Illumination system for aerosol-generating system

Abstract

A lighting system for an aerosol-generating system is provided. A lighting system includes a plurality of light emitting elements, a first plurality of lighting regions, and control electronics. Each of the illumination areas is spatially separated from the other illumination areas. Each of the illumination areas includes one or more of the plurality of light emitting elements. The first set of illumination areas are arranged relative to each other to collectively define a number VIII. Control electronics are coupled to the plurality of light emitting elements and configured to selectively activate each of the plurality of illumination areas. There is also provided an aerosol-generating device for generating an inhalable aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol-generating device comprising such a lighting system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an illumination system for an aerosol generation system. The present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generation device including the illumination system. Background Art

[0002] Known aerosol generation systems are used to generate an inhalable aerosol for a user. It is also known that light-emitting elements are used as part of an aerosol generation system to provide a visual cue to the user regarding the state of the aerosol generation system.

[0003] There is a desire to provide an improved illumination system for an aerosol generation system. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an illumination system for an aerosol generation system. The illumination system may include a plurality of light-emitting elements, a first group of a plurality of illumination regions, and control electronics. Each illumination region among the illumination regions may be spatially separated from other illumination regions. Each illumination region among the illumination regions may include one or more of the plurality of light-emitting elements. The control electronics may be coupled to the plurality of light-emitting elements and configured to selectively activate each of the plurality of illumination regions. Selective activation of different illumination regions among the plurality of spatially separated illumination regions may facilitate the illumination system to produce different light emissions depending on which illumination regions are activated (or not activated). Depending on the relative positioning of the spatially separated illumination regions, selective activation of different illumination regions among the illumination regions may allow the activated illumination regions and the light emissions produced thereby to jointly define different shapes, letters, numbers, or combinations thereof.

[0005] Preferably, the light-emitting elements may be in the form of one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). LEDs are preferred due to their energy efficiency, which makes them particularly suitable for aerosol generation systems that are intended to be portable and / or handheld.

[0006] Each illumination region among the illumination regions may include an equal number of the plurality of light-emitting elements.

[0007] One or more of the plurality of illumination regions may each include a single one of the plurality of light-emitting elements. Preferably, each illumination region among the plurality of illumination regions includes a single one of the plurality of light-emitting elements.

[0008] Advantageously, the plurality of illumination regions are arranged relative to each other to jointly define the number eight. The number of the plurality of illumination regions may be seven.

[0009] A first pair of lighting areas among the plurality of lighting areas may be arranged opposite a second pair of lighting areas among the plurality of lighting areas. The lighting areas in the first pair may be arranged in a collinear relationship with each other. The lighting areas in the second pair may be arranged in a collinear relationship with each other. Three lighting areas among the plurality of lighting areas may be laterally spaced apart from each other and extend between the first and second pairs among the plurality of lighting areas. It should be understood that by selectively activating different lighting areas among the lighting areas, the activated lighting areas and the light emissions generated thereby may jointly define different shapes, letters, numbers, or combinations thereof.

[0010] Preferably, the lighting system may further include an opaque shield positioned above the plurality of light-emitting elements, the shield including a plurality of apertures for allowing light to pass therethrough.

[0011] The plurality of apertures may preferably be arranged in a plurality of aperture regions, each of the plurality of aperture regions including one or more of the plurality of apertures. Each of the plurality of aperture regions may be spatially separated from the other aperture regions among the plurality of aperture regions. Each of the plurality of lighting areas may be in a light-transmissive relationship with a different one of the plurality of aperture regions such that light from each of the plurality of lighting areas in the first group is visible through the apertures of the corresponding aperture region. It should be understood that the number, size, and shape of the apertures in each aperture region will affect the perception of the light emissions generated from the activated lighting areas by a user located on the side of the opaque shield opposite the lighting areas.

[0012] Each aperture region may include an equal number of the plurality of apertures.

[0013] Each aperture region may include one or more rows of apertures.

[0014] Each aperture region may be in a light-transmissive relationship with a single one of the plurality of light-emitting elements such that light generated by the single light-emitting element is visible through the apertures of the corresponding aperture region.

[0015] Advantageously, the plurality of aperture regions may be arranged relative to each other to jointly define the number eight. The number of the plurality of aperture regions may be seven.

[0016] A first pair of orifice regions among the plurality of orifice regions may be arranged opposite a second pair of orifice regions among the plurality of orifice regions. The orifice regions in the first pair may be arranged in a collinear relationship with each other. The orifice regions in the second pair may be arranged in a collinear relationship with each other. Three orifice regions among the plurality of orifice regions may be laterally spaced apart from each other and extend between the first pair and the second pair among the plurality of orifice regions. It should be understood that by selectively activating different illumination regions in the illumination area and according to the number, shape, and size of the orifices in each orifice region, the light emissions (as perceived by a user located on the side of the opaque shield opposite the illumination area) generated by the plurality of illumination regions may jointly define different shapes, letters, numbers, or combinations thereof.

[0017] Advantageously, the second set of one or more illumination regions may be arranged to partially or completely surround the first set of the plurality of illumination regions. The control electronics may be configured to selectively activate each of the first set of illumination regions and the second set of illumination regions to generate corresponding first and second light emissions. The second set (one or more) of illumination regions may jointly define an annulus; as an example, the annulus may be circular or elliptical. The shape of the first set (one or more) of illumination regions may be complementary to the second set (one or more) of illumination regions. The first set of illumination regions and the second set of illumination regions may be separated from each other by an annular gap.

[0018] According to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an inhalable aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device may include a housing that includes a display window and an illumination system according to any of the variations disclosed herein. The illumination system may be disposed within the housing such that light from the plurality of illumination regions is visible via the display window.

[0019] The aerosol generating device may further include an opaque shield disposed within the housing between the plurality of light-emitting elements and the display window. The opaque shield may be as described in the foregoing paragraph. The opaque shield may be positioned above the plurality of light-emitting elements and include a plurality of orifices for allowing light to pass therethrough.

[0020] The plurality of orifices may be arranged in a plurality of orifice regions, each orifice region among the plurality of orifice regions including one or more of the plurality of orifices. Each orifice region among the orifice regions may be spatially separated from the other orifice regions among the plurality of orifice regions. Each illumination region among the plurality of illumination regions may be in a light-transmissive relationship with a different orifice region among the plurality of orifice regions such that light from each illumination region among the plurality of illumination regions in the first set of illumination regions is visible through the orifices of the corresponding orifice region.

[0021] Each orifice region may include an equal number of the plurality of orifices.

[0022] Each orifice area may include one or more rows of orifices.

[0023] Each orifice area may be in a light-transmissive relationship with a single light-emitting element of the plurality of light-emitting elements such that light generated by the single light-emitting element is visible through the orifices of the corresponding orifice area.

[0024] The aerosol-generating device may further include an optical waveguide assembly disposed between the plurality of light-emitting elements and the display window. The optical waveguide assembly may be configured to direct light from the plurality of illumination areas to the display window. An opaque shroud may be disposed between the plurality of light-emitting elements and the optical waveguide assembly. Alternatively, the opaque shroud may be disposed between the optical waveguide assembly and the display window.

[0025] The opaque shroud may be integrated into the display window.

[0026] The control electronics may be configured to selectively activate different ones of the plurality of illumination areas, either individually or in combination with each other, to produce different predetermined light emissions in accordance with one or both of the state of the aerosol-generating device and the control input to the aerosol-generating device.

[0027] A second set of illumination areas may be arranged to partially or completely surround the first set of the plurality of illumination areas. The control electronics may be configured to selectively activate each of the first set of illumination areas and the second set of illumination areas to produce a respective first light emission and second light emission.

[0028] Preferably, the control electronics may be configured to: i) selectively activate one of the first set of illumination areas and the second set of illumination areas to produce a first predetermined light emission that conveys first data indicative of the state of the aerosol-generating device; and ii) selectively activate the other of the first set of illumination areas and the second set of illumination areas to produce a second predetermined light emission that conveys second data indicative of the state of the aerosol-generating device. The first data and the second data are different from each other.

[0029] The first data and the second data may indicate any two of the following: a) the power source of the aerosol-generating device contains sufficient energy to complete a single usage process; b) the power source of the aerosol-generating device contains sufficient energy to complete two or more usage processes; c) the power source of the aerosol-generating device contains an energy level below a predetermined threshold energy level; d) selecting or activating one of a first predetermined heating curve and a second predetermined heating curve, wherein each of the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve defines a heating curve for heating an aerosol-forming substrate by an electrical heating device during a usage process, and the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve are different from each other; e) the aerosol-generating device is in one of a pause mode state or a reactivation state; f) selecting or activating a change in the operating state of the aerosol-generating device; g) the progress of a usage process; h) the progress of a preheating stage in which the electrical heating device is heated to a predetermined target temperature; i) the aerosol-generating device is in a locked state, in which the device is prohibited from generating aerosol; j) the aerosol-generating device is in an unlocked state, in which the device is permitted to generate aerosol; k) the PIN code of an input for unlocking the device such that it is permitted to generate aerosol and / or the order of the PIN codes in a sequence to be input for unlocking the device such that it is permitted to generate aerosol; l) the types of a plurality of aerosol-generating articles detected by the device; m) the aerosol-generating device is too hot to permit aerosol generation; and n) the aerosol-generating device is too cold to permit aerosol generation.

[0030] Preferably, the display window may define a touch interface of a capacitive touch sensing device of the aerosol-generating device for sensing user contact with the display window.

[0031] The control electronics can be configured to selectively activate each of a plurality of illumination zones to indicate: a) the power source of the aerosol-generating device contains sufficient energy to complete a single usage process; b) the power source of the aerosol-generating device contains sufficient energy to complete two or more usage processes; c) the power source of the aerosol-generating device contains an energy level below a predetermined threshold energy level; d) select or activate one of a first predetermined heating curve and a second predetermined heating curve, wherein each of the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve defines a heating curve for heating an aerosol-forming substrate by an electrical heating device during a usage process, and the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve are different from each other; e) the aerosol-generating device is in one of a pause mode state or a reactivation state; f) select or activate a change in the operating state of the aerosol-generating device; g) the progress of a usage process; h) the progress of a preheating stage in which the electrical heating device is heated to a predetermined target temperature; i) the aerosol-generating device is in a locked state, in which the device is prohibited from generating aerosol; j) the aerosol-generating device is in an unlocked state, in which the device is permitted to generate aerosol; k) the PIN code of an input for unlocking the device such that it is permitted to generate aerosol and / or the order of the PIN codes in a sequence to be input for unlocking the device such that it is permitted to generate aerosol; l) the types of a plurality of aerosol-generating articles detected by the device; m) the aerosol-generating device is too hot to permit aerosol generation; and n) the aerosol-generating device is too cold to permit aerosol generation.

[0032] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" is used to describe a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. Preferably, the aerosol-generating device is a smoking device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled by a user into the user's lungs through the user's mouth.

[0033] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article that includes an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. The aerosol-generating article can be disposable.

[0034] As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" refers to a substrate composed of or including an aerosol-forming material that, when heated, is capable of releasing volatile compounds to generate an aerosol.

[0035] Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate. However, the aerosol-forming substrate can include both solid and liquid components. Alternatively, the aerosol-forming substrate can be a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0036] Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises nicotine. More preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises tobacco. Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco-free aerosol-forming material.

[0037] If the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise, for example, one or more of powders, granules, pellets, flakes, filaments, strips or sheets, which comprise one or more of herbaceous leaves, tobacco leaves, tobacco ribs, expanded tobacco and homogenized tobacco.

[0038] Optionally, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco volatile flavor compound or a non-tobacco volatile flavor compound, which is released when the solid aerosol-forming substrate is heated. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may also comprise one or more capsules, which for example comprise additional tobacco volatile flavor compounds or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds, and such capsules may melt during heating of the solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0039] Optionally, the solid aerosol-forming substrate may be disposed on a heat-stable carrier or embedded in a heat-stable carrier. The carrier may take the form of powders, granules, pellets, flakes, filaments, strips or sheets. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited on the surface of the carrier in the form of, for example, sheets, foams, gels or slurries. The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be deposited over the entire surface of the carrier or, alternatively, may be deposited in a pattern so as to provide non-uniform flavor delivery during use.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises a homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "homogenized tobacco material" refers to a material formed by coalescing particulate tobacco.

[0041] Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises an aggregated sheet of homogenized tobacco material. As used herein, the term "sheet" refers to a laminated element having a width and length significantly greater than its thickness. As used herein, the term "aggregated" is used to describe a sheet that is wound, folded or compressed or tightened substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article. Preferably, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises an aerosol-forming agent. As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming agent" is used to describe any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that contributes to the formation of an aerosol during use and is substantially heat-resistant to degradation at the operating temperature of the aerosol-generating article.

[0042] Suitable aerosol - forming agents are known in the art and include, but are not limited to: polyols such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3 - butanediol and glycerol; esters of polyols such as glycerol mono -, di - or tri - acetate; and aliphatic esters of mono -, di - or poly - carboxylic acids such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate. Preferred aerosol - forming agents are polyols or mixtures thereof, such as propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,3 - butanediol and most preferably glycerol.

[0043] The aerosol - forming substrate may comprise a single aerosol - forming agent. Alternatively, the aerosol - forming substrate may comprise a combination of two or more aerosol - forming agents.

[0044] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non - exhaustive list of non - limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment or aspect described herein.

[0045] Example Ex1: An illumination system for an aerosol - generating system, the illumination system comprising:

[0046] A plurality of light - emitting elements;

[0047] A first group of a plurality of illumination regions, wherein each illumination region in the illumination regions is spatially separated from other illumination regions, and wherein each illumination region in the illumination regions comprises one or more of the plurality of light - emitting elements;

[0048] Control electronics coupled to the plurality of light - emitting elements and configured to selectively activate each of the plurality of illumination regions.

[0049] Example Ex2: The illumination system according to Ex1, wherein each illumination region in the illumination regions comprises an equal number of the plurality of light - emitting elements.

[0050] Example Ex3: The illumination system according to any one of Ex1 or Ex2, wherein one or more of the plurality of illumination regions each comprise a single light - emitting element of the plurality of light - emitting elements.

[0051] Example Ex4: The illumination system according to Ex3, wherein each illumination region in the plurality of illumination regions comprises a single light - emitting element of the plurality of light - emitting elements.

[0052] Example Ex5: The illumination system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex4, wherein the plurality of illumination regions are arranged relative to each other to jointly define the number eight.

[0053] Example Ex6: The illumination system according to Ex5, wherein the number of the plurality of illumination regions is seven.

[0054] Example Ex7: A lighting system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex6, wherein a first pair of lighting areas among the plurality of lighting areas are arranged opposite to a second pair of lighting areas among the plurality of lighting areas.

[0055] Example Ex8: A lighting system according to Ex7, wherein the lighting areas in the first pair are arranged in a collinear relationship with each other.

[0056] Example Ex9: A lighting system according to any one of Ex7 or Ex8, wherein the lighting areas in the second pair are arranged in a collinear relationship with each other.

[0057] Example Ex10: A lighting system according to any one of Ex7 to Ex9, wherein three lighting areas among the plurality of lighting areas are laterally spaced apart from each other and extend between the first pair and the second pair among the plurality of lighting areas.

[0058] Example Ex11: A lighting system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex10, further comprising an opaque shield positioned above the plurality of light-emitting elements, the shield including a plurality of apertures for allowing light to pass therethrough.

[0059] Example Ex12: A lighting system according to Ex11, wherein the plurality of apertures are arranged in a plurality of aperture regions, and each of the plurality of aperture regions includes one or more of the plurality of apertures.

[0060] Example Ex13: A lighting system according to Ex12, wherein each of the plurality of aperture regions is spatially separated from the other aperture regions among the plurality of aperture regions.

[0061] Example Ex14: A lighting system according to Ex13, wherein each of the plurality of lighting areas is in a light-transmitting relationship with a different aperture region among the plurality of aperture regions, such that light from each of the plurality of lighting areas in the first group is visible through the apertures of the corresponding aperture region.

[0062] Example Ex15: A lighting system according to any one of Ex12 to Ex14, wherein each aperture region includes an equal number of the plurality of apertures.

[0063] Example Ex16: A lighting system according to any one of Ex12 to Ex15, wherein each aperture region includes one or more rows of apertures.

[0064] Example Ex17: A lighting system according to any one of Ex12 to Ex16, wherein each orifice region is in a light-transmissive relationship with a single light-emitting element of the plurality of light-emitting elements, such that light generated by the single light-emitting element is visible through the orifice of the corresponding orifice region.

[0065] Example Ex18: A lighting system according to any one of Ex12 to Ex17, wherein the plurality of orifice regions are arranged relative to each other to jointly define the number eight.

[0066] Example Ex19: A lighting system according to Ex18, wherein the number of the plurality of orifice regions is seven.

[0067] Example Ex20: A lighting system according to Ex19, wherein a first pair of the plurality of orifice regions is arranged opposite a second pair of the plurality of orifice regions.

[0068] Example Ex21: A lighting system according to Ex20, wherein the orifice regions in the first pair are arranged in a collinear relationship with each other.

[0069] Example Ex22: A lighting system according to any one of Ex20 or Ex21, wherein the orifice regions in the second pair are arranged in a collinear relationship with each other.

[0070] Example Ex23: A lighting system according to any one of Ex20 to Ex22, wherein three of the plurality of orifice regions are laterally spaced apart from each other and extend between the first pair and the second pair of the plurality of orifice regions.

[0071] Example Ex24: A lighting system according to any one of Ex1 to Ex23, wherein a second set of one or more lighting regions is arranged to partially or completely surround the first set of the plurality of lighting regions, and the control electronics is configured to selectively activate each of the first set of lighting regions and the second set of lighting regions to produce corresponding first and second light emissions.

[0072] Example Ex25: An aerosol generating device for generating an inhalable aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol generating device comprising:

[0073] A housing including a display window;

[0074] A lighting system according to any one of the foregoing examples, wherein the lighting system is disposed within the housing such that light from the plurality of lighting regions is visible through the display window.

[0075] Example Ex26: The aerosol generating device according to Ex25, further comprising:

[0076] An opaque shield is disposed within the housing between the plurality of light emitting elements and the display window, the opaque shield being positioned over the plurality of light emitting elements and including a plurality of apertures to allow light to pass therethrough.

[0077] Example Ex27: An aerosol generating device according to Ex26, wherein the plurality of orifices are arranged in a plurality of orifice regions, each of the plurality of orifice regions comprising one or more orifices of the plurality of orifices.

[0078] Example Ex28: An aerosol generating device according to Ex27, wherein each of the aperture regions is spatially separated from the other aperture regions of the plurality of aperture regions.

[0079] Example Ex29: An aerosol generating device according to Ex28, wherein each of the multiple lighting areas is in a light-transmitting relationship with a different orifice area among the multiple orifice areas, so that light from each of the multiple lighting areas in the first group of lighting areas is visible through the orifice of the corresponding orifice area.

[0080] Example Ex30: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Ex27 to Ex29, wherein each aperture region comprises an equal number of the plurality of apertures.

[0081] Example Ex31: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Ex27 to Ex30, wherein each aperture region comprises one or more rows of apertures.

[0082] Example Ex32: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Ex27 to Ex31, wherein each aperture region is in a light-transmitting relationship with a single light-emitting element of the plurality of light-emitting elements, such that light generated by the single light-emitting element is visible through the aperture of the corresponding aperture region.

[0083] Example Ex33: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Ex26 to Ex32, further comprising a light guide assembly disposed between the plurality of light emitting elements and the display window, the light guide assembly being configured to guide light from the plurality of illumination areas to the display window.

[0084] Example Ex34: An aerosol generating device according to Ex33, wherein the opaque shield is arranged between the plurality of light emitting elements and the light guide assembly.

[0085] Example Ex35: An aerosol generating device according to Ex33, wherein the opaque shield is arranged between the light guide assembly and the display window.

[0086] Example Ex36: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Ex26 to Ex33, wherein the opaque shield is integrated into the display window.

[0087] Example Ex37: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Ex25 to Ex36, wherein the control electronics are configured to selectively activate different ones of the plurality of lighting zones, either individually or in combination with each other, so as to produce different predetermined light emissions in dependence on one or both of the state of the aerosol-generating device and the control input to the aerosol-generating device.

[0088] Example Ex38: An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Ex25 to Ex37, wherein a second set of lighting zones is arranged to partially or completely surround the first set of the plurality of lighting zones, and the control electronics are configured to selectively activate each of the first set of lighting zones and the second set of lighting zones to produce a respective first light emission and second light emission.

[0089] Example Ex39: An aerosol-generating device according to Ex38, wherein the control electronics are configured to:

[0090] i) selectively activate one of the first set of lighting zones and the second set of lighting zones to produce a first predetermined light emission that conveys first data indicative of the state of the aerosol-generating device;

[0091] and

[0092] ii) selectively activate the other of the first set of lighting zones and the second set of lighting zones to produce a second predetermined light emission that conveys second data indicative of the state of the aerosol-generating device, wherein the first data and the second data are different from each other.

[0093] Example Ex40: An aerosol-generating device according to Ex39, wherein the first data and the second data indicate any two of the following:

[0094] a) The power supply of the aerosol-generating device contains sufficient energy to complete a single usage process;

[0095] b) The power supply of the aerosol-generating device contains sufficient energy to complete two or more usage processes;

[0096] c) The power supply of the aerosol-generating device contains an energy level below a predetermined threshold energy level;

[0097] d) Select or activate one of a first predetermined heating curve and a second predetermined heating curve, wherein each of the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve defines a heating curve for heating the aerosol - forming substrate by an electric heating device during use, and the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve are different from each other;

[0098] e) The aerosol - generating device is in one of a pause mode state or a re - activation state;

[0099] f) Select or activate a change in the operating state of the aerosol - generating device;

[0100] g) Progress through the course of use;

[0101] h) Progress through a pre - heating stage in which the electric heating device is heated to a predetermined target temperature;

[0102] i) The aerosol - generating device is in a locked state, in which the device is prohibited from generating aerosol;

[0103] j) The aerosol - generating device is in an unlocked state, in which the device is permitted to generate aerosol;

[0104] k) The PIN code for unlocking the device so that it is permitted to generate aerosol and / or the order of the PIN codes in a sequence to be entered for unlocking the device so that it is permitted to generate aerosol;

[0105] l) The types of a plurality of aerosol - generating articles detected by the device;

[0106] m) The aerosol - generating device is too hot to permit aerosol generation; and

[0107] n) The aerosol - generating device is too cold to permit aerosol generation.

[0108] Example Ex41: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Ex25 to Ex40, wherein the display window defines a touch interface of a capacitive touch - sensing device of the aerosol - generating device for sensing contact of a user with the display window.

[0109] Example Ex42: An aerosol - generating device according to any one of Ex25 to Ex41, wherein the control electronics are configured to selectively activate each of the plurality of lighting regions to indicate:

[0110] a) The power supply of the aerosol - generating device contains sufficient energy to complete a single use process;

[0111] b) The power supply of the aerosol generating device contains sufficient energy to complete two or more usage processes;

[0112] c) The power supply of the aerosol generating device contains an energy level below a predetermined threshold energy level;

[0113] d) Select or activate one of a first predetermined heating curve and a second predetermined heating curve, wherein each of the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve defines a heating curve for heating the aerosol-forming substrate by an electrical heating device during a usage process, and the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve are different from each other;

[0114] e) The aerosol generating device is in one of a pause mode state or a reactivation state;

[0115] f) Select or activate a change in the operating state of the aerosol generating device;

[0116] g) Progress through a usage process;

[0117] h) Progress through a preheating stage in which the electrical heating device is heated to a predetermined target temperature;

[0118] i) The aerosol generating device is in a locked state, in which the device is prohibited from generating aerosol;

[0119] j) The aerosol generating device is in an unlocked state, in which the device is permitted to generate aerosol;

[0120] k) The PIN code for unlocking the device so that it is permitted to generate aerosol and / or the order of the PIN codes in a sequence to be entered for unlocking the device so that it is permitted to generate aerosol;

[0121] l) The types of a plurality of aerosol generating articles detected by the device;

[0122] m) The aerosol generating device is too hot to permit aerosol generation; and

[0123] n) The aerosol generating device is too cold to permit aerosol generation. Description of the Drawings

[0124] Several examples will now be further described with reference to the drawings, wherein:

[0125] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a first embodiment of an aerosol generating system according to the present disclosure is shown.

[0126] Figure 2 Shown by Figure 1Schematic diagram of a touch interface defined by a display window of an aerosol generating device of an aerosol generating system.

[0127] Figure 3A Shows a schematic side elevational view of a first embodiment of a control board assembly according to the present disclosure, the control board assembly being in an unfolded state.

[0128] Figure 3B Shows Figure 3A of the control board assembly in Figure 3A schematic plan view in the A-A direction of.

[0129] Figure 3C Shows Figure 3A and Figure 3B schematic side elevational view of the control board assembly after transitioning from the unfolded state to the folded state.

[0130] Figure 3D Shows from Figure 3C schematic perspective view above the control board assembly of.

[0131] Figure 4A Shows a schematic side elevational view of a second embodiment of a control board assembly according to the present disclosure, the control board assembly being in an unfolded state.

[0132] Figure 4B Shows Figure 4A schematic side elevational view of the control board assembly after transitioning from the unfolded state to the folded state.

[0133] Figure 5A Shows a schematic plan view of a third embodiment of a control board assembly according to the present disclosure, the control board assembly being in an unfolded state.

[0134] Figure 5B Shows Figure 5A of the control board assembly after transitioning from the unfolded state to the folded state in Figure 5A schematic side elevational view in the B-B direction of.

[0135] Figure 5C Shows Figure 5A of the control board assembly after transitioning from the unfolded state to the folded state in Figure 5A schematic side elevational view in the C-C direction of.

[0136] Figure 6A Shows Figure 4B schematic side elevational view of the folded control board assembly and a separate light guide assembly and a separate touch sensing module.

[0137] Figure 6B Shows after the light guide assembly has been installed onto the control board assembly in Figure 6ASchematic side elevation view of a control board assembly in a state subsequent to the state shown in

[0138] Figure 6C Shows the state after the touch sensing module has been positioned above the light guide assembly to form an intermediate component module and is in Figure 6B Schematic side elevation view of a control board assembly in a state subsequent to the state shown in

[0139] Figure 6D Schematic view of an elongate cylindrical housing of an aerosol generating device, which shows how Figure 6C The intermediate component module is inserted into an opening located at the end of the housing.

[0140] Figure 6E Schematic view of the housing of the aerosol generating device after the intermediate component module has been slid into a predetermined position within the housing.

[0141] Figure 6F Schematic view of a display window being installed in an aperture defined in the housing.

[0142] Figure 6G Schematic view of the aerosol generating device after the display window has been installed in the aperture.

[0143] Figure 6H Shows a Figure 6G Schematic cross-sectional view of cross-section D-D of the aerosol generating device.

[0144] Figure 7A Shows a Figure 6A Schematic plan view of the mesh of a capacitive touch foil web for forming the touch sensing module (also referred to herein as a touch sensor) shown in

[0145] Figures 7B to 7E Shows an example of a touch sensing module (also referred to herein as a touch sensor).

[0146] Figure 7F Shows a circuit for detecting touch events.

[0147] Figure 8 Shows a Figure 3D Schematic perspective view from above the control board assembly, where the touch sensing module is arranged above and coupled to the control board assembly.

[0148] Figure 9A Schematic view of an elongate cylindrical housing of the aerosol generating device, where Figure 4B The control board assembly is pre-installed inside the housing adjacent to an aperture formed in the housing, with a separate light guide assembly and a separate touch sensing module outside the housing.

[0149] Figure 9B A schematic diagram showing an optical waveguide assembly being inserted through an aperture overlying a control panel assembly is shown.

[0150] Figure 9C A schematic diagram showing a touch sensing module being inserted through an aperture overlying an outward-facing surface of an optical waveguide assembly is shown.

[0151] Figure 9D A schematic diagram showing a display window being installed in an aperture is shown.

[0152] Figure 9E A schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device after installing a display window in an aperture is shown.

[0153] Figure 10A and Figure 10B Schematic plan views of a first embodiment of an illumination system before and after assembly are shown, respectively.

[0154] Figure 11A and Figure 11B Schematic plan views of a second embodiment of an illumination system before and after assembly are shown, respectively.

[0155] Figure 12 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an aerosol generating device including the illumination system of FIG. 10 is shown.

[0156] Figure 13 A plan view of a display window of an aerosol generating device is shown, wherein the display window overlies the illumination system of FIG. 11.

[0157] Figure 14 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of touch sensing control electronics for controlling the operation of a capacitive touch sensor of the aerosol generating device shown in the above figures is shown.

[0158] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of touch sensing control electronics for controlling the operation of a capacitive touch sensor of the aerosol generating device shown in the above figures is shown.

[0159] Figure 16 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of illumination control electronics for controlling the operation of an illumination assembly of the aerosol generating device shown in the above figures is shown.

[0160] Figure 17 A schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment of illumination control electronics for controlling the operation of an illumination assembly of the aerosol generating device shown in the above figures is shown.

[0161] Figure 18A schematic diagram showing intersecting row and column pins that form part of an illumination assembly for an aerosol-generating device as shown in the above figures, and the arrangement of the accompanying LEDs. Detailed Description

[0162] Figure 1 The components of an aerosol-generating system 1 are shown. The aerosol-generating system 1 has an aerosol-generating device 2 and an aerosol-generating article 3. As will be described below, the aerosol-generating device 2 is adapted to receive the aerosol-generating article 3.

[0163] The aerosol-generating article 3 has a wrapper 301 enclosing a strip 302 of aerosol-forming substrate and a mouthpiece element 303. The wrapper 301 can be cigarette paper or the like. The strip 302 of aerosol-forming substrate is located at the distal end 304 of the article 3, and the mouthpiece element 303 is located at the mouth end 305 of the article. The mouthpiece element 303 can be a filter element formed of cellulose acetate or other suitable material. A sensor element 306 of ferromagnetic material is located inside the strip 302 of aerosol-forming substrate.

[0164] The aerosol-generating device 2 has an elongate tubular housing 201 extending along a longitudinal axis LA2. The elongate housing 201 can be formed of a polymeric material or other material having a suitable stiffness. The housing 201 is sized to be suitable for being held by a user. A blind cavity 202 is defined at the first end 203 of the housing 201. In Figure 1 the embodiment shown, the cross-section of the housing 201 is cylindrical. The cavity 202 is sized to receive the distal end 304 of the aerosol-generating article 3 such that the cavity receives the entire length of the strip 302 of aerosol-forming substrate. A power source 204, control electronics 205, an illumination assembly 206, and a touch sensor 207 are contained within the interior of the housing 201. In the embodiment shown, the power source 204 is a rechargeable battery; for example, the battery can be a lithium-ion battery. An electrical heating device is also provided inside the housing. More specifically, in Figure 1 the embodiment shown, the electrical heating device is in the form of an inductor coil 208 surrounding the cavity 202. In other embodiments (not shown), the electrical heating device can be a resistive heating element; for example, the resistive heating element can have vanes extending from the base of the cavity 202 towards the first end 203 of the housing 201.

[0165] The control electronics 205 includes an illumination control electronics section 2051, a touch-sensing control electronics section 2052, and a heating control electronics section 2053. Although Figure 1Although not shown in [the figure], the control electronics 205 may also include sections related to the control of other functions of the aerosol-generating device 2. Each of the lighting control electronics section 2051, the touch-sensing control electronics section 2052, and the heating control electronics section 2053 may include a controller and a memory module, the memory module containing instructions accessible by the respective controller to enable the respective control electronics section to perform one or more control functions. In Figure 1 the case of the embodiment of the aerosol-generating device 2 shown in [the figure], the heating control electronics section 2053 also includes a DC / AC converter (not shown) to convert the DC current provided by the battery 204 into an alternating current. As Figure 1 schematically shown in [the figure], the lighting control electronics section 2051 is coupled to the lighting assembly 206, the touch-sensing control electronics section 2052 is coupled to the touch sensor 207, and the heating control electronics section 2053 is coupled to the inductor coil 208. Although Figure 1 not shown in [the figure], each of the (lighting, touch-sensing, and heating) control electronics sections is also communicatively coupled to each other such that an input to / or an output from one of the control electronics sections may result in a corresponding control input to / or a control output from another of the control electronics sections.

[0166] A display window 209 is defined in the housing 201 of the device 2. The outline of the display window 209 is shown in Figure 1 dashed outline in [the figure]. The display window 209 is a transparent plastic insert mounted in an aperture 210 defined in the housing 201 of the device 2 (see Figure 1 and Figure 2 ). However, the display window 209 may be formed of other light-transmissive materials (such as glass). As will be described in more detail below, the display window 209 serves both as a touch interface for a user to provide control inputs to the device 2 and as a window through which one or more light emissions from the lighting assembly 206 may be observed. The light emissions may indicate various states of the aerosol-generating device 2. Figure 2 The outward-facing surface 2091 of the display window 209, which serves as a touch interface for the user, is shown.

[0167] Before activating the aerosol-generating device 2, the aerosol-generating article 3 is inserted into the chamber 202 of the device. When the article 3 has been fully inserted into the chamber 202, the length of the strip 302 of the aerosol-forming substrate is surrounded by the inductor coil 208. Upon activation of the device 2, the heating control electronics section 2053 controls the supply of alternating current from the battery 204 to the inductor coil 208 in accordance with instructions contained in a memory module (not shown) of the heating control electronics section. Activation of the aerosol-generating device 2 can occur automatically when the aerosol-generating article 3 is inserted into the chamber 202 of the device (e.g., a sensor can be arranged in the chamber and configured to detect the insertion of the aerosol-generating article). Alternatively, the aerosol-generating device 2 can be activated by a user engaging their finger with a touch interface defined by the outward-facing surface 2091 of the display window 209, wherein the touch-sensing control electronics section 2052 senses the touch event and communicates with the heating control electronics section 2053 to commence supplying current from the battery 204 to the inductor coil 208 in order to heat the aerosol-forming substrate 302 of the aerosol-generating article 3. The touch-sensing control electronics section 2052 can also communicate with the lighting control electronics section 2051 to cause the lighting assembly 206 to produce a light emission notifying the user of the activation of the device 2 and / or the current operating state of the device.

[0168] For Figure 1 the aerosol-generating device 2 shown in, an alternating current through the inductor coil 208 generates a magnetic field. The susceptor element 306 is located within this magnetic field. The magnetic field causes heating of the susceptor element 306 by one or both of eddy currents and hysteresis. The heating control electronics section 2053 controls the supply of current to the inductor coil 208 in accordance with a heating curve stored in a memory module of the heating control electronics section. The lighting assembly 206 can produce one or more light emissions in response to one or more control inputs of the user and / or in response to and indicative of a given state of the aerosol-generating device 2.

[0169] Figures 3A to 3D A first embodiment of a control board assembly 4 for use in the aerosol-generating device 2 is shown. The control board assembly 4 includes Figure 1 the control electronics 205 schematically shown in. The control board assembly 4 has a first elongate control board 401, a second elongate control board 402, wherein a hinge element 403 couples the first control board and the second control board to each other. The first control board 401 has a length L of 20 millimeters 401 , a width W of 7 millimeters 401 and a thickness t of 0.7 millimeters 401 . The second control board 402 has a length L of 25 millimeters 402 , a width W of 10 millimeters 402 and a thickness t of 1 millimeter 402。When Figure 3A in the deployed state, the hinge element 403 separates the longitudinal ends of the first control plate and the second control plate by a distance L of 5 millimeters 403 。In other embodiments, the first control plate 401 and the second control plate 402 may have a length dimension (L 401 、L 402 ) within the range of 10 millimeters to 60 millimeters, or 15 millimeters to 45 millimeters, or 15 millimeters to 30 millimeters. In other embodiments, the first control plate 401 and the second control plate 402 may have a width dimension (W 401 、W 402 ) within the range of 5 millimeters to 35 millimeters, or 5 millimeters to 25 millimeters, or 5 millimeters to 15 millimeters. In other embodiments, the first control plate 401 and the second control plate 402 may have a thickness dimension (t 401 、t 402 ) within the range of 0.2 millimeters to 5 millimeters, or 0.2 millimeters to 3 millimeters, or 0.5 millimeters to 2 millimeters. The first control plate 401 is formed of a first material composition. The second control plate 402 is formed of a second material composition. The first material composition may be a polymer material, while the second material composition may be a ceramic material; however, it should be understood that other materials may be used for the first material composition and the second material composition. The first material composition has a lower stiffness than the second material composition. For Figures 3A to 3DIn the illustrated embodiment, the hinge element 403 is an elongate integral extension of the first control board 401 (formed of a first material), the elongate integral extension extending from one of the longitudinal ends of the first control board and coupled to the second control board 402. The coupling of the hinge element 403 to the second control board 402 can be achieved by using an adhesive between the corresponding surface of the hinge element and the second control board to define an adhesive interface therebetween. Depending on the choice of adhesive used, the adhesive interface can be peelable to allow the first control board 401 and the second control board 402 to be separated from each other. The coupling of the hinge element 403 to the second control board 402 can also be achieved by using a push-fit connection interface. For the illustrated embodiment, the lighting control electronics section 2051, the touch sensing control electronics section 2052, and the heating control electronics section 2053 are each mounted to the surface 4021 of the second control board 402. The lighting assembly 206 formed by a plurality of LEDs 2061 is disposed on the surface 4011 of the first control board 401. The lighting assembly 206 is coupled to the lighting control electronics section 2051 by means of one or more conductive rails (not shown) extending between the first control board 401 and the second control board 402, the rails being embedded in or overlying the surface of the hinge element 403. A zero insertion force (“ZIF”) connector 404 or a similar device is also provided on the surface 4011 of the first control board 401. The ZIF connector 404 is provided to allow an electromechanical connection between the control board assembly 4 and the touch sensor 207 (such as Figure 1 the touch sensor 207 schematically shown therein). The ZIF connector 404 is coupled to the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 by means of one or more conductive rails (not shown) extending between the first control board 401 and the second control board 402, the rails being embedded in or overlying the surface of the hinge element 403.

[0170] The control board assembly 4 has an initial deployed state, as shown in Figure 3A and Figure 3B wherein the first control board 401 and the second control board 402 are arranged in an end-to-end relationship with each other, wherein the hinge element 403 couples the opposing longitudinal ends of the two control boards to each other. To facilitate insertion of the control board assembly 4 into the interior of the housing 201 of the aerosol generating device 2, the first control board 401 is folded about a folding axis 405 that is generally perpendicularly aligned with the common longitudinal axis LA4 of the first control board and the second control board so as to overlie the second control board 402. The folding direction about the folding axis 405 is indicated by the arrows in Figure 3A and Figure 3B . Figure 3C and Figure 3DShows the control panel assembly 4 in the folded state. In the folded state, the opposing inward-facing surfaces 4012, 4022 of the first control panel 401 and the second control panel 402 are spatially separated from each other.

[0171] Figure 4A And Figure 4B Respectively show a second embodiment of the control panel assembly 4' for the aerosol generating device 2 in the unfolded state and the folded state. This second embodiment includes Figures 3A to 3D All the elements of the first embodiment. However, in this second embodiment, a reinforcing member 406 and a spacer element 407 are also provided. The reinforcing member 406 is in the form of a plate formed of a material composed of a first material having a greater stiffness than the first control panel 401. The reinforcing member 406 can be formed of metal, plastic, or any suitable material having a greater stiffness than the material composition of the first material. The reinforcing member 406 has a thickness t of 0.2 millimeters 406 . In other embodiments, the thickness of the reinforcing member 406 can be different. Additionally, the thickness selected for the reinforcing member 406 can be affected by the choice of material for the reinforcing member and the stiffness of that material. In the unfolded state, the flexible first control panel 401 is overlaid on the support surface 4061 of the reinforcing member 406. The reinforcing member 406 and its support surface 4061 are generally planar. The spacer element 407 is formed of a material composed of a first material having a greater stiffness than the first control panel 401. In Figure 4A And Figure 4B In the embodiments shown, the spacer element 407 is formed of a metal plate; however, in other embodiments, alternative materials can be used for the spacer element 407. The main portion 4071 of the spacer element 407 is generally planar, where a pair of laterally opposite longitudinally extending edges 4072 of the spacer element are bent perpendicular to the main portion. In the unfolded state, the spacer element 407 is positioned such that the feet 4073 defined on each of the two laterally opposite longitudinally extending edges 4072 abut against a surface portion of the second control panel 402. To reduce the likelihood of the metal plate of the spacer element 407 causing a short circuit between the electrical components of the first control panel 401 and the second control panel 402, the surface portion of the second control panel against which the feet 4073 of the spacer element 407 abut is electrically isolated from the circuitry of the second control panel. In the case where the reinforcing member 406 and the spacer element 407 are respectively positioned against the surfaces 4012, 4022 of the first control panel 401 and the second control panel 402, the first control panel is folded about a folding axis 405' that is generally perpendicular to the common longitudinal axis of the first control panel and the second control panel so as to overlay the second control panel. The folding direction is indicated by the arrow in Figure 4A , where the folding axis 405' extends into the page. Figure 4BShows the control board assembly 4' in a folded state. The spacer element 407 helps to maintain the separation between the opposing inward-facing surfaces 4012, 4022 of the first control board 401 and the second control board 402 in the folded state.

[0172] Figures 5A to 5C Shows a third embodiment of the control board assembly 4" for use in the aerosol generating device 2. This second embodiment includes Figures 3A to 3D all of the elements of the first embodiment. However, in the initial unfolded state, the first control board 401 and the second control board 402 are laterally spaced apart from each other rather than in an end-to-end relationship. As Figure 5A shown, the longitudinal axes LA 401 、LA 402 of the first control board 401 and the second control board 402 are parallel and spaced apart from each other, where the hinge element 403 extends laterally between the opposing longitudinal extending edges of the first control board and the second control board. To facilitate insertion of the control board assembly 4" into the interior of the housing 201 of the aerosol generating device 2, the first control board 401 is folded about a folding axis 405" that is generally parallelly aligned with the longitudinal axes LA 401 、LA 402 of the first control board and the second control board so as to overlie the second control board 402. The folding direction about the folding axis 405" is indicated by the arrow in Figure 5A . Figure 5B and Figure 5C each show the control board assembly 4" in a folded state, where Figure 5B shows a side elevation view in the B-B direction of Figure 5A , and Figure 5C shows a side elevation view in the C-C direction of Figure 5A . Similarly, in the folded state, the opposing inward-facing surfaces 4012, 4022 of the first control board 401 and the second control board 402 are spatially separated from each other. It should be understood that Figure 4A and Figure 4B one or both of the strengthening member 406 and the spacer element 407 of the embodiment can also be used in the embodiment of Figures 5A to 5C .

[0173] Provides Figures 6A to 6H to assist in illustrating a first exemplary assembly method of the aerosol generating device 2.

[0174] Figure 6A Shows Figure 4B the control board assembly 4'. The control board assembly 4' can be said to form a control module. Figure 6A The light guide assembly 211 and the touch sensor 207 are also shown in Figure 6AIn the state shown, the light guide assembly 211 and the touch sensor 207 are separated from each other and from the control board assembly 4. The light guide assembly 211 is configured to guide light between opposite inward-facing surface 2111 and outward-facing surface 2112 of the light guide assembly, and may have a plurality of channels extending between the inward-facing and outward-facing surfaces. The outward-facing surface 2112 of the light guide assembly 211 is generally convex in profile. In use, light is guided between the inward-facing surface 2111 and the outward-facing surface 2112 of the light guide assembly 211 to emerge at two different regions on the outward-facing surface. These two different regions are the annular outer region 2113 and the central inner region 2114. The outer region 2113 surrounds the inner region 2114. For Figure 6A the light guide assembly 211 shown in, the outer region 2113 is typically continuous, while the inner region 2114 consists of a plurality of discrete apertures.

[0175] In one example, the touch sensor 207 has a conductive foil mesh 2071 and a ZIF connector 2072. The ZIF connector 2072 is coupled to the foil mesh 2071 by a cable 2073. The foil mesh 2071 is formed of a copper wire mesh spaced apart from each other, as Figure 7A shown in, where each wire of the mesh defines an electrode of the foil mesh. However, it should be understood that the foil mesh 2071 may be formed of a conductive material other than copper, and other types of touch sensors (such as those described herein) may be used. In another example, the touch sensor 207 includes one or more conductive regions. The one or more conductive regions may be disposed on an electrically insulating layer or film. Each of the conductive regions may have a single or multiple electrical connections to an integrated circuit (such as a microcontroller) of the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 for sensing one or more touch inputs.

[0176] Figure 7B -E shows an example of the touch sensor 207, each touch sensor including one or more conductive regions 704 disposed on an electrically insulating layer 702. Each conductive region 704 is connected to the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 for sensing one or more touch inputs. Figure 7F shows the operating principle that enables the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 to detect touch events.

[0177] In Figure 7B the touch sensor 207 shown in, there is a single conductive region 704 disposed on the insulating layer 702. The conductive region 704 is connected to the touch sensing control electronics section 2052, which is described with reference to Figure 7F . The conductive region 704 is shielded from direct electrical contact with objects external to the aerosol generating device 2 via the display window 209.

[0178] Reference Figure 7F In Figure 7F , the touch sensing control electronic device section 2052 includes a first switch 708 and a second switch 710. A conductive region 704 is electrically connected between the first switch 708 and the second switch 710. The conductive region 704 may have a capacitance. The capacitance of the conductive region 704 may be up to 100 pF, between 5 pF and 50 pF, between 10 pF and 30 pF, or between 15 pF and 25 pF.

[0179] The touch sensing control electronic device section 2052 controls the first switch 708 and the second switch 710 by opening the second switch 710 and closing the first switch 708 within a first duration (T1). During T1, charges are formed due to the capacitance of the conductive region 704.

[0180] Then, the touch sensing control electronic device section 2052 opens the first switch 708 and closes the second switch 710 within a second duration (T2). During T2, the charges accumulated at the conductive region 704 are transferred to the sensing capacitor 706.

[0181] The touch sensing control electronic device section 2052 determines the time (Tx) it takes for the sensing capacitor 706 to reach a voltage threshold (Vth). The determined value of Tx indicates a touch event. For example, when there is no touch event, such as when the user does not touch the display window 209, Tx will be equal to a value within a certain range or above a threshold. However, if there is a touch event (e.g., when the user presses the display window 209 with a finger), there will be a larger capacitance at the conductive region 704, and Vth will be reached more quickly. In other words, when there is a touch event, Tx will be shorter. Therefore, the touch sensing control electronic device section 2052 determines that a touch event has occurred by determining that Tx is within the range associated with the touch event, or that Tx has breached the threshold associated with the touch event.

[0182] In Figure 7C the touch sensor 207’ shown in Figure 7C , there are three conductive regions 704’a, 704’b, 704’c on the electrically insulating layer 702. Each of the conductive regions 704’a, 704’b, 704’c is connected to the touch sensing control electronic device section 2052, which detects touch events as described in reference Figure 7F Figure 7F .

[0183] Because there are multiple conductive regions, the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 can determine the touched area of the display window 209. If a touch event is detected at the conductive region 704’a, the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 determines that the top of the window 209 has been touched. If a touch event is detected at the conductive region 704’b, the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 determines that the middle of the window 209 has been touched. If a touch event is detected at the conductive region 704’c, the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 determines that the bottom of the window 209 has been touched.

[0184] Because the touch sensor 207’ has conductive regions 704’a, b, c distributed along the axis y, the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 can determine the moving direction of the user's finger along the axis y. For example, if a touch event is detected at the conductive region 704’a, then at 704’b, and then at 704’c, the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 determines that the user has swiped down along the y-axis. Alternatively, if a touch event is detected at the conductive region 704’c, then at 704’b, and then at 704’a, the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 determines that the user has swiped up along the y-axis. The touch sensing control electronics can be configured to perform functions associated with touch events at specific conductive regions and / or perform functions associated with specific moving directions (or gestures) performed by the user's finger.

[0185] In Figure 7D the touch sensor 207” shown, there are six conductive regions 704”a, 704”b, 704”c, 704”d, 704”e, 704”f on the electrically insulating layer 702. Each of the conductive regions 704”a, 704”b, 704”c, 704”d, 704”e, 704”f is connected to the touch sensing control electronics section 2052, and the touch sensing control electronics section detects touch events as described with reference to Figure 7F above.

[0186] The touch sensing control electronics section 2052 can determine the touched area of the display window 209 by detecting touch events at the regions 704”a-f corresponding to the regions at the window 209. The touch sensing control electronics section 2052 detects the location of touch events in a similar manner as described with reference to Figure 7C above.

[0187] Since the touch sensor 207” has conductive regions 704”a-f distributed over a two-dimensional area, the touch sensing control electronics can determine the direction of movement of the user's finger along the y-axis and a second x-axis. For example, if a touch event is detected at conductive region 704”d and then at 704”c, the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 determines that the user has swiped right along the x-axis. Alternatively, if a touch event is detected at conductive region 704”c and then at 704”d, the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 determines that the user has swiped left along the x-axis. Movement along the y-axis can be detected in a similar manner as described with reference Figure 7C and as described above.

[0188] Movement in a diagonal direction can also be detected. For example, the touch sensing control electronics 2052 can determine that the finger has moved up and to the right by detecting a touch event at region 704”e and then at region 704”c.

[0189] The touch sensing control electronics can be configured to perform functions associated with touch events at specific conductive regions and / or perform functions associated with specific directions of movement (or gestures) performed by the user's finger.

[0190] In the Figure 7E touch sensor 207”’ shown, there are five conductive regions 704”’a, 704”’b, 704”’c, 704”’d, 704”’e on the electrically insulating layer 702. Specifically, there is a central region 704”’e surrounded by a plurality of individual regions 704”’a, 704”’b, 704”’c, 704”’d. Each of the conductive regions 704”’a, 704”’b, 704”’c, 704”’d, 704”’e is connected to the touch sensing control electronics section 2052, which detects touch events as described with reference Figure 7F and as described above.

[0191] The touch sensing control electronics section 2052 can determine the area of the display window 209 that has been touched by detecting touch events at regions 704”’a-e corresponding to the regions at the window 209. The touch sensing control electronics section 2052 detects the location of touch events in a similar manner as described above.

[0192] Since the touch sensor 207”’ has conductive regions �04”’a-e distributed over a two-dimensional area, the touch sensing control electronics can determine the direction of movement of the user's finger along the y-axis and a second x-axis as described above.

[0193] A touch-sensing control electronic device can be configured to perform functions associated with a touch event at a specific conductive region and / or perform functions associated with a specific movement direction (or gesture) performed by a user's finger.

[0194] As Figure 6B shown, after the state shown in Figure 6A the light guide assembly 211 is mounted onto the first control board 401 of the control board assembly 4' so as to overlie the illumination assembly 206.

[0195] As Figure 6C shown, after the state shown in Figure 6B the foil mesh 2071 of the touch sensor 207 is disposed above and in contact with the convex outward-facing surface 2112 of the light guide assembly 211. The foil mesh 2071 of the touch sensor 207 can be pre-formed into Figure 6A the convex profile shown in Figure 6A and then simply placed onto the convex outward-facing surface 2112 of the light guide assembly 211. Alternatively, the foil mesh 2071 of the touch sensor 207 can be initially provided in a planar state and then deformed into Figure 6C the convex profile shown in

[0196] Figure 6D during the process of overlaying the foil mesh onto the convex outward-facing surface 2112 of the light guide assembly 211. The convex profile of the foil mesh 2071 generally corresponds to the profile of the outward-facing surface 2112 of the light guide assembly 211 such that the foil mesh makes surface contact with the outward-facing surface of the light guide assembly. The ZIF connector 2072 of the touch sensor 207 is coupled to a corresponding ZIF connector 404 on the first control board 401, thereby establishing electrical connectivity between the foil mesh 2071 and the touch-sensing control electronic device section 2052 of the control board assembly 4'. Figure 6E shown. The combination of the control board assembly 4', the light guide assembly 211, and the touch sensor 207 shown in

[0197] As Figure 6F shown, after the state shown in Figure 6EAfter the state shown in the figure, the display window 209 is installed in the orifice 210 of the housing 201 to cover the foil mesh 2071 of the touch sensor 207. Figure 6G The assembled aerosol-generating device 2 is shown after the display window 209 has been installed in the orifice 210.

[0198] Figure 6H Shown through Figure 6G Cross-sectional view of section D-D. The display window 209 has a uniform thickness. The display window 209 also has a curvature corresponding to the curvature of the foil mesh 2071 and the outward-facing surface 2112 of the light guide assembly 211. The curvature of the display window 209 also corresponds to the curvature of the side wall of the cylindrical elongated housing 201. When measured along a line perpendicular to a point on the mesh surface, the distance between a point on the outward-facing surface of the foil mesh 2071 and the outward-facing surface 2091 of the display window 209 is substantially uniform over the entire area of the display window covering the foil mesh. In Figure 6H the embodiment shown, there is a small air gap between the outward-facing surface of the foil mesh 2071 and the inward-facing surface 2092 of the display window 209. However, in other embodiments, the foil mesh 2071 may be in close contact with the inward-facing surface 2092 of the display window 209 such that the foil mesh is effectively sandwiched between the outward-facing surface 2112 of the light guide assembly 211 and the inward-facing surface 2092 of the display window 209.

[0199] In use, light emitted by the LED 2061 of the illumination assembly 206 passes through a channel defined between the inward-facing surface 2111 and the outward-facing surface 2112 of the light guide assembly 211, and then passes through the foil mesh 2071 of the touch sensor 207 for transmission through the display window 209. Contact between the user's finger and a position on the outward-facing surface 2091 of the display window 209 causes a change in the capacitive coupling between adjacent lines of the foil mesh 2071 at a position on the mesh immediately beneath the contact position. More specifically, contact of the user's finger with the display window 209 has the effect of reducing the capacitive coupling between adjacent lines of the foil mesh 2071 beneath the contact position; this corresponds to the mutual capacitance operating mode of the touch sensor 207. The touch sensing control electronics section 2052 detects this change in capacitive coupling. The nature of the touch input can be determined by the touch sensing control electronics section 2052; for example, the touch sensing control electronics can identify whether the user's finger is sliding across the outward-facing surface 2091 of the display window 209 or engaging the surface 2091 at a single point. The touch sensing control electronics section 2052 can generate an output signal in response to and depending on the nature of the touch input. This output signal can be transmitted to one or both of the illumination control electronics section 2051 and the heating control electronics section 2053. In the case where the output signal is transmitted to the illumination control electronics section 2051, the illumination control electronics section can generate a light emission 2062 from the light emitting element 2061. The nature of the light emission 2062 (e.g., the color, brightness, duration, or periodicity of the light emission) can depend on the nature of the touch input. In the case where the output signal is transmitted to the heating control electronics section 2053, the heating control electronics section can act to initiate or suspend the flow of current to the inductor coil 208 of the aerosol generating device 2.

[0200] Figure 8 An embodiment is shown in which the touch sensor 207 is coupled to Figure 3D the control board assembly 4 but the light guide assembly 211 is absent. For Figure 8 this embodiment, the foil mesh 2071 of the touch sensor 207 is pre-formed into a convex profile before the ZIF connector 2072 of the touch sensor is connected to the ZIF connector 404 of the first control board 401. The curvature of the convex profile of the foil mesh 2071 generally corresponds to the curvature of the inward-facing surface 2092 of the display window 209 and / or the curvature of the inner surface of the cylindrical elongate housing 201 of the aerosol generating device 2.

[0201] Provided Figures 9A to 9E to assist in illustrating a second exemplary assembly method of the aerosol generating device 2.

[0202] Figure 9A An embodiment is shown Figure 3Cand Figure 3D a control board assembly 4, which is pre - installed inside an elongated tubular housing 201 at a position adjacent to and below an aperture 210 defined in the housing. A display window 209 has not been installed in the aperture 210. Figure 9A A light guide assembly 211 and a touch sensor 207 are also shown. In Figure 9A the state shown in

[0203] As Figure 9B shown in Figure 9C the light guide assembly 211 is inserted into or placed through the aperture 210 so as to overlie an illumination assembly 206.

[0204] Figure 9C It is also shown that after inserting and positioning the light guide assembly 211, then the touch sensor 207 is inserted into or placed through the aperture 210 such that a foil mesh 2071 of the touch sensor 207 is disposed above and in contact with a convex - facing outer surface 2112 of the light guide assembly 211. A cable 2073 has a sufficient length such that a ZIF connector 2072 of the touch sensor 207 can be connected to a ZIF connector 404 of a first control board 401 before the foil mesh 2071 is inserted through the aperture 210. Figure 9D The touch sensor 207 is shown after being inserted and positioned above the light guide assembly 211. In other embodiments, the light guide assembly 211 and the touch sensor 207 can be pre - assembled outside the housing 201 to form a combined assembly module, where the combined assembly module is inserted into or placed through the aperture 210 to be coupled to the control board assembly 4.

[0205] Figure 9D The installation of the display window 209 in the aperture 210 is also shown, and Figure 9E the assembled aerosol - generating device 2 is shown after the display window 209 is installed in the aperture 210.

[0206] As can be understood from a comparison of Figure 9E and Figure 6G the first assembly method and the second assembly method (respectively, "slide - in" and "put - in") can result in the same configuration of the aerosol - generating device.

[0207] Figure 10A A first embodiment of an illumination system 6 before assembly is shown. The illumination assembly has a plurality of LEDs 61 and an opaque shield 62. The plurality of LEDs 61 are grouped in a plurality of illumination areas 611. For Figure 10AIn the embodiment, there are seven lighting areas 611a-g, and each lighting area has a single LED 61. In other examples, each lighting area 611 may have multiple LEDs 61; for example, each lighting area may have 2, 3, 4, or more LEDs 61. The opaque shield 62 is formed of plastic; however, it should be understood that other materials that are not transmissive to light can be used. The opaque shield 62 is formed with a plurality of apertures 63. The plurality of apertures 63 are grouped into a plurality of aperture areas 631. For Figure 10A the embodiment, there are seven aperture areas 631a-g. The apertures 63 of each aperture area 631a-g are arranged in a collinear relationship with each other. In this example, each aperture area has a row of three apertures. In another example, each aperture area may have multiple rows of apertures (e.g., 2 rows, 3 rows, 4 rows, or more rows), and each row of apertures includes 2, 3, 4, or more apertures. The aperture areas are positioned relative to each other so as to define the shape of the number "8".

[0208] Figure 10B Figure 6 shows the lighting system 6 in an assembled state, where the opaque shield 62 is positioned above the plurality of LEDs 61. The aperture areas 631a-g are arranged across the area of the opaque shield 62 such that in the assembled state, each aperture area among the aperture areas 631a-g overlies a corresponding single lighting area among the lighting areas 611a-g. Thus, when using the lighting system 6, the light from the single LED 61 in the lighting area 611a is visible through the three apertures 63 of the aperture area 631a; the same correspondence applies to each of the remaining lighting areas 611b-g and the aperture areas 631b-g. The LEDs 61 in the plurality of lighting areas 611a-g are designed to be driven by control electronics (e.g., the lighting control electronics section 2051 described above). By selectively activating different lighting areas among the lighting areas 611a-g individually or in combination with each other, the lighting system 6 is capable of producing light emissions that define different numbers, letters, or shapes.

[0209] Figure 11A Figure 10 shows a second embodiment of the lighting system 6' before assembly. The lighting assembly 6' has a plurality of LEDs 61 and an opaque shield 62'. The plurality of LEDs 61 are grouped in a plurality of lighting areas 611'a-h. The lighting area 611'h of the LEDs 61 forms a first group 6111 of a plurality of lighting areas and is generally in the shape of an oval ring. The lighting areas 611a-g of the LEDs 61 form a second group 6112 of a plurality of lighting areas and are generally in an oval form. From Figure 11AIt can be seen that the first group 6111 surrounds the second group 6112. Each of the illumination areas 611'a-g in the illumination area has two LEDs 61. The multiple orifices 63 of the opaque shield 62' are grouped into multiple orifice areas 631'. For Figure 11A the embodiment of, there are eight orifice areas 631'a-h. The orifice area 631h forms a first group 6311 of multiple orifice areas and is generally in the shape of an oval ring. The orifice areas 631'a-g form a second group 6312 of multiple orifice areas. The orifices 63 of the orifice areas 631'a-g are arranged in two parallel rows of three orifices 63 each. The orifice areas of the second group 6312 are positioned relative to each other so as to define the shape of the number "8".

[0210] Figure 11BShows an illumination system 6' in an assembled state, where an opaque shield 62' is positioned above a plurality of LEDs 61. Aperture regions 631'a-h are arranged across the region of the opaque shield 62' such that in the assembled state, each of the aperture regions 631'a-h overlies a corresponding single illumination region among illumination regions 611'a-h. Thus, in using the illumination system 6', light from two LEDs in illumination region 611'a is visible through six apertures 63 of aperture region 631'a; the same correspondence applies to each of the remaining illumination regions 611'b-h and aperture regions 631'b-h. The LEDs in the plurality of illumination regions 611'a-h are designed to be driven by control electronics (e.g., the illumination control electronics section 2051 described above). The LEDs 61 forming the first group 6111 of the plurality of illumination regions can be controlled to all be activated simultaneously, thereby illuminating in the shape of a defined oval ring. Alternatively, the control electronics can alternatively only activate a subset of the LEDs 61 in the first group 6111. By selectively activating different illumination regions among the illumination regions 611'b-g forming the second group 6112 either individually or in combination with each other, the illumination system 6' is capable of generating light emissions in the form of defining different numbers, letters, or shapes. In the case where the illumination system 6' is installed in an aerosol generating device (e.g., device 2 discussed above), the control electronics can be configured to selectively activate one of the first group 6111 and the second group 6112 of the illumination regions 611'a-h to produce a first light emission corresponding to a first state of the device 2, and selectively activate the other of the first group and the second group of the illumination regions to produce a second light emission corresponding to a second state of the device. The first light emission and the second light emission can be different from each other; for example, different in one or more aspects such as color, brightness, duration, periodicity. The first state and the second state can correspond to any given state of the device 2.For example, the first state and the second state may include: a) the power supply 204 of the aerosol generating device 2 contains sufficient energy to complete a single use process; b) the power supply 204 contains sufficient energy to complete two, three or more use processes; c) the power supply 204 contains an energy level below a predetermined threshold energy level; d) selecting or activating one of a first predetermined heating curve and a second predetermined heating curve, wherein each of the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve defines a heating curve for heating the aerosol-forming substrate 302 by an electrical heating device (e.g., the inductor coil 208) during a use process, and the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve are different from each other; e) the aerosol generating device 2 is in one of a pause mode state or a reactivation state; f) selecting or activating a change in the operating state of the aerosol generating device 2; g) the progress of a use process; h) the progress of a preheating stage in which the electrical heating device (e.g., the inductor coil 208) is heated to a predetermined target temperature; i) the aerosol generating device is in a locked state, in which the device is prohibited from generating aerosol; j) the aerosol generating device is in an unlocked state, in which the device is allowed to generate aerosol; k) a PIN code for unlocking the device so that it is allowed to generate aerosol; l) the types of a plurality of aerosol generating articles detected by the device; m) the aerosol generating device is too hot to allow aerosol generation; and n) the aerosol generating device is too cold to allow aerosol generation.

[0211] Figure 12 A schematic cross-sectional view showing an embodiment of an aerosol generating device 2' including the lighting system 6 of FIG. 10 is shown. Figure 12 The embodiment of Figure 6H includes all the features of the aerosol generating device shown in Figure 12 As can be seen, the LED 61 of the lighting system 6 is arranged on the surface 4011 of the first control board 401. The opaque shield 62 of the lighting system 6 is arranged between the LED 61 and the light guide assembly 211. In an alternative embodiment, the opaque shield 62 may alternatively cover the outward-facing surface 2112 of the light guide assembly 211. In another alternative embodiment, the opaque shield 62 may be included in the structure of the display window 209.

[0212] Figure 13 A plan view of the display window 209 of the aerosol generating device 2 is shown, in which the lighting system 6' of FIG. 11 is overlaid on the display window. Figure 13Indicates the state of activating all the LEDs 61 such that the first group 6111 (i.e., the illumination area 611’h) is illuminated through the first group 6311 orifice areas 631’h to define the shape of an illuminated ellipse, and the second group 6112 illumination areas 611’a-g are illuminated through the second group 6312 orifice areas 631’a-g to define the shape of the illuminated digit “8”. It should be understood that the presence of the foil mesh 2071 of the touch sensor 207 under the display window 209 also allows the outward-facing surface of the display window to also serve as a touch interface for the user's finger(s).

[0213] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a touch-sensing control electronics section 2052 for controlling the operation of a capacitive touch sensor 207 of the aerosol-generating device 2 shown in the above figure. The touch-sensing control electronics section 2052 is shown in Figure 14 a dashed outline. The touch-sensing control electronics section 2052 has a microcontroller 251, which includes a processor 252, a memory 253, and an input-output device 254. The touch-sensing control electronics section 2052 also has a touch sensor driver 255. The touch sensor driver 255 is separate from the microcontroller 251 but is communicatively coupled to the microcontroller via the input-output device 254. The touch sensor driver 255 is also communicatively coupled to the touch sensor 207. In response to the occurrence of a touch event, the touch sensor driver 255 detects the touch event based on an electrical signal from the touch sensor 207; the touch event can be that the user's finger has touched the outward-facing surface 2091 of the display window 209. After determining the occurrence of the touch event, the touch sensor driver 255 sends one or more data signals to the microcontroller 251 via the input-output device 254, and the data signals indicate the occurrence of the touch event. After the microcontroller 251 receives the data signal, the processor 252 accesses the instructions contained in the memory 253 and generates one or more control signals to be transmitted to one or more of the illumination control electronics section 2051, the heating control electronics section 2053, and other control electronics sections of the aerosol-generating device 2. In this way, the occurrence of a touch event on the display screen 209 can generate one or more control inputs to control one or more of the illumination assembly 206 (or illumination system 6, 6’) of the aerosol-generating device 2, the inductor coil 208, and other features.

[0214] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram of an alternative exemplary embodiment of a touch-sensing control electronics section 2052 for controlling the operation of a capacitive touch sensor 207 of the aerosol-generating device 2. This embodiment is related to Figure 14The embodiment differs in that the microcontroller 251 includes a touch sensing circuitry 255' instead of using a separate touch sensor driver 255. The touch sensing circuitry 255' detects a touch event in response to the occurrence of a touch event based on an electrical signal received from the touch sensor 207 (via the input-output device 254); again, the touch event can be that a user's finger has touched the outward-facing surface 2091 of the display window 209. After determining the occurrence of a touch event, the touch sensing circuitry 255' outputs a signal to the processor 252 via the input-output device 254, the signal indicating the occurrence of the touch event. The processor 252 then accesses instructions contained in the memory 253 and generates one or more control signals to be transmitted to one or more of the lighting control electronics section 2051, the heating control electronics section 2053, and other control electronics sections of the aerosol generating device 2. In this way, the occurrence of a touch event on the display screen 209 can generate one or more control inputs to control one or more of the lighting assembly 206 (or lighting system 6), the induction coil 208, and other features of the aerosol generating device 2. Although Figure 15 not shown, the touch sensing circuitry 255' may include a sampling capacitor, where the touch sensing circuitry outputs a signal indicating a touch event by charging the sampling capacitor to a voltage indicative of the touch event.

[0215] Figure 16 FIG. is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a lighting control electronics section 2051 for controlling the operation of the lighting assembly 206 of the aerosol generating device 2 shown in the above figures. The lighting control electronics section 2051 is shown in Figure 16 dashed outline. The lighting control electronics section 2051 has a microcontroller 261 that includes a processor 262, a memory 263, and an input-output device 264. The lighting control electronics section 2051 also has an LED driver 265. The LED driver 265 is separate from the microcontroller 261 but is communicatively coupled to the microcontroller via the input-output device 264. The LED driver 265 is also communicatively coupled to the LED 2061 of the lighting assembly 206 to control the LED. As previously discussed, the lighting control electronics section 2051 can be communicatively coupled to the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 such that the LED driver 265 can control the LED 2061 of the lighting assembly 206 in response to the touch sensing control electronics section 2052 detecting a touch event.

[0216] Figure 17 FIG. is a schematic diagram of an alternative exemplary embodiment of a lighting control electronics section 2051 for controlling the operation of the lighting assembly 206 of the aerosol generating device 2. This embodiment is the same as Figure 16The embodiment differs in that the LED driver 265 is integrated into the microcontroller 261 rather than being separate from it. The LED driver 265 controls the LEDs 2061 of the lighting assembly 206 via the input-output device 264. The LED driver 265 can control the LEDs 2061 of the lighting assembly 206 in response to a touch event detected by the touch-sensing control electronics section 2052.

[0217] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram showing an arrangement 8 of how the LEDs 2061 of the lighting assembly 206 can be coupled to the intersecting row pins 81 and column pins 82. As can be seen, a single LED 2061 is coupled to the intersection of each row pin 81 and column pin 82. When used in combination with Figure 16 or Figure 17 the lighting control electronics section 2051 of, the LED driver 265 operates to illuminate each of the plurality of LEDs 2061 by activating the row pins 81 and column pins 82 to which the respective LEDs are connected. The LED driver 265 can operate to activate a single LED or any combination of multiple LEDs among the LEDs 2061.

[0218] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, amounts, percentages, etc. should be understood to be modified in all instances by the term "about". Additionally, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therebetween, whether or not specifically enumerated herein. Thus, herein, the number "A" is understood to be "A" ± 10% of "A". In this document, the number "A" can be considered to include values within the general standard error of the measurement of the property modified by the number "A". In certain instances used in the appended claims, the number "A" may deviate from the percentages recited above, provided that the amount by which "A" deviates does not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed invention. Additionally, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therebetween, whether or not specifically enumerated herein. The terms "in which" and "wherein" are used synonymously in this specification.

Claims

1. An illumination system for an aerosol generating system, the illumination system comprising: a plurality of light emitting elements; a first set of a plurality of illumination areas, wherein each illumination area of the illumination areas is spatially separated from the other illumination areas, wherein each illumination area of the illumination areas comprises one or more of the plurality of light emitting elements, and wherein the first set of illumination areas are arranged relative to each other to jointly define the number eight; and control electronics coupled to the plurality of light emitting elements and configured to selectively activate each of the plurality of illumination areas.

2. The illumination system according to claim 1, wherein each illumination area of the illumination areas comprises an equal number of the plurality of light emitting elements.

3. The illumination system according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein one or more of the plurality of illumination areas each comprise a single light emitting element of the plurality of light emitting elements.

4. The illumination system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the number of the plurality of illumination areas is seven.

5. The illumination system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a first pair of the plurality of illumination areas are arranged opposite a second pair of the plurality of illumination areas.

6. The illumination system according to claim 5, wherein the illumination areas in the first pair are arranged in a collinear relationship with each other.

7. The illumination system according to any one of claims 5 or 6, wherein the illumination areas in the second pair are arranged in a collinear relationship with each other.

8. The illumination system according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein three of the plurality of illumination areas are laterally spaced apart from each other and extend between the first pair and the second pair of the plurality of illumination areas.

9. The illumination system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an opaque shield positioned above the plurality of light emitting elements, the shield comprising a plurality of apertures for allowing light to pass therethrough.

10. The illumination system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a second set of one or more illumination areas are arranged to partially or completely surround the first set of the plurality of illumination areas, the control electronics being configured to selectively activate each of the first set of illumination areas and the second set of illumination areas to produce corresponding first and second light emissions.

11. An aerosol generating device for generating an inhalable aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol generating device comprising: a housing comprising a display window; the illumination system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the illumination system is provided within the housing such that light from the plurality of illumination areas is visible through the display window.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11 when dependent on claim 10, wherein the control electronics are configured to: i) Selectively activate one of the first set of lighting areas and the second set of lighting areas to produce the first light emission, the first light emission conveying first data indicative of the state of the aerosol generating device; and ii) Selectively activate the other of the first set of lighting areas and the second set of lighting areas to produce the second light emission, the second light emission conveying second data indicative of the state of the aerosol generating device, wherein the first data and the second data are different from each other.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein the first data and the second data indicate any two of the following: a) The power supply of the aerosol generating device contains sufficient energy to complete a single usage process; b) The power supply of the aerosol generating device contains sufficient energy to complete two or more usage processes; c) The power supply of the aerosol generating device contains an energy level below a predetermined threshold energy level; d) Select or activate one of a first predetermined heating curve and a second predetermined heating curve, wherein each of the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve defines a heating curve for heating the aerosol-forming substrate by an electrical heating device during a usage process, and the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve are different from each other; e) The aerosol generating device is in one of a pause mode state or a reactivation state; f) Select or activate a change in the operating state of the aerosol generating device; g) The progress of a usage process; h) The progress of a preheating stage in which the electrical heating device is heated to a predetermined target temperature; i) The aerosol generating device is in a locked state, in which the device is prohibited from generating aerosol; j) The aerosol generating device is in an unlocked state, in which the device is allowed to generate aerosol; k) The PIN code of the input for unlocking the device so that it is allowed to generate aerosol and / or the order of the PIN codes in a sequence to be input for unlocking the device so that it is allowed to generate aerosol; l) The types of a plurality of aerosol generating articles detected by the device; m) The aerosol generating device is too hot to allow aerosol generation; and n) The aerosol generating device is too cold to allow aerosol generation.

14. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the display window defines a touch interface of a capacitive touch sensing device of the aerosol generating device for sensing user contact with the display window.

15. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the control electronics are configured to selectively activate each of the plurality of lighting areas to indicate: a) The power supply of the aerosol generating device contains sufficient energy to complete a single usage process; b) The power supply of the aerosol generating device contains sufficient energy to complete two or more usage processes; c) The power supply of the aerosol generating device contains an energy level below a predetermined threshold energy level; d) Select or activate one of a first predetermined heating curve and a second predetermined heating curve, wherein each of the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve defines a heating curve for heating the aerosol-forming substrate by an electrical heating device during use, and the first predetermined heating curve and the second predetermined heating curve are different from each other; e) The aerosol-generating device is in one of a pause mode state or a reactivation state; f) Select or activate a change in the operating state of the aerosol-generating device; g) Progression through the course of use; h) Progression through a preheating stage in which the electrical heating device is heated to a predetermined target temperature; i) The aerosol-generating device is in a locked state, in which the device is prohibited from generating aerosol; j) The aerosol-generating device is in an unlocked state, in which the device is permitted to generate aerosol; k) The PIN code for unlocking the device so that it is permitted to generate aerosol and / or the order of the PIN codes in a sequence to be entered for unlocking the device so that it is permitted to generate aerosol; l) The types of a plurality of aerosol-generating articles detected by the device; m) The aerosol-generating device is too hot to permit aerosol generation; and n) The aerosol-generating device is too cold to permit aerosol generation.

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