Aerosol-generating device with sensor assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating device having a sensor assembly, the aerosol-generating device being particularly configured to receive an aerosol-generating article. The invention also relates to an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating article and an aerosol-generating device having a sensor assembly. In one embodiment, an aerosol-generating device includes a housing defining a device cavity configured to at least partially receive an aerosol-generating article and operably position the aerosol-generating article in a position of use within the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device also includes a time-of-flight sensor assembly. The time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to measure at least one characteristic feature related to the aerosol-generating article within the device cavity.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus with a sensor assembly, the aerosol generating apparatus being specifically configured to receive an aerosol-generated article. The invention also relates to an aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol-generated article and an aerosol generating apparatus with a sensor assembly. Background Technology

[0002] Aerosol-generating articles in which the aerosol-forming matrix (e.g., but not limited to a tobacco or nicotine-containing matrix) is heated rather than burned are known in the art. Such articles are also referred to as heated non-combustible (“HnB”) products, or more generally as risk-reducing products (“RRP”). ​​Typically, in such heated smoking articles, an aerosol is generated by transferring heat from a heat source of the aerosol-generating device to a physically separate aerosol-forming matrix or material, which may be positioned in contact with, within, around, or downstream of the heat source. During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming matrix through heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. When the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol. As another variation, other aerosol-generating devices exist in which a liquid containing nicotine or other substances can be evaporated, aerosolized, or otherwise atomized for inhalation by a user; these are also known as electronic vaporizers or electronic cigarettes. Typically, for such products, aerosol-generating articles may include a cylinder, reservoir, or bladder that holds a nicotine-containing liquid rather than a solid matrix. The cylinder, reservoir, or bladder is typically removably held by a holder having a battery or other power source and may activate a heater in contact with the liquid, such as, but not limited to, a wicking element and a heating wire in contact with the wicking element.

[0003] Other aerosol generating devices are configured to form aerosols for pharmaceutical or therapeutic purposes, for example, configured to form aerosols from a matrix having one or more active agents for pharmaceutical or medical applications, plant-derived medicinal materials and flavoring agents, and combinations thereof.

[0004] Numerous prior art documents disclose aerosol generating apparatuses for consuming aerosols from aerosol generating articles. Such apparatuses include, for example, electrically heated aerosol generating apparatuses, in which aerosols are generated by transferring heat from one or more electrically heated elements of the aerosol generating apparatus to the aerosol-forming material or liquid of the heated aerosol generating article. To ensure consistent aerosols for the user, the aerosol generating article needs to be correctly positioned within the aerosol generating apparatus.

[0005] Some known aerosol generation systems require the user to manually activate the heating element after the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol generation device. Once the user turns on the aerosol generation device, the heating element is activated, and a separate user action is required to activate the heating element before the user can obtain aerosols.

[0006] Some known aerosol generation systems are manually switched on and continuously stimulated to generate heat in the device cavity, regardless of whether the aerosol-generated article is present. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of certain embodiments of the present invention is to at least partially solve, mitigate or eliminate at least one of the problems and / or disadvantages associated with the prior art.

[0008] The present invention is set forth in the appended claims.

[0009] According to one aspect, an example of an aerosol generating apparatus configured to receive an aerosol-generating article is provided, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: a housing defining a device cavity configured to at least partially receive the aerosol-generating article and operatively position the aerosol-generating article within the aerosol generating apparatus at a use position; and a time-of-flight (“TOF”) sensor assembly configured to measure at least one characteristic feature associated with the aerosol-generating article within the device cavity.

[0010] According to one aspect, an aerosol generation system is provided, the aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus as described herein. The aerosol generation system may further include an aerosol generation article configured to be removably received within a device cavity of the aerosol generation apparatus.

[0011] Various aspects of the present invention provide an aerosol generating apparatus, wherein the energy consumption of the aerosol generating apparatus is reduced. This arrangement ensures the presence of the aerosol generating article within the apparatus cavity in order to excite the heating element.

[0012] The present invention provides the advantage of automatic activation of the aerosol generating device. That is, the aerosol generating device detects the insertion of the aerosol-generating article, and the user can experience the aerosol without any user input or activation. Automatic activation is achieved using reduced energy consumption. Automatic activation is achieved using more precise activation timing.

[0013] Various aspects of the present invention ensure that the aerosol-generating article is correctly positioned within the device cavity of the aerosol-generating apparatus. In particular, various aspects of the present invention verify whether the aerosol-generating article is positioned in the use position, for example, to determine that the aerosol-generating article is in the correct position for proper heating, aerosol formation, and proper suction resistance. Once the aerosol-generating article is operatively positioned in the use position, the heating element is activated.

[0014] Various aspects of this invention enable control of the aerosol generation apparatus to accommodate non-ideal positioning of the aerosol-generated article within the apparatus cavity. Heating elements are activated based on the detected position of the aerosol-generated article within the apparatus cavity, thereby overcoming any misalignment or incorrect positioning.

[0015] At least one characteristic feature can be one or more of the following:

[0016] The position of the aerosol-generated product within the device cavity;

[0017] Detection of the aerosolization generation of the aerosol-forming material of the aerosol-generated product;

[0018] Surface characteristics of the surface portion of the aerosol-generated article;

[0019] Surface structures disposed on the aerosol-generating article;

[0020] The presence of the aerosol-generated product is detected within the cavity of the device.

[0021] Or an identification label or mark for the aerosol-generated product.

[0022] The time-of-flight sensor assembly may include a transmitter configured to emit a signal toward an aerosol-generating article in a receiving device cavity, such as, but not limited to, an optical signal or an acoustic signal.

[0023] The transmitter may include one or more of the following: a light-emitting diode, a laser source, or an acoustic signal generator.

[0024] An acoustic signal generator can produce ultrasonic acoustic signals. These acoustic signals can be ultrasonic. This reduces the component costs used in time-of-flight sensor assemblies.

[0025] The transmitter can be arranged to emit a signal, such as an optical signal or an acoustic signal, at least in a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the device cavity. That is, the emitted signal (e.g., an optical signal or an acoustic signal) propagates along the central longitudinal axis of the device cavity. In this way, the time-of-flight sensor assembly can continuously monitor the position of the aerosol-generating article of mass as it is received within the device cavity, either over a period of time or at a specific moment.

[0026] The transmitter can be arranged to transmit signals, such as optical or acoustic signals, at least in a direction transverse to the central longitudinal axis of the device cavity. That is, the transmitted signal (e.g., optical or acoustic signal) propagates in a direction perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis. Typically, the signal (e.g., optical or acoustic signal) is guided from a first portion of the peripheral wall of the device cavity toward an opposite portion of the peripheral wall.

[0027] In this manner, the time-of-flight sensor assembly can be adapted to determine a first reference distance when the aerosol-generating article is far from the usage location, and a second reference distance when the aerosol-generating article is in the usage location. The second reference distance will be significantly shorter than the first reference distance, resulting in a clear boundary between the first and second reference distances. The controller will then be able to easily and clearly determine that the aerosol-generating article is in the usage location.

[0028] The transmitter can emit pulsed light signals or pulsed acoustic signals.

[0029] The transmitter can emit optical signals, which can have electromagnetic radiation in the range of 100 nanometers to 3000 nanometers (e.g., including one or more of infrared, ultraviolet, or visible light). The electromagnetic radiation can be in the range of 100 nanometers to 1400 nanometers, 300 nanometers to 700 nanometers, or 700 nanometers to 1000 nanometers.

[0030] Electromagnetic radiation can be in the range of one or more of infrared, ultraviolet, or visible light. Optical signals can be monochromatic or polychromatic.

[0031] The transmitter can emit optical signals with a predetermined wavelength or a predetermined wavelength range. The transmitter can be a laser source, such as a vertical cavity surface-emitting laser.

[0032] The transmitter can emit an optical signal with a predetermined waveform (e.g., a pulse waveform). The waveform of the optical signal from the transmitter can be used as a time indicator.

[0033] The time-of-flight sensor assembly can be configured to measure the time interval between the transmitted and reflected waveforms. The time-of-flight sensor assembly can also be configured to measure the phase change between the transmitted and reflected waveforms.

[0034] The transmitter can emit optical signals or other optical signals with a predetermined phase.

[0035] The controller can be configured to compare a first signal transmitted by the transmitter with a reflected signal received by the receiver in order to determine a change in one or more of the predetermined wavelength, predetermined waveform, or predetermined phase of the signal.

[0036] The time-of-flight sensor assembly may include a receiver configured to receive at least one of a reflected acoustic signal or a reflected light signal.

[0037] The receiver may include one or more of the following: a photodiode, an avalanche photodiode (APD), a single-photon detection avalanche photodiode (SPAD), or a microphone, or another device capable of receiving and detecting radiation. The receiver may include an array or matrix comprising one or more of the following: a photodiode, an avalanche photodiode (APD), a single-photon detection avalanche photodiode (SPAD), or a microphone.

[0038] The receiver may include a focusing element arranged to focus a signal, such as a reflected light signal, into the receiver.

[0039] The focusing element may include one or more of the following: a pinhole, a lens, or a mirror.

[0040] In these ways, the receiver is adapted to measure the characteristic features of a two-dimensional region of the surface portion of an aerosol-generating article or a three-dimensional surface structure disposed on the aerosol-generating article. The two-dimensional or three-dimensional region of the surface portion may be an identification tag or mark.

[0041] The controller can use the pattern of reflected light signals from the aerosol-generated article to determine the unique identifier of the tag or mark. In this way, the controller can modify or adjust the operation of the aerosol-generating device based on the properties of the aerosol-generated article. For example, the heater temperature, duration, heating profile, or combinations of these parameters can be adjusted based on the identification tag of the aerosol-generated article.

[0042] The time-of-flight sensor assembly can be selectively operated in either a time-of-flight signal measurement mode or an illumination mode.

[0043] The time-of-flight sensor assembly is operable in time-of-flight signal measurement mode to measure any of the following: the position of the aerosol-generating article within the device cavity, or the detection of the presence of the aerosol-generating article within the device cavity.

[0044] The time-of-flight sensor assembly is operable in illumination mode to measure any of the following: surface characteristics of a surface portion of an aerosol-generating article, or the surface structure of an aerosol-generating article. The surface characteristics of the surface portion of the aerosol-generating article can be at least one of the following: reflectivity characteristics, absorbance characteristics, refractive characteristics, diffuse reflection characteristics, or scattering characteristics. Additionally, in illumination mode, if a matrix or array of receiver elements is used, image information from the surface portion of the aerosol-generating article can be detected, for example, reading and detecting data from identification tags or markers.

[0045] The illumination mode can be an auxiliary mode. That is, the time-of-flight sensor assembly can operate in both time-of-flight signal measurement mode and illumination mode, typically selectively operating in both modes.

[0046] In the illumination mode, the time-of-flight sensor assembly can be configured to detect color or grayscale changes in the front rod of the aerosol-generating article.

[0047] In these ways, lighting patterns can be used to detect whether aerosol-forming articles have been used, not used, or partially used.

[0048] A time-of-flight sensor assembly can be configured to determine statistical variations in the time-of-flight signal to measure the detection of aspiration. These statistical variations can be determined using time-of-flight diffraction or other statistical techniques. In this way, aerosols cause diffusion or diffraction of the signal, which causes scattering of the pulses or phases of the reflected signal, making aspiration detectable. This can be accomplished by TOF diffraction (“TOFD”) or other statistical analysis of the response signal, such as detecting the statistical distribution of the response time indicative of aerosol diffusion and the aspiration that has occurred.

[0049] Time-of-flight sensor components may include light detection and ranging devices.

[0050] The time-of-flight sensor assembly can be configured to measure two-dimensional or three-dimensional surface properties of one or more surface portions of an aerosol-generated article. The time-of-flight sensor assembly may include a transmitter that generates an optical signal using a wide-beam LED or a wide-beam laser.

[0051] The receiver may include an array of photodetectors, or may have multiple photodetectors. Each photodetector may be equipped with a pinhole lens. When the photodetectors are arranged in an array, a common lens, such as a pinhole lens, may be used for the photodetector array. In this way, the receiver can easily operate in more than one mode. The receiver can determine the position of the aerosol-generating article within the device cavity and also read identification tags imprinted on the outer wall of the aerosol-generating article, or read information from printed marks or images on the outer wall of the aerosol-generating article.

[0052] The time-of-flight sensor assembly can measure the position of the aerosol-generated article within the device cavity to verify that the aerosol-generated article is in the usage position.

[0053] The time-of-flight sensor assembly can periodically verify that the aerosol-generated article is in the use position. In this way, the time-of-flight sensor assembly can check during use whether the aerosol-generated article has been dislodged from the use position or removed from the device cavity of the aerosol generation device.

[0054] The time-of-flight sensor assembly may include a temperature sensor configured to measure temperature to determine the air temperature within the device cavity. In this way, the temperature sensor of the time-of-flight sensor assembly is used to compensate for temperature drift due to the speed of light, and can also be used to measure a value indicating the air temperature within the device cavity.

[0055] The aerosol generating device may include a controller.

[0056] The controller can be configured to receive air temperature from a temperature sensor and use the air temperature to determine whether suction is present or absent within the device cavity. Optionally, the controller may be adapted to process the data to detect suction by temperature, for example, through power analysis.

[0057] Temperature sensors can be configured to determine the rate of change of air temperature within the device cavity.

[0058] The controller can be configured to receive the rate of change of air temperature from a temperature sensor to determine whether suction is present or absent in the device cavity.

[0059] The controller can be configured to count the number of aspirations. The controller can record the number of aspirations. The controller can monitor aspirations until a predetermined number of aerosol-generated articles have been produced. The controller can be adapted to activate a suitable display device located in the aerosol generation system to display or otherwise visualize the usage to the user.

[0060] In these ways, the controller can indicate to the user the amount of aerosol-generated product being used, or indicate that the aerosol-generated product is approaching its maximum usage.

[0061] The device cavity can be configured to receive aerosol-generating articles. The aerosol-generating articles can have various shapes, such as strips or rods, or other shapes, such as rectangular cylinders, flat consumables, etc. The device cavity can have a central longitudinal axis, such that in the position of use, the aerosol-generating articles are coaxial with the central longitudinal axis.

[0062] The device cavity can be substantially cylindrical. The device cavity can have a shape that corresponds to or complements the shape of the aerosol-generating article.

[0063] The housing may include a recessed chamber adjacent to the device cavity. The time-of-flight sensor assembly may be arranged in the recessed chamber.

[0064] The housing may include a partition wall between the device cavity and the recessed chamber. The partition wall is formed of a material that substantially transmits signals emitted by the transmitter of the time-of-flight sensor assembly. For example, the partition wall may be formed of a material that substantially transmits optical signals emitted by the transmitter.

[0065] The partition wall can be formed of a plastic material. The plastic material can be polycarbonate (PC) or any other suitable high-performance plastic material with suitable optical and temperature properties, such as polyetherimide (PEI), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyimide (PI), or fluoropolymer materials such as PTFE, FEP, or PFA.

[0066] The partition wall can be formed of amorphous solid materials, such as glass, for example, glass materials with optical quality and temperature resistance to the temperatures present in the device cavity. The partition wall can also be formed of transparent glass-ceramic materials.

[0067] In these ways, the time-of-flight sensor assembly can be isolated from the device cavity. That is, the time-of-flight sensor assembly is fluidly separated from the device cavity.

[0068] The recessed chamber can be located in the base of the device cavity. In this way, optical or acoustic signals can be guided along the central longitudinal axis of the device cavity. In this way, the time-of-flight sensor assembly can continuously monitor the position of the aerosol-generated article while it is being received within the device cavity.

[0069] The recessed chamber can be located within the peripheral wall of the device cavity. In this way, the transmitter can be specifically arranged to emit optical or acoustic signals at least in a direction transverse to the central longitudinal axis of the device cavity.

[0070] Aerosol-generating articles may include one or more of the following: aerosol-forming materials, surface portions, surface structures, or identification labels. In this way, aerosol-generating articles can be specifically configured to be compatible with various aspects of the aerosol-generating apparatus.

[0071] Aerosol-generating articles may include a matrix configured to modify the properties of the aerosol-generating article in response to heat applied to the aerosol-generating article by the aerosol-generating apparatus. The matrix may be a thermally printed material or thermochromic paper. Heat can be provided when the heater of the aerosol-generating apparatus is activated by a controller.

[0072] In these ways, the matrix provides a visual indicator of the extent of use of the aerosol-generated article. The visual indicator can be readily determined using one or more of the time-of-flight sensor assemblies described herein.

[0073] The aerosol-generating article may include an identification tag having one or more of the following: raised or recessed areas. The identification tag can be easily read using one or more of the time-of-flight sensor assemblies described herein. In this way, the aerosol-generating apparatus can selectively modify or adapt its operation according to the properties of the aerosol-generating article. For example, the temperature or duration of the heater can be adjusted based on the identification tag of the aerosol-generating article.

[0074] As used herein, “measurement” means evaluating, reading, or otherwise determining at least one characteristic feature of an aerosol-generating article using a time-of-flight sensor assembly. Accordingly, “measured value” means a determinable quantity, identifier, location, position, or other physical measure of the characteristic feature.

[0075] As used herein, "signal" refers to the first signal emitted by the transmitter into the device cavity. The first signal can be an optical signal or an acoustic signal provided by the transmitter.

[0076] As used herein, "reflected signal" refers to a second signal reflected to a receiver within the device cavity. A reflected signal is the reflection of a first signal to the receiver. A reflected signal is the reflection of a first signal from the aerosol-generating article to the receiver. A reflected signal is typically the reflection of a first signal from a surface portion or surface structure disposed on the aerosol-generating article. A reflected signal can be the reflection or scattering of the first signal by aerosols dispersed within the device cavity.

[0077] As used herein, "optical signal" refers to a signal generated by a light source that provides electromagnetic radiation at a predetermined wavelength or within a predetermined range of wavelengths.

[0078] As used herein, "acoustic signal" refers to a signal generated by an acoustic signal generator that provides acoustic energy at a predetermined frequency or within a predetermined range of frequencies.

[0079] As used herein, in "direct time-of-flight mode," the controller determines the time interval between a first signal emitted by the transmitter and a second signal received by the receiver, wherein the second signal is a reflection of the first signal from an aerosol-generated article within the device cavity. The first signal in direct time-of-flight mode can be an optical signal or an acoustic signal.

[0080] As used herein, in the "indirect time-of-flight mode," the controller determines the phase change between a first signal emitted by the transmitter and a second signal received by the receiver, wherein the second signal is a reflection of the first signal from an aerosol-generated article within the device cavity. The first signal in the indirect time-of-flight mode can be an optical signal or an acoustic signal.

[0081] As used herein, “position” or “first position” refers to the location relative to a reference point within the device cavity, or the orientation relative to a reference point or axis, such as the central longitudinal axis.

[0082] As used herein, "surface portion" refers to a predetermined target surface disposed on an aerosol-generating article. Therefore, the aerosol-generating apparatus is adapted to receive the aerosol-generating article such that the surface portion is positioned in a predetermined three-dimensional location within the apparatus cavity at a usage position. The aerosol-generating system is thus configured to ensure that the surface portion of a continuously generated aerosol article is repeatedly disposed in the same usage position within the apparatus cavity. In this manner, the predetermined surface portion of the aerosol-generating article is intentionally used as a target surface, enabling the time-of-flight sensor assembly to reliably measure common characteristic features of the continuously generated aerosol articles during use.

[0083] As used herein, “illumination” means the illumination, irradiation, or propagation of a signal from a time-of-flight sensor assembly toward or partially toward an aerosol-generating article within the device cavity. Illumination may include the use of a transmitter to provide an optical or acoustic signal.

[0084] As used herein, an "identification tag" refers to a suitable physical identifier affixed to an aerosol-generating article to provide a unique pattern or other unique identification device associated with the aerosol-generating article. Identification tags can be read by a controller using information determined based on reflected signals received by a receiver. Identification tags may include one or more of the following: barcodes, QR codes, encryption codes, images or patterns, tracking marks, or optical marks; marking areas that impart reflective properties that vary the reflected signal; raised areas, such as including raised dots and / or raised lines; or recessed areas, such as including recessed dots and / or recessed lines.

[0085] As used herein, “suction” refers to an event in which a user applies suction to the port of the aerosol generating article or the port of the aerosol generating device to draw air through the aerosol generating article and the aerosol generating device. Air is drawn into the upstream end of the aerosol generating article and may entrain aerosols that may have accumulated in the device cavity before the user applied suction.

[0086] The 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.

[0087] Example Ex1: 1. An aerosol generating apparatus configured to receive an aerosol-generating article, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising:

[0088] A housing defining a device cavity configured to at least partially receive the aerosol-generating article and operatively position the aerosol-generating article in a use position within the aerosol-generating apparatus; and

[0089] Time-of-flight sensor assembly;

[0090] The time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to measure at least one characteristic feature associated with the aerosol-generated article within the device cavity.

[0091] Example Ex2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one characteristic feature is one or more of the following:

[0092] The position of the aerosol-generated product within the device cavity;

[0093] Detection of the aerosolization generation of the aerosol-forming material of the aerosol-generated product;

[0094] Surface characteristics of the surface portion of the aerosol-generated article;

[0095] Surface structures disposed on the aerosol-generating article;

[0096] The presence detection of the aerosol-generated product within the device cavity; or

[0097] The identification label for the aerosol-generated product.

[0098] Example Ex3. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly includes a transmitter configured to emit an optical or acoustic signal toward an aerosol-generated article received in the apparatus cavity.

[0099] Example Ex4. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex3, wherein the emitter includes one or more of the following: a light-emitting diode, a laser light source, or an acoustic signal generator.

[0100] Example Ex5. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex4, wherein the acoustic signal generator generates an ultrasonic acoustic signal.

[0101] Example Ex6. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex3, wherein the emitter is arranged to emit optical or acoustic signals in at least a direction parallel to the central longitudinal axis of the apparatus cavity.

[0102] Example Ex7. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex3, wherein the emitter is arranged to emit optical or acoustic signals at least in a direction transverse to the central longitudinal axis of the apparatus cavity.

[0103] Example Ex8. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex3, wherein the transmitter emits a pulsed light signal or a pulsed acoustic signal.

[0104] Example Ex9. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly includes a receiver configured to receive at least one of a reflected acoustic signal or a reflected light signal.

[0105] Example Ex10. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex9, wherein the receiver comprises one or more of the following: a photodiode, an avalanche photodiode, a single-photon detection avalanche photodiode, or a microphone.

[0106] Example Ex11. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex9, wherein the receiver includes a focusing element arranged to focus light entering the receiver.

[0107] Example Ex12. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex11, wherein the focusing element includes one or more of the following: a pinhole, a lens, or a mirror.

[0108] Example Ex13. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is selectively operable in a time-of-flight signal measurement mode or an illumination mode.

[0109] Example Ex14. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex2, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is operable in a time-of-flight signal measurement mode to measure any one of the following: the position of the aerosol generating article within the apparatus cavity, or the detection of the presence of the aerosol generating article within the apparatus cavity.

[0110] Example Ex15. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex2, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is operable in an illumination mode to measure any one of the following: surface characteristics of a surface portion of the aerosol-generated article, or the surface structure of the aerosol-generated article. Preferably, the aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex2 is operable in both an illumination mode and a time-of-flight signal measurement mode.

[0111] Example Ex16. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex15, wherein, in the illumination mode, the time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to detect color or grayscale changes in the front rod of the aerosol generating article.

[0112] Example Ex17. The aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex2, wherein the surface characteristics of the surface portion of the aerosol generating article are at least one of the following: reflectivity characteristics, absorbance characteristics, refractive characteristics, diffuse reflection characteristics, or scattering characteristics.

[0113] Example Ex18. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex2, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to determine statistical changes in the time-of-flight signal to measure the detection of aspiration, or by means of a statistical distribution of the time-of-flight generated by scattering.

[0114] Example Ex19. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex18, wherein the statistical variation is determined using time-of-flight diffraction or by using a time-of-flight statistical distribution generated by scattering.

[0115] Example Ex20. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly includes a light detection and ranging device.

[0116] Example Ex21. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to measure two-dimensional or three-dimensional surface characteristics of one or more surface portions of the aerosol-generated article.

[0117] Example Ex22. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex2, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly measures the position of the aerosol-generated article in the apparatus cavity to verify that the aerosol-generated article is in the use position.

[0118] Example Ex23. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly includes a temperature sensor, wherein the temperature sensor is configured to measure temperature to determine the air temperature within the apparatus cavity.

[0119] Example Ex24. The aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex23 further includes a controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive the air temperature from the temperature sensor and use the air temperature to determine whether suction is present or absent in the apparatus cavity.

[0120] Example Ex25. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex23, wherein the temperature sensor is configured to determine the rate of change of air temperature within the apparatus cavity.

[0121] Example Ex26. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to measure the time interval between the emitted waveform and the reflected waveform.

[0122] Example Ex27. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to measure the phase change between the emitted waveform and the reflected waveform.

[0123] Example Ex28. The aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex23 further includes a controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive the rate of change of air temperature from the temperature sensor to determine whether suction exists or does not exist in the apparatus cavity.

[0124] Example Ex29. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Ex24 to Ex28, wherein the controller is configured to count the number of aspirations.

[0125] Example Ex30. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the apparatus cavity is configured to receive a strip-shaped aerosol generating article, and the apparatus cavity has a central longitudinal axis such that, in the use position, the aerosol generating article is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis.

[0126] Example Ex31. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex30, wherein the apparatus cavity is substantially cylindrical.

[0127] Example Ex32. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex1, wherein the housing includes a recessed chamber adjacent to the apparatus cavity, and wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is disposed in the recessed chamber.

[0128] Example Ex33. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex32, wherein the housing further includes a partition wall between the apparatus cavity and the recessed chamber, and wherein the partition wall is formed of a material that substantially transmits signals emitted by the time-of-flight sensor assembly.

[0129] Example Ex34. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex32, wherein the recessed chamber is disposed in the base of the apparatus cavity.

[0130] Example Ex35. An aerosol generating apparatus according to Ex32, wherein the recessed chamber is disposed in the peripheral wall of the apparatus cavity.

[0131] Example Ex36. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to any one of Ex1 to Ex35, and an aerosol generation article configured to be received within a device cavity of the aerosol generation apparatus.

[0132] Example Ex37. An aerosol generation system according to Ex36, wherein the aerosol generation article includes one or more of the following: aerosol forming material, surface portion, surface structure or identification label.

[0133] Example Ex38. An aerosol generation system according to Ex37, wherein the aerosol generation article includes a matrix configured to modify the characteristic features of the aerosol generation article in response to heat applied to the aerosol generation article by the aerosol generation device.

[0134] Example Ex39. An aerosol generation system according to Ex38, wherein the matrix is ​​a thermally printable material or thermochromic paper.

[0135] Example Ex40. An aerosol generation system according to Ex37, wherein the aerosol generation article includes an identification label having one or more of the following: a raised area or a recessed area. Attached Figure Description

[0136] The examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0137] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of the comparative aerosol generating apparatus and the comparative aerosol generating system is shown.

[0138] Figure 2A A schematic cross-sectional view of an exemplary aerosol generation system is shown;

[0139] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A A close-up view of a portion of an instance;

[0140] Figure 3A A schematic cross-sectional view of another exemplary aerosol generation system is shown;

[0141] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A close-up view of a portion of an instance; and

[0142] Figure 4 It shows the usage period Figure 2A and Figure 2B Examples. Detailed Implementation

[0143] Certain terms are used in the following description for convenience only and are not restrictive. The word “outside” refers to directions toward and away from the designated centerline or geometric center (e.g., central axis) of the element being described, respectively, the specific meaning of which is readily apparent from the context of the description.

[0144] Furthermore, as used herein, the term "installation" is intended to include both direct connections between two components without the insertion of any other component, and indirect connections between components where one or more other components are inserted. The terminology includes the words specifically mentioned above, their derivatives, and words with similar meanings.

[0145] Furthermore, unless otherwise stated, the use of ordinal adjectives such as “first” and “second” merely indicates that different instances of similar objects are mentioned, and is not intended to imply that the objects described in this way must be arranged in a given sequence in time, space, order, or any other way.

[0146] refer to Figure 1 An exemplary, non-limiting aerosol generation system 100 is shown, comprising a comparative aerosol generation device 110 and an aerosol generation article 120. The aerosol generation device 110 includes a housing 104 extending between an inlet end 102 and a distal end. The housing 104 includes a peripheral wall 106. The peripheral wall 106 defines a device cavity for receiving the aerosol generation article 120.

[0147] The device cavity defined by the peripheral wall 106 is configured to receive the aerosol generating article 120 in the use position, for example, by a cooperative positioning device disposed in the cavity and on the aerosol generating article 120.

[0148] The device cavity is further defined by a closed distal end and an open port end 102. The port end 102 of the device cavity is located at the port end of the aerosol generating apparatus 110. The aerosol generating article 120 is configured to be received through the port end 102 of the device cavity and is configured to be adjacent to the closed end of the device cavity in the use position.

[0149] In this example, the airflow path 126 surrounds the aerosol generating article 120 and is defined between the peripheral walls 106 of the aerosol generating device housing 104. This allows air to flow upstream of the strip 112 (e.g., the strip end face) and further downstream over the rest of the aerosol generating article 120 when a user creates a suction at the inlet 102 of the aerosol generating article 120.

[0150] The aerosol generating apparatus 110 also includes a heater (not shown) and a power supply (not shown) for supplying power to the heater. A controller (not shown) is also provided to control this power supply to the heater. The heater is configured to heat the aerosol generating article 120 during use when it is received within the aerosol generating apparatus 110. Many different heaters and combinations thereof can be used, and the invention described herein is not limited to any particular type of heater.

[0151] In this non-limiting and exemplary example, the aerosol-generating article 120 includes a filter having a circular surface at the upstream end of forming strip 112, a hollow support section 114, a hollow tubular section 116, and a mouthpiece section 118. These four elements are arranged end-to-end, longitudinally aligned, and defined by packaging 122 to form the aerosol-generating article 120. Figure 1The aerosol generating article 120 shown is particularly suitable for use with an electrically operated aerosol generating apparatus 110, which includes a heater for heating bar 112.

[0152] In the variant shown, strip 112 is cylindrical in shape and has a substantially circular cross-section. Strip 112 may comprise an aggregate sheet of homogenized tobacco material or other materials for aerosolization, including but not limited to aerosol-forming agents, plant-derived medicinal materials, pharmaceutical preparations, flavorings, or combinations thereof.

[0153] The aerosol-generating article 120 may include a ventilation zone 124. The ventilation zone 124 may be positioned at least approximately 5 mm upstream of the mouthpiece section 118. The ventilation zone 124 may be positioned at least approximately 12 mm downstream of the aerosol-generating article 120. The ventilation zone 124 may be positioned at least approximately 21 mm downstream of the strip 112. The ventilation zone 124 may include a series or row of perforations extending through the packaging 122.

[0154] like Figure 1 As shown, the ventilation area 124 of the aerosol generating article 120 is exposed during the use of the aerosol generating system 100.

[0155] In alternative aerosol generation systems, aerosol generation articles may include fluid reservoirs, bladders, or cylinders suitable for use with electrically operated aerosol generation devices. The fluid contained in the fluid reservoir forms an aerosol upon heating. The aerosol generation system may include a heater for heating the fluid in the fluid reservoir to form an aerosol. The heater may be installed within the aerosol generation article of the aerosol generation system. The aerosol generation article may include a wicking element for controllably releasing fluid from the fluid reservoir to the heater.

[0156] Now for reference Figure 2A and Figure 2B An exemplary aerosol generation system is illustrated. The example includes an aerosol generation device 210 configured to receive an aerosol generation article 220. The aerosol generation device 210 includes a housing 204 defining a device cavity 205 configured to at least partially receive the aerosol generation article 220 and operatively position the aerosol generation article 220 within a use position within the aerosol generation device 210.

[0157] The aerosol generating apparatus 210 also includes a time-of-flight sensor assembly 250. The time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 is configured to measure at least one characteristic feature relating to the aerosol generating article 220, which is at least partially located within the apparatus cavity 205. In the illustrated example, the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 is configured to measure the position of the aerosol generating article 220 within the apparatus cavity 205, as explained in more detail below.

[0158] In the exemplary and non-limiting example shown, the device cavity 205 is substantially cylindrical. The device cavity 205 defines a central longitudinal axis 224 extending from the closed end of the device cavity 205 to the open end. The aerosol generating article 220 is received into the device cavity 205 from the open end.

[0159] The housing 204 may include a recess 228 adjacent to the device cavity 205. The recess 228 is disposed in the base 226 of the housing 204. The recess 228 may be located at a closed end of the device cavity 205, for example, having a transparent protective wall or partition at the closed end of the device cavity 205. In this way, the time-of-flight sensor assembly is positioned to measure a surface portion or surface structure or front bar located upstream of the aerosol generating article 220 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 1 The aerosol generation characteristics of the article on the front surface of the front rod 112 shown.

[0160] The recessed chamber 228 and the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 may be arranged at the base of the recessed chamber 228, or further recessed into the recessed chamber 228, such that the transmitting and receiving surfaces of the transmitter 230 and receiver 232 are further located inside the recessed chamber 228. The distance between the transmitter 230 and receiver 232 and the surface portion 222 or surface structure of the upstream end of the aerosol generating article 220, or another surface portion or structure of the aerosol generating article 220, is increased. In this way, the distance d between the transmitter 230 and receiver 232 and the upstream end of the aerosol generating article 220 or another surface portion or structure of the aerosol forming article 220 can be increased. For example, the distance can be increased to more than 3 mm, preferably more than 5 mm, and even more preferably more than 8 mm.

[0161] The time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 can be arranged within a recessed chamber 228. In this manner, the transmitter 230, receiver 232, controller 234, and temperature sensor 236 of the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 are mounted within the recessed chamber 228. The time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 is mounted within the aerosol generating device 210 without restricting or obstructing the volume of the device cavity 205. The transmitter 230, receiver 232, and temperature sensor 236 are operatively connected to the controller 234 within the recessed chamber 228. In this example, the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 is disposed on a silicon chip or multi-chip module (“MCM”), which includes each of the transmitter 230, receiver 232, controller 234, and temperature sensor 236.

[0162] The time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 includes a temperature sensor 236 to measure the air temperature of the medium through which the signal propagates. In this way, the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 is used to compensate for temperature drift of the signal emitted by the transmitter. Therefore, the temperature sensor 236 can also be configured to provide the air temperature, indicating the temperature inside the device cavity 205. The air temperature provided by the temperature sensor 236 can also be used for secondary purposes, such as enabling the detection of suction within the device cavity, as also described herein.

[0163] Temperature sensor 236 is mounted in or very close to recessed chamber 228 to operatively determine the air temperature within device cavity 205. Preferably, temperature sensor 236 is part of or integrated with time-of-flight sensor assembly 250.

[0164] The transmitter 230 is mounted within the recessed chamber 228 for operability within the device cavity 205. In this example, the transmitter 230 generates electromagnetic radiation to provide an optical signal 238. The transmitter 230 includes a light-emitting diode for generating the optical signal 238.

[0165] The transmitter 230 is mounted to emit an optical signal 238 into the device cavity 205 in a direction generally oriented along the central longitudinal axis 224 of the device cavity 205. In this manner, the transmitter 230 is mounted to emit a first signal toward the aerosol generating article 220 when it is inserted into and received in the device cavity 205. In this example, the transmitter 230 is configured to emit a narrow beam of light into the device cavity 205 such that when the aerosol generating article 220 is received in the device cavity 205, the optical signal 238 is directed toward a specific surface portion 222 of the aerosol generating article 220.

[0166] Receiver 232 is mounted within recessed chamber 228 to operably receive a second signal from device cavity 205. The receiver includes a photodiode configured to measure reflected light signal 240 during use.

[0167] The second signal is a reflected light signal 240, which is a reflection of the first signal from the aerosol generating article 220. A receiver 232 is mounted in a suitable position to receive the reflected signal from the aerosol generating article 220 when it is received into the device cavity 205.

[0168] The housing 204 also includes a partition wall 262 between the device cavity 205 and the recessed chamber 228. The partition wall 262 is formed of a material that transmits the light signal 238 emitted by the transmitter 230. In this example, the partition wall 262 is formed of a transparent plastic material. The plastic material can be polycarbonate (PC) or any other suitable high-performance plastic material with suitable optical and temperature properties, such as polyetherimide (PEI), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyimide (PI), or fluoropolymer materials such as PTFE, FEP, or PFA.

[0169] Optionally, the partition wall can be formed of a non-crystalline solid material, such as a glass material, for example, a glass material with optical quality and temperature resistance to the temperatures present in the device cavity. Optionally, the partition wall can be formed of a transparent glass-ceramic material.

[0170] In a non-limiting example, the aerosol generating article 220 is strip-shaped, such that in the usage position, the aerosol generating article 220 is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis 224. The aerosol generating article 220 includes a cylindrical outer wall and a disc-shaped front bar at the upstream end for sealing the aerosol forming material. A surface portion 222 is disposed on the front bar of the aerosol generating article.

[0171] The aerosol generating apparatus 210 also includes a heater (not shown) and a power supply (not shown) for supplying power to the heater. The heater is configured to heat the aerosol generating article 120 during use when it is received in a position of use within the aerosol generating apparatus 110. The controller 234 is configured to control this power supply to the heater based on the position of the aerosol generating article 220 within the apparatus cavity 205, so as to selectively activate the heater. Different technologies for the heater, or combinations of different types of heater technologies, can be used.

[0172] In use, the aerosol generating device 210 of the aerosol generating system 200 is used to measure the position of the aerosol generating article 220 within the device cavity 205, for example, to determine the position of the aerosol generating article 220 relative to the device cavity 205. Specifically, the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 is used to verify whether the aerosol generating article 220 is positioned in the use position, for example, to determine that the aerosol generating article 220 is in the correct position for proper heating, aerosol formation, and correct suction resistance (“RTD”). Therefore, the controller 234 of the aerosol generating device 210 is configured to selectively activate the heater only when the aerosol generating article 220 is in the use position. Therefore, the controller 234 of the aerosol generating device 210 is configured to selectively deactivate the heater when the aerosol generating article 220 is not in the use position, for example, when the aerosol generating article 220 is misaligned or removed during use.

[0173] Therefore, in order to use the aerosol generating device 210, the aerosol generating article 220 is inserted into the opening end of the device cavity 205 and moves toward the closed end of the device cavity 205 in the direction along the central longitudinal axis 224.

[0174] As will be understood, the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 can be configured to emit an alternative signal having alternative properties to the optical signal, such as an acoustic signal. In this way, the receiver 232 can be suitably configured to operatively receive a second signal, i.e., a reflected signal, depending on the nature of the emitted signal. For example, if the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 generates an acoustic signal, the receiver can be a microphone configured to measure the reflected acoustic signal from an aerosol-generating article in the receiving device cavity.

[0175] The time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 is configured to operate in direct time-of-flight signal measurement mode. The transmitter 230 generates a pulsed optical signal 238 and transmits the optical signal 238 from the closed end of the device cavity 205 toward the open end into the device cavity 205. A first time is recorded at the controller 234 as each pulse of the pulsed optical signal 238 is transmitted by the transmitter 230.

[0176] The light signal 238 reaches the aerosol generating article 220, particularly the surface portion 222 of the aerosol generating article 220, and is reflected back toward the closed end of the device cavity 205. The receiver 232 receives the reflected light signal 240 from the surface portion 222 of the aerosol generating article 220. When the receiver 232 receives each pulse of the reflected light signal, a second time is recorded at the controller 234.

[0177] When performing a Time-of-Flight (TOF) measurement, the controller 234 can use air or ambient temperature data provided by the temperature sensor 236 to determine the instantaneous or current propagation rate or velocity of the light or acoustic signal 238 and the reflected light or acoustic signal 240. Alternatively, the controller 234 can use the temperature of the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 (e.g., a microchip temperature sensor) to perform temperature-based calibration. For example, the controller 234 can calibrate the measured values ​​continuously or intermittently, taking into account the measured temperature. In this respect, the propagation rates of the light or acoustic signal 238 and the reflected light or acoustic signal 240 can vary depending on the temperature of the medium or space in which these signals 238, 240 travel. For a given air or ambient temperature in the device cavity 205, the typical propagation rates of the light or acoustic signal 238 and the reflected light or acoustic signal 240 can be known by the controller 234 and stored as reference values. The controller 234 can thus ensure that the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 makes accurate measurements to compensate for temperature drift of the signals or ambient temperature during use.

[0178] Controller 234 calculates the time interval between the first time and the second time. Controller 234 uses this time interval and the instantaneous propagation rate to determine the distance between the surface portion 222 and the emitter 230. Controller 234 thus accurately determines the position of the aerosol-generating article 220 within the device cavity 205. Controller 234 accurately determines the axial position of the aerosol-generating article 220 along the central longitudinal axis 224, and therefore determines the distance of the surface portion 222 from the closed end of the device cavity 205.

[0179] By providing a series of pulsed light signals 238, the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 enables the controller 234 to continuously monitor the axial position of the aerosol-generating article 220 within the device cavity 205. Once the aerosol-generating article 220 is in the axial position corresponding to the usage position, the controller 234 activates the heater of the device cavity 205.

[0180] The controller 234 of the aerosol generating device 210 can also be configured to determine the presence of suction within the device cavity 205. The determination of the presence of suction can be performed, for example, simultaneously with a position or presence measurement or by alternating measurements.

[0181] When a user applies suction to the opening of the aerosol generating article 220, the residual air heated by the heater in the device cavity 205 is drawn into the aerosol generating article 220 and replaced by ambient air drawn into the device cavity 205. Therefore, the air temperature in the device cavity 205 decreases, and the controller 234 detects the corresponding change in air temperature by monitoring the air temperature data provided by the temperature sensor 236. Preferably, the controller 234 can count the number of suctions generated by the aerosol generating article 220.

[0182] refer to Figure 2A and Figure 2B The described aerosol generation system 200 can be adapted or modified to include other features of the time-of-flight sensor assembly as described herein.

[0183] The aerosol generating device 210 can be used in an illumination mode, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 is configured to detect color or grayscale changes in the front rod of the aerosol-generated article.

[0184] In an example, the aerosol generating apparatus may include a time-of-flight sensor assembly configured to measure surface properties of a surface portion of the aerosol-generated article. For instance, the time-of-flight sensor assembly may measure changes in reflectivity, absorbance, reflection, diffuse reflection, or scattering properties.

[0185] Aerosol-generating articles may include a matrix configured to modify characteristic features of the aerosol-generating article, such as reflectivity, absorbance, or scattering properties, in response to heat applied to the aerosol-generating article by the aerosol-generating apparatus. In examples, the matrix may be a thermally printable material or thermochromic paper.

[0186] In this example, the matrix can be an upstream filter for aerosol-generated articles, whereby the time-of-flight sensor assembly can be used to monitor color changes of the matrix during its usage period.

[0187] The controller is adapted to record surface characteristics when the aerosol-generating article is used in an aerosol-generating apparatus. Therefore, the controller can monitor surface characteristics until a predetermined change in surface characteristics is determined to indicate the duration of use of the aerosol-generating article, or that the aerosol-generating article is approaching its maximum duration of use. The controller is also adapted to activate a suitable display device located in the aerosol-generating system to display the duration to the user.

[0188] The aerosol generating device can be configured to detect suction in an alternative manner to the aforementioned air temperature. For example, the aerosol generating device can be configured to detect suction by utilizing scattering, diffusion, or diffraction of a time-of-flight signal response, which is caused by aerosol particles in the airflow path that are more prominent after or during suction. Although most aerosol particles will exit through the downstream end or nozzle end, there is always a scattering effect caused by some aerosol particles in the upstream airflow path when air can pass near or around the aerosol-forming aerosol generating article 220, some of which will exit the article 220. For example, it can be referenced as... Figure 4 The description utilizes the measurement principle of time-of-flight diffraction (“TOFD”, also known as time-of-flight scattering). In this way, aerosols cause diffusion, diffraction, or scattering, which causes dispersion or scattering of the reflected signal (typically a reflected signal pulse or phase), making it possible to detect suction. This can be accomplished by TOF diffraction (“TOFD”) or other statistical analyses of the response signal, for example, to detect the statistical distribution of the response time indicative of aerosol diffusion and the suction that has occurred.

[0189] Another way to detect suction is based on changes in air temperature caused by the influx of fresh air, which can be sensed by the time-of-flight component, since changes in temperature will cause different time-of-flight responses, such as changes in the speed of signal propagation.

[0190] The aerosol generating apparatus can be configured such that the time-of-flight sensor assembly is selectively operable in either a time-of-flight signal measurement mode or an illumination mode. The time-of-flight sensor assembly can initially be used in time-of-flight mode, for example, to measure the position of the aerosol generating article when it is received into the apparatus cavity of the aerosol generating apparatus. Once the aerosol generating article is in its use position, the time-of-flight sensor assembly can subsequently be used in illumination mode, for example, to measure the surface characteristics of a surface portion.

[0191] Now for reference Figure 3A and Figure 3B Another aerosol generation system 300 is shown, which includes an aerosol generation device and a time-of-flight sensor assembly 350. Features and... Figure 2A and Figure 2B In cases where the instances are the same, the reference numerals remain the same, but with "3" as the initial number.

[0192] The aerosol generating device 310 is basically similar to Figure 2A and Figure 2B The aerosol generating apparatus 210, except that the recessed chamber 328 is disposed in the peripheral wall of the apparatus cavity 305. The aerosol generating apparatus 310 includes a housing 304 defining the apparatus cavity 305, the apparatus cavity being configured to at least partially receive the aerosol generating article 320 and operatively position the aerosol generating article 320 in a use position within the aerosol generating apparatus 310.

[0193] The aerosol generating apparatus 310 also includes a time-of-flight sensor assembly 350. The time-of-flight sensor assembly 350 is configured to measure at least one characteristic feature relating to the aerosol generating article 320 within the apparatus cavity 305. In the illustrated example, the time-of-flight sensor assembly 350 is configured to measure, specifically, read identification information or other information, such as an identification tag from the aerosol generating article 320, as explained in more detail below.

[0194] In the variant shown, the device cavity 305 is substantially cylindrical. The device cavity 305 has a central longitudinal axis 324 extending from the closed end of the device cavity 305 to the open end. The aerosol generating article 320 is received into the device cavity 305 via the open end.

[0195] The housing 304 includes a recessed chamber 328 adjacent to the device cavity 305. The recessed chamber 328 is disposed in the peripheral wall of the device cavity 305. The recessed chamber 328 can be positioned toward the closed end of the device cavity 305. In this way, the time-of-flight sensor assembly 350 is positioned to measure characteristic features of the aerosol generating article 320. The characteristic features are located on a surface portion 322 or surface structure on the cylindrical outer wall toward the upstream end or front bar of the aerosol generating article 320.

[0196] The housing 304 also includes a partition wall 352 between the device cavity 305 and the recessed chamber 328. The partition wall 352 is formed of a material that transmits the light signal 338 emitted by the transmitter 330. If the light signal is used for time-of-flight measurement, the partition wall 352 should transmit the wavelength of the light signal used. If an acoustic signal, such as ultrasound, is used, the partition wall 352 should transmit the spectrum covered by ultrasound or other acoustic signals. In this example, the partition wall 352 may be formed of an optically transparent plastic material or a quartz glass material. The plastic material may be polycarbonate (PC) or any other suitable plastic material as indicated herein. The partition wall 352 may also be made of a ceramic material as indicated herein. If an ultrasonic signal is used, the partition wall 352 may be made of a heat-resistant plastic or ceramic material.

[0197] Time-of-flight sensor assembly 350 with Figure 2A and Figure 2B The time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 is arranged in essentially the same manner, except that the recessed chamber 328 is adjacent to the peripheral wall of the device cavity 305. In this manner, the transmitter 330 is mounted to emit a first signal in a direction transverse to the central longitudinal axis 324 of the device cavity 305. The first signal is an optical signal 338 provided by a light-emitting diode. The transmitter 330 is configured to emit a wide beam into the device cavity 305 such that when the aerosol-generating article 320 is received in the device cavity 305, the optical signal 338 is directed toward the surface portion 322 of the aerosol-generating article 320. The wide beam allows the optical signal 338 to be directed toward a two-dimensional or three-dimensional surface portion of the aerosol-generating article.

[0198] Receiver 332 includes a focusing element arranged to focus light entering the receiver. The focusing element includes lens 342.

[0199] Receiver 332 includes an array of photodiodes, particularly a two-dimensional array of photodiodes, or other photosensitive technologies, such as linear or surface image sensors. In some instances, depending on the nature of the signal and the characteristics of the aerosol-generating article being measured, receiver 332 may include an avalanche photodiode (APD), a single-photon-detecting avalanche photodiode (SPAD), a microphone, or another device capable of receiving and detecting radiation. The receiver may include an array or matrix comprising one or more of the following: photodiodes, avalanche photodiodes (APDs), single-photon-detecting avalanche photodiodes (SPADs), or a microphone.

[0200] The aerosol generating article 320 includes an identification label or mark having a series of protrusions 344a to 344d. These protrusions together form a raised area on the aerosol generating article 320. These protrusions include unique spacing and / or patterns, which together provide a unique identifier for the aerosol generating article 320 on a two-dimensional surface portion 322 disposed on the outer wall of the aerosol generating article 320.

[0201] In use, the time-of-flight sensor assembly 350 is configured to operate in illumination mode. A light signal 338 illuminates protrusions 344a to 344d, thereby providing a series of reflected light signals 340 that are reflected back to the receiver 332. The reflected light signals 340 are received by the receiver and analyzed by the controller 334 to detect characteristic features of the identification tag. The controller 334 uses the pattern of the reflected light signals 340 to determine the unique identifier of the identification tag. In this way, the controller 334 can modify or adjust the operation of the aerosol generating apparatus 310 according to the properties of the aerosol generating article 320. For example, the temperature or duration of the heater can be adjusted according to the identification tag of the aerosol generating article.

[0202] refer to Figure 3A and Figure 3B The described aerosol generation system 300 can be adapted or modified to include additional features of the time-of-flight sensor assembly as described herein.

[0203] Typically, the illumination mode is an auxiliary operating mode for the time-of-flight sensor assembly 350. Therefore, the aerosol generating device 310 is configured such that the time-of-flight sensor assembly is also operable in a time-of-flight signal measurement mode, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to measure the presence detection of the aerosol-generated article 320 within the device cavity 305. Specifically, the aerosol generating device 310 can be configured to verify that the aerosol-generated article 320 is in the usage position.

[0204] In an exemplary time-of-flight signal measurement mode, the aerosol generating device is adapted to emit pulsed optical signals, such as those targeting... Figure 2A and Figure 2B The example described herein. The pulsed optical signal can be a narrow beam source, which is focused to be guided across the device cavity 305 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis 324. In this way, the transmitter 330 of the time-of-flight sensor assembly 350 can be configured as both a narrow beam source and a wide beam source, depending on the operating mode.

[0205] When the aerosol generating article 320 is initially received into the device cavity 305, the light signal is reflected from the far surface of the peripheral wall of the device cavity 305. Therefore, the controller 334 measures a first reference distance. When the aerosol generating article 320 is sufficiently received into the device cavity 305 to be in the use position, the light signal is reflected from the outer wall of the aerosol generating article 320. Therefore, the controller 334 measures a second reference distance that is significantly shorter than the first reference distance. When the first reference distance changes to the second reference distance, the controller 334 determines that the aerosol generating article 320 is in the use position.

[0206] Now for reference Figure 4 , showed Figure 2A and Figure 2B The aerosol generation system 200 includes a time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 operable in a different time-of-flight signal measurement mode. This time-of-flight signal measurement mode is specifically designed to provide an alternative method for measuring aspiration when the aerosol generation article 220 is in the use position.

[0207] In use, when the heater of the aerosol generating apparatus is activated by the controller 234, the transmitter 230 continues to emit light signal 238. The receiver 232 continues to receive reflected light signal 240 reflected from the surface portion 222 of the aerosol generating article 220. After the heater is initially activated, aerosol 260 begins to accumulate in the apparatus cavity 205 due to the heating of the aerosol forming material of the aerosol generating article 220. Therefore, an increased proportion of the light signal 238 and the reflected light signal 240 are scattered by the aerosol 260. When the aerosol generating article 220 is heated by the heater in the aerosol generating apparatus 210, the intensity of the reflected light signal 240 received by the receiver 232 decreases.

[0208] The controller 234 is configured to monitor the intensity of the reflected light signal 240 during use. When the intensity of the reflected light signal 240 decreases or is at a reduced intensity compared to its initial intensity, the controller 234 determines that there is no suction.

[0209] When the user applies suction to the opening of the aerosol generating article 220, residual air in the device cavity 205 (including aerosol 260 accumulated in the device cavity 205) is drawn into the aerosol generating article 220 and replaced by air without aerosol 260 drawn into the device cavity 205. The intensity of the reflected light signal 240 in the device cavity 205 increases significantly, and the controller 234 detects the change. The controller determines that suction has occurred.

[0210] Alternatively, the time-of-flight sensor assembly 250 can be configured to determine the statistical change in the time-of-flight signal to measure the detection of aspiration. For example, the statistical change can be determined using the statistical distribution of the response (second signal) caused by light scattering or by using the principle of time-of-flight diffraction. In this way, as aerosol 260 accumulates in the device cavity 205 between aspirations, the statistical change in the reflected light signal 240 is due to the change in scattering caused by the aerosol. The statistical change can then be determined by the controller.

[0211] The controller can be configured to record details of statistical changes or count the number of extractions from the aerosol generating article 220. Therefore, the controller can monitor extractions using an air temperature method or a TOFD method until a predetermined number of extractions have occurred. In this way, the controller can indicate the amount of aerosol generating article used, or it can indicate that the aerosol generating article is approaching its maximum usage. The controller can be adapted to activate a suitable display device located in the aerosol generating system to display the usage amount to the user.

[0212] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the time-of-flight sensor assembly described with reference to the examples in the figures can be adapted to provide an alternative type of signal, such as an acoustic signal, to measure the characteristic features of aerosol-generated articles.

[0213] It should be understood that the detailed examples above are described by way of example only and not in any limiting sense, and various changes and modifications are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Various modifications to the detailed examples described above are possible.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus configured to receive an aerosol-generating article, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising: A housing defining a device cavity configured to at least partially receive the aerosol-generating article and operatively position the aerosol-generating article in a use position within the aerosol-generating apparatus. as well as Time-of-flight sensor assembly; The time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to measure at least one characteristic feature associated with the aerosol-generated article within the device cavity.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one characteristic feature is one or more of the following: The position of the aerosol-generated product within the device cavity; Detection of the aerosolization generation of the aerosol-forming material of the aerosol-generated product; Surface characteristics of the surface portion of the aerosol-generated article; Surface structures disposed on the aerosol-generating article; The presence of the aerosol-generated product is detected within the cavity of the device. or The identification label for the aerosol-generated product.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly includes a transmitter configured to emit an optical or acoustic signal toward a receiving aerosol-generated article in the apparatus cavity.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly includes a receiver configured to receive at least one of a reflected acoustic signal or a reflected light signal.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 2, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is operable in a time-of-flight signal measurement mode to measure any one of the following: the position of the aerosol-generated article within the apparatus cavity, or the detection of the presence of the aerosol-generated article within the apparatus cavity.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 2, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is operable in an illumination mode to measure any one of the following: surface characteristics of a surface portion of the aerosol-generated article, or surface structure of the aerosol-generated article.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the surface characteristics of the surface portion of the aerosol generating article are at least one of the following: reflectivity characteristics, absorbance characteristics, refractive characteristics, or diffuse reflection characteristics, or scattering characteristics.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 2, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to determine statistical changes in the time-of-flight signal to measure the detection of suction.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to measure two-dimensional or three-dimensional surface characteristics of one or more surface portions of the aerosol-generated article.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly includes a temperature sensor, wherein the temperature sensor is configured to measure temperature to determine the air temperature within the apparatus cavity.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a controller, wherein the controller is configured to receive the air temperature from the temperature sensor and use the air temperature to determine whether suction is present or absent in the apparatus cavity.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the housing includes a recessed chamber adjacent to the apparatus cavity.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to measure the time interval between the emitted waveform and the reflected waveform.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the time-of-flight sensor assembly is configured to measure the phase change between the emitted waveform and the reflected waveform.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus cavity is configured to receive a strip-shaped aerosol generating article, and the apparatus cavity has a central longitudinal axis such that, in the use position, the aerosol generating article is coaxial with the central longitudinal axis.

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