Smoking replacement system

Abstract

The present application relates to a smoking replacement system, in particular, but not exclusively, to a heat-not-burn device configured to switch from a locked mode of operation to an unlocked mode of operation based on detecting an occurrence of a predetermined event and / or upon receiving a predetermined user input, wherein a heater of the heat-not-burn device is configured to be disabled during the locked mode of operation and to be enabled during the unlocked mode of operation.

Description

[0001] Divisional Application Statement

[0002] This application is a divisional application of Chinese Patent Application No. 202080034636.1, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to smoking replacement systems and, in particular but not exclusively, to smoking replacement systems including heat-not-burn devices and methods of operating such devices in different operating modes. Background Art

[0004] Tobacco consumption is generally considered to expose smokers to potentially harmful substances. It is generally believed that the heat caused by the burning and / or combustion of tobacco and the components of the burned tobacco in the tobacco smoke itself produce a large number of potentially harmful substances.

[0005] Traditional combustible smoking articles, such as cigarettes, typically include a cylindrical tobacco rod made of tobacco strands wrapped by a wrapper, and usually also include a cylindrical filter axially aligned adjacent to the wrapped tobacco rod. The filter typically includes filter material surrounded by a plug wrap. The wrapped tobacco rod and the filter are connected together by a tipping paper that wraps around the entire length of the filter and an adjacent portion of the wrapped tobacco rod. This type of traditional cigarette is used by lighting the end opposite the filter and burning the tobacco rod. The smoker inhales the mainstream smoke into their mouth by sucking at the mouth end or filter end of the cigarette.

[0006] It is known that the combustion of organic materials such as tobacco produces tar and other potentially harmful by-products. To avoid tobacco consumption, various smoking replacement systems (or "alternative smoking systems") have been proposed.

[0007] Such smoking replacement systems can form part of a nicotine replacement therapy for people who wish to stop smoking and overcome their dependence on nicotine.

[0008] Smoking replacement systems include an electronic system that allows a user to simulate the act of smoking by generating an aerosol (also known as "vapor") that is inhaled (drawn in) through the mouth into the lungs and then exhaled. The inhaled aerosol typically carries nicotine and / or flavorants, with little or no odor and health risks associated with traditional smoking.

[0009] Typically, smoking alternative systems are designed to provide an alternative to the smoking habit while offering users an experience and satisfaction similar to that of experiencing traditional smoking and combustible tobacco products. Some smoking alternative systems use smoking alternative articles (also referred to as "consumables"), which are designed to resemble traditional cigarettes and are in the form of a cylinder with a mouthpiece at one end.

[0010] In the past few years, the popularity and use of smoking alternative systems have grown rapidly. Although initially sold as an aid to help habitual smokers who wish to quit smoking, consumers increasingly view smoking alternative systems as an accessory to a desired lifestyle.

[0011] There are many different types of smoking alternative systems, each using a different smoking alternative method.

[0012] One method used in smoking alternative systems is the so-called heated tobacco ("HT") method, in which the tobacco (rather than "e-liquid") is heated or warmed to release vapor. HT is also referred to as "heat-not-burn" ("HNB"). The tobacco can be tobacco leaves or reconstituted tobacco. The vapor can contain nicotine and / or flavorants. In the HT method, the aim is for the tobacco to be heated but not burned, i.e., the tobacco does not undergo combustion.

[0013] A typical HT smoking alternative system can include a device and a consumable. The consumable can include tobacco material. The device and the consumable can be configured to be physically coupled together. In use, heat can be transferred to the tobacco material through a heating element of the device, where the flow of air through the tobacco material causes the components in the tobacco material to be released as vapor. The vapor can also be formed by a carrier in the tobacco material (which can include, for example, propylene glycol and / or vegetable glycerin) and other volatile compounds released from the tobacco. The released vapor can be entrained in the airflow drawn through the tobacco.

[0014] When the vapor passes from the vaporization location through the consumable (entrained in the airflow) to the outlet of the consumable (e.g., the mouthpiece), the vapor cools and condenses to form an aerosol for the user to inhale. The aerosol will typically contain volatile compounds.

[0015] In an HT smoking alternative system, heating rather than burning the tobacco material is considered to result in a smaller amount or a lesser amount of the more harmful compounds typically produced during smoking. Thus, the HT method can reduce the odors and / or health risks that may be generated through the incineration, combustion, and pyrolytic degradation of tobacco.

[0016] Currently available HT smoking replacement devices are typically transported in a standby operating mode. In other words, the HT smoking replacement devices can be provided with sufficient energy stored in an on-board battery so that they can be used once the user removes them from their packaging. However, they may be inadvertently activated during storage or transportation, creating a safety hazard.

[0017] There is a need to improve the design of smoking replacement systems, particularly HT smoking replacement systems, to enhance the user experience and improve the functionality of HT smoking replacement systems.

[0018] In view of the above considerations, the present disclosure has been designed. Summary of the Invention

[0019] In the most general case, the present invention relates to a heat-not-burn device configured to switch from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode based on detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event or upon receiving a predetermined user input.

[0020] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a heat-not-burn device configured to switch from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode based on detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event and / or upon receiving a predetermined user input, wherein the heater of the heat-not-burn device is configured to be disabled during the locked operating mode and enabled during the unlocked operating mode.

[0021] By providing a heat-not-burn device in which the heater of the device remains disabled or deactivated in the locked mode, accidental or improper activation of the device during storage and / or transportation of the device can be avoided. A more versatile device is provided that intelligently keeps the heater of the device disabled during transportation and / or storage. Thus, even if the on button is inadvertently pressed during the locked mode and / or while transporting the device, the device will not activate the heater.

[0022] In the locked operating mode, the device as a whole may not be deactivated. In other words, when in the locked operating mode, the heater may be deactivated, but the device may remain operational. For example, the controller and user interface of the device may remain operational. More specifically, in the locked operating mode, the battery of the device may not supply power to the heater via the controller.

[0023] Optional features will now be described. These may be applied individually or in any combination with any aspect.

[0024] Optionally, the device may include a controller configured to switch the device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode and enable the heater in the unlocked operating mode. For example, in the unlocked operating mode, the heater of the device may not be powered on and additional user input may be required to activate the heater of the device.

[0025] Optionally, the predetermined user input includes a predetermined sequence of user presses at the user interface of the device. The user interface may be a button or may be other user interfaces such as a switch and a touch screen. The predetermined sequence of user presses can minimize the chance of the device being switched from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode due to random button presses during the transportation / packaging of the device. For example, the predetermined sequence of user presses is configured in such a way that random presses on the user interface cannot match the predetermined sequence of user presses. Thus, the device can intelligently prevent accidental activation of the device during storage and / or transportation. For example, the predetermined sequence of user presses or button presses can be any of the following: (i) pressing the button a predetermined number of times, such as 5 times; (ii) pressing and holding the button for a predetermined period of time, such as 3 seconds, or (iii) pressing the button a predetermined number of times, where during each button press, the button is held down for a predetermined period of time.

[0026] Optionally, the predetermined user input includes a predetermined movement of the device, where the device further includes a motion sensor for detecting the predetermined movement. The motion sensor can be configured to sense the movement or vibration of the device, whereby the controller can be configured to identify the pattern of the sensed movement and compare it with the predetermined movement. After the identified pattern of the sensed movement matches the predetermined movement, the controller can switch the device from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode. The predetermined movement includes, for example, one or more of a swirling movement, a waving movement, or a rocking movement, and a movement along the longitudinal direction.

[0027] Optionally, the heater is configured to be enabled in the unlocked operating mode after receiving additional user input at the device, and where the predetermined user input is different from the additional user input. This can provide additional security to avoid unwanted activation of the heater. For example, even if the device is inadvertently switched from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode, the heater of the device can remain deactivated unless additional user input is entered at the device (e.g., at the user interface). The predetermined user input and the additional user input can be entered at the same user interface, or they can be entered at different user interfaces.

[0028] Optionally, the predetermined event includes one or more of the following: i) establishing an electrical connection between the device and an external device, ii) relative movement between the cap and the body of the device (e.g., where the cap of the device is lifted away from the device), and iii) engagement of a consumable with the device. This can provide the benefit of switching the device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode only through user intervention. In other words, without physical user intervention during storage and / or transportation of the device, none of these events will occur, and thus accidental activation of the device can be further prevented.

[0029] For example, the relative movement includes moving or lifting the cap away from the body of the device. This movement can be detected by a microswitch or trigger provided between the cap and the body of the device. For example, establishing the electrical connection includes connecting the device to an external device such as a computing device or a power source. Advantageously, both of these predetermined events can indicate that the user has initiated the use of the device, and thus after detecting the lifting of the cap and the connection of the device to an external device or power source, the controller can switch the device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode.

[0030] For example, in some embodiments, the consumable can be separately packaged from the device during storage and transportation, so when the device detects the engagement of the consumable with the device, such as when the consumable is inserted into a cavity of the device, the controller can determine the initial use of the device by the user, and the controller can thus switch the device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode.

[0031] Optionally, the device is configured to switch from the unlocked operating mode to the locked operating mode upon receiving a second predetermined user input, which is a second predetermined sequence of user presses at the user interface of the device, where the second predetermined user input is different from the predetermined user input. Advantageously, this can allow the user to restart the locked operating mode, thus preventing accidental activation of the heater. This is particularly advantageous when transporting the device, such as during daily transfers or when flying.

[0032] The device can include an elongate body. An end of the elongate body can be configured to engage with an aerosol-forming article. For example, the body can be configured to engage with a heated tobacco (HT) consumable (or a heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable). The terms "heated tobacco" and "heat-not-burn" are used interchangeably herein to describe a type of consumable that is heated rather than burned (or interchangeably to describe a device used with such a consumable). The device can include a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the consumable (i.e., for engaging with the consumable). The aerosol-forming article can be of a type that includes an aerosol precursor (e.g., carried by an aerosol-forming substrate).

[0033] The device may include a heater for heating an aerosol - forming article. The heater may include a heating element, which may be in the form of a rod extending from the body of the device. The heating element may extend from an end of the body configured to engage with the aerosol - forming article. In an embodiment, the heater of the device is configured to be disabled in a locked mode and enabled in an unlocked mode. Although the heater of the device is enabled in the unlocked operating mode, the heater of the device will still require additional user input to start.

[0034] The heater (and thus the heating element) may be firmly mounted to the body. The heating element may be elongate to define a longitudinal axis and may, for example, have a substantially circular cross - sectional profile (i.e., perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the heating element) (i.e., the heating element may be generally cylindrical). Alternatively, the heating element may have a rectangular cross - sectional profile (i.e., the heater may be a "blade - shaped heater"). Alternatively, the heating element may be in the shape of a tube (i.e., the heater may be a "tubular heater"). The heating element may take other forms (e.g., the heating element may have an oval cross - sectional profile). The shape and / or dimensions (e.g., diameter) of the cross - sectional profile of the heating element may be substantially consistent along the entire length (or substantially the entire length) of the heating element.

[0035] The heating element may be 15 mm to 25 mm long, such as 18 mm to 20 mm long, for example, about 19 mm long. The heating element may have a diameter of 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm, such as 2 mm to 2.3 mm, for example, about 2.15 mm.

[0036] The heating element may be formed of ceramic. The heating element may include a core (e.g., a ceramic core) containing Al 2 O 3 . The diameter of the core of the heating element may be 1.8 mm to 2.1 mm, such as 1.9 mm to 2 mm. The heating element may include an outer layer (e.g., an outer ceramic layer) containing Al 2 O 3 . The thickness of the outer layer may be 160 μm to 220 μm, such as 170 μm to 190 μm, for example, about 180 μm. The heating element may include a heating track, which may extend longitudinally along the heating element. The heating track may be sandwiched between the outer layer and the core of the heating element. The heating track may contain tungsten and / or rhenium. The heating track may have a thickness of about 20 μm.

[0037] The heating element can be located in the chamber (of the device) and can extend (e.g., along a longitudinal axis) from an inner substrate of the chamber towards the opening of the chamber. The length of the heating element (i.e., along the longitudinal axis of the heater) can be less than the depth of the chamber. Thus, the heating element can extend within only a portion of the length of the chamber. In other words, the heating element can not extend through (or beyond) the opening of the chamber.

[0038] The heating element can be configured to be inserted into an aerosol - forming article (e.g., an HT consumable) when the aerosol - forming article is accommodated in the chamber. In this regard, the distal end of the heating element (i.e., away from the substrate of the heating element mounted to the device) can include a tapered portion, which can facilitate the insertion of the heating element into the aerosol - forming article. When the aerosol - forming article is accommodated in the chamber, the heating element can completely penetrate the aerosol - forming article. In other words, the entire length or substantially the entire length of the heating element can be accommodated in the aerosol - forming article.

[0039] The length of the heating element can be less than or substantially equal to the axial length of the aerosol - forming substrate that forms part of an aerosol - forming article (e.g., an HT consumable). Thus, when such an aerosol - forming article is engaged with the device, the heating element can penetrate only the aerosol - forming substrate, rather than other components of the aerosol - forming article. The heating element can penetrate the aerosol - forming substrate over substantially the entire axial length of the aerosol - forming substrate of the aerosol - forming article. Thus, when penetrated by the heating element, heat can be transferred (e.g., from the outer peripheral surface of the heating element) to the surrounding aerosol - forming substrate. In other words, heat can be transferred radially outwards (in the case of a cylindrical heating element) or, for example, radially inwards (in the case of a tubular heater).

[0040] In the case where the heater is a tubular heater, the heating element of the tubular heater can surround at least a portion of the chamber. When a portion of the aerosol - forming article is accommodated in the chamber, the heating element can surround that portion of the aerosol - forming article (i.e., in order to heat that portion of the aerosol - forming article). In particular, the heating element can surround the aerosol - forming substrate of the aerosol - forming article. In other words, when the aerosol - forming article is engaged with the device, the aerosol - forming substrate of the aerosol - forming article can be positioned adjacent to the inner surface of the (tubular) heating element. When the heating element is activated, heat can be transferred radially inwards from the inner surface of the heating element to heat the aerosol - forming substrate.

[0041] The cavity may include (e.g., circumferential) wall(s), and the (tubular) heating element may extend around at least a portion of the wall. In this way, the wall may be located between the inner surface of the heating element and the outer surface of the aerosol-forming article. The wall(s) of the cavity may be formed of a thermally conductive material (such as metal) to allow heat conduction from the heating element to the aerosol-forming article. Thus, heat may be conducted from the heating element through the cavity wall(s) to the aerosol-forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article received in the cavity.

[0042] In some embodiments, the device may include a cap disposed at an end of the body, the cap being configured to engage with the aerosol-forming article. In the case where the device includes a heater having a heating element, the cap may at least partially enclose the heating element. The cap may move between an open position in which a passage to the heating element is provided and a closed position in which the cap at least partially encloses the heating element. The cap may be slidably engaged with the body of the device and may slide between the open position and the closed position.

[0043] The cap may define at least a portion of the cavity of the device. In other words, the cavity may be entirely defined by the cap, or each of the cap and the body may define a portion of the cavity. In the case where the cap entirely defines the cavity, the cap may include a hole for receiving the heating element in the cavity (when the cap is in the closed position). The cap may include an opening leading to the cavity. The opening may be configured to receive at least a portion of the aerosol-forming article. In other words, the aerosol-forming article may be inserted through the opening and into the cavity (to engage with the device).

[0044] The cap may be configured such that when the aerosol-forming article engages with the device (e.g., is received in the cavity), only a portion of the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. In other words, a portion of the aerosol-forming article (not received in the cavity) may protrude from the opening (i.e., extend beyond the opening). This (protruding) portion of the aerosol-forming article may be the terminal (e.g., mouth) end of the aerosol-forming article, which may be received in the user's mouth for the purpose of inhaling the aerosol formed by the device.

[0045] The device may include a power source or may be connected to a power source (such as a power source separate from the device). The power source may be electrically connected to the heater. In this regard, changing (e.g., switching) the electrical connection between the power source and the heater may affect the state of the heater. For example, switching the electrical connection between the power source and the heater may switch the heater between an on state and an off state. The power source may be a power storage device. For example, the power source may be a battery or a rechargeable battery (such as a lithium-ion battery).

[0046] The device may include an input connection (e.g., a USB port, a micro - USB port, a USB - C port, etc.). The input connection may be configured to connect to an external power source, e.g., a power outlet. In some cases, the input connection may serve as an alternative to an internal power source (e.g., a battery or a rechargeable battery). In other words, the input connection may be electrically connected to the heater (to supply power to the heater). Thus, in some forms, the input connection may form at least a part of the power source of the device.

[0047] In the case where the power source includes a rechargeable power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery), the input connection may be used to charge and recharge the power source.

[0048] The device may include a user interface (UI). In some embodiments, the UI may include an input mechanism for receiving operation commands from the user. The input mechanism of the UI may allow the user to control at least one aspect of the operation of the device. In some embodiments, the input mechanism may include a power button to switch the device between an on state and an off state. In an embodiment, the input mechanism of the UI may be configured to receive user input to switch the device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode. In one aspect, the user input to switch the device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode may be a predetermined sequence of button presses. In an example, the input mechanism may further include a touch - screen input, etc.

[0049] In some embodiments, the UI may additionally or alternatively include an output mechanism to convey information to the user. In some embodiments, the output mechanism may be configured to indicate to the user the current operating mode of the device. For example, the output mechanism may be one of a haptic feedback mechanism, an audio feedback mechanism, and a visual feedback mechanism, configured to indicate to the user to switch the device from a locked mode to an unlocked mode based on at least one of detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event or receiving a predetermined user input. In some embodiments, the output mechanism may include a light to indicate the status of the device (and / or the aerosol - forming article) to the user. The status of the device (and / or the aerosol - forming article) indicated to the user may include indicating the status of the operation of the heater. For example, the status may include whether the heater is in an off state or an on state. In some embodiments, the UI unit may include at least one of a button, a display, a touch - screen, a switch, a light, etc. For example, the output mechanism may include one or more (e.g., two, three, four, etc.) light - emitting diodes (“LEDs”) that may be located on the body of the device.

[0050] The device may also include a draw sensor (e.g., an air flow sensor), which forms part of the input mechanism of the UI. The draw sensor may be configured to detect the end (i.e., the distal (mouth) end) of the user drawing on the aerosol-forming article. The draw sensor may be, for example, a pressure sensor or a microphone. The draw sensor may be configured to generate a signal indicative of the draw state. The signal may indicate that the user is drawing (aerosol from the aerosol-forming article), such that it is in the form of a binary signal, for example. Alternatively or additionally, the signal may indicate characteristics of the draw (e.g., the flow rate of the draw, the length of time of the draw, etc.).

[0051] The device may include a controller or may be connected to a controller, which may be configured to control at least one function of the device. The controller may include, for example, a microcontroller that may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The controller may also include a memory, such as a non-volatile memory. The memory may include instructions that, when implemented, may cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of the method. In cases where the device includes an input connection, the controller may be connected to the input connection.

[0052] The controller is coupled to the heater and is configured to control the operation of the heater (and, for example, the heating element). In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to switch the device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode and to enable the heater in the unlocked operating mode in response to receiving additional user input. The controller may be configured to control the vaporization of the aerosol-forming portion of the aerosol-forming article engaged with the device. The controller may be configured to control the voltage applied to the heater by the power source. For example, the controller may be configured to switch between applying the full output voltage (of the power source) to the heater and not applying voltage to the heater. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may implement a more complex heater control protocol.

[0053] The device may also include a voltage regulator to regulate the output voltage supplied by the power source to form a regulated voltage. The regulated voltage may then be applied to the heater. In some embodiments, the voltage regulator may be used to control the voltage supply to the heater in the locked and unlocked operating modes. For example, in the locked operating mode, no voltage is provided to the heater, while in the unlocked mode, the heater is configured to receive voltage from the power source.

[0054] In some embodiments in which the device includes a UI, the controller may be operably connected to one or more components of the UI. The controller may be configured to receive command signals from the input mechanism of the UI. The controller may be configured to control the heater in response to the command signals. For example, the controller may be configured to receive "on" and "off" command signals from the UI, and in response, may control the heater to be in the corresponding on or off state. Additionally, the controller may be configured to receive a command via the user input mechanism to switch the device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode, and in response, may indicate via the output mechanism to disable the unlocked operating mode based on detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event or after receiving a predetermined user input.

[0055] The controller may be configured to send output signals to components of the UI. The UI may be configured to communicate information to the user via the output mechanism in response to such output signals (received from the controller). For example, in cases where the device includes one or more LEDs, the LEDs may be operably connected to the controller. Thus, the controller may be configured to control the illumination of the LEDs (e.g., in response to the output signals). For example, the controller may be configured to control the illumination of the LEDs according to the state (e.g., on or off) of the heater. In another example, the controller may be configured to control the illumination of the LED indicating that the device has been switched to the unlocked operating mode. Additionally, the controller may be configured to indicate via other output mechanisms (such as tactile sensors and audio sensors, etc.) that the device has been switched from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode.

[0056] In cases where the device includes a sensor (such as a draw / airflow sensor), the controller may be operably connected to the sensor. The controller may be configured to receive signals from the sensor (e.g., indicating the state of the device and / or the engaged aerosol-forming article). The controller may be configured to control one aspect of the heater or the output mechanism based on the signals from the sensor.

[0057] The device may include a wireless interface configured to communicate wirelessly with an external device (e.g., via Bluetooth (such as a Bluetooth Low Energy connection) or Wi-Fi). Similarly, the input connection may be configured as a wired connection to an external device to provide communication between the device and the external device.

[0058] The external device may be a mobile device. For example, the external device may be a smart phone, a tablet, a smart watch, or a smart car. An application (e.g., app) may be installed on the external device (e.g., the mobile device). The application may facilitate communication between the device and the external device via a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0059] A wireless interface or a wired interface can be configured to transfer signals between an external device and a controller of the device. In this regard, the controller can control an aspect of the device in response to a signal received from the external device. Alternatively or additionally, the external device can respond to a signal received from the device (e.g., from the controller of the device).

[0060] In a second aspect, a system (e.g., a smoking alternative system) is provided that includes a device according to the first aspect and an aerosol-forming article. The aerosol-forming article can include an aerosol-forming substrate at an upstream end of the aerosol-forming article. The article can be in the form of a smoking alternative article, such as a heated tobacco (HT) consumable (also referred to as a heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable).

[0061] As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are intended to refer to the direction of vapor / aerosol flow, i.e., the downstream end of the article / consumable is the mouth end or outlet where the aerosol exits the consumable for inhalation by the user. The upstream end of the article / consumable is the end opposite the downstream end.

[0062] The aerosol-forming substrate is capable of being heated to release at least one volatile compound that can form an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate can be located at the upstream end of the article / consumable.

[0063] To produce an aerosol, the aerosol-forming substrate contains at least one volatile compound that is intended to be vaporized / atomized and can provide a recreational and / or therapeutic effect to the user when inhaled. Suitable chemically and / or physiologically active volatile compounds include: nicotine, cocaine for therapeutic effects, caffeine, opioids and opioid substances for therapeutic effects, theophylline and cathinone, kavain, mysticin, β-carboline alkaloids, salvinorin A, and any combination and / or synthetic substitutes equivalent to the foregoing functions.

[0064] The aerosol-forming substrate may include plant material. The plant material may include at least one plant material selected from the following list: Amaranthus dubius, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Bearberry), Argemone mexicana, Amica, Artemisia vulgaris, Yellow Tees, Galea zacatechichi, Canavalia maritima (Baybean), Cecropia mexicana (Guamura), Cestrum nocturnum, Cynoglossum virginianum (wild comfrey), Cytisus scoparius, Damiana, Entada rheedii, Eschscholzia californica (California Poppy), Fittonia albivenis, Hippobroma longiflora, Humulus japonica (Japanese Hops), Humulus lupulus (Hops), Lactuca virosa (Lettuce Opium), Laggera alata, Leonotis leonurus, Leonurus cardiaca (Motherwort), Leonurus sibiricus (Honeyweed), Lobelia cardinalis, Lobelia inflata (Indian-tobacco), Lobelia siphilitica, Nepeta cataria (Catnip), Nicotiana species (Tobacco), Nymphaea alba (White Lily), Nymphaea caerulea (Blue Lily), Opium poppy for medical effects, Passiflora incarnata (Passionflower), Pedicularis densiflora,(Indian Warrior), Pedicularis groenlandica (Elephant's Head), Salvia divinorum, Salvia dorrii (Tobacco Sage), Salvia species (Sage), Scutellaria galericulata, Scutellaria lateriflora, Scutellaria nana, Scutellaria species (Skullcap), Sida acuta (Wireweed), Sida rhombifolia, Silene capensis, Syzygium aromaticum (Clove), Tagetes lucida (Mexican Tarragon), Tarchonanthus camphoratus, Turnera diffusa (Damiana), Verbascum (Mullein), Zamia latifolia (Maconha Brava), and any combination and / or synthetic substitute equivalent to the foregoing functions.,

[0065] The plant material can be tobacco. Any type of tobacco can be used. This includes, but is not limited to, flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, Maryland tobacco, dark air-cured tobacco, oriental tobacco, dark fire-cured tobacco, perique tobacco, and rustica tobacco. This also includes mixtures of the foregoing tobaccos.

[0066] The tobacco can include one or more of tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenized tobacco, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, shredded tobacco, and / or reconstituted tobacco (e.g., slurry-process reconstituted or paper-process reconstituted).

[0067] The aerosol-forming substrate can include collected homogenized (e.g., paper-process / slurry-process reconstituted) tobacco sheets or collected fragments / strips formed from such sheets.

[0068] The aerosol-forming substrate can contain one or more additives selected from humectants, flavorants, fillers, aqueous / non-aqueous solvents, and binders.

[0069] The flavorant can be provided in solid or liquid form. It can include menthol, licorice, chocolate, fruit flavors (including, for example, citrus, cherry, etc.), vanilla, spices (such as ginger, cinnamon), and tobacco flavors. The flavorant can be uniformly dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate or can be provided at separate locations and / or varying concentrations throughout the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0070] The aerosol-forming substrate can be formed to be substantially cylindrical such that the article / consumable resembles a conventional cigarette. Its diameter can be from 5 mm to 10 mm, such as from 6 mm to 9 mm or from 6 mm to 8 mm, for example about 7 mm. Its axial length can be from 10 mm to 15 mm, such as from 11 mm to 14 mm, for example about 12 mm or 13 mm.

[0071] The article / consumable can include at least one filter element. There can be a terminal filter element at the downstream / mouth end of the article / consumable.

[0072] The filter element or at least one filter element (such as the terminal filter element) can be composed of cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow. The at least one filter element (such as the terminal filter element) can be composed of activated carbon. The at least one filter element (such as the terminal element) can be composed of paper. The filter element or each filter element can be at least partially (such as completely) surrounded by a filter rod wrapper (such as a paper-type filter rod wrapper).

[0073] The terminal filter element (at the downstream end of the article / consumable) can be connected to the upstream element forming the article / consumable by wrapping around a tipping layer (such as a tipping paper layer). The axial length of the tipping paper can be longer than the axial length of the terminal filter element such that the tipping paper completely surrounds the terminal filter element and the wrapper layer around any adjacent upstream element.

[0074] In some embodiments, the article / consumable can include an aerosol cooling element adapted to cool the aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming substrate (by heat exchange) before being inhaled by the user.

[0075] The article / consumable can include a spacer element that defines a space or cavity between the aerosol-forming substrate and the downstream end of the consumable. The spacer element can include a cardboard tube. The spacer element can be surrounded by a (paper) wrapper layer.

[0076] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of using the system according to the second aspect, the method comprising inserting an aerosol-forming article into a device; and heating the article using a heater of the device.

[0077] In some embodiments, the method may include inserting an article into a cavity within a body of a device and, after inserting the article, piercing the article with a heating element of the device.

[0078] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for switching a heat-not-burn device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode, comprising: detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event and / or after receiving a predetermined user input, switching the heat-not-burn device from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode, wherein a heater of the heat-not-burn device is configured to be disabled during the locked operating mode and enabled during the unlocked operating mode.

[0079] Optionally, the receiving of the predetermined user input includes receiving a predetermined sequence of user presses at a user interface of the device and / or detecting a predetermined movement of the device at a motion sensor of the device.

[0080] Optionally, the detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event includes detecting one or more of the following: i) establishing an electrical connection between the device and an external device, ii) movement of a cap of the device, and iii) engagement of a consumable with the device.

[0081] Optionally, the method further includes receiving an additional user input at the device during the unlocked operating mode to enable the heater, and wherein the predetermined user input is different from the additional user input.

[0082] Optionally, the method further includes switching from the unlocked operating mode to the locked operating mode after receiving a second predetermined user input, the second predetermined user input being a second predetermined sequence of user presses at a user interface of the device, wherein the predetermined user input is different from the second predetermined user input.

[0083] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing a device, wherein the method includes placing the device in a locked operating mode; and packaging the device. By placing the device in the locked operating mode in the package, accidental or unauthorized activation of the device can be avoided during storage and / or transportation of the device.

[0084] Optionally, the packaging includes packaging the device in a product package, wherein a user interface of the device is configured to be assessable when the device is accommodated in the product package.

[0085] The present invention includes combinations of the aspects and preferred features described, unless such combinations are clearly impossible or explicitly avoided.

[0086] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, unless mutually exclusive, features or parameters described with respect to any one of the above aspects can be applied to any other aspect. Additionally, unless mutually exclusive, any feature or parameter described herein can be applied to any aspect and / or combined with any other feature or parameter described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0087] To understand the present invention and to understand other aspects and features of the present invention, embodiments illustrating the principles of the present invention will now be discussed in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0088] Figure 1A is a schematic view of a smoking cessation system;

[0089] Figure 1B is Figure 1A a schematic view of a variant of the smoking cessation system of

[0090] Figure 2A is a front view of a first embodiment of a smoking cessation system in which a consumable is engaged with a device;

[0091] Figure 2B is a front view of a first embodiment of a smoking cessation system in which a consumable is disengaged from a device;

[0092] Figure 2C is a cross-sectional view of a consumable of a first embodiment of a smoking cessation system;

[0093] Figure 2D is a detailed perspective view of an end of a device of a first embodiment of a smoking cessation system;

[0094] Figure 2E is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of a smoking cessation system; and

[0095] Figure 3 is a flow chart illustrating a method of operating the system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0096] Aspects and embodiments of the present invention will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying drawings. Other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference.

[0097] Figure 1A is a schematic view providing an overall overview of a smoking cessation system 100. The system 100 includes a smoking cessation device 101 and an aerosol-forming article in the form of a consumable 102 that contains an aerosol precursor 103. The system is configured to vaporize the aerosol precursor by heating the aerosol precursor (to form a vapor / aerosol for inhalation by a user).

[0098] In the illustrated system, heater 104 forms part of consumable 102 and is configured to heat aerosol precursor 103. In this variant, for example, when consumable 102 is engaged with device 101, heater 104 can be electrically connected to a power source. Heat from heater 104 vaporizes aerosol precursor 103 to produce vapor. The vapor then condenses to form an aerosol, which is ultimately inhaled by the user. In some embodiments, heater 104 is configured to be disabled in a locked operating mode and remain enabled in an unlocked operating mode.

[0099] System 100 further includes a power source 105 that forms part of device 101. In other embodiments, power source 105 can be external to device 101 (but connectable to device 101). Power source 105 can be electrically connected to heater 104 such that power source 105 can supply power to heater 104 (i.e., for the purpose of heating aerosol precursor 103). Thus, control of the electrical connection between power source 105 and heater 104 provides control of the state of heater 104. Power source 105 can be a power storage device, such as a battery or rechargeable battery (e.g., a lithium-ion battery).

[0100] System 100 further includes an I / O module that includes a connector 106 (e.g., in the form of a USB port, micro-USB port, USB-C port, etc.). Connector 106 is configured to connect to an external power source, such as a power outlet. Connector 106 can be used in place of power source 105. In other words, connector 106 can be electrically connected to heater 104 to supply power to heater 104. In such embodiments, the device may not include a power source, and the power source of the system can alternatively include connector 106 and an external power source (connector 106 provides the electrical connection to the external power source).

[0101] In some embodiments, in the case where power source 105 includes a rechargeable battery, connector 106 can be used to charge and recharge power source 105.

[0102] System 100 further includes a user interface (UI) 107. Although not shown, UI 107 can include an input mechanism for receiving commands from the user. The input mechanism of UI 107 allows the user to control at least one aspect of the operation of system 100. The input mechanism can, for example, be in the form of a button, touch screen, switch, microphone, etc.

[0103] UI 107 also includes an output mechanism for communicating information to the user. The output mechanism can, for example, include a light (e.g., an LED), a display screen, a speaker, a vibration generator, etc.

[0104] System 100 also includes a controller 108 and a memory 109 operably coupled to the controller 108, and the controller 108 is configured to control at least one function of the device 101. In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 108 is a component of the device 101, but in other embodiments, the controller 108 may be separate from the device 101 (but connectable to the device 101). The controller 108 is configured to switch the device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode based on detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event or after receiving a predetermined user input. The controller 108 is configured to control the operation of the heater 104. For example, the controller may be configured to disable the heater 104 in the locked operating mode and enable the heater 104 in the unlocked operating mode. The controller 108 may also be configured to control the operation of the heater 104. For example, it may be configured to control the voltage applied from the power supply 105 to the heater 104. The controller 108 may be configured to switch the power supply to the heater 104 between an on state (wherein all the output voltage of the power supply 105 is applied to the heater 104) and an off state (wherein no voltage is applied to the heater 104). In addition, in an example, the controller 108 may be configured to supply power to the heater 104 in the unlocked mode after receiving an additional user input, and conversely, the controller 108 is configured not to supply power to the heater 104 in the locked mode.

[0105] Although not shown, the system 100 also includes a voltage regulator that regulates the output voltage from the power supply 105 to form a regulated voltage. The regulated voltage can then be applied to the heater 104.

[0106] In addition to being connected to the heater 104, the controller 108 is operably connected to the UI 107. Thus, the controller 108 can receive input signals from the input mechanism of the UI 107. Similarly, the controller 108 can transmit output signals to the UI 107. In response, the output mechanism of the UI 107 can convey information to the user based on the output signals. The controller also includes a memory 109 that is a non-volatile memory. The memory 109 includes instructions that, when implemented, cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of a method.

[0107] Furthermore, the system may also include a sensor 110 coupled to the controller 108 within the heat-not-burn device 101. The sensor 110 may be a motion sensor (not shown) installed inside the device and configured to generate an input in response to the detection of movement of the device 101. The controller 108 is configured to switch the device 101 from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode in response to receiving the input from the sensor 110.

[0108] Figure 1B Is shown Figure 1ASchematic diagram of a variant of the smoking substitution system 100. In Figure 1B In the system 100', the heater 104 forms part of the device 101 rather than part of the consumable 102. In this variant, the heater 104 can be electrically connected to the power supply 105.

[0109] Figure 2A and Figure 2B shows a heated tobacco (HT) smoking substitution system 200. The system 200 is an example of the Figure 1A or Figure 1B described system 100, system 100'. The system 200 includes an HT device 201 and an HT consumable 202, and the HT device 201 is configured to switch from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode based on detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event and / or after receiving a predetermined user input. The above Figure 1A and Figure 1B description applies to the Figure 2A and Figure 2B system 200, and will not be repeated here.

[0110] The device 201 and the consumable 202 are configured such that the consumable 202 can be engaged with the device 201. Figure 2A shows the device 201 and the consumable 202 in an engaged state, while Figure 2B shows the device 201 and the consumable 202 in a disengaged state.

[0111] The device 201 includes a body 209 and a cap 210. In use, the cap 210 engages at the end of the body 209. Although not obvious in the drawings, the cap 210 can move relative to the body 209. In particular, the cap 210 is slidable and can slide along the longitudinal axis of the body 209.

[0112] The device 201 includes an output mechanism (forming part of the UI of the device 201) in the form of a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) 211, the plurality of LEDs 211 being linearly arranged along the longitudinal axis of the device 201 and on the outer surface of the body 209 of the device 201. A button 212 is also arranged on the outer surface of the body 209 of the device 201 and is axially spaced (i.e., along the longitudinal axis) from the plurality of LEDs 211.

[0113] Figure 2CA detailed cross-sectional view of the consumable 202 of the system 200 is shown. The consumable 202 is generally similar to a cigarette. In this regard, the consumable 202 has a generally cylindrical shape with a diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of 70 mm. The consumable 202 includes an aerosol-forming substrate 213, a terminal filter element 214, an upstream filter element 215, and a spacer element 216. In other embodiments, the consumable may also include a cooling element. The cooling element can exchange heat with the vapor formed by the aerosol-forming substrate 213 to cool the vapor, thereby promoting the condensation of the vapor.

[0114] The aerosol-forming substrate 213 is substantially cylindrical and is located at the upstream end 217 of the consumable 202, and contains the aerosol precursor of the system 200. In this regard, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 is configured to be heated by the device 201 to release vapor. The released vapor is then entrained in the airflow flowing through the aerosol-forming substrate 213. The airflow is generated by the user's act of sucking on the downstream end 218 (i.e., the terminal or mouthpiece) of the consumable 202.

[0115] In the present embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 contains tobacco material, which may include, for example, any suitable part of the tobacco plant (such as leaves, stems, roots, bark, seeds, and flowers). The tobacco may include one or more of tobacco leaves, tobacco stems, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenized tobacco, cut tobacco, extruded tobacco, shredded tobacco, and / or reconstituted tobacco (such as sheet-process reconstituted or paper-process reconstituted). For example, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 may include collected homogenized (such as paper-process / sheet-process reconstituted) tobacco sheets or collected fragments / strips formed from such sheets.

[0116] To produce an aerosol, the aerosol-forming substrate 213 contains at least one volatile compound, which is intended to be vaporized / atomized and can provide a recreational and / or therapeutic effect to the user when inhaled. The aerosol-forming substrate 213 may also contain one or more additives. For example, such additives may be in the form of humectants (such as propylene glycol and / or vegetable glycerin), flavorants, fillers, aqueous / non-aqueous solvents, and / or binders.

[0117] The end filter element 214 is also substantially cylindrical and is positioned at the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 downstream of the aerosol - forming substrate 213. The end filter element 214 is in the form of a hollow - pore filter element that has pores 219 (e.g., for air flow) formed therethrough. The diameter of the pores 219 is 2 mm. The end filter element 214 is formed from a porous (e.g., mono - acetate) filter material. As described above, the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 (i.e., where the end filter 214 is positioned) forms the nozzle portion of the consumable 202 that the user sucks on. Airflow is drawn from the upstream end 217 through the components of the consumable 202 and exits the downstream end 218. The airflow is driven by the user sucking on the downstream end 218 (i.e., the nozzle portion) of the consumable 202.

[0118] The upstream filter element 215 is located between the aerosol - forming substrate 213 and the end filter element 214 and is axially adjacent to the aerosol - forming substrate 213. Similar to the end filter 214, the upstream filter element 215 is in the form of a hollow - pore filter element such that it has pores 220 that extend axially therethrough. In this way, the upstream filter 215 can act as an airflow restrictor. The upstream filter element 215 is formed from a porous (e.g., mono - acetate) filter material. The pores 220 of the upstream filter element 215 have a larger diameter (3 mm) than the pores of the end filter element 214.

[0119] The spacer 216 is in the form of a cardboard tube that defines a cavity or chamber between the upstream filter element 215 and the end filter element 214. The spacer 216 is used to allow cooling and mixing of the vapor / aerosol from the aerosol - forming substrate 213. The spacer has an outer diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of 14 mm.

[0120] Although not obvious in the drawings, the aerosol - forming substrate 213, the upstream filter 215, and the spacer 216 are surrounded by a paper wrapper layer. The end filter 214 is surrounded by a tipping - paper layer that also surrounds a portion of the paper wrapper layer (in order to connect the end filter 214 to the rest of the consumable 202). The upstream filter 215 and the end filter 214 are surrounded by other wrapper layers in the form of filter - rod wrappers.

[0121] Now turning back to the device 201, Figure 2D A detailed view of the end of the device 201 configured to engage with the consumable 202 is illustrated. The cap 210 of the device 201 includes an opening 221 that leads to an inner cavity 222 defined by the cap 210 ( Figure 2D more visible inFigure 2B ) The downstream end 218 of the consumable 202 protrudes from the opening 221 and thus also from the device 201. The opening 221 includes laterally disposed notches 226. When the consumable 202 is received in the opening 221, these notches 226 remain open and can be used, for example, to hold a lid for covering the end of the device 201.

[0122] Figure 2E A cross-section through the central longitudinal plane of the device 201 is shown. The device 201 is shown with the consumable 202 engaged therewith.

[0123] The device 201 includes a heater 204 that includes a heating element 223. The heater 204 forms part of the body 209 of the device 201 and is firmly mounted to the body 209. In the illustrated embodiment, the heater 204 is a rod-shaped heater, where the heating element 223 has a circular transverse profile. In other embodiments, the heater may be in the form of a blade heater (e.g., a heating element having a rectangular transverse profile) or a tubular heater (e.g., a heating element having a tubular shape).

[0124] The heating element 223 of the heater 204 projects from the inner base of the cavity 222 towards the opening 221 along the longitudinal axis. As is apparent from the drawings, the length of the heating element (i.e., along the longitudinal axis) is less than the depth of the cavity 222. In this way, the heating element 223 does not project from or extend beyond the opening 221.

[0125] When the consumable 202 is received in the cavity 222 (as Figure 2E shown), the heating element 223 penetrates the aerosol-forming substrate 213 of the consumable 202. In particular, when the heating element 223 is interposed therein, the heating element 223 extends over substantially the entire axial length of the aerosol-forming substrate 213. Thus, when the heater 204 is activated, heat is radially transferred from the outer peripheral surface of the heating element 223 to the aerosol-forming substrate 213.

[0126] The device 201 also includes an electronics cavity 224. A power source in the form of a rechargeable battery 205 (lithium-ion battery) is located in the electronics cavity 224.

[0127] The device 201 includes a connector in the form of a USB port 206 (i.e., forms part of the I / O module of the device 201). Alternatively, the connector can be, for example, a micro USB port or a USB-C port. The USB port 206 can be used to charge the rechargeable battery 205.

[0128] The device 201 includes a controller (not shown) located in the electronic device cavity 224. The controller includes a microcontroller mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The USB port 206 is also connected to the controller 208 (i.e., connected to the PCB and the microcontroller).

[0129] The controller 208 is configured to control at least one function of the device 201. For example, the controller 208 is configured to control the operation of the heater 204. This control of the operation of the heater 204 can be achieved by the controller switching the electrical connection between the rechargeable battery 205 and the heater 204. For example, the controller 208 is configured to control the heater 204 in response to the user pressing the button 212. Pressing the button 212 can cause the controller to allow voltage (from the rechargeable battery 205) to be applied to the heater 204 (so that the heating element 223 heats up).

[0130] In one aspect, the controller 208 is configured to switch the device 201 between two operating modes, namely a locked operation mode and an unlocked operating mode. In one embodiment, the controller 208 can be configured to switch the device 201 from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode based on detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event or upon receiving a predetermined user input. In one example, the predetermined user input for switching the device 201 from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode can include a user pressing a predetermined sequence of the button 212 or a button press. For example, the predetermined sequence of button presses can be any of the following: (i) pressing the button 212 a predetermined number of times, such as 5 times; (ii) pressing and holding the button 212 for a predetermined period of time, such as 3 seconds, or (iii) pressing the button 212 a predetermined number of times, where during each button press, the button 212 is held pressed for a predetermined period of time. The heater 204 of the device 201 remains disabled in the locked operating mode. For example, the heater 204 is not powered on during the locked operating mode. Therefore, when the controller 208 switches the device 201 from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode, the controller 208 enables the heater 204.

[0131] When the heater 204 is enabled during the unlocked operating state, it may not necessarily mean that the heater 204 is in an activated state (e.g., powered on), and it can also include a state where the heater 204 is ready to receive power from the power source, as long as an additional user input for activating the heater 204 is received at the device. Therefore, in some embodiments, the heater 204 is only activated, for example, after receiving the additional user input from the device 201 via the UI. The predetermined user input for switching the device 201 from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode is different from the additional user input required to activate the heater 204 in the unlocked operating mode.

[0132] The controller 208 is further configured to switch the device 201 from a locked mode to an unlocked mode upon detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event (e.g., the satisfaction of one or more predetermined conditions). For example, the controller 208 may be configured to switch the device 201 from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode upon detecting that the cap 210 of the device 210 has been lifted away from the device 201. Such movement may be detected by an electronic or mechanical trigger disposed between the cap 210 and the device 201. In another example, the controller 208 may be configured to switch the device 201 from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode upon detecting the establishment of a connection between the device 201 and an external computing device (e.g., via a USB socket) or an external power source (e.g., a wall socket). In another example, the controller 208 may be configured to switch the device 201 from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode upon detecting that the consumable 202 has been inserted into the cavity 222 of the device 201. Such engagement may be detected by an electronic or mechanical trigger disposed within the cavity 222.

[0133] The predetermined event may include the occurrence of multiple events. For example, the controller 208 may be configured to switch the device 222 from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode upon detecting both movement in the cap 210 and the insertion of the consumable 202 into the cavity 222.

[0134] In some embodiments, the controller 208 is configured to switch the device 201 from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode in response to receiving an input from the sensor 110. The sensor 110 may generate the input in response to the detection of movement of the device 201. In one example, the sensor 110 may be configured to generate the input when the device moves in a particular predetermined pattern. In another example, the controller 207 is configured to analyze and match the movement of the device with a predetermined pattern stored in the memory, and thereby switch the device 201 from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode when the registration is a positive match. The predetermined movement includes, for example, one or more of a swirling movement, a waving movement, a rocking movement, and a movement along the longitudinal direction.

[0135] In another embodiment, the controller 208 is further configured to switch from the unlocked operating mode to the locked operating mode, e.g., restart the locked operating mode. In particular, the controller 208 restarts the locked operating mode in response to receiving a second predetermined user input (e.g., a second predetermined sequence of user presses at the UI). In an embodiment, the second predetermined user input for restarting the locked operating mode of the device 201 is different from the predetermined user input.

[0136] The controller 208 is also configured to control the LED 211 in response to (e.g., detect) the status of the device 201 or the consumable 202. For example, the controller can control the LED to indicate whether the device 201 is in an on state or an off state (e.g., when the device is in the on state, one or more LEDs can be lit by the controller). Additionally, the controller 208 can control the LED to indicate that the device has switched from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode, e.g., whether the device is in a locked operating state or an unlocked operating state. The device 201 also includes other output mechanisms, such as a haptic sensor, an audio sensor, etc., to provide haptic / audio feedback indicating that the device 201 has switched from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode.

[0137] The device 202 also includes an input mechanism in the form of a draw sensor 225 (i.e., in addition to the button 212). The draw sensor 225 is configured to detect a user draw (i.e., inhalation) at the downstream end 218 of the consumable 202. The draw sensor 225 can be in the form of, for example, a pressure sensor, a flow meter, or a microphone. The draw sensor 225 is operably connected to the controller 208 in the electronics cavity 224 such that a signal from the draw sensor 225 indicating the draw status (i.e., draw or no draw) forms an input to the controller 208 (and can thus be responded to by the controller 208).

[0138] Figure 3 A flowchart illustrating a method for switching a device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode.

[0139] As Figure 3 shown, method 300 includes one or more blocks implemented by the controller 208 of the device 201. Method 300 can be described in the general context of controller-executable instructions. Generally, controller-executable instructions can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, procedures, modules, and functions that perform specific functions or implement specific abstract data types.

[0140] The order in which method 300 is described is not intended to be construed as limiting, and any number of the described method blocks can be combined in any order to implement method 300. Additionally, individual blocks can be deleted from method 300 without departing from the scope of the subject matter described herein. Further, method 300 can be implemented with any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof.

[0141] In block 301, the controller 208 is configured to perform at least one of the following: receive a predetermined user input or detect the occurrence of a predetermined event required to switch the device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode.

[0142] In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined user input received by the controller 208 for switching the device 201 from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode may include a predetermined sequence of button presses. For example, the predetermined sequence of button presses may be any of the following: (i) pressing the button 212 a predetermined number of times, such as 5 times; (ii) pressing and holding the button 212 for a predetermined period of time, such as 3 seconds, or (iii) pressing the button 212 a predetermined number of times, where during each button press, the button 212 is held pressed for a predetermined period of time.

[0143] In another exemplary embodiment, the predetermined event for switching the device 201 from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode may include multiple events or conditions. For example, the controller 208 may be configured to switch the device 201 from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode after detecting that the cap 210 of the device 210 has been lifted. In another example, the controller 208 may be configured to switch the device 201 from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode after detecting the establishment of a connection between the device 201 and one of an external computing device and an external power source. In another example, the controller 208 may be configured to switch the device 201 from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode after detecting that the consumable 202 has been inserted into the cavity 222 of the device 201. At block 302, the controller 208 detects whether (i) the user input matches a predetermined input stored in the memory 109, or (ii) the detected event matches a predetermined event previously registered / stored in the memory 109.

[0144] At block 303, the controller 208 moves along the "yes" path to switch the device from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode. The method proceeds to block 303 only after confirming that (i) the received user input matches the predetermined user input stored in the memory 109, or (ii) the detected event matches the predetermined event registered / stored in the memory 109. Then, the method moves to block 304, where the controller 208 enables the heater 204 of the device 201.

[0145] However, at block 305, when (i) the user input does not match the predetermined user input stored in the memory 109, or (ii) the detected event does not match the predetermined event registered / stored in the memory 109, the controller 208 moves along the "no" path and does not switch the device from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode.

[0146] Depending on the circumstances, the features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the appended claims, or in the drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in the means for performing the disclosed functions, or in the methods or processes for obtaining the disclosed results, may be used alone or in any combination of such features to implement the present invention in its various forms.

[0147] Although the present invention has been described in connection with the above exemplary embodiments, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when the present disclosure is given. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the present invention set forth above are to be considered illustrative and not restrictive. Various changes may be made to the described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0148] For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purpose of enhancing the reader's understanding. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.

[0149] Any chapter headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[0150] Throughout the specification, including the appended claims, unless the context otherwise requires, the words "have", "comprise", and "include" and variations such as "having", "comprises", "comprising", and "including" shall be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or a group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or a group of integers or steps.

[0151] It should be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" one specific value and / or to "about" another specific value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from one specific value and / or to other specific values. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations by use of the antecedent "about", it will be understood that the specific value forms another embodiment. The term "about" associated with a numerical value is optional and means, for example, + / - 10%.

[0152] As used herein, the terms "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the invention that may provide certain benefits in certain circumstances. However, it should be understood that other embodiments may also be preferred, in the same or different circumstances. Thus, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments is not intended to imply or suggest that other embodiments are unavailable, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the present disclosure or the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A heat-not-burn (HNB) device configured to switch from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode based on detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event and / or upon receiving a predetermined user input, wherein a heater of the heat-not-burn device is configured to be disabled during the locked operating mode and enabled during the unlocked operating mode.

2. The device according to claim 1, further comprising a controller configured to switch the device from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode and to enable the heater in the unlocked operating mode.

3. The device according to claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to start the heater after entering the unlocked operating mode.

4. The device according to claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to start the heater upon receiving a user input in the unlocked operating mode.

5. The device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the device is configured to switch from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode upon receiving the predetermined user input.

6. The device according to claim 5, dependent on claim 4, wherein the user input for starting the heater is different from the predetermined user input for switching to the unlocked operating mode.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein the user input for starting the heater is provided at a user interface different from the user interface for the predetermined user input for switching to the unlocked operating mode.

8. The device according to claim 6, wherein the user input for starting the heater is entered at the same user interface as the predetermined user input for switching to the unlocked operating mode.

9. The device according to any one of claims 5 to 8, wherein the predetermined user input comprises a predetermined sequence of user presses at a user interface of the device.

10. The device according to any one of claims 5 to 9, wherein the device is configured to switch from the unlocked operating mode to the locked operating mode upon receiving a second predetermined user input, wherein the second predetermined user input is different from the predetermined user input for switching from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode.

11. The device according to any one of claims 5 to 10, wherein the predetermined user input comprises a predetermined movement of the device, and wherein the device further comprises a motion sensor for detecting the predetermined movement.

12. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device is configured to switch from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode based on detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event, wherein the predetermined event comprises relative movement between a cap of the device and a body of the device.

13. The device according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an output mechanism indicating that the device has switched from the locked operating mode to the unlocked operating mode.

14. The device according to claim 13, wherein the output mechanism comprises an LED, a haptic feedback mechanism or an audio feedback mechanism.

15. A system, the system comprising a heat-not-burn device and an aerosol-forming article according to any one of the preceding claims.

16. A method for switching a heat-not-burn device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode, comprising: detecting the occurrence of a predetermined event and / or after receiving a predetermined user input, switching the heat-not-burn device from a locked operating mode to an unlocked operating mode, wherein a heater of the heat-not-burn device is configured to be disabled during the locked operating mode and enabled during the unlocked operating mode.

17. A method of manufacturing a device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising: placing the device in a locked operating mode; and packaging the device.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the packaging comprises packaging the device in a product package, wherein a user interface of the device is configured to be assessable when the device is accommodated in the product package.

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