Aerosol-generating system with improved arrangement of electronics

Abstract

An aerosol-generating system, comprising: a shell comprising a moldable material; a processing circuit including at least one controller and at least one conductive trace, where at least one of the controller and the trace is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating system. Background Art

[0002] Typically, an aerosol-generating device is designed as a handheld device that can be used by a user to consume or experience an aerosol generated by heating an aerosol-generating substrate or an aerosol-generating article, for example, during one or more use sessions. The aerosol-generating devices to which the present disclosure relates are generally referred to as heated tobacco products (HTPs), heat-not-burn devices, electronic cigarettes, and / or vaporizers. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An exemplary aerosol-generating substrate may comprise a solid substrate material, such as a tobacco material or a tobacco cast leaf (TCL) material. The substrate material may, for example, typically be assembled with other elements or components to form a substantially rod-shaped aerosol-generating article. The shape and size of such a rod or aerosol-generating article may be configured to be at least partially inserted into an aerosol-generating device. An aerosol-generating system may include a heating element or heater device for heating the aerosol-generating article and / or the aerosol-generating substrate. The heating element or heater device may be part of the aerosol-generating article and / or the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively or in addition, the aerosol-generating substrate may comprise one or more liquids and / or solids, which may be supplied to the aerosol-generating device, for example, in the form of a cartridge or container. A corresponding exemplary aerosol-generating article may, for example, comprise a cartridge containing or capable of being filled with a liquid and / or solid substrate, which may evaporate based on the heating of the substrate and / or liquid during consumption of the aerosol by the user. Typically, such a cartridge or container may be coupled to, attached to, or at least partially inserted into the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively, the cartridge may be fixedly mounted to the aerosol generating device and refilled by inserting a liquid and / or solid into the cartridge. The aerosol generated by the aerosol generating substrate or article may include or contain one or more of nicotine, aroma, sugar, humectant, preservative, flavoring (e.g., cocoa, liquorice, menthol, and lactic acid), or other additives.

[0004] In order to generate an aerosol during use or consumption, heat may be supplied by a heating element, heater means or heat source to heat at least a portion or part of the aerosol-generating substrate. The heating element, heater means or heat source may be arranged in the handheld device or in the handheld part of the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively or in addition, at least a portion or all of the heating element or heater means or heat source may be fixedly associated with or arranged within an aerosol-generating article, for example in the form of a stick or cartridge, which aerosol-generating article may be attached to and / or powered by the handheld device or the handheld part of the aerosol-generating device.

[0005] Exemplary heating elements or heater devices can be based on one or more of resistive heating, induction heating, and microwave heating using electrical energy supplied via, drawn from, or stored in a battery of the aerosol generating device. As used herein, a battery of an aerosol generating device can generally refer to an energy storage device of the aerosol generating device that is configured to store electrical energy. Thus, the term battery can include one or more capacitors, one or more accumulators, or other types of energy storage devices. Additionally, any reference herein to a battery can include a plurality of batteries.

[0006] Typically, an aerosol-generating device includes an energy storage device, such as a battery, which provides the electrical energy required to operate the aerosol-generating device, and in particular for heating the aerosol-generating substrate and / or article, for example for generating an aerosol using one or more aerosol-generating articles during one or more uses. For example, the battery may be a lithium-ion battery.

[0007] As used herein, a usage session may refer to a period of time during which a user may use a device to generate, consume, experience or inhale an aerosol using the aerosol generating device. The usage session may be finite. In other words, the usage session may have a start, an end and a duration. The duration of a usage session, measured in time, may be affected by the use during the usage session. The duration of a usage session may have a maximum duration determined by a maximum time from the start of the usage session. If one or more monitored parameters reach a predetermined threshold before the maximum time from the start of the usage session, the duration of the usage session may be less than the maximum time. For example, the one or more monitored parameters may include one or more of the following: i) a cumulative puff count of a series of puffs taken by the user since the start of the usage session, and ii) a cumulative volume of aerosol formed from the aerosol-forming substrate since the start of the usage session.

[0008] The battery capacity can typically be selected so that the aerosol generating device can provide the user with at least a minimum number (e.g. at least two or more) of consecutive use processes or experiences without having to recharge the battery or the aerosol generating device in between. In order to improve the user experience, the aerosol generating device is typically configured to allow the user to start a use process only if the battery contains enough electrical energy to fully complete the use process. The battery capacity may decrease over time as the charge / discharge cycles accumulate. Typically, even when the battery may have deteriorated, it is desirable to provide the user with as many use processes as possible without having to recharge the device. Therefore, it is desirable to implement an energy storage device, such as a battery, with the highest possible capacity in the aerosol generating device. The capacity is typically limited by the size of the energy storage device and / or the aerosol generating device. If the energy storage device is increased, for example by providing a larger battery, the aerosol generating device may become bulky and / or heavy, which impairs the user experience.

[0009] It may therefore be desirable to provide an aerosol generating device with an improved user experience, for example by optimizing the capacity of the energy storage device in relation to the overall size of the aerosol generating device.

[0010] This is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Optional features are provided by the dependent claims and the description.

[0011] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided an aerosol generating system comprising: a shell or housing comprising a moldable material; a processing circuit comprising at least one controller and at least one conductive trace, wherein at least one of the controller and the trace is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell.

[0012] The aerosol generating system may comprise an energy storage device for storing electrical energy, such as a battery or battery pack, wherein the housing at least partially encloses the energy storage device, preferably wherein the energy storage device is removable and / or replaceable by a user. To this end, the housing may comprise an opening, preferably an opening having a removable cover, through which the energy storage device may be removed or inserted. The housing may further comprise electrical contacts configured to electrically connect the energy storage device to the rest of the system when the battery is inserted into the housing through the opening.

[0013] The aerosol generating system may have a longitudinal axis in the direction of maximum extension of the aerosol generating system. The longitudinal axis may be parallel to the direction in which the aerosol generating article is inserted into and / or removed from the aerosol generating system. The shell may include at least one wall surface. The wall surface may, for example, at least partially or completely surround the energy storage device in at least one of the axial direction and the radial direction of the longitudinal axis. The wall surface of the shell may include or contain a moldable material or may be at least partially made of a moldable material. The moldable material may not need to be moldable during operation of the aerosol generating system, but may only be moldable during the manufacture of the aerosol generating system. In other words, the shell may be at least partially formed of a moldable material during the production of the aerosol generating system. The moldable material may then be hardened to provide a shell that can withstand the physical strain of operation of the aerosol generating system and is not easily broken or deformed. The moldable material may, for example, include or contain a thermosetting plastic (e.g., a thermoplastic material) and a ceramic material, or may be at least one of a thermosetting plastic (e.g., a thermoplastic material) and a ceramic material.

[0014] The controller may, for example, comprise or include a microcontroller, or be a microcontroller. It may include or include at least one of a data storage device (e.g., a memory) and a programmable input / output peripheral. The conductive traces may be configured to electrically connect the controller to other electrical components of the aerosol generating system, for example via the input / output peripheral.

[0015] In conventional aerosol generating systems, at least one of the controller and the conductive traces is typically arranged on a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB comprises electrical components (i.e. at least the controller and the conductive traces) and a substrate on which the electrical components are arranged. Therefore, such a PCB is a separate component that needs to be inserted into the housing of the aerosol generating system. Typically, the PCB and its components (e.g. the controller) are so large that the arrangement of the PCB and the energy storage device of the aerosol generating system at the same point along the longitudinal axis is mutually exclusive. In other words, in the section along the longitudinal axis in which the PCB is arranged, there is typically not enough space for part of the energy storage device, and vice versa. Therefore, for a given total size of the aerosol generating system, the size of the energy storage device is limited by the space available for the PCB.

[0016] According to the present disclosure, a PCB may no longer be required. At least one or both of the controller and the conductive traces are at least partially arranged on and / or embedded in the moldable material of the shell itself. Therefore, the shell of the aerosol generating system can directly serve as a substrate, and the electrical components (i.e. the controller and / or the conductive traces) are arranged on and / or in the substrate. By embedding the electrical components in the moldable material of the shell, a separate substrate (e.g. in the form of a PCB) may not be required to arrange these components in the aerosol generating system. Therefore, the aerosol generating system according to the present disclosure can be implemented without using a separate substrate to arrange the electrical components on it (i.e. in the absence of a PCB). For example, the space saved here can be used to accommodate a larger energy storage device.

[0017] Also according to the present disclosure, by at least partially embedding at least one of the controller and the conductive traces in the moldable material of the housing, the extent to which these electrical components protrude from the housing or its surface can be reduced. In other words, the size of the portion of the electrical component that protrudes from the housing or its surface can be smaller because the electrical component is at least partially arranged within the material of the housing or its thickness. As a result, the electrical component can be recessed into the material and / or thickness of the housing. Therefore, at least one of the controller and the conductive traces can be embedded in the moldable material of the housing. This can be achieved by a process that includes molding these components into the moldable material of the housing. Specifically, at least one of the controller and the conductive traces can be molded into the material of the housing. As used herein, the terms "embedded" or "embedded" can mean that the corresponding component is arranged so as to be at least partially surrounded by the material of the housing. This arrangement can be achieved by forming and / or molding the housing at least partially around the corresponding electrical component while the material of the housing is still moldable. Through this process, the contact surfaces of the housing material and the electrical component can be in close contact with each other. However, when the material of the shell is not moldable, such close contact cannot be achieved by inserting parts of the electrical components into the shell. For example, in the meaning of the present disclosure, components that are glued, clamped, soldered, welded, fused, screwed, bolted or nailed into and / or on the shell are not "embedded" in the moldable material of the shell. The electrical components can be partially or completely embedded in the moldable material of the shell. Partially embedded can mean that the electrical components are recessed or sunken into the material, for example so that they are surrounded by material on at least two sides. At least one side of the component may not contain moldable material and is therefore accessible from the outside of the material. Completely embedded can mean that the electrical components are surrounded by material on all sides. Therefore, the components can be arranged to be completely covered by the moldable material and are therefore not accessible from the outside of the moldable material.

[0018] Thus, the electrical components (i.e. the controller and / or the conductive traces) can be arranged in a space-efficient manner within the housing of the aerosol generating system. A further improvement is that the electrical components can be arranged on and / or in the housing in a manner that follows the shape of the wall surfaces of the housing. For example, the housing may include curved and / or angled wall surfaces. Thus, the electrical components can be arranged on and / or in the housing in a manner that follows this curved and / or angled surface of the housing.

[0019] In particular, the controller may have a significant spatial extension, such as a spatial extension in one or more of thickness, width and length. Thus, embedding the controller at least partially in the material of the shell may free up space inside the shell that is usually occupied by a bulky controller and / or PCB. The arrangement according to the present disclosure may save space to a certain extent, such that at least one controller and the energy storage device may overlap each other in a radial direction of the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system. Overlapping each other in a radial direction of the longitudinal axis may mean that the controller and the energy storage device are successive to each other in a radial direction of the longitudinal axis, preferably wherein the controller is arranged further away from the longitudinal axis than the energy storage device. In other words, at least one controller and the energy storage device may be arranged at the same height or level in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system. Thus, even in a section along the longitudinal axis in which the controller may be arranged, the energy storage device may extend along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system. For a given total size of the aerosol generating system, this may result in a significantly larger energy storage device, thereby increasing its capacity.

[0020] Of all the electrical components of an aerosol generating system, the controller is likely to be the one with the largest spatial dimensions. Typically, the controller may have a rectangular basic shape with variable thickness, but any other shape is possible. The controller may have a direction of maximum extension, for example, in the direction of the longer side of the rectangular basic shape. As already mentioned, the housing may have curved or angled wall surfaces. The present disclosure can save the most space when the electrical components, and in particular the controller, follow the shape of the housing as closely as possible. To this end, provision may be made for at least one controller of the processing circuitry to be arranged on the housing, preferably on an inner wall of the housing, such that the direction of maximum extension of the controller is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system. In the present disclosure, the maximum extension may be oriented along one of the sides of the basic shape of the component in question. This means that, for example, even if the diagonal of the rectangular basic shape is longer than the longer side of the rectangle, the diagonal may not be the direction of maximum extension within the meaning of the present disclosure. In the case of a rectangular basic shape, the longer side of the rectangle may still have the maximum extension within the meaning of the present disclosure. This feature may also apply to the other electrical components of the aerosol generating system mentioned herein, such as one or more of the sensor, the controller subunit, and any of the heater devices. These components may also be arranged on the housing, preferably on an inner wall of the housing, such that the direction of greatest extension of the respective component is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system.

[0021] In order to maximize the space saved in the interior of the shell, it can be provided that the other electrical components of the aerosol generating system (preferably all electrical components except the energy storage device and the heater plate) are also at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell. For each of these components, all features as explained herein for the controller and / or the conductive traces may also apply. For example, it can be provided that the processing circuit includes at least one sensor, preferably one or more of a temperature sensor, a strain sensor and an accelerometer, and wherein at least one of the sensors is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell.

[0022] As already mentioned, the controller may be the electrical component having the largest dimensions (apart from the energy storage device). Therefore, provision may be made that the controller is broken down into smaller subunits having smaller spatial dimensions. These subunits may be arranged separately and independently from one another on the shell, but may be connected, for example, by traces, such that together they may form and / or act as a single controller. Therefore, provision may be made that the controller comprises at least two controller subunits, and wherein each of the at least two controller subunits is individually at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell. By dividing the controller into subunits of smaller dimensions, more space in the interior of the shell may be saved. In addition, by dividing the controller into subunits, the subunits may be arranged on the surface wall of the shell, following the shape of the shell more closely than using a single larger controller.

[0023] The capacity of the energy storage device may be highly dependent on its temperature. Since the aerosol generating system includes a heater device for heating the aerosol generating article during the generation of the aerosol, the energy storage device of the aerosol generating system may be suitable for high temperatures. Therefore, particularly low temperatures may impair the performance of the energy storage device. In order to prevent the temperature of the energy storage device from becoming too low, it can be provided that the aerosol generating system includes an energy storage device heater, such as a resistive energy storage device heater, which is configured to heat the energy storage device, wherein the energy storage device heater is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell. The aerosol generating system may also include at least one temperature sensor, which can sense the temperature of the energy storage device. If the sensed temperature of the energy storage device becomes too low or falls below a predetermined lower threshold temperature, the energy storage device heater is activated to heat the energy storage device, preferably until the temperature of the energy storage device reaches a predetermined higher threshold temperature. The predetermined lower threshold temperature and the upper threshold temperature may be selected so that the energy storage device remains within an optimal temperature range for achieving optimal performance.

[0024] In order to improve the efficiency of the energy storage device heater, the moldable material of the shell may include a heat sink. The heat sink may include a thermally conductive material. The heat sink may, for example, include at least one of a moldable ceramic material, a metal (preferably copper) and a coating (preferably a non-conductive coating and / or a non-thermal conductive coating). The heat sink may be arranged at least partially around the energy storage device so that the heat generated by the energy storage device heater can be distributed as evenly as possible to the energy storage device. The heat sink may be part of the moldable material of the shell so that the electrical components as described herein may also be at least partially embedded in the heat sink. Therefore, it is possible that the heat sink can be part of the shell and part of the moldable material of the shell. Therefore, the heat sink can be produced and molded together with the shell in the same production step as the shell. This ensures a uniform shape and a uniform distribution of heat (e.g., heat from the energy storage device heater).

[0025] On the other hand, some electrical components of the aerosol generating system (especially the controller) may have better performance when they are not heated by the energy storage device heater or are heated as little as possible. Therefore, it may be provided that the shell comprises a non-heating area which is free of and / or spaced apart from the energy storage device heater and / or radiator, and wherein the controller and at least one of the further electrical components are arranged in the non-heating area. The further electrical component may be any of the electrical components of the aerosol generating system as mentioned in the present disclosure. In other words, in the non-heating area, the moldable material of the shell may not include a radiator. Furthermore, in the non-heating area, there may be no energy storage device heater embedded in the moldable material of the shell. By arranging temperature-sensitive electrical components such as the controller in the non-heating area, the performance of these components may be improved.

[0026] The shell of the aerosol generating system may at least partially enclose an interior space of an energy storage device for the aerosol generating system. The shell and / or the wall surface of the shell may be formed in such a way that the interior space may be a cylinder, an elliptical cylinder, a cube, a rectangular cuboid, a polyhedron or any other suitable shape or mixture of shapes. At least one of the controller and the traces may be at least partially embedded in the surface of the shell facing the interior space and / or the energy storage device. In other words, at least one of the controller and the traces may be at least partially embedded in the inner wall surface of the shell. Thus, electrical components protruding from the shell may protrude towards the interior space (e.g. towards the energy storage device).

[0027] The shell can be formed, for example, in such a way that the interior space can have the shape of a cylinder or an elliptical cylinder, wherein the additional flat surface extends in the direction of the cylinder axis. The cylinder axis can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system. In this arrangement, the electrical components can be arranged on and at least partially embedded in the flat surface of the shell. In other words, the shell can include a rounded surface and a flat surface in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system, wherein the rounded surface and the flat surface are connected to each other and together enclose the interior space, and wherein at least one of the controller and the traces is at least partially embedded in the flat surface. It may be particularly beneficial to arrange the electrical components (preferably the controller) on the flat surface close to the connection with the rounded surface. Thus, the electrical components can be arranged eccentrically on the flat surface, for example offset in the direction in which the flat surface and the rounded surface meet. Since the aerosol generating system can use a cylindrical energy storage device, the area where the flat surface and the rounded surface meet can provide space that can be advantageously used by the electrical components that at least partially protrude from the shell.

[0028] Especially for controllers of large dimensions, it may be beneficial to arrange the controller axially offset from the energy storage device along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system, wherein the controller is oriented so that the plane or surface of its maximum extension is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In other words, the controller and the energy storage device may not overlap in the radial direction of the longitudinal axis. In contrast, the controller and the energy storage device may be successive to each other in the direction of the longitudinal axis. The controller may be oriented so that its maximum extension is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. For example, the controller may be embedded in the moldable material of a part of the shell that is also oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In this arrangement, the controller may be embedded or recessed in the moldable material of the shell in the direction of the longitudinal axis, thereby increasing the space available for the energy storage device.

[0029] The aerosol generating system may comprise a heating element for heating an aerosol generating substrate or article, for example to generate an aerosol for consumption by a user. The heating element may comprise a heating plate configured to be inserted into the aerosol generating substrate or article and a resistive heater or induction coil. Thus, the heating plate may be arranged to extend into the interior space of the shell so that it can enter the aerosol generating substrate or article inserted into the interior space. The heating plate may be configured to heat the aerosol generating substrate or article from the inside of the substrate or article. The heating plate may comprise a moldable material, and the resistive heater or induction coil may be at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the heating plate. In this way, the heating plate may be thinner than usual, thereby allowing for larger aerosol generating substrates or articles.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, the aerosol generating system may comprise a heating element for heating the aerosol generating substrate or article, wherein the heating element may comprise a resistive heater or an induction coil, and wherein the resistive heater or the induction coil may be at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell. Thus, the heating element may be arranged in the shell to at least partially surround the interior space. Thus, it may be configured to heat the aerosol generating substrate or article from the outside of the substrate or article. Thus, the aerosol generating substrate or article inserted into the interior space of the shell is also at least partially inserted into the heating element and / or surrounded by the heating element.

[0031] The heat generated by the one or more heating elements used to heat the aerosol-generating substrate or article must be directed to the substrate or article, while avoiding heat transfer to the exterior of the housing, so as not to cause an uncomfortable temperature of the housing for a user holding the aerosol-generating system, or even burn their hands. Therefore, the housing may include an insulating material, wherein the insulating material may be arranged at least partially around the one or more heating elements. Thus, the insulating material may be arranged between the one or more heating elements and the outer surface of the housing.

[0032] The one or more heating elements and the shell can be configured as an integral unit. For example, the heating plate and / or the heating element embedded in the heating plate can be configured as an integral unit together with the shell. This means that the one or more heating elements (e.g., heating plates) can be produced together with the shell and produced in the same molding step as the shell. Therefore, the moldable material of the shell and the one or more heating elements (e.g., heating plates) can be a continuous unit. On the one hand, this can reduce production costs. On the other hand, since the one or more heating elements are not produced as separate units, they do not need to be installed separately in the shell of the aerosol generating system, making a separate additional attachment device redundant. This also leads to saving space in the interior space of the shell, which can then be used for other components, such as energy storage devices.

[0033] Another electrical component that may advantageously be embedded in the moldable material of the housing may be an input device, for example an input device for receiving a control signal from a user. Thus, the aerosol generating system may comprise an input device for receiving a control signal, wherein the input device may be configured as a capacitive button, and wherein the input device may be at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the housing. The input device may be arranged on an outer surface of the housing facing away from the interior space.

[0034] Another electrical component that may advantageously be embedded in the moldable material of the housing may be an electrical connector for establishing an electrical connection with an external device. Thus, the aerosol generating system may comprise an electrical connector for establishing an electrical connection with an external device, wherein the electrical connector may be at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the housing. The electrical connector may, for example, be configured to establish an electrical connection with a companion device, or a smartphone, or a personal computer, or other suitable device.

[0035] Another electrical component that may advantageously be embedded in the moldable material of the shell may be a field generating component. Thus, the aerosol generating system may comprise at least one field generating component, preferably a wireless charging coil or antenna, wherein the field generating component may be at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell. The at least one field generating component may be configured to establish a wireless data connection with an external device, such as a companion device or a smartphone or a personal computer or other suitable device. Thus, the at least one field generating component may be part of the communication means of the aerosol generating system.

[0036] To further simplify the production of the aerosol generating system, the processing circuit may comprise printed components. For example, the traces may be printed using conductive and flexible inks. However, more complex electrical components (e.g., capacitive buttons as explained above) may also be provided as printed components. The printed components may be printed directly onto the moldable material of the housing. A separate PCB may not be required. This may also save space inside the housing, as printed components typically have a reduced thickness compared to conventional components.

[0037] As explained above, the use of a PCB may result in unnecessary waste of space in the interior of the housing. Although it is already advantageous to reduce the size of the PCB by embedding some of the electrical components of the aerosol generating system directly into the moldable material of the housing, it may be desirable to dispense with the PCB entirely. Therefore, provision may be made for the processing circuitry to be arranged solely on the housing of the aerosol generating system. Thus, the aerosol generating system may not have a separate printed circuit board. All electrical components of the aerosol generating system may be arranged on the housing, and a separate additional substrate for the electrical components may not be required. This may result in the greatest possible saving of space compared to conventional systems.

[0038] In the direction of the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system, the energy storage device may not extend over the entire aerosol generating system, as other components may also require space. However, with an arrangement according to the present disclosure, it may be provided that the energy storage device extends over at least one of 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75% or 80% of the entire extension of the aerosol generating system along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system. The energy storage device may, for example, be configured as a cylindrical battery, preferably wherein the cylindrical axis of the battery is arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system.

[0039] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol-generating system includes one or more of an aerosol-generating device configured to generate an aerosol and an accessory configured to supply electrical energy to the aerosol-generating device. The accessory may, for example, include an energy storage device having a capacity greater than that of the aerosol-generating device, such that the accessory can be used to recharge the aerosol-generating device multiple times. The accessory may include an opening into which the aerosol-generating device can be at least partially received during charging.

[0040] One or more of the energy storage device, the processing circuitry together with the controller and traces, the housing, and any or all of the additional components and electrical components mentioned in this disclosure for an aerosol generating system may be part of the aerosol generating device and / or an associated device. The specific arrangement of electrical components in the aerosol generating system as explained in this disclosure may also be applicable to the aerosol generating device and / or an associated device.

[0041] In a particular case, for example, an aerosol generating system may include an aerosol generating device. In this case, all arrangements, features, functions and advantages described herein for the aerosol generating system may apply to the aerosol generating device, and vice versa. In another particular case, for example, an aerosol generating system may include an ancillary device. In this case, all arrangements, features, functions and advantages described herein for the aerosol generating system may apply to the ancillary device, and vice versa. In another particular case, for example, an aerosol generating system may include an aerosol generating device and an ancillary device. In this case, all arrangements, features, functions and advantages described herein for the aerosol generating system may apply to the aerosol generating device and / or the ancillary device, and vice versa.

[0042] The aerosol-generating system may further comprise an aerosol-generating article, wherein the aerosol-generating system may be configured to generate an aerosol from the article.The aerosol-generating article may be configured as described herein, for example comprising an aerosol-generating substrate or a cartridge comprising an aerosol-generating liquid.

[0043] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment or aspect described herein.

[0044] Example 1. An aerosol generating system comprising:

[0045] a shell comprising a moldable material,

[0046] a processing circuit comprising at least one controller and at least one conductive trace,

[0047] Wherein at least one of the controller and the traces are at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the housing.

[0048] Example 1A. An aerosol-generating system according to example 1, wherein the system comprises an energy storage device for storing electrical energy, wherein the housing at least partially encloses the energy storage device, preferably wherein the energy storage device is removable and / or replaceable by a user.

[0049] Example 2. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the at least one controller and the energy storage device of the aerosol-generating system overlap each other in a radial direction of the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating system.

[0050] Example 3. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein at least one controller of the processing circuit is arranged on the shell, preferably on the inner wall of the shell, so that the maximum extension direction of the controller is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system.

[0051] Example 4. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the processing circuit comprises at least one sensor, preferably one or more of a temperature sensor, a strain sensor and an accelerometer, and wherein the at least one sensor is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell.

[0052] Example 5. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the controller comprises at least two controller subunits, and wherein each of the at least two controller subunits is individually at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the housing.

[0053] Example 6. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, comprising an energy storage device heater configured to heat an energy storage device of the aerosol generating system, wherein the energy storage device heater is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell.

[0054] Example 7. An aerosol-generating system according to the preceding example, wherein the moldable material of the housing comprises a heat sink, preferably wherein the heat sink comprises at least one of a moldable ceramic material, a metal, preferably copper, and a coating.

[0055] Example 8. An aerosol generating system according to any of the foregoing Examples 6-7, wherein the shell includes a non-heating area that is free of the energy storage device heater and / or the radiator and / or is separated from the energy storage device heater and / or the radiator, and wherein the controller and at least one of the additional electrical components are arranged in the non-heating area.

[0056] Example 9. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the shell at least partially encloses an interior space of an energy storage device for the aerosol generating system, and wherein the controller and at least one of the traces are at least partially embedded in a surface of the shell facing the interior space.

[0057] Example 10. An aerosol generating system according to the previous example, wherein the shell includes a rounded surface and a flat surface in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system, wherein the rounded surface and the flat surface are connected to each other and together enclose the internal space, and wherein the controller and at least one of the traces are at least partially embedded in the flat surface.

[0058] Example 11. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the controller is arranged axially offset from the energy storage device of the aerosol generating system along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system, and wherein the controller is oriented so that its maximum extension plane is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0059] Example 12. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, comprising a heating element for heating an aerosol generating substrate or article, wherein the heating element comprises a heating sheet configured to be inserted into the aerosol generating substrate or article and a resistive heater, wherein the heating sheet comprises a moldable material, and wherein the resistive heater is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the heating sheet.

[0060] Example 13. An aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, comprising a heating element for heating the aerosol-generating substrate or article, wherein the heating element comprises a resistive heater, and wherein the resistive heater is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell.

[0061] Example 14. An aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples 12-13, wherein the housing comprises an insulating material, wherein the insulating material is arranged at least partially around the heating element.

[0062] Example 15. An aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples 12-14, wherein the heating element and the housing are configured as an integral unit.

[0063] Example 16. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, comprising an input device for receiving a control signal, wherein the input device is configured as a capacitive button, and wherein the input device is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the housing.

[0064] Example 17. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding example, comprising an electrical connector for establishing an electrical connection with an external device, wherein the electrical connector is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the housing.

[0065] Example 18. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, comprising at least one field generating component, preferably a wireless charging coil or an antenna, wherein the field generating component is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell.

[0066] Example 19. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the processing circuit comprises a printed component.

[0067] Example 20. An aerosol-generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the processing circuit is arranged only on the housing of the aerosol-generating system, and preferably without a separate printed circuit board.

[0068] Example 21. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the energy storage device is configured as a cylindrical battery and extends over at least one of 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75% or 80% of the entire extension of the aerosol generating system along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system.

[0069] Example 22. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, comprising one or more of the following:

[0070] an aerosol generating device configured to generate an aerosol; and

[0071] A matching device is configured to supply electrical energy to the aerosol generating device.

[0072] Example 23. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding examples, wherein one or more of the energy storage device, the processing circuit and the housing of the aerosol generating system is part of the aerosol generating device or the accessory device.

[0073] Example 24. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of the preceding examples, further comprising an aerosol-generating article, wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured to generate the aerosol from the article. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0074] Several examples will now be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0075] Figure 1 An aerosol generating system including an aerosol generating device and an associated device is shown;

[0076] FIG2 shows an arrangement of an energy storage device and processing circuitry of an aerosol generating system according to the prior art;

[0077] Figure 3 shows the arrangement of processing circuitry for an aerosol generating system;

[0078] Figure 4 Shown according to Figure 3 the arrangement of the energy storage device of the aerosol generating system;

[0079] Figure 5 A cross section of an aerosol generating system is shown;

[0080] FIG6 shows a cross-section of an aerosol generating system according to the prior art;

[0081] Figure 7 A cross section of an alternative aerosol generating system is shown;

[0082] Figure 8 shows an arrangement of processing circuitry for an aerosol generating system having a heater arrangement;

[0083] Figure 9 Shown according to Figure 8 the arrangement of the energy storage device of the aerosol generating system;

[0084] Figure 10 shows the arrangement of processing circuitry for an aerosol generating system with different heater arrangements;

[0085] Figure 11 Shown according to Figure 10 the arrangement of the energy storage device of the aerosol generating system;

[0086] Figure 12 shows an arrangement of processing circuitry for an aerosol generating system having an energy storage device heater; and

[0087] Figure 13 Shown according to Figure 12 Arrangement of an energy storage device of an aerosol generating system.

[0088] The Figures are merely schematic and not to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] Figure 1 An aerosol generating system 1 for generating an aerosol (e.g., for consumption by a user during one or more uses) is shown. The system 1 may include an aerosol generating device 2 for generating an aerosol and an accessory device 3 for at least partially receiving the aerosol generating device 2. The accessory device 3 may be a charging device for charging the aerosol generating device 2 and / or its energy storage device or battery. Both the aerosol generating device 2 and the accessory device 3 may include a shell 22 or housing. As explained herein, the shell 22 may enclose or contain additional components of the devices 2, 3. The shell 22 may include or be made of a moldable material, which is, for example, a thermosetting plastic material (such as a thermoplastic material) or a moldable ceramic material.

[0090] The aerosol-generating device 2 may comprise an insertion opening 4 for at least partially inserting an aerosol-generating article 17. The aerosol-generating article 17 may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco-containing substrate, and / or a cartridge comprising a liquid.

[0091] The aerosol-generating device 2 may further comprise a processing circuit 30 or control circuit 30 comprising at least one controller 5 and one or more processors 6. To generate an aerosol during use or consumption of the aerosol-generating article 17, the aerosol-generating device 2 may comprise at least one heating element 7 or heater arrangement for applying heat to at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 17. The processing circuit 30 and / or controller 5 may be configured to control the actuation, activation and / or deactivation of the at least one heating element 7.

[0092] In order to provide power to the at least one heating element 7, the aerosol generating device 2 may further comprise at least one energy storage device 15, for example in the form of a battery, for storing electrical energy or electricity. The aerosol generating device 2 may further comprise at least one electrical connector 12 for coupling to a corresponding at least one electrical connector 13 of the accessory device 3. For example, when the aerosol generating device 2 is at least partially inserted into the opening 14 of the accessory device 3, the one or more electrical connectors 12 of the aerosol generating device 2 may be coupled to the one or more electrical connectors 13 of the accessory device 3 to charge the at least one energy storage device 15 of the aerosol generating device 2.

[0093] The aerosol generating device 2 may further comprise a user interface component, for example a user interface component comprising an input element or input device 8, for example in the form of a button. The input device 8 may be used as a power button to activate or deactivate the heating element 7 for generating aerosol, thereby activating or deactivating the aerosol generating device 2. After the aerosol generating device 2 is activated, the heating element 7 may be activated and heat may be applied to at least a portion of the aerosol generating article 17 so that an aerosol can be generated for consumption by a user, for example for consumption by a user during use. The aerosol generating device 2 and the accessory device 3 may each comprise a user interface comprising one or more output elements, such as (a plurality of) LEDs, for outputting signals to the user.

[0094] The aerosol generating device 2 may also include a communication device 9 or a communication circuit 9 having one or more communication interfaces 10 for communicatively connecting the aerosol generating device 2 with the supporting device 3, for example, via an Internet connection, a wireless LAN connection, a WiFi connection, a Bluetooth connection, a mobile phone network, a 3G / 4G / 5G connection, an edge connection, an LTE connection, a BUS connection, a wireless connection, a wired connection, a radio connection, a near-field connection and / or an IoT connection.

[0095] The aerosol-generating device 2 may further comprise a data storage device 11 for storing information, program code or data. One or more sensors 16 may be arranged on, at or in the aerosol-generating device 2 to collect data. One or more of the sensors 16 may be, for example, a temperature sensor, a strain sensor, an accelerometer or any other suitable sensor.

[0096] Both the aerosol-generating device 2 and the accessory 3 may comprise a longitudinal axis 28. The longitudinal axis 28 may extend in the direction of maximum extension of the respective device 2, 3. In the case of the aerosol-generating device 2, the longitudinal axis 28 may extend in the direction of insertion or removal of the aerosol-generating article 17 into or from the insertion opening 4 of the aerosol-generating device 2, or parallel to said direction. In the case of the accessory 3, the longitudinal axis 28 may extend in the same direction as or parallel to the longitudinal axis 28 of the aerosol-generating device 2 when the aerosol-generating device 2 is inserted into the opening 14 of the accessory 3.

[0097] Although the additional figures focus on illustrating the present disclosure as implemented in an aerosol-generating device 2 , the entire description of FIGS. 2-13 applies similarly to the companion device 3 .

[0098] FIG2 shows an aerosol-generating device 2 according to the prior art. The processing circuit 30, including the controller 5 and further electrical components 18, is typically arranged on a PCB 19, in particular, on a separate substrate of the PCB 19. The electrical components 18 and the controller 5 are connected to each other via traces 20, which are also arranged on the PCB 19. The PCB 19 is manufactured as a separate component from the housing 22 and needs to be installed in the housing 22 during manufacture of the aerosol-generating device 2. Furthermore, because the PCB 19 comprises a separate substrate on which the controller 5, electrical components 18, and traces 20 are arranged, the PCB 19 is large and bulky. As can be seen in FIG2 , the PCB 19 fills the housing 22 of the aerosol-generating device 2 in such a way that it prevents the energy storage device 15 from being arranged in the same area as the PCB 19 along the axial direction of the longitudinal axis 28. In other words, in the area of ​​the aerosol-generating device 2 where the PCB 19 is located, there is no space for the energy storage device 15. This imposes a severe restriction on the total space available for the energy storage device 15, which significantly limits the capacity of the energy storage device 15.

[0099] This problem can be solved by Figure 3 and 4 The arrangement shown in the present disclosure is alleviated. Figure 3 and 4The aerosol generating system 1, exemplarily represented by the aerosol generating device 2 shown in FIG, may not include a separate PCB. Instead, the processing circuit 30 (in particular, one or more of the controller 5, the sensor 16, the further electrical components 18, and the conductive traces 20) may be arranged directly on the housing 22 and may specifically be at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the housing 22. Thus, the processing circuit 30 may be included in the production process of the housing 22 and may be produced in a molding step in which the housing 22 is formed from the moldable material. The mentioned components may, for example, be arranged on the inner surface of the housing 22. By at least partially embedding one or more of the electrical components in the moldable material of the housing 22, a separate substrate is not required for mounting these components. Thus, a separate PCB may be completely omitted. Since substantially the entire surface of the housing 22 is available for embedding the components, they can be arranged in a more widely distributed manner than in conventional PCBs, where the components are concentrated in a smaller area. The lack of a separate substrate for mounting components, separate from the housing 22, and the possibility of distributing the components more widely across the surface of the housing 22, may both help save space within the interior of the housing 22. Additionally, by embedding the components within the moldable material of the housing 22, the extent to which the components protrude from the wall surfaces of the housing 22 may be reduced. This may leave more space within the interior of the housing 22, even in areas of the interior of the housing 22 that are directly adjacent to electrical components (e.g., the controller 5).

[0100] 2 , it is thus even possible to arrange the energy storage device 15 in the region (along the longitudinal axis 28 of the aerosol generating device 2 ) where, for example, the processing circuitry 30 comprising the controller 5 is located. Figure 3 The energy storage device 15 of the aerosol generating device 2 is not shown. However, Figure 4 Shown according to Figure 3 The arrangement and extension of the energy storage device 15 of the aerosol generating device 2. For the same clear reasons, Figure 4 The processing circuit 30 is not shown. Figure 4 As can be seen in FIG5 , the energy storage device 15 may extend along a majority of the aerosol generating device 2 in the direction of the longitudinal axis 28. The energy storage device 15 may be arranged in the same area as the processing circuit 30 including the controller 5. In other words, the processing circuit 30 including the controller 5 may overlap the energy storage device 15 in the radial direction of the longitudinal axis 28 of the aerosol generating device 2. Thus, the energy storage device 15 may extend across a majority of the extension of the aerosol generating device 2 along the longitudinal axis 28. By such an increase in the size of the energy storage device 15, its capacity may be significantly increased.

[0101] Figure 5Shown is a section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 28 through an aerosol generating system 1, exemplarily represented by an aerosol generating device 2. As shown, the aerosol generating device 2 may have a circular or oval cross-section, but other shapes are possible. Figure 5 This illustrates how embedding electrical components (specifically controller 5, traces 20, and additional electrical components 18) within the moldable material of housing 22 can increase the space available for energy storage device 15 within the interior of housing 22. First, the electrical components can be arranged on housing 22 in a manner that closely follows the shape of housing 22 itself. Figure 5 The inner surface of the housing 22 shown in FIG can be rounded so that the components of the processing circuit 30 follow the rounded shape. This is not possible with a conventional PCB, which is usually flat and would therefore require more space to be mounted on a circuit board such as FIG. Figure 5 In the shell 22 shown in FIG. In addition, Figure 5 The electrical components are shown as being embedded within the moldable material of the housing 22 itself. In other words, the electrical components are recessed or sunken into the material of the walls of the housing 22. Thus, some of the thickness of the electrical components is absorbed by the thickness of the housing 22, allowing the electrical components to protrude less into the interior space of the housing 22. This leaves more space within the interior of the housing 22, allowing the use of an energy storage device 15 having an increased radius or circumference, even though the energy storage device 15 can be placed directly adjacent to the electrical components (particularly the controller 5).

[0102] Figures 6 and 7 show the flow of aerosol through an exemplary aerosol generating device 2. Figure 5 In similar cross-section, this exemplary aerosol generating device has a circular or cylindrical basic shape of housing 22 and an additional flat side wall 23. Figure 6 shows a device according to the prior art, and Figure 7 6 , the components of the processing circuit 30 are again arranged on the PCB 19. Since the PCB 19 is generally planar, it can generally be arranged on the flat side wall 23 of the housing 22. In this arrangement, the components of the processing circuit 30 (such as the controller 5 and the further electrical components 18) are separated from the flat side wall 23 by the thickness of the substrate of the PCB 19. In addition, when the components of the processing circuit 30 are arranged on the outer surface of the PCB 19 substrate, they extend into the interior space of the housing 22 at their full thickness. Thus, the components extend from the flat side wall 23 into the interior space of the housing 22 at both their full thickness and the thickness of the PCB 19 substrate. As can be seen in FIG6 , this significantly limits the radius or circumference and size of the energy storage device 15 that can be used in the interior space of the housing 22.

[0103] Figure 71 shows a cross section through an aerosol generating system 1 according to the present disclosure, which is exemplarily represented by an aerosol generating device 2. The processing circuit 30 and its components can be arranged directly on the flat side wall 23 of the housing 22 without using an additional PCB substrate. With this arrangement, the components of the processing circuit 30 can be separated from the flat side wall 23 without an additional layer of PCB substrate. In addition, the components of the processing circuit 30 can be at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the flat side wall 23 of the housing 22. In summary, according to Figure 7 The extension of the arranged component above the surface of the side wall 23 may even be less than the thickness of the component itself. Figure 7 As can be seen in the figure, this can facilitate the use of energy storage devices 15 with an increased radius or circumference and, therefore, an increased size and capacity. It can also be provided that components of the processing circuit 30 (e.g., the controller 5 and the further electrical components 18) can be arranged at the edge of the flat side wall 23, where the flat side wall 23 connects to the rounded portion of the shell 22. When using an energy storage device 15 having a cylindrical or elliptical cylindrical shape, this can lead to another possible increase in the size of the energy storage device 15, since the shape of the shell 22 can automatically result in unused internal space in the area where the flat side wall 23 and the rounded portion of the shell 22 connect. Therefore, it can be advantageous to arrange components of the processing circuit 30 in this area.

[0104] Figure 8 and 9 Another example of an aerosol generating system 1 is shown, which is exemplarily represented by an aerosol generating device 2. This example is generally similar to Figure 3 and 4 , so that only aspects that differ from those figures will be described to avoid repetition.

[0105] like Figure 8 As shown in FIG, the controller 5 may be divided into at least two or more separate controller subunits 21. The controller subunits 21 may be connected to each other, for example, by traces 20, and may together form the controller 5. Each controller subunit 21 may have smaller spatial dimensions than a controller 5 consisting of one single unit. The controller subunits 21 may be arranged on the housing 22 such that their direction of maximum extension is parallel to the longitudinal axis 28 of the aerosol generating device 2. Although this has been described for Figure 8 The controller subunit 21 in FIG is shown as an example, but this can also be applied to all other electrical components mentioned in the present disclosure, for example also to the controller 5 consisting of a single unit. Figure 5 As shown in , the controller subunit 21 or other electrical components can follow the shape of the walls of the housing 22 as closely as possible.

[0106] Figure 9An alternative arrangement of the controller 5 is shown. As shown, the controller 5 can be arranged axially offset from the energy storage device 15 along the longitudinal axis 28. In this case, the controller 5 can be at least partially embedded in a portion of the shell 22 that extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 28. The controller 5 can also be arranged so that its minimum extension direction is parallel to the longitudinal axis 28. In other words, a flat controller 5 can be arranged perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 28. A flat controller 5 can be a controller 5 whose extension in at least one extension direction is less than in other directions. This arrangement may be advantageous when the controller 5 is too large to be arranged close to the energy storage device 15 in the shell 22 in a radial direction from the longitudinal axis 28. By embedding the controller 5 at least partially in the moldable material of the shell 22 at this location, the internal space available for the energy storage device 15 can be increased.

[0107] Figure 8 and 9 Also shown is an exemplary heating element 7 of the aerosol-generating device 2. The heating element 7 can be configured such that the aerosol-generating article 17 can be inserted into the heating element 7 through the insertion opening 4. The heating element 7 can include a resistive heater 24 or an induction coil configured to heat the aerosol-generating article 17. The resistive heater 24 or the induction coil can be at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell 22. With this arrangement, the resistive heater 24 or the induction coil can surround an interior space into which the aerosol-generating article 17 can be inserted through the insertion opening 4. The moldable material of the shell 22 can also include an insulating material 25, which can be arranged at least partially around the resistive heater 24 or the induction coil in a radial direction of the longitudinal axis 28. The insulating material 25 ensures that heat from the heating element 7 is primarily conducted to the aerosol-generating article 17, rather than being conducted to the outside through the shell 22 (in which case the heat could cause discomfort to the user). The heating element 7 can be produced in the same production step as the molding of the shell 22 and can be produced together with the shell 22 as a single, integral unit.

[0108] Figure 10 and 11 Another example of an aerosol generating system 1 is shown, which is exemplarily represented by an aerosol generating device 2. This example is generally similar to Figure 3 、 4 , 8 and 9, so that only the aspects that differ from those figures will be described to avoid repetition.

[0109] Specifically, Figure 10 and 11Another type of heating element 7 is shown. The heating element 7 may be configured as a heating sheet. The heating sheet may be configured to enter an aerosol generating article 17 that is inserted into the aerosol generating device 2 through the insertion opening 4. Thus, it may be configured to heat the aerosol generating article 17 from within the article 17 itself. The heating sheet may comprise a resistive heater 24 or an induction coil configured to heat the aerosol generating article 17. Additionally, the heating sheet may comprise a moldable material, such as a moldable material similar to the material of the shell 22. The resistive heater 24 or the induction coil may be at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the heating sheet. The heating element 7 configured as a heating sheet may be produced in the same production step as the molding of the shell 22 and may be produced together with the shell 22 as a single, integral unit.

[0110] Figure 12 and 13 Another example of an aerosol generating system 1 is shown, which is exemplarily represented by an aerosol generating device 2. This example is generally similar to Figure 3 、 4 , 8, 9, 10 and 11, so that only the aspects that are different from those figures will be described to avoid repetition.

[0111] like Figure 12 As shown in , the aerosol generating device 2 may include a battery heater 27 configured to heat the energy storage device 15. The battery heater 27 may include a resistive heater 24 or an induction coil. The battery heater 27 may be at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the housing 22. The battery heater 27 may be arranged to cover the entire extension of the energy storage device 15 along the longitudinal axis 28. Specifically, the battery heater 27 may be arranged so as to surround the energy storage device 15 in the radial direction of the longitudinal axis 28. To facilitate heating of the energy storage device 15, the housing 22 may include a heat sink 29. The heat sink 29 may, for example, comprise a heat-conductive moldable material, such as a moldable thermally conductive ceramic material. During the molding step in the production of the housing 22, the heat sink 29 may be included in the housing 22 so that the heat sink 29 and the housing 22 can be molded together. Also in this same step, the battery heater 27 may be at least partially embedded in the material of the housing 22 and the heat sink 29.

[0112] The battery heater 27 and the radiator 29 may be configured to completely cover the energy storage device 15 in the radial direction of the longitudinal axis 28. Figure 13As shown in , a non-heating area 26 can be provided, wherein the housing 22 does not include a battery heater 27 and / or a radiator 29 or is devoid of a battery heater and / or radiator. The non-heating area 26 is arranged at a location on the housing 22 where electronic components that may be sensitive to heat or whose performance may be impaired by high temperatures are arranged. For example, the non-heating area 26 can be arranged around the controller 5. The non-heating area 26 can also be arranged around other electrical components 18. By providing a battery heater 27 together with a radiator 29, and also providing a non-heating area for mounting temperature-sensitive components, it is possible to ensure that the energy storage device 15 can be maintained at an optimal temperature while ensuring that other temperature-sensitive components are not overheated. In addition, by at least partially embedding the battery heater 27 in the moldable material of the housing 22, and by providing the radiator 29 as an additional moldable material of the housing 22, the entire arrangement can be very space-efficient and can allow for an energy storage device 15 of increased size and capacity.

[0113] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, etc. should be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. Moreover, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein that may or may not be specifically listed herein. Therefore, in this context, the number A is understood to be A±10%A. In this context, the number A can be regarded as including the numerical value within the general standard error for the measurement of the property modified by the number A. In certain cases used in the appended claims, the number A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of A deviation does not substantially affect the basic characteristics and novel features of the invention claimed. Moreover, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein that may or may not be specifically listed herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating system comprising: a shell comprising a moldable material, a processing circuit comprising at least one controller and at least one conductive trace, Wherein at least one of the controller and the traces are at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the housing.

2. The aerosol generating system according to claim 1, Wherein at least one of the controller and the traces is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the case such that at least one of the controller and the traces is recessed into the material of the case.

3. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the system comprises an energy storage device for storing electrical energy, wherein the housing at least partially encloses the energy storage device, preferably wherein the energy storage device is removable and / or replaceable by a user, And / or wherein the at least one controller and the energy storage device of the aerosol generating system overlap each other in a radial direction of a longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system.

4. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one controller of the processing circuit is arranged on the shell, preferably on the inner wall of the shell, so that the maximum extension direction of the controller is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system.

5. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the processing circuit comprises at least one sensor, preferably one or more of a temperature sensor, a strain sensor and an accelerometer, and wherein the at least one sensor is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell.

6. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller comprises at least two controller sub-units, and wherein each of the at least two controller sub-units is individually at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the housing.

7. An aerosol generating system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising an energy storage device heater, which is configured to heat the energy storage device of the aerosol generating system, wherein the energy storage device heater is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell.

8. An aerosol generating system according to the preceding claim, wherein the mouldable material of the housing comprises a heat sink, preferably wherein the heat sink comprises at least one of a mouldable ceramic material, a metal, preferably copper, and a coating.

9. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims 7-8, wherein the shell includes a non-heating area that is free of the energy storage device heater and / or the radiator and / or is separated from the energy storage device heater and / or the radiator, and wherein at least one of the controller and the further electrical components is arranged in the non-heating area.

10. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shell at least partially encloses an interior space for an energy storage device of the aerosol generating system, and wherein at least one of the controller and the traces is at least partially embedded in a surface of the shell facing the interior space, Preferably, the shell comprises a rounded surface and a flat surface in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating system, wherein the rounded surface and the flat surface are connected to each other and together enclose the internal space, and wherein at least one of the controller and the trace is at least partially embedded in the flat surface.

11. An aerosol generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a heating element for heating an aerosol generating substrate or article, wherein the heating element comprises a heating sheet configured to be inserted into the aerosol generating substrate or article and a resistive heater, wherein the heating sheet comprises a moldable material, and wherein the resistive heater is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the heating sheet.

12. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, comprising a heating element for heating the aerosol-generating substrate or article, wherein the heating element comprises a resistive heater, and wherein the resistive heater is at least partially embedded in the moldable material of the shell.

13. An aerosol generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the processing circuitry is arranged solely on a housing of the aerosol generating system, and preferably without a separate printed circuit board.

14. An aerosol generating system according to any preceding claim, comprising one or more of: an aerosol generating device configured to generate an aerosol; and an accessory device configured to supply electrical energy to the aerosol generating device, Preferably, one or more of the energy storage device, the processing circuit and the housing of the aerosol generating system is part of the aerosol generating device or the accessory device.

15. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, further comprising an aerosol-generating article, wherein the aerosol-generating system is configured to generate an aerosol from the article.

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