[0097] The controller 2005 may also include onboard clock, reset and power management modules to reduce the area covered by the PCB in the device body housing.

[0098] The device sensor 2025 may include: a plurality of sensor transducers that provide measurement information to the controller 2005. The device sensor 2025 may include a power supply temperature sensor, an external capsule temperature sensor, a heater current sensor, a power supply current sensor, a gas flow sensor, and an accelerometer to monitor movement and orientation. The power supply temperature sensor and the external capsule temperature sensor may be thermistors or thermocouples, while the heater current sensor and the power supply current sensor may be resistive sensors or another type of sensor configured to measure current. The airflow sensor (e.g., flow sensor 1106) may be: a pressure sensor (e.g., a capacitive pressure sensor, etc.) configured to detect positive or negative air pressure (e.g., suction or puff), a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor, and / or another type of sensor configured to measure air flow, such as a hot wire anemometer. In addition, instead of using a flow sensor (included in the device sensor 2025 of the control subsystem 2000 of the device body housing) to measure air flow or in addition to this method, a hot wire anemometer located in the capsule 802 may be used to measure air flow. According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the device sensor 2025 further includes: a capsule detection sensor for detecting whether the capsule 802 is present in the aerosol generating device 100; and / or a lid detection sensor for detecting whether the lid 104 of the aerosol generating device 100 is closed, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0099] Data generated from one or more device sensors 2025 may be detected based on a binary signal (e.g., an on / off signal) using a general purpose input / output (GPIO) circuit, etc., and / or may be sampled at a sampling rate appropriate for the parameter being measured using, for example, a discrete multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC), etc.

[0100] In addition, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, the device sensor may further include a tag sensor, such as a barcode sensor, a secure element (SE) reader, an optical reader, a physical parameter reader, etc. The tag sensor and / or tag antenna (e.g., an RFID antenna, an NFC antenna, etc.) may be used alone or in combination to detect information stored on a tag (e.g., an RFID tag, an NFC tag, a barcode tag, an SE, etc.) mounted and / or attached to an external portion of the capsule 802, and / or may be used to detect and / or sense a physical parameter of the capsule 802, such as a resistance value of a heater included in the capsule 802, etc. The tag sensor and / or tag antenna may be physically arranged close to the correctly inserted capsule 802, so that: information is stored on the tag, such as electronic identity information, authentication information, hardware parameter information, aerosol-forming substrate information (e.g., aerosol-forming substrate expiration information, manufacturing date information, etc.), profile information, etc.

[0101] The controller 2005 can adjust the heater profile and other profiles for the aerosol-forming substrate based on the measurement information received from the controller 2005. For convenience, these profiles are generally referred to as aerosol profiles. The heater profile determines the power profile to be supplied to the heater within a few seconds of aerosol puffing and / or the power profile to be supplied to the heater between aerosol puffing instances in order to apply continuous heating to the capsule (e.g., to provide an "oven mode" in which a desired temperature is maintained within the capsule for a desired period of time). For example, the heater profile may deliver maximum power to the heater when an aerosol puffing instance is initiated, but immediately reduce the power to half or one-quarter after a second or so. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the modulation of the electrical power supplied to the heater may be implemented using pulse width modulation, but is not limited to this.

[0102] Additionally, the heater profile may be modified based on detected puff and / or negative pressure applied to the aerosol generating device 100. Aerosol puff intensity may be measured using a flow sensor and used as feedback to the controller 2005 to adjust the power delivered to the heater of the capsule 802, which may be referred to as heating or energy delivery.

[0103] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, when the controller 2005 identifies the currently installed capsule 802 (e.g., via the SKU, via a unique identifier contained in a tag (e.g., an RFID tag, an NFC tag, etc.), etc.), the controller 2005 matches the relevant heating profile designed for that particular capsule. The controller 2005 and the storage medium 2050 will store data and algorithms that allow heating profiles to be generated for all SKUs, capsule types, aerosol-forming substrate types, etc. In another exemplary embodiment, the controller 2005 can read the heating profile from the capsule. In addition, the adult operator can also adjust the heating profile to suit his or her preferences using the in-product controls 2055, using an external device that is wirelessly paired with the aerosol generating device 100 and / or connected to the aerosol generating device 100 via the I / O interface 2030, etc. In other exemplary embodiments, the controller 2005 can use the heating profile applied to the previously installed capsule (already stored in memory) for the currently installed capsule, assuming that the current capsule is of the same type as the previously installed capsule, etc.

[0104] The controller 2005 may transmit and receive data to and from the power source 2010. The power source 2010 includes a power source 2010b (eg, which may correspond to the power source 1004) and a power controller 2010a to manage power output by the power source 2010b.

[0105] The power source 2010b may be a lithium ion battery or one of its variants, such as a lithium ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source 2010b may be a nickel metal hydride battery, a nickel cadmium battery, a lithium manganese battery, a lithium cobalt battery, or a fuel cell. Alternatively, the power source 2010b may be rechargeable and include circuitry that allows the battery to be charged via an external charging device. In this case, the circuitry provides power for the desired (or predetermined) number of aerosol puff instances after charging, after which the circuitry must be reconnected to the external charging device.

[0106] The power controller 2010a provides commands to the power source 2010b based on instructions from the controller 2005. For example, when the capsule is detected and the adult operator activates the control subsystem 2000 (e.g., by activating a switch such as a toggle button, a capacitive sensor, an IR sensor, etc.), the power source 2010 can receive a command from the controller 2005 (via the capsule electrical / data interface 2020) to provide power to the capsule. In addition, according to some exemplary embodiments, the controller 2005 can transmit commands to the power source 2010 based on proper authentication of the capsule, but exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0107] In addition to providing power to the bladder, power source 2010 also provides power to controller 2005. Additionally, power controller 2010a may provide feedback to controller 2005 indicative of the performance of power source 2010b.

[0108] The controller 2005 sends data to and receives data from at least one antenna 2040. The at least one antenna 2040 may include an NFC modem and a Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) modem and / or other modems for other wireless technologies (e.g., WiFi, etc.). In an exemplary embodiment, the communication stack is located in the modem, but the modem is controlled by the controller 2005. The Bluetooth LE modem is used for data and control communications with applications on external devices (e.g., smart phones, etc.). The NFC / Bluetooth LE / WiFi modem can be used to pair the aerosol generating device 100 with the application and transmit diagnostic information, data, profile information, capsule information, hardware parameter information, firmware updates, etc. In addition, the Bluetooth LE / WiFi modem can be used to provide location information (for adult operators to find the aerosol generating device) or identity verification during purchase, etc.

[0109] In some embodiments, the controller 2005 may modify the wavelength of light emitted by the at least one UV diode 2045 based on data received from the at least one antenna 2040. For example, if the at least one UV diode 2045 emits a first wavelength and it is determined that a second wavelength will sterilize the interior of the aerosol generating device better than the first wavelength, the at least one antenna 2040 may be used to receive the update and communicate the update to the controller 2005.

[0110] As described above, the control subsystem 2000 can generate and adjust various profiles for aerosol generation. The controller 2005 uses the power supply 2010 and the actuator control 2015 to adjust the profile for an adult operator.

[0111] The actuator control 2015 includes passive actuators and active actuators for adjusting the desired aerosol profile. For example, the housing 102 may include an actuator located in an air inlet path and / or air inlet channel of the device body housing, such as located in an air flow subsystem of the aerosol generating device 100 (e.g., air channel assembly 1104, air hose 1102, etc.). The actuator control 2015 can use the actuator to control the air flow in the air inlet channel based on commands from the controller 2005 related to the desired aerosol profile.

[0112] In addition, the actuator control 2015 is used to energize the heater in conjunction with the power supply 2010. More specifically, the actuator control 2015 is configured to generate a drive waveform associated with a desired aerosol profile. As described above, each possible profile is associated with a drive waveform. Upon receiving a command from the controller 2005 indicating a desired aerosol profile, the actuator control 2015 can generate a relevant modulation waveform for the power supply 2010.

[0113] The controller 2005 provides information to the aerosol indicator 2035 to indicate the status and ongoing operations to the adult operator. The aerosol indicator 2035 includes a power indicator displayed on a display panel (e.g., the communication screen 136), a separate indicator light (e.g., an LED indicator light, etc.), which can be activated when the controller 2005 senses that a button is pressed by the adult operator. The aerosol indicator 2035 can also include a tactile feedback motor, a speaker, a current status indicator of the aerosol parameter (e.g., the amount of aerosol generated) controlled by the adult operator, and other feedback mechanisms.

[0114] Also described herein is a method of sterilizing the interior of an aerosol generating device 100. The method may include placing the aerosol generating device 100 in a non-use mode; actuating at least one UV diode, such as at least one UV light diode 140, a second UV light diode 902, and / or a third UV light diode 1802 of the aerosol generating device 100; and operating the at least one UV diode for a predetermined amount of time. In some exemplary embodiments, placing the aerosol generating device 100 in the non-use mode may include placing the aerosol generating device 100 on a charging station to recharge the aerosol generating device 100. In some exemplary embodiments, the predetermined amount of time may be the amount of time required to sterilize the interior of the aerosol generating device 100. In some exemplary embodiments, if the aerosol generating device 100 is taken out of the non-use mode, the at least one UV diode may be turned off.

[0115] The systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein can provide significant advantages. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 can achieve sterilization of the interior of the aerosol generating device 100 when the aerosol generating device 100 is in a non-use mode. Sterilizing the interior of the aerosol generating device 100 can help eliminate the interaction of the adult consumer with bacteria, mold, fungus, viruses, or other harmful contaminants that may be introduced into the aerosol generating device 100 as a result of using the aerosol generating device 100. Sterilizing the interior of the aerosol generating device 100 can enable the aerosol generating device 100 to be kept cleaner, which can increase the overall satisfaction of the adult consumer with the aerosol generating device 100 because the interior of the aerosol generating device 100 can be sterilized regularly without any work by the adult consumer.

[0116] The appended claims set forth novel and inventive aspects of the subject matter described above, but the claims may also cover other subject matter not specifically detailed. For example, certain features, elements, or aspects may be omitted from the claims if it is not necessary to distinguish the novel and inventive features from features known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Features, elements, and aspects described in the context of certain embodiments may also be omitted, combined, or replaced by alternative features having the same, equivalent, or similar purpose without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: a housing defining a capsule receiving cavity; a cover configured to enclose the housing, the cover being fixedly coupled to the housing via a hinge at a first point and releasably coupled to the housing at a second point different from the first point; a mouthpiece capable of being coupled to the cover opposite the housing so that: air drawn into the housing and through the capsule receiving cavity is discharged from the mouthpiece; as well as At least one UV diode configured to sterilize an interior of the aerosol generating device when the at least one UV diode is activated.

2. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein The cover includes an interior cavity configured to receive the capsule receiving cavity when the cover is coupled to the housing at the second point.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein: The at least one UV diode is located within the interior cavity of the cover.

4. An aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein: The at least one UV diode is directed toward the housing, and the at least one UV diode is configured to direct UV light toward the housing when the at least one UV diode is actuated.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein: The at least one UV diode is directed toward the mouthpiece, and the at least one UV diode is configured to direct UV light into the mouthpiece when the at least one UV diode is actuated.

6. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one UV diode further includes a power contact configured to contact an electrical connection of the housing when the cover is coupled to the housing at the second point.

7. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The mouthpiece includes a first end configured to be coupled to the cap and a second end opposite the first end.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein: The second end of the mouthpiece includes at least one outlet.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein: The at least one UV diode comprises a UV-C light ring diode surrounding the at least one outlet of the mouthpiece.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 9, wherein: The UV-C light ring diode is configured to direct UV light into the mouthpiece when the UV-C light ring diode is actuated.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , further comprising: A controller is located within the housing.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11, wherein: The controller is configured to actuate the at least one UV diode when the cover is coupled to the housing at the second point and the aerosol generating device is in a non-use mode.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein: When the aerosol generating device is coupled to the charging station, the aerosol generating device is in the non-use mode.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein: The at least one UV diode is configured to be switched off if the aerosol generating device is taken out of the non-use mode.

15. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein: The controller is configured to operate the at least one UV diode for a predetermined amount of time.

16. The aerosol generating device according to claim 15, wherein: The predetermined amount of time is the amount of time required to sterilize the interior of the aerosol generating device.

17. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The housing also includes a communication screen and a power button.

18. The aerosol generating device according to claim 17, wherein: The communication screen is configured to output information related to the at least one UV diode.

19. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one UV diode comprises a UV-C diode.

20. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein: The at least one UV diode is configured to emit UV light having a wavelength in a range of 100 nanometers to 280 nanometers.

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