Aerosol-generating device operable in aerosol release mode and in pause mode

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising a controller configured to control a heater for heating an aerosol-forming substrate in order to generate an aerosol. The controller is configured to selectively operate in a heating mode, in which the controller controls the heater for generating an aerosol according to a heating mode temperature profile, and in a pause mode, in which the controller controls the heater for generating an aerosol according to a heating mode temperature profile. The controller controls the heater according to a pause mode temperature profile for pausing operation in the heating mode. The controller is further configured to adapt the pause mode temperature profile according to an operation history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode and / or according to a duration of operation in the pause mode.

Description

[0001] This disclosure relates to an aerosol generating apparatus and aerosol generating system for heating an aerosol forming matrix capable of forming inhalable aerosols when heated. This disclosure also relates to a method of operating such an aerosol generating apparatus.

[0002] Aerosol generation systems for generating inhalable aerosols by heating an aerosol-forming matrix capable of forming aerosols upon heating are generally known in the prior art. Such systems comprise, on the one hand, an aerosol-forming matrix, and on the other hand, an aerosol-generating device that enables the matrix to be heated by means of a heater. For aerosol generation, the matrix is ​​heated to an operating temperature sufficient to allow the release of volatile compounds from the matrix. Once started, the user experience typically continues without interruption until the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​depleted. However, the user may wish to interrupt the user experience and resume it at a later stage with the same article of production, preferably until the matrix is ​​completely depleted. However, once the user experience has been interrupted, it may only be restored with a reduced quality of aerosols generated from the unconsumed matrix.

[0003] Therefore, it is desirable to have an aerosol generating apparatus and a method for operating an aerosol generating system that have the advantages of existing technological solutions while mitigating their limitations. In particular, it is desirable to have an aerosol generating apparatus and a method for operating an aerosol generating system that allows users to interrupt the user experience and restore it in a later stage with still acceptable aerosol quality.

[0004] According to this disclosure, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, the aerosol generating apparatus including a controller configured to control a heater for heating an aerosol forming matrix to generate aerosols. The controller is configured to selectively operate in a heating mode and a pause mode, in the heating mode controlling the heater for aerosol generation according to a heating mode temperature profile, and in the pause mode controlling the heater for pausing heating mode operation according to a pause mode temperature profile. The controller is also configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile based on an operation history during heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation and / or based on the duration of pause mode operation.

[0005] As used herein, “heating mode” refers to the active use of the device, i.e., when a user experience occurs, particularly when aerosol generation occurs. More specifically, in heating mode, the aerosol-forming matrix can be heated to a temperature at or above the evaporation temperature of the aerosol-forming matrix (particularly the evaporation temperature of the aerosol-forming material included in the aerosol-forming matrix). Generally, aerosol generation can occur continuously or on demand (particularly based on suction), i.e., on demand when the user performs suction. Therefore, in heating mode, the aerosol-forming matrix can be continuously heated to generate aerosols. Similarly, in heating mode, the heater can be continuously powered to generate aerosols.

[0006] Conversely, "pause mode" refers to an operating mode in which the user experience is paused and aerosol generation does not occur or is reduced to a low or minimum level. In other words, in pause mode, the aerosol generation device is in paused operation. In pause mode, the aerosol forming matrix can be continuously heated to prevent aerosol generation or to generate less aerosol compared to heating mode. Similarly, in pause mode, the heater can be continuously powered to prevent aerosol generation or to generate less aerosol compared to heating mode. Specifically, in pause mode, the aerosol forming matrix can be heated to a lower temperature compared to heating mode. That is, the heating mode temperature profile and the pause mode temperature profile can be selected such that the heater operates at a lower temperature during pause mode operation than during heating mode operation.

[0007] As used herein, a “temperature profile” can be defined as one or more target (or maximum) temperatures to be applied to the heater regarding the duration of the user experience, the number of suctions performed during the user experience, and / or the aerosols generated during the user experience. A target or maximum temperature can be defined as a measured temperature of the heater (e.g., measured by a thermistor attached to or near the heater). A target or maximum temperature can be defined as an electrical parameter indicating the resistance, conductance, inductance, or susceptance of the heater and / or the heating device including the heater.

[0008] In addition to heating and pause modes, the controller can be configured to operate in a preparation mode, in which the controller controls the heater according to a preparation mode temperature profile. The preparation mode temperature profile may include a preheating phase and / or a calibration phase. In the preheating phase, the controller can control the heater to heat up, thus allowing heat to be distributed within the matrix. The preheating phase may have a predetermined duration. In the preheating phase, the controller can control the heater to increase the operating temperature. Additionally, the controller can be configured to monitor temperature-dependent properties of the heater, i.e., parameters indicating the operating temperature of the heater, wherein said properties have at least one characteristic feature, such as an extreme value, at a specific temperature that can be used as a temperature reference. The controller can also be configured to interrupt heating of the heater when the monitored property reaches a characteristic feature (e.g., an extreme value), wherein the monitored parameter at the characteristic feature (e.g., the extreme value) corresponds to a predefined temperature of the heater. In the calibration phase, the controller can control the heater such that the operating temperature of the heater passes through one or more reference points, at which the controller measures one or more calibration values ​​of the temperature-dependent properties of the heater, i.e., one or more calibration values ​​of the parameters indicating the operating temperature of the heater. Based on the one or more calibration values, the controller can adjust the temperature of the heater. Operation in preparation mode can be performed at the beginning of the user experience, particularly before operation in heating mode. It is also possible to perform operation in preparation mode during the ongoing user experience. In this case, preparation mode may consist only of a calibration phase. For example, operation in preparation mode (particularly when only a calibration phase is included) may be performed periodically based on one or more of the following: a predetermined duration, a predetermined number of user aspirations, a predetermined duration of operation in heating mode, and measurement parameters associated with the power supply of the aerosol generating device. If operation in preparation mode is performed during the ongoing user experience, operation in heating mode or pause mode can be interrupted by operation in preparation mode. WO 2023 / 2854458 A1 (the contents of which are hereby incorporated in their entirety by reference) describes such a calibration procedure for induction-heated aerosol generating systems.

[0009] To allow users to interrupt their user experience and resume it in a later stage with still acceptable aerosol quality, it has been found advantageous to reduce the temperature during pause mode to a level chosen that, on the one hand, reduces matrix consumption and total energy consumption during pause mode, but on the other hand, still allows for a reasonable return to heating mode operation to restore the paused user experience. The temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced in response to initiating pause mode operation can be particularly dependent on the matrix type.

[0010] In this regard, it has proven advantageous that the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced in response to initiation of pause mode operation can be less than 150°C, particularly equal to or less than 145°C. Similarly, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced in response to initiation of pause mode operation can be at most 145°C, particularly at most 140°C, and more particularly at most 135°C. For example, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced in response to initiation of pause mode operation can be in the range of 100°C to 145°C, particularly between 110°C and 145°C, or between 110°C and 140°C, or between 120°C and 145°C, or between 125°C and 145°C, or between 125°C and 140°C, or between 125°C and 135°C, preferably around 130°C. However, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile can also be higher. Therefore, it is also possible that, in response to the start-up to pause operation, the temperature of the heater is reduced to the temperature level of the pause mode temperature curve within the range of 100°C to 250°C, particularly 110°C to 225°C, or 110°C to 170°C, or 120°C to 170°C, or 125°C to 170°C, or 130°C to 150°C, particularly 130°C.

[0011] For aerosol-forming matrices that do not contain tobacco material, i.e., for non-tobacco aerosol-forming matrices, all the foregoing values ​​and ranges are particularly applicable. However, this does not preclude the mention of values ​​from also being applicable to any other matrix type. Examples of such non-tobacco aerosol-forming matrices are further given below. Compared to tobacco-containing matrices, non-tobacco matrices typically have different chemical compositions and physical behaviors, particularly lower thermal stability and higher thermal mass.

[0012] Lower thermal stability typically requires lower temperatures during both heating mode operation and paused mode operation. Therefore, the paused mode temperature for matrices that do not contain tobacco material can generally be lower than the paused mode temperature for aerosol-forming matrices that contain tobacco material.

[0013] While tobacco-containing aerosol-forming matrices typically contain less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, and preferably less than 20% by weight of total aerosol forming agent content, aerosol-forming matrices that do not contain tobacco material (i.e., non-tobacco aerosol-forming matrices) may contain greater than or equal to 30% by weight, particularly greater than 35% by weight, and more particularly greater than 40% by weight or greater than 45% by weight of total aerosol forming agent content. Therefore, for aerosol-forming matrices containing greater than or equal to 30% by weight, particularly greater than 35% by weight, and more particularly greater than 40% by weight or greater than 45% by weight of total aerosol forming agent content, the aforementioned values ​​and ranges for temperature levels in pause mode are generally (i.e., regardless of whether the matrix contains tobacco) particularly applicable.

[0014] Compared to tobacco-containing matrices, aerosol forming matrices that do not contain tobacco material can have a higher thermal mass. One reason is that non-tobacco aerosol forming matrices and tobacco-containing aerosol forming matrices can have different basis weights and thicknesses. Therefore, the aforementioned temperature values ​​and ranges for the temperature levels in pause mode can be particularly applicable for aerosol forming matrices with higher thermal mass.

[0015] Higher thermal quality may require a larger surface area for the heater used to heat the matrix. A larger surface area of ​​the heater in contact with the matrix also ensures sufficient thermal diffusion across the matrix in the article. In this regard, it has been found that the appropriate surface area of ​​the heater in contact with the matrix (especially in the case of strip heaters) should be greater than 50 mm² for non-tobacco aerosol-forming matrices and less than 50 mm² for tobacco aerosol-forming matrices. As a result, the aforementioned temperature values ​​and ranges for temperature levels in pause mode can be particularly applicable when using heaters with a surface area in contact with the matrix greater than 50 mm².

[0016] The aforementioned temperature values ​​and ranges for the temperature levels of the pause mode temperature profile can also be a trade-off between, on the one hand, being low enough to reduce matrix consumption during pause mode but still high enough to increase the temperature level of the first suction delivery after the user experience is restored, and on the other hand, being within a technically feasible range of temperature levels for adjustment by the controller. The latter can be determined by the physical properties of the heater, as will be discussed in more detail below.

[0017] Conversely, for example, for aerosol-forming matrices containing tobacco material or a combination of tobacco material and other (one or more) plant-derived materials, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced in response to initiating pause mode operation can be higher, for example, in the range between 240°C and 280°C, particularly in the range between 250°C and 270°C, and even more particularly 260°C. Examples of such tobacco-containing aerosol-forming matrices are further given below. The foregoing values ​​can also be applied to other matrix types. Following the above discussion of lower temperature values ​​and ranges, the aforementioned higher temperature values ​​and ranges for pause mode temperatures can also be particularly applicable to aerosol-forming matrices with lower thermal mass. Similarly, these higher temperature values ​​and ranges can be particularly applicable to aerosol-forming matrices containing less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, and preferably less than 20% by weight of total aerosol forming agent content (particularly regardless of whether the matrix contains tobacco). Moreover, these higher temperature values ​​and ranges can be particularly applicable when using a heater having a surface area in contact with the matrix of less than 50 square millimeters.

[0018] The temperature levels of the pause mode temperature profile within the stated range can be combined with any other aspect of the invention disclosed herein, or can constitute an independent aspect of the invention. According to this independent aspect, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising a controller configured to control a heater for heating an aerosol forming matrix to generate aerosols. The controller is configured to selectively operate in a heating mode and a pause mode, wherein in the heating mode, the controller controls the heater according to a heating mode temperature profile for generating aerosols, and in the pause mode, the controller controls the heater according to a pause mode temperature profile for pausing the heating mode operation, wherein the heating mode temperature profile and the pause mode temperature profile are selected such that the temperature of the heater during pause mode operation is lower than the temperature during heating mode operation, and wherein the temperature of the heater is reduced to a higher temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile in response to initiating pause mode operation, for example, in the range between 240°C and 280°C, particularly between 250°C and 270°C, and more particularly in the range of 260°C. Within; or less than 150°C, particularly equal to or less than 145°C; or at most 145°C, particularly at most 140°C, more particularly at most 135°C; or in the range of 100°C and 145°C, particularly between 110°C and 145°C, or between 110°C and 140°C, or between 120°C and 145°C, or between 125°C and 145°C, or between 125°C and 140°C, or between 125°C and 135°C, preferably about 130°C; or in the range of 100°C and 250°C, particularly between 110°C and 225°C, or between 110°C and 170°C, or between 120°C and 170°C, or between 125°C and 170°C, or between 130°C and 150°C, particularly 130°C.

[0019] Whether in conjunction with any other aspect of the invention or as a standalone aspect of the invention, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile within the range can be, in particular, the initial temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is initially reduced in response to initiation of pause mode operation.

[0020] The absolute temperature of the heater during operation in heating mode is higher than that during operation in pause mode, and may also depend on the type of matrix (particularly its composition, thermal stability of the matrix, total aerosol forming agent content and / or thermal mass of the matrix) and / or the surface area of ​​the heater in contact with the matrix.

[0021] For example, during operation in heating mode (in addition to possible operation during the temperature rise phase – see below), the heater temperature can be in the range of 200°C to 300°C, particularly 220°C to 280°C, more particularly 250°C to 260°C, and preferably about 255°C. These values ​​have proven particularly advantageous for aerosol-forming matrices that do not contain tobacco material, i.e., for non-tobacco aerosol-forming matrices, and / or for aerosol-forming matrices with a high thermal mass, and / or for aerosol-forming matrices containing a total aerosol-forming agent content of greater than or equal to 30% by weight, particularly greater than 35% by weight, more particularly greater than 40% by weight, or greater than 45% by weight, and / or when using a heater having a surface area in contact with the matrix greater than 50 square millimeters.

[0022] For aerosol-forming matrices containing tobacco material or a combination of tobacco material and other (one or more) plant-derived materials, and / or for aerosol-forming matrices containing less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, preferably less than 20% by weight of total aerosol forming agent content, and / or for aerosol-forming matrices having a low thermal mass, and / or when using a heater having a surface area in contact with the matrix of less than 50 square millimeters, the temperature of the heater during operation in heating mode (except for possible operation during the temperature rise phase - see below) can be in the range of 300°C to 400°C, particularly 320°C to 380°C, and more particularly 340°C to 380°C.

[0023] All the values ​​mentioned above can refer to the heater temperature as measured at a single point on the heater surface, or as measured at multiple points on the heater surface and averaged. For example, all the values ​​mentioned above can refer to the heater temperature as measured at the geometric center point of the heater's main surface, or as averaged along the geometric center line of the heater's main surface.

[0024] In terms of temperature difference, the temperature level of the heater to which it is reduced during start-up in pause mode operation may be at least 20°C, at least 50°C, at least 100°C, at least 120°C, at least 125°C, or at least 130°C (preferably about 125°C or 130°C) lower than the temperature level of the heating mode temperature curve (especially before start-up in pause mode operation, and more particularly immediately after start-up in pause mode operation) when the heater is reduced to the temperature level of the pause mode temperature curve.

[0025] The controller can be configured to identify the type of matrix received in the apparatus for heating. To this end, the controller can be configured to identify the type of aerosol-generating article containing the aerosol-forming matrix to be heated based on an identification device attached to the article or physical properties associated with the article. For example, as described in WO 2022 / 069582 A1 concerning induction-heated aerosol-generating apparatus, the controller can be configured to identify the type of article received by the apparatus of aerosol-generating article based on specific properties associated with a sensor device disposed in the article to heat the matrix, wherein the specific properties may differ for different articles containing different types of matrices and therefore different types of sensor devices. The contents of WO2022 / 069582 A1 are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Therefore, based on the properties of the corresponding sensor device for a specific matrix type, the controller can be able to distinguish different matrix types, for example, distinguishing between an aerosol-forming matrix without tobacco material and an aerosol-forming matrix containing tobacco material or a combination of tobacco material and other (one or more) plant-derived materials.

[0026] The controller can also be configured to select a corresponding pause mode temperature profile and / or heating mode temperature profile associated with a specific substrate type based on the identified substrate type.

[0027] As mentioned earlier regarding the calibration phase, the controller can control the heater temperature based on one or more calibration / reference values ​​of the heater's temperature-dependent properties, each calibration / reference value being given by a characteristic feature (such as an extreme value) of the property at a corresponding specific temperature. For example, as described in WO 2023 / 285458 A1 regarding induction-heated aerosol generation systems, the temperature-dependent property of the heater can be the apparent resistance or apparent conductance of a sensor used as a heater for heating the aerosol-forming matrix by interacting with a changing magnetic field generated by the aerosol generation device. The sensor comprises a first sensor material and a second sensor material, wherein the second sensor material includes a Curie temperature selected to approximate the desired heating temperature. This sensor exhibits a strictly monotonic relationship between its apparent resistance / conductance and its temperature, occurring between a first characteristic feature at a first specific temperature and a second characteristic feature at a second specific temperature (both used as calibration / reference values). The first specific temperature is lower than the second specific temperature. The first specific temperature corresponds to the temperature at which the skin depth of the second receptor material begins to increase (causing a temporary decrease in conductivity), which produces a first extremum (here, the minimum (valley) in conductivity). The second specific temperature is the Curie temperature of the second receptor material associated with the second extremum (specifically, the maximum (valley) in conductivity). Further details are described in WO 2023 / 285458 A1, the contents of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. To control the temperature during operation in heating mode, particularly with feedback loop control, the controller can be configured to monitor conductivity and adjust the power supplied to the receptor such that the conductivity is at a specific value between the minimum (valley) and the maximum (valley), where conductivity is a strictly monotonic function of temperature.

[0028] As a generalization of the examples described above, the controller according to the invention can be configured to control the temperature of the heater based on monitoring the temperature-related properties of the heater. This property may have at least a first characteristic feature, such as a first extreme value, at a first specific temperature and used as a first temperature reference. Preferably, the property also has at least a second characteristic feature, such as a second extreme value, at a second specific temperature and used as a second temperature reference. To control the temperature during operation in heating mode, particularly with feedback loop control, the controller can be configured to monitor the properties of the heater and adjust the power supplied to the heater such that the property is a specific value between the first characteristic feature (e.g., the first extreme value) and the second characteristic feature (e.g., the second extreme value). Therefore, the heating mode temperature profile preferably includes, particularly exclusively includes, temperature values ​​between the first specific temperature and the second specific temperature. Conversely, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced when pausing operation is initiated is preferably lower than the first specific temperature (at a temperature where substrate consumption is sufficiently reduced).

[0029] Referring again to the examples described above, the specific value for temperature adjustment during heating mode should be selected such that it is sufficiently distant from the minimum (valley) and maximum (peak) values ​​to ensure proper adjustment. The same issue applies to the specific value for adjustment at a lower temperature (particularly below the minimum) during pause mode. Therefore, referring to the invention, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced in response to initiating pause mode operation is preferably selected to be as high as possible to restore the paused user experience within a reasonable time, but still sufficiently distant from the first specific temperature to ensure proper adjustment. Advantageously, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced upon initiation of pause mode operation can be at least 20°C, at least 50°C, at least 100°C, at least 120°C, at least 125°C, or at least 130°C (preferably approximately 125°C or 130°C) below the first specific temperature.

[0030] According to the invention, it has been found that the temperature profile used during pause mode is significantly important, on the one hand, for avoiding or minimizing matrix consumption during pause mode, and on the other hand, for ensuring an optimal user experience when resuming operation in heating mode. Appropriate selection of the temperature profile used during pause mode, particularly the low temperature during pause mode, also helps to minimize the overall energy consumption of the device. In this regard, it has also been found that, again preferably depending on the matrix type, the temperature profile used during pause mode can advantageously be fixed, or alternatively, not fixed but adjustable. The selection of whether to adjust or not adjust the pause mode temperature profile may also depend on the thermal stability of the matrix, the total aerosol forming agent content, the matrix basis weight, the surface area of ​​the heater in contact with the matrix, the desired aerosol intensity of the first suction after operation in pause mode, and / or the availability of a technically feasible adjustment range for the controller.

[0031] Specifically, for aerosol-forming matrices containing tobacco material or a combination of tobacco material and other (one or more) plant-derived materials, and / or for aerosol-forming matrices containing less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, and preferably less than 20% by weight of total aerosol forming agent content, and / or for aerosol-forming matrices with low thermal mass, and / or when using a heater having a surface area in contact with the matrix of less than 50 square millimeters, the present invention proposes that the temperature profile used during pause mode is advantageously not fixed but adjustable, particularly based on the operating history during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode and / or based on the duration of operation in pause mode. That is, the pause mode temperature profile can be dynamically adjusted according to the stage of the user experience initiating the pause mode and / or the duration of operation in pause mode.

[0032] To this end, the controller can be configured to determine and / or record the operation history during the heating mode operation prior to operation in pause mode. Similarly, the controller can be configured to determine and / or record the duration of operation in pause mode.

[0033] As used herein, the term "operational history during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode" refers to the prior process of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode. Operational history may include one or more parameters characterizing the operation of the aerosol generating apparatus up to the initiation of pause mode. Specifically, operational history may include at least one of the following parameters: the number of aspirations during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode, and the time period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode. Alternatively or additionally, operational history may include one or more other parameters, such as (e.g., individual, average, cumulative) intervals between aspirations, (e.g., individual, average, cumulative) aspiration intensity, the amount of aerosol generated, the amount of power / energy delivered to the heater, or the type of aerosol-forming matrix or the type of aerosol-generating article used with the aerosol generating apparatus. For example, a controller may be configured to detect aspirations and thus determine the number of aspirations by detecting changes in the power / energy delivered to the heater indicating the occurrence of a user-instructed aspiration. Therefore, a controller may be configured to detect changes in the power / energy delivered to the heater indicating the occurrence of a user-instructed aspiration.

[0034] Generally, the temperature profile used during pause mode should be a trade-off between reducing total energy consumption and matrix consumption during pause mode on the one hand, and achieving the best first-person user experience when resuming operation in heated mode on the other. While the first two aspects can be achieved by lowering the temperature during pause mode, the latter requires the temperature during pause mode to be high enough to return to a temperature at or above the volatilization temperature of the aerosol-forming matrix within a reasonable time to meet user requirements.

[0035] To avoid or minimize substrate consumption during pause mode, the controller can be configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile so that the heater's operating temperature gradually decreases as the duration of pause mode operation progresses. This can be particularly advantageous when the substrate contains tobacco material or a combination of tobacco material and other (one or more) plant-derived materials, and / or for aerosol-forming substrates containing less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, and preferably less than 20% by weight of total aerosol-forming agent content, and / or for aerosol-forming substrates with lower thermal mass, and / or when using a heater with a surface area in contact with the substrate of less than 50 square millimeters.

[0036] Advantageously, the rate of decrease in the heater's operating temperature is not fixed but adaptable, taking into full account the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile so that the rate of decrease in the heater's operating temperature is adjusted based on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. In this respect, it has proven advantageous that the more suction has been performed during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation, the more the temperature decrease during the pause mode operation can be delayed. This also applies to the time period of heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. Therefore, the controller can advantageously be configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile so that the rate of decrease in the heater's operating temperature decreases less with increasing suction counts during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or with increasing heating mode operation time prior to the pause mode operation.

[0037] Preferably, the controller is configured to adapt the pause mode temperature profile such that the heater's operating temperature decreases in a continuous temperature gradient as the duration of pause mode operation progresses. Advantageously, the continuous temperature gradient is technically easy to implement and allows the temperature of the aerosol-forming matrix to follow the pause mode temperature profile.

[0038] During the reduction period, the decrease in the heater's operating temperature between consecutive temperature steps can be within the range of 2°C to 25°C, particularly 5°C to 20°C, more particularly 7°C to 15°C, for example, 10°C. Reductions within these ranges have proven beneficial in avoiding or minimizing substrate consumption during pause mode.

[0039] The corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step during the decrease can be between 1 minute and 6 minutes, and particularly between 2 minutes and 3 minutes.

[0040] The corresponding time period for continuous temperature steps can depend in particular on the number of temperature step sequences. Generally, the longer the pause mode has been activated, the longer the corresponding time period for the temperature steps can be. In particular, the corresponding time period for continuous temperature steps during the reduction period can increase from one temperature step to another. Increasing the time period from one temperature step to another effectively minimizes the rate of temperature reduction in the heater's operating temperature, which facilitates a recovery of the user experience within a reasonable timeframe.

[0041] The corresponding time period of the continuous temperature steps can also depend on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature steps based on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. Specifically, the controller can be configured to adjust the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature steps such that it becomes longer / expands with the number of pumps during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or with the increase in the duration of the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. In this regard, it has been found that the deeper the user experience has progressed before the pause, the smaller the temperature reduction can be, which facilitates a faster recovery of the user experience. This is because as the user experience progresses, more and more aerosol-forming matrix is ​​consumed. The more aerosol-forming matrix has been exhausted, the less need there is to avoid or minimize the consumption of unconsumed matrix. Therefore, for a larger number of pumps (e.g., greater than 3) during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation, the pause mode temperature profile may include only two or even a single temperature step.

[0042] The pause mode temperature profile allows the heater operating temperature to continue decreasing until the end of pause mode operation (unless, due to operating history, the decrease is not delayed to such an extent that the heater operating temperature hardly decreases or does not decrease during heating mode operation).

[0043] Alternatively, the pause mode temperature profile can allow the reduction in heater operating temperature to cease after a predefined time of pause mode operation, particularly a predefined reduction period and / or a predefined number of temperature steps, and to maintain a constant heater operating temperature thereafter until the end of pause mode operation. The predefined time of pause mode operation, particularly the predefined reduction period and / or the predefined number of temperature steps, can depend on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation, particularly on the number of suction cycles and / or the duration of heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the predefined time of pause mode operation, particularly the predefined reduction period and / or the predefined number of temperature steps, based on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation.

[0044] According to another alternative, the pause-mode temperature profile allows the heater's operating temperature to gradually increase as the duration of pause-mode operation progresses after the operating temperature has been reduced within a predefined reduction period. In this regard, it has been found that maintaining the aerosol-forming matrix at a low temperature for an extended period in pause mode may adversely affect the quality of the first suction after the user experience is restored. Increasing the operating temperature again after a certain reduction period helps to prepare the aerosol-forming matrix in advance, so that it is ready again for aerosol generation at an appropriate time. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adapt the pause-mode temperature profile such that, after reducing the operating temperature within a predefined reduction period, the heater's operating temperature gradually increases as the duration of pause-mode operation progresses.

[0045] The reduction period can be fixed. Alternatively, as mentioned above regarding another alternative, the reduction period can depend on the operational history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation, particularly on the number of aspirations during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or the duration of the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. Similarly, the more advanced the user experience has been before the pause, the less attention is required to avoid or minimize the consumption of unconsumed matrix, and more focus can be placed on preparing the matrix to restore the user experience more quickly. Generally, the more advanced the user experience has been before the pause, particularly the greater the number of aspirations during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or the longer the duration of the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation, the shorter the reduction period can be. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the reduction period based on the operational history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. Advantageously, the reduction period can be in the range of 15 seconds to 6 minutes, particularly 3 minutes to 6 minutes, more particularly 3.5 minutes to 4 minutes, and can be adjusted / adjustable within said range.

[0046] Similar to the decrease, the progression of the (re)increase in the heater's operating temperature may depend on the operating history during the period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode. Specifically, the increase in the heater's operating temperature may be less pronounced with an increase in the number of suction cycles during the period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode and / or with an increase in the duration of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the progression of the increase in the heater's operating temperature is adjusted based on the operating history during the period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode. Specifically, the controller can be configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the increase in the heater's operating temperature is less pronounced with an increase in the number of suction cycles during the period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode and / or with an increase in the duration of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode.

[0047] Similar to a stepped decrease, the increase in operating temperature can also be stepped. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adapt the pause mode temperature profile so that after the operating temperature is reduced within a predefined reduction period, the heater's operating temperature increases in a continuous temperature step as the duration of pause mode operation progresses.

[0048] During the increase, the increments in the heater's operating temperature between consecutive temperature steps can be between 2°C and 25°C, particularly between 5°C and 20°C, more particularly between 7°C and 15°C, for example, within the range of 10°C. Increments within these ranges have proven beneficial for adequately preparing the aerosol-forming matrix to ensure proper quality of the first suction after user experience restoration.

[0049] Similar to the time period for decreasing the temperature step, the corresponding time period for the continuous temperature step during the increasing phase can be fixed or adjustable, particularly based on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the corresponding time period for the continuous temperature step during the increasing phase based on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation, particularly based on the number of suctions during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or the time period of the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. Specifically, the controller can be configured to adjust the corresponding time period for the continuous temperature step during the increasing phase such that the corresponding time period for the continuous temperature step during the increasing phase increases with the number of suctions during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or with the increase in the time period of the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation.

[0050] The corresponding time period of the continuous temperature steps during the increase can depend particularly on the number of temperature step sequences. Preferably, the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature steps can increase from one temperature step to another. Therefore, the increase is gradual to avoid undesirably consuming the matrix due to an excessively rapid temperature rise. Generally, the longer the pause mode has been activated, the longer the corresponding time period of the temperature steps during the increase can be. The corresponding time period of the continuous temperature steps during the increase can be between 15 seconds and 6 minutes, particularly between 1 minute and 6 minutes, or can be adjustable within said range. These values ​​have proven beneficial for a proper recovery of the user experience.

[0051] As mentioned, for aerosol forming matrices containing tobacco material or a combination of tobacco material and other (one or more) plant-derived materials, and / or for aerosol forming matrices containing less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, preferably less than 20% by weight of total aerosol forming agent content, and / or for aerosol forming matrices with low thermal mass, and / or when using heaters with a surface area in contact with the matrix of less than 50 square millimeters, the idea of ​​adjusting the pause mode temperature profile based on the operating history during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode and / or based on the duration of operation in pause mode can be particularly advantageous.

[0052] For other matrix types, for aerosol-forming matrices that do not contain tobacco material (i.e., for non-tobacco aerosol-forming matrices), and / or for aerosol-forming matrices with a higher thermal mass, and / or for aerosol-forming matrices containing a total aerosol-forming agent content of 30% or more by weight, particularly 35% by weight, more particularly 40% by weight, or greater than 45% by weight, and / or when using a heater with a surface area in contact with the matrix greater than 50 square millimeters, it may be advantageous to keep the temperature profile used during pause mode constant (i.e., keep the heater temperature during pause mode operation constant at the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced when pausing mode operation is initiated). However, when using any other matrix type or heater, the heater temperature during pause mode operation can also be kept constant. Additionally, if the controller does not have a technically feasible adjustment range in a lower pause mode temperature scheme that would allow for reasonable adjustment of the pause mode temperature profile, the heater temperature during pause mode operation can also be kept constant. Therefore, keeping the heater temperature constant during pause mode operation provides a simpler temperature regulation mechanism. Therefore, without adjustment, the controller can be configured such that the heater temperature during pause mode operation remains constant at the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced upon initiation of pause mode operation. Specifically, the pause mode temperature profile, particularly the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced upon initiation of pause mode operation, can be independent of the operating history during heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation and / or independent of the duration of pause mode operation.

[0053] Furthermore, it was found that if the pause mode is initiated in the late stages of the user experience (i.e., when the aerosol-forming matrix has been at least partially or largely consumed), maintaining a constant operating temperature during pause mode operation may be more advantageous in supporting a proper first aspiration after the user experience is restored. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adapt the pause mode temperature profile such that, based on operational history, for example, if the number of aspirations during heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold number and / or if the time period of heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold time, the heater operating temperature remains constant. The predefined threshold number of aspirations can be in the range of 4 to 8, for example, 6. The predefined threshold time of heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation can be in the range of 2 minutes to 8 minutes, particularly 3 minutes to 4 minutes, for example, 3.5 minutes.

[0054] As further defined above, a heating mode refers to an operating mode in which the user experience is paused and aerosol generation does not occur or is at least reduced to a low or minimum level. That is, in pause mode, the aerosol generation device is in a suspended operation. Specifically, in pause mode, the aerosol forming matrix can be heated to a lower temperature compared to heating mode. Therefore, the heating mode temperature profile and the pause mode temperature profile can generally be selected such that the heater's operating temperature during pause mode operation is lower than its operating temperature during heating mode operation. This also applies when the heater's operating temperature remains constant based on operating history, particularly if the pause mode is initiated late in the user experience. In other words, the constant operating temperature of the heater's pause mode temperature profile is preferably lower than the operating temperature during heating mode operation immediately preceding the pause.

[0055] For a single user experience and / or for a single operation pause, operation in pause mode can have a limited total duration, which may be referred to as the limited maximum total duration. The limited total duration of operation in pause mode can be in the range of 1 minute to 15 minutes, particularly 2 minutes to 10 minutes, preferably 6 minutes to 9 minutes, for example, 8 minutes. The limited total duration can be fixed, for example, a fixed duration within the range of 1 minute to 15 minutes, particularly 2 minutes to 10 minutes, preferably 6 minutes to 9 minutes, for example, 8 minutes, regardless of the device's operating history before initiating the pause. Preferably, the limited total duration can be fixed at approximately 8 minutes.

[0056] The defined total duration of operation in pause mode can be predefined before operation in heating mode begins, and / or can depend on the operation history during the heating mode operation prior to operation in pause mode. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the total duration of operation in pause mode based on the operation history during the heating mode operation prior to operation in pause mode. For example, the controller can be configured to adjust the total duration of operation in pause mode such that the greater the number of aspirations during the heating mode operation prior to operation in pause mode and / or the longer the heating mode operation period prior to operation in pause mode, the shorter the total duration of operation in pause mode.

[0057] The controller can be configured to resume operation in heating mode after operation in pause mode has ended, for example, after a defined total duration has elapsed.

[0058] The controller can be configured to stop supplying power to the heater after operation in pause mode has ended, for example, after the defined total duration of operation in pause mode has elapsed.

[0059] The aerosol generating device may also include an indicator. The indicator may include at least one of the following: a visual indicator, such as a display or light signal, such as one or more LEDs; a tactile indicator (tactile output unit); an audio indicator (audio output unit); and an audiovisual indicator. The indicator may be operatively coupled to a controller. Furthermore, the controller may be configured to indicate to the user via the indicator the remaining time before ending operation in pause mode.

[0060] Pause mode operation can be terminated by the user. That is, the user can determine when to end pause mode and initiate a resume mode to continue the user experience. The same applies to starting pause mode. In other words, pause mode operation can be initiated by the user.

[0061] Therefore, the aerosol generating device may include a user interface operatively coupled to the controller, enabling the user to start and / or resume and / or terminate operation in pause mode. Alternatively, the user interface may be configured to enable the user to start and / or terminate and / or resume operation in heating mode.

[0062] The user interface may include user switches or user buttons, enabling the user of the device to start and / or terminate operation in pause mode, and / or start and / or resume and / or terminate operation in heating mode. For the same purpose, the user interface may include a touchscreen.

[0063] The aerosol generation device may include at least one sensor configured to output a sensor signal indicating whether the device is being operated by a user or is in an operational pause. Advantageously, such a sensor can facilitate the automatic detection of whether the controller's operation can be switched to a pause mode, since the device is currently not in use and therefore in an operational pause. Thus, aerosol generation can be stopped in a timely manner to avoid the continuous but undesirable consumption of the aerosol-forming matrix. Similarly, such a sensor can facilitate the automatic detection of whether aerosol generation, particularly in a heating mode, will be started or resumed.

[0064] At least one sensor may include at least one of the following: a suction sensor for detecting user suction, a motion sensor for detecting movement of the device, and an orientation sensor for detecting device orientation. The suction sensor advantageously allows detection of whether the user intends to begin or resume the user experience (i.e., aerosol generation). Advantageously, the motion sensor enables monitoring of device movement and, therefore, detection of user handling of the device. That is, if the motion sensor detects any movement of the aerosol generation device, this may indicate that the user is holding the device, and thus indicates that the user may currently be engaging in a user experience or is about to begin or resume it. For example, the motion sensor may detect movement of the aerosol generation device when it is picked up again after being placed on a table. If no movement is detected, this typically means that the aerosol generation device is in an idle state. This may be the case when the aerosol generation device is placed in a charging unit or is idle on a table. Therefore, operation can be switched to a pause mode to avoid degradation of unconsumed matrix. As an example, the motion sensor may include at least one of an accelerometer for measuring acceleration or a gyroscope for measuring the angular orientation or angular velocity of the device. In other words, motion sensors can be configured to detect at least one of the device's acceleration, angular orientation, and / or angular velocity, particularly due to user handling of the aerosol generating device. Similarly, orientation sensors can be used to detect the device's orientation, which in turn can indicate a particular situation. For example, the device's horizontal orientation (e.g., about the length axis of the aerosol generating device) can indicate that the device is idle on a table. Likewise, the device's vertical orientation, or its orientation between vertical and horizontal, can indicate that the device is being used during user experience.

[0065] It is possible that the aerosol generating device includes a single sensor or multiple sensors, particularly multiple sensors of different types. For example, multiple sensors may be provided for redundancy. Using multiple sensors of different types also facilitates the detection of different situations. In particular, the device may include at least one sensor configured to output a sensor signal indicating that the device is being operated by a user, and at least one other sensor configured to output a sensor signal indicating that the device is in a state of operational suspension.

[0066] To restore a paused user experience with acceptable aerosol quality, it may be necessary to properly prepare the aerosol-forming matrix for optimizing delivery of the first aspiration after a pause. For this purpose, it may be advantageous to provide an energy boost to the heater as the user experience is about to resume. Therefore, it is proposed that, in response to termination of operation in pause mode, the controller can be configured to control the heater to resume operation in heating mode from a temperature rise phase. Preferably, the rise phase is designed such that the temperature of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase is higher than the initial temperature level at the start of the heating mode temperature profile, more particularly as described above, the initial temperature level at the start of the heating mode temperature profile after possible operation in preparation mode; and / or higher than the temperature level in heating mode before activating pause mode. This achieves the first aspiration after resuming the paused user experience as high as possible in terms of aerosol delivery, preferably almost as high as or even as high as the first aspiration at the start of the user experience. This is an important aspect to satisfy users who wish to experience appropriate aspiration promptly upon resumption of the paused user experience. The rising phase is not part of the pause mode temperature curve after the termination of pause mode operation, but can form part of the heating mode temperature curve, and more specifically, the initial part of the heating mode temperature curve when heating mode operation is resumed after the termination of pause mode operation.

[0067] The idea of ​​a temperature rise phase can be combined with any other aspect of the invention disclosed herein, or can constitute an independent aspect of the invention. According to this independent aspect, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising a controller configured to control a heater for heating an aerosol forming matrix to generate aerosols. The controller is configured to selectively operate in a heating mode and a pause mode, in which the controller controls the heater according to a heating mode temperature profile for generating aerosols, and in the pause mode, the controller controls the heater according to a pause mode temperature profile for pausing heating mode operation. In response to termination of pause mode operation, the controller is configured to control the heater to resume heating mode operation from the start of the temperature rise phase. The rise phase is designed such that the temperature of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase is higher than the initial temperature level at the start of the heating mode temperature profile, more particularly as further described above, the initial temperature level at the start of the heating mode temperature profile after possible operation in the preparation mode; and / or higher than the temperature level in the heating mode before activating the pause mode.

[0068] The following advantageous details and features relate to the temperature rise phase in conjunction with any other aspect of the invention disclosed herein or as a separate aspect of the invention.

[0069] In order to achieve a satisfactory first suction when restoring the user experience, it has proven beneficial that the temperature of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase is preferably higher than the initial temperature level at the start of the heating mode temperature curve, more particularly at the initial temperature level at the start of the heating mode temperature curve after possible operation in the preparation mode; and / or higher than the temperature level in the heating mode before activating the pause mode by at least 10°C, particularly at least 30°C, more particularly at least 40°C, and especially at least 50°C.

[0070] For the same purpose, it is also preferred that the temperature of the heater during the temperature rise phase is preferably higher than the temperature during the heating mode operation immediately preceding the operation in the pause mode. Advantageously, the temperature of the heater during the temperature rise phase may be at least 10°C, particularly at least 30°C, more particularly at least 40°C, and especially at least 50°C higher than the temperature during the heating mode operation immediately preceding the operation in the pause mode.

[0071] The temperature rise phase is primarily used to provide a proper initial suction after restoring the user experience, and therefore can be followed by operation at a lower temperature. Continuing at a lower temperature after the temperature rise phase helps avoid excessive substrate consumption and reduces energy consumption. Therefore, the temperature during operation in the temperature rise phase is preferably higher than the temperature during subsequent operation in heating mode; or conversely, the temperature immediately following the temperature rise phase and then operating in heating mode can be lower than the temperature during operation in the temperature rise phase. Preferably, the temperature of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase is at least 10°C, particularly at least 30°C, more particularly at least 40°C, and especially at least 50°C higher than the temperature immediately following the temperature rise phase and then operating in heating mode. In another example, the temperature of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase is substantially the same as the temperature immediately following the temperature rise phase and then operating in heating mode.

[0072] It is also possible that the temperature during operation in the temperature rise phase is equal to the temperature immediately following the temperature rise phase, particularly during subsequent operation in heating mode. This is possible for long durations of operation in pause mode and / or for user experiences of pauses in a later phase of the heating mode temperature profile, where the temperature level may have increased, particularly to its maximum value, immediately before the pause compared to the initial temperature level at the start of the heating mode temperature profile.

[0073] Generally, the temperature rise phase has a finite length in terms of time, i.e., a finite duration. Although finite, the duration of the temperature rise phase can be adjustable. In this respect, it has been found that the adjustability of the duration of the temperature rise phase can have a significant impact on the aerosol quality of the restored user experience. Preferably, the duration of the temperature rise phase can be adjusted based on the operating history during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode and / or based on the duration of operation in pause mode. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the duration of the temperature rise phase specifically based on the operating history during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode and / or based on the duration of operation in pause mode.

[0074] Generally, the more advanced the user experience before pausing, especially the greater the number of suctions during heating mode operation before pausing and / or the longer the heating mode operation period before pausing, the longer the temperature rise phase should be. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the duration of the temperature rise phase such that the duration increases with the number of suctions during heating mode operation before pausing and / or with the length of heating mode operation before pausing.

[0075] Similarly, the longer the operation in pause mode lasts, the longer the temperature rise phase should be to provide a proper initial suction for the user experience upon recovery. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the duration of the temperature rise phase so that the duration increases with the duration of operation in pause mode.

[0076] Conversely, it is also possible that the duration of the temperature rise phase is fixed, that is, the temperature rise phase can have a fixed duration.

[0077] For very short durations of operation in pause mode, such as less than 30 seconds, a temperature rise may not be necessary. Therefore, if the duration of operation in pause mode is less than a predefined threshold pause mode duration, the duration of the temperature rise phase can be zero. Thus, the controller can be configured to set the duration of the temperature rise phase to zero if the duration of operation in pause mode is less than the predefined threshold pause mode duration. The predefined threshold pause mode duration can be in the range of 0 to 40 seconds, and particularly 15 to 30 seconds.

[0078] Conversely, for longer pause durations, particularly those exceeding the aforementioned predefined threshold pause mode duration, the operational history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation can be the primary, and in particular, the sole, factor in adjusting the duration of the temperature rise phase. In contrast, the duration of the pause mode operation can have a smaller or even no effect. Specifically, for a given operational history, such as a given number of aspirations performed before the pause, the duration of the temperature rise phase can be constant, i.e., always the same, for any pause mode operation duration exceeding the aforementioned predefined threshold pause mode duration.

[0079] The duration of the temperature rise phase can be between 1 second and 90 seconds, particularly between 5 seconds and 90 seconds, more particularly between 15 seconds and 60 seconds, even more particularly between 15 seconds and 50 seconds, preferably between 20 seconds and 50 seconds or between 20 seconds and 30 seconds, or can be adjusted within the range.

[0080] Generally, the controller can also be configured to control the temperature of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase. Preferably, the temperature of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase is fixed or constant (non-adjustable), i.e., at a fixed or constant (non-adjustable) temperature rise level. Advantageously, this simplifies control operations. Therefore, the controller can be configured to control the temperature of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase to a constant temperature rise level. This can be particularly advantageous when the aerosol forming matrix to be heated does not contain tobacco material, i.e., for non-tobacco aerosol forming matrices, and / or for aerosol forming matrices with a high thermal mass, and / or for aerosol forming matrices containing a total aerosol forming agent content of greater than or equal to 30% by weight, particularly greater than 35% by weight, more particularly greater than 40% by weight, or greater than 45% by weight. These matrices have a considerably high thermal mass and therefore require more energy to restore the user experience. However, this may also be applicable to any other matrix, particularly to aerosol-forming matrices containing tobacco material or a combination of tobacco material and other (one or more) plant-derived materials, and / or to aerosol-forming matrices containing less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, preferably less than 20% by weight, of total aerosol forming agent content, and / or to aerosol-forming matrices with low thermal mass.

[0081] To ensure the highest possible quality for the first puff after user experience restoration, the heater temperature during the temperature rise phase is preferably as high as possible, i.e., at the maximum temperature achievable by the heater during heating mode. This can also be particularly advantageous for aerosol-forming matrices that do not contain tobacco material, i.e., for non-tobacco aerosol-forming matrices (due to their high thermal mass), and / or for aerosol-forming matrices with a high thermal mass, and / or for aerosol-forming matrices containing a total aerosol-forming agent content of 30% or more by weight, particularly 35% by weight, more particularly 40% by weight, or greater than 45% by weight. However, this can also be applicable to any other matrix, particularly for aerosol-forming matrices containing tobacco material or a combination of tobacco material and other (one or more) plant-derived materials, and / or for aerosol-forming matrices containing a total aerosol-forming agent content of less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, preferably less than 20% by weight, and / or for aerosol-forming matrices with a low thermal mass. The maximum temperature that the heater can reach during heating mode can be given by at least one of the following: the maximum permissible temperature limited by the substrate to be heated in order to avoid overheating of the substrate, or the maximum temperature within a predefined (technically feasible) adjustment range of the controller (see below).

[0082] As further mentioned above, when temperature regulation during operation in heating mode (to which the temperature rise phase belongs) is based on the monotonic relationship between the heater's properties and its temperature, occurring between a first characteristic at a first specific temperature and a second characteristic at a second specific temperature, it must be noted that the specific value for temperature regulation during heating mode is not very close to the first and second specific temperatures. Therefore, the temperature of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase should still be sufficiently far from the second specific temperature (which marks the upper limit of the regulation range) to ensure proper regulation. Thus, the required regulation distance can limit the technically feasible regulation range of the controller, and therefore also limit the maximum temperature achievable by the heater during heating mode. As an example, the temperature of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase can be selected such that the corresponding value of the monitored property of the heater at this temperature corresponds to 80% to 85% of the difference between the value of the property at the first specific temperature (first reference temperature) and the corresponding value of the property at the first and second specific temperatures (first and second reference temperatures). Here, the difference can be positive or negative, depending on which of the corresponding values ​​of the property at the first and second specific temperatures is higher.

[0083] Conversely, it is also possible that the temperature of the heater during its operation in the temperature rise phase is adjustable. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the temperature / rise temperature level of the heater during its operation in the temperature rise phase. More specifically, the controller can be configured to adjust the temperature / rise temperature level of the heater during its operation in the temperature rise phase based on the operating history during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode and / or based on the duration of operation in pause mode. More specifically, the controller can be configured to adjust the rise temperature level such that the rise temperature level increases with the number of suction cycles during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode and / or with the increase in the duration of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode.

[0084] Specifically, if the number of suctions during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold number and / or if the time period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold time, then the increased temperature level preferably corresponds to the maximum temperature achievable by the heater during heating mode. That is, the controller can be configured to adjust the increased temperature level such that if the number of suctions during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold number and / or if the time period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold time, then the increased temperature level corresponds to the maximum temperature achievable by the heater during heating mode. The predefined threshold number of suctions can be between 4 and 8, for example, 6. The predefined threshold time of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode can be between 2 minutes and 8 minutes, particularly between 3 minutes and 4 minutes, for example, 3.5 minutes.

[0085] The absolute temperature of the heater during the temperature rise phase can be particularly dependent on the substrate type. For example, the temperature during the temperature rise phase, especially the temperature rise level, can be in the range of 300°C to 500°C, particularly 375°C to 400°C, preferably about 390°C, or can be adjustable within said range. These values ​​have proven particularly advantageous for aerosol-forming substrates containing tobacco material or a combination of tobacco material and other (one or more) plant-derived materials, and / or for aerosol-forming substrates containing less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, preferably less than 20% by weight of total aerosol forming agent content, and / or for aerosol-forming substrates with a low thermal mass. As another example, the temperature during the temperature rise phase, especially the temperature rise level, can be in the range of 250°C to 400°C, particularly 250°C to 300°C, more particularly 260°C to 275°C, for example 270°C, or can be adjustable within said range.

[0086] After resuming operation in heating mode, the aerosol generation device typically requires some time to thermally prepare the aerosol formation matrix for a proper first user aspiration to restore the user experience. The matrix preparation time can be strongly dependent on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or on the duration of the pause mode operation. Therefore, it is proposed to resume operation in heating mode by activating the heater to reheat the matrix for aerosol generation within a variable reheat time, wherein the controller is configured to determine the reheat time based on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or the duration of the pause mode operation.

[0087] The general idea of ​​activating a heater to reheat a matrix for aerosol generation within a variable reheat time (based on the operation history during heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation and / or the duration of pause mode operation) can be combined with any other aspect of the invention disclosed herein, or can constitute an independent aspect of the invention. According to this independent aspect, an aerosol generation apparatus is provided, comprising a controller configured to control a heater for heating an aerosol-forming matrix to generate aerosols. The controller is configured to selectively operate in a heating mode and a pause mode, in which the controller controls the heater for aerosol generation according to a heating mode temperature profile, and in the pause mode, the controller controls the heater for pausing heating mode operation according to a pause mode temperature profile. In response to termination of pause mode operation, the controller is configured to resume heating mode operation by activating the heater to reheat the matrix for aerosol generation within a variable reheat time, wherein the controller is configured to determine the reheat time based on the operation history during heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation and / or the duration of pause mode operation.

[0088] The following advantageous details and features relate to variable reheating time as an independent aspect of the invention or in combination with any other aspect of the invention disclosed herein.

[0089] As mentioned above, reheating time is generally defined as the time required for an aerosol generation device to prepare the aerosol-forming matrix for proper first user aspiration after termination of operation in pause mode. In other words, after a variable reheating time, the user experience is restored or can be restored. That is, after a variable reheating time, the device resumes aerosol generation, particularly for the optimal user experience. Although the reheating time is generally defined as the earliest time after which the user experience should be restored, it does not preclude the possibility of restoring the user experience before the reheating time has ended, and in particular, it does not preclude the user from aspirating before the reheating time has ended.

[0090] Specifically, the controller can be configured to determine the reheating time based on the number of aspirations during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or the time period of the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation.

[0091] Generally, the more advanced the user experience before pausing, especially the greater the number of suctions during the heating mode operation before pausing and / or the longer the heating mode operation period before pausing, the longer the reheating time should be. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the reheating time such that it increases with the number of suctions during the heating mode operation before pausing and / or with the length of the heating mode operation before pausing.

[0092] Similarly, the longer the duration of operation in pause mode, the longer the reheating time can be to provide a proper first suction for the user experience upon recovery. Therefore, the controller can be configured to adjust the reheating time so that it increases with the duration of operation in pause mode. Conversely, for very short durations of operation in pause mode, particularly for durations below a predefined threshold between 0 and 40 seconds, and especially between 15 and 30 seconds, the reheating time can have a fixed value, for example, between 2 and 10 seconds, especially between 4 and 8 seconds, and preferably 5 seconds.

[0093] Conversely, for longer pause durations, particularly those exceeding the aforementioned predefined threshold pause mode duration, the operational history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation can be the primary, and in particular, the sole, factor in adjusting the reheat time. In contrast, the duration of the pause mode operation can have a smaller or even no effect. Specifically, for a given operational history, such as a given number of aspirations performed before the pause, the reheat time can be constant—i.e., always the same—for any pause mode operation duration exceeding the aforementioned predefined threshold pause mode duration.

[0094] The reheating time can be between 1 second and 90 seconds, particularly between 5 seconds and 60 seconds, more particularly between 5 seconds and 50 seconds, or between 15 seconds and 50 seconds, preferably between 20 seconds and 50 seconds, or between 20 seconds and 30 seconds, or can be adjustable within said range. These values ​​of reheating time have proven beneficial for providing a satisfactory first user aspiration.

[0095] The controller can also be configured to generate a signal indicating that the variable reheating time has ended and / or permitting the user to resume suction to generate aerosol from the device.

[0096] In addition, the aerosol generating device may include an indicator for informing the user of information related to the reheat time and / or the device's readiness to resume aspiration after termination of operation in pause mode, particularly for informing the user that the variable reheat time has ended and / or for informing the user that the user is permitted to resume aspiration to generate aerosol from the device and / or for indicative of the remaining time before the variable reheat time ends.

[0097] In this regard, the controller can be configured to notify the user via an indicator that aspiration is permitted to resume to generate an aerosol from the device and / or that the variable reheating time has ended. Alternatively or additionally, the controller can be configured to indicate to the user via an indicator the remaining time before the end of the variable reheating time.

[0098] The indicator may include at least one of the following: a visual indicator, such as a display or light signal, such as one or more LEDs; a tactile indicator (tactile output unit); an audio indicator (audio output unit); and an audiovisual indicator.

[0099] As mentioned above, operation in heating mode can be resumed by starting from the temperature rise phase. Further details and aspects of the temperature rise phase have been further described above and also apply to the aspects discussed hereafter, namely, the reheating time.

[0100] Generally, the temperature rise phase, and particularly its duration, and the reheating time are independent of each other. Therefore, the duration of the temperature rise phase can be shorter than the reheating time. Thus, upon termination of operation in pause mode, the user will perform the first aspiration after the temperature rise phase has ended. Specifically, when the duration of the temperature rise phase is zero (for a very short duration of operation in pause mode), the reheating time can still be non-zero, particularly having a fixed value, for example, between 2 and 10 seconds, particularly between 4 and 8 seconds, preferably 5 seconds. Conversely, the reheating time can be shorter than the duration of the temperature rise phase, in which case the user will perform the first aspiration after termination of operation in pause mode during the temperature rise phase. In another example, the temperature rise phase is compatible with the reheating time. That is, the reheating time can be as long as the duration of the temperature rise phase. This is particularly advantageous when the temperature during the rise phase is close to or at the maximum temperature achievable by the heater during heating mode, in order to avoid overheating.

[0101] Alternatively, the reheating time may depend on the duration of the temperature rise phase, i.e., be associated with the duration of the temperature rise phase, specifically such that the reheating time is a predefined function of the duration of the temperature rise phase, and specifically such that the reheating time is always as long as the duration of the temperature rise phase. Similarly, the latter configuration is particularly advantageous when the temperature during the rise phase is close to or at the maximum temperature achievable by the heater during the heating mode, in order to avoid overheating.

[0102] Furthermore, it was found that the position of the heater temperature restarting in the heating mode temperature profile after terminating operation in pause mode (and after the initial temperature rise) can significantly impact the quality of the first suction after the user experience is restored. In this regard, it was found that the heater temperature after pause mode (and after the initial temperature rise) should ideally restart at approximately the same temperature level as when operation in heating mode was paused, but with a variable time offset in the heating mode temperature profile, which depends on the operation history during heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation and / or on the duration of pause mode operation. However, in general, no offset is also possible.

[0103] The general idea of ​​resuming operation in heating mode by resetting a shift position in the heating mode temperature profile (depending on the operation history during heating mode operation prior to operation in pause mode and / or the duration of operation in pause mode) can be combined with any other aspect of the invention disclosed herein, or can constitute an independent aspect of the invention. According to this independent aspect, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising a controller configured to control a heater for heating an aerosol forming matrix to generate an aerosol. The controller is configured to selectively operate in a heating mode and a pause mode, in which the controller controls the heater according to a heating mode temperature profile for generating an aerosol, and in a pause mode, the controller controls the heater according to a pause mode temperature profile for pausing operation in heating mode. In response to termination of operation in pause mode, the controller is configured to resume operation in heating mode by resetting the operation by resetting a shift position in the heating mode temperature profile, the shift position corresponding to the position in the heating mode temperature profile at the time of the shifted variable time offset during the pause of operation in heating mode. The controller is configured to determine the time offset based on the operation history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or based on the duration of the pause mode operation.

[0104] The following advantageous details and features relate to variable time offsets as an independent aspect of the invention or in combination with any other aspect of the invention disclosed herein.

[0105] The offset time can be associated with a backward time shift in the heating mode temperature profile and / or a forward time shift in the heating mode temperature profile.

[0106] Specifically, the controller can be configured to determine the time offset based on the number of aspirations during the period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode and / or the period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode.

[0107] Generally, the more advanced the user experience is before pausing, especially the greater the number of suctions during heating mode operation before pausing mode operation and / or the longer the period of heating mode operation before pausing mode operation, the greater the forward time shift in the heating mode temperature profile. Therefore, the controller can be configured to determine the time shift as a value associated with the forward time shift in the heating mode temperature profile, such as increasing with the number of suctions during heating mode operation before pausing mode operation and / or with the longer period of heating mode operation before pausing mode operation.

[0108] Similarly, the longer the operation in pause mode lasts, the greater the forward time shift in the heating mode temperature curve will preferably be. Therefore, the controller can be configured to determine the time shift as a value associated with the forward time shift in the heating mode temperature curve, which increases with the duration of operation in pause mode.

[0109] However, it was found that if the number of pricks during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold number and / or if the time period of the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold time, then the time offset is constant regardless of the duration of the pause mode operation, which more advantageously supports an appropriate first prick after the user experience is restored. Therefore, the controller can be configured to determine the time offset to be constant if the number of pricks during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold number and / or if the time period of the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold time, regardless of the duration of the pause mode operation. The predefined threshold number of pricks can be in the range of 4 to 8, for example, 6. The predefined threshold time of the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation can be in the range of 2 minutes to 8 minutes, particularly 3 minutes to 4 minutes, for example, 3.5 minutes.

[0110] The time offset can be shifted backward and / or forward in the heating mode temperature profile between 0 seconds (no shift) and 180 seconds, or between 1 second and 180 seconds, particularly between 1 second and 100 seconds, and even more particularly between 1 second and 7 seconds, or between 10 seconds and 80 seconds, or between 20 seconds and 70 seconds, or between 30 seconds and 70 seconds. These values ​​have proven particularly beneficial for the proper restoration of the user experience.

[0111] As the user experience progresses, the aerosol forming matrix is ​​consumed more and more. Specifically, if the matrix is ​​a solid aerosol forming matrix, the consumption of the matrix spreads from the area surrounding the heater to areas further away from the heater. To adequately heat these areas further away from the heater, the heating mode temperature profile can include changes (increases / decreases) in the heater's operating temperature as the user experience progresses. Specifically, the heating mode temperature profile can include multiple consecutive curve segments, each associated with a change in the heater's temperature compared to a previous curve segment. Resuming such a heating mode temperature profile after a user experience pause allows operation to resume in heating mode for the remaining time, based on the curve segment of the heating mode temperature profile valid during the pause in heating mode operation, before resuming operation based on the corresponding subsequent curve segment. Therefore, in response to the termination of paused operation, the controller can be configured to determine a time offset such that operation resumes in heating mode for the remaining time, based on the curve segment of the heating mode temperature profile valid during the pause in heating mode operation, before resuming operation based on the corresponding subsequent curve segment. The remaining time essentially corresponds to the implementation offset time, as will be described in further detail below. Specifically, the controller can be configured to determine the remaining time based on the operation history during the period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode and / or based on the duration of operation in pause mode, particularly based on the number of aspirations during the period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode and / or the period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode.

[0112] The remaining time can be between 0% and 100% of the predefined total interval time of the corresponding curve segment of the heating mode temperature curve that was valid when the heating mode operation was paused, specifically between 0% and 80%, more specifically between 25% and 75%, or between 30% and 50%. A value of 0% means that the remaining time of operation based on the curve segment of the heating mode temperature curve that was valid when the pause was started is zero, and therefore means that after the pause ends, operation in heating mode immediately continues to the subsequent curve segment. Similarly, a value of 100% means that after the pause ends, operation in heating mode is resumed by repeating the operation again based on the entire curve segment that was valid when the pause was started, i.e., the total interval time of that curve segment.

[0113] Alternatively, the remaining time can be within the range of 0% to 100%, particularly 0% to 80%, more particularly 25% to 75%, or 30% to 50% of the calculated remaining time, which is given by subtracting the predefined total interval time of the corresponding curve segment of the heating mode temperature curve valid at the time of pause in heating mode operation from the portion of the predefined total interval time of the curve segment until the pause in heating mode operation has elapsed. For example, if two-thirds of the predefined total interval time of the curve segment of the heating mode temperature curve has elapsed until the pause in heating mode operation, then the calculated remaining time is one-third. Therefore, for this example, the remaining time can be within the range of 0% to 100%, particularly 0% to 80%, more particularly 25% to 75%, or 30% to 50% of one-third of the predefined total interval time of the curve segment valid at the time of initiation of pause.

[0114] As mentioned above, operation in heating mode can be resumed by starting from the temperature rise phase. Further details and aspects of the temperature rise phase have been further described above and also apply to the aspects discussed hereafter, namely, the time offset.

[0115] Generally, the duration and time offset of the temperature rise phase are independent of each other. In particular, the temperature rise phase and the operation phase, which begin at the shift position in the heating mode temperature curve, can be continuous operation phases. Therefore, the controller can be configured to control the heater to resume operation in heating mode from the temperature rise phase before resuming operation at the shift position in the heating mode temperature curve, especially before resuming operation within the variable remaining time according to the curve segment of the heating mode temperature curve that is effective during the pause in operation in heating mode.

[0116] The aerosol generation apparatus may include a heating device operatively coupled to a controller. The heating device is used to heat the aerosol-forming matrix to generate aerosols. In principle, the heating device can be of any type suitable for heating the aerosol-forming matrix.

[0117] The heating device can be a resistance heating device. Therefore, a resistance heating device can include a resistance heating element as a heater. That is, in this configuration, the resistance heating element corresponds to the heater controlled by the device's controller. The resistance heating element can be, for example, a resistance heating wire or a resistance heating coil or a resistance heating track (particularly a resistance heating track disposed on the heating blades), a resistance heating grid, or a resistance heating mesh. When using the device, the resistance heating element can form a matrix thermal contact or thermal proximity with the aerosol to be heated.

[0118] It is also possible that the heating device is an induction heating device. Therefore, an induction heating device may include an induction source comprising an induction coil for generating a changing magnetic field. The changing magnetic field is preferably generated at the location of the aerosol-forming matrix when using the device. The changing magnetic field can be a high-frequency changing magnetic field. The changing magnetic field can be in the range of 500 kHz to 30 MHz, particularly 5 MHz to 15 MHz, and preferably between 5 MHz and 10 MHz. Depending on the electrical and magnetic properties of the sensor material, the changing magnetic field is used to inductively heat the sensor due to at least one of eddy currents or hysteresis losses. In use, the sensor is in thermal contact or thermal proximity to the aerosol-forming matrix to be heated.

[0119] Generally, the sensor can be part of an aerosol generating apparatus or part of an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming matrix to be heated. According to a first alternative, the induction heating device of the aerosol generating apparatus may further include a sensor (as a heater) that is induced to heat by a changing magnetic field. That is, in this configuration, the sensor corresponds to a heater controlled by the apparatus's controller.

[0120] At least one induction coil may be a helical coil or a flat planar coil, particularly a disc coil or a curved planar coil. The at least one induction coil may be held within either the body or the housing of the aerosol generating device.

[0121] The induction source may include an alternating current (AC) generator. This AC generator may be powered by a power supply unit of the aerosol generating device. The AC generator is operatively coupled to at least one induction coil. Specifically, the at least one induction coil may be an integrated part of the AC generator. The AC generator is configured to generate a high-frequency oscillating current that will pass through the at least one induction coil to generate a changing magnetic field. The AC current may be continuously supplied to the at least one induction coil after system activation, or it may be supplied intermittently, such as on a per-hole suction basis.

[0122] Preferably, the sensing source includes a DC / AC converter connected to a DC power supply device comprising an LC network, wherein the LC network includes a series connection of capacitors and inductors. Additionally, the sensing source may include a matching network for impedance matching. In particular, the sensing source may include a power amplifier, such as a Class C, Class D, or Class E power amplifier.

[0123] In the case of an induction heating device, the aerosol generating apparatus may further include a flux concentrator arranged and configured to distort the changing magnetic field of at least one sensing source toward the location where the sensor is positioned in use. Preferably, the flux concentrator comprises a flux concentrator foil, particularly a multilayer flux concentrator foil.

[0124] The aerosol generating apparatus may include a power supply, particularly a DC power supply for providing power to operate the apparatus, especially for providing power to the heater. Preferably, the power supply is a battery, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery. Alternatively, the power supply may be another form of charge storage device, such as a capacitor. The power supply may require recharging; that is, the power supply may be rechargeable. The power supply may have a capacity that allows sufficient energy to be stored for one or more user experiences. In another example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to allow for a predetermined number of suction cycles or discontinuous activation of the heater.

[0125] Preferably, the aerosol generating device is a suction device for generating an aerosol that can be directly inhaled by a user through their mouth. In particular, the aerosol generating device is a handheld aerosol generating device.

[0126] This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to the invention and as described herein, and an aerosol generation article comprising an aerosol forming matrix for use with said apparatus.

[0127] As used herein, the term "aerosol generation system" refers to a combination of an aerosol generation article as further described herein and an aerosol generation apparatus according to the invention and as described herein. In this system, the article and apparatus can cooperate to generate an inhalable aerosol. As used herein, the term "aerosol generation article" refers to an article comprising at least one aerosol-forming matrix that releases volatile compounds capable of forming aerosols when heated. Preferably, the aerosol generation article comprising the aerosol-forming matrix is ​​intended to be heated rather than burned in order to release volatile compounds capable of forming aerosols. The aerosol generation article can be a consumable, particularly a consumable discarded after a single use. The article can be a strip-shaped article similar to a conventional cigarette. For example, the article can be a tube comprising a liquid aerosol-forming matrix to be heated. As another example, the article can be an article comprising a solid aerosol-forming matrix, particularly a tobacco aerosol-forming matrix.

[0128] As used herein, the term "aerosol forming matrix" refers to a matrix capable of releasing volatile compounds that can form aerosols when heated. An aerosol forming matrix can be a solid aerosol forming matrix, a gel-like aerosol forming matrix, a liquid aerosol forming matrix, or a combination thereof.

[0129] The aerosol forming matrix can be a tobacco-containing aerosol forming matrix. That is, the aerosol forming matrix can contain tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds released from the matrix upon heating. The aerosol forming matrix can contain tobacco particles, particularly tobacco powder. The aerosol forming matrix can have a total tobacco content of at least 70% by weight, particularly at least 75% by weight.

[0130] Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol forming matrix may contain non-tobacco materials. In particular, the aerosol forming matrix may substantially not contain tobacco materials, such as less than 1% by weight of tobacco materials. Preferably, the aerosol forming matrix may be a non-tobacco aerosol forming matrix, that is, the aerosol forming matrix may not contain tobacco materials or may not contain a detectable amount of added tobacco particulate material.

[0131] The aerosol forming matrix can be a cellulose-based aerosol forming matrix as described in WO2020 / 207733 and / or WO2022 / 074157. For example, the aerosol forming matrix may contain one or more cellulose-based agents. These one or more cellulose-based agents may include one or more cellulose-based film-forming agents, cellulose-based reinforcing agents, cellulose-based binders, and combinations thereof. Suitable cellulose-based film-forming agents include those selected from hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), methylcellulose (MC), ethylcellulose (EC), hydroxyethyl methylcellulose (HEMC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), and combinations thereof. Preferably, the cellulose-based film-forming agent is hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC). Suitable cellulose-based reinforcing agents include those selected from cellulose powder, microcrystalline cellulose (MCC), cellulose fibers, and combinations thereof. Preferably, the cellulose-based reinforcing agent is cellulose fiber. Suitable cellulose-based binders include carboxymethyl cellulose and its salts. Preferably, the cellulose-based binder is sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC sodium). The aerosol-forming matrix may also contain one or more non-cellulose-based thickeners, such as those selected from agar, xanthan gum, gum arabic, guar gum, locust bean gum, pectin, carrageenan, starch, alginate, and combinations thereof. The one or more cellulose-based agents may constitute at least about 35% by weight of the matrix. That is, the aerosol-forming matrix may have a total cellulose-based agent content of at least 35% by weight.

[0132] The aerosol-forming matrix may also contain one or more aerosol-forming agents. Examples of suitable aerosol-forming agents include 1,3-butanediol, glycerol, 1,3-propanediol, propylene glycol, triethylene glycol, glyceryl monoacetate, glyceryl diacetate, glyceryl triacetate, dimethyl dodecanoate, and dimethyl tetradecanoate. Preferably, the aerosol-forming agent is glycerol. The aerosol-forming matrix may contain more than 10% by weight, particularly more than 20% by weight, of total aerosol-forming agent content. The aerosol-forming matrix may contain less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, and preferably less than 20% by weight, of total aerosol-forming agent content. These values ​​are particularly applicable to aerosol-forming matrices containing tobacco material (i.e., tobacco-containing aerosol-forming matrices). Conversely, the aerosol-forming matrix may contain more than or equal to 30% by weight, particularly more than 35% by weight, more particularly more than 40% by weight, or more than 45% by weight, of total aerosol-forming agent content. The values ​​described below are particularly advantageous for aerosol-forming matrices that do not contain tobacco materials, i.e., for non-tobacco aerosol-forming matrices.

[0133] The aerosol forming matrix may also contain other additives and ingredients, such as nicotine and / or flavoring substances. Specifically, the aerosol forming matrix may contain solvents, ethanol, plant extracts, natural flavorings, and / or artificial flavorings. The aerosol forming matrix may contain water. The aerosol forming matrix may have a water content between 5% and 35% by weight.

[0134] As mentioned, the aerosol-forming matrix may also contain nicotine or a salt thereof. Nicotine may include one or more nicotine salts. These nicotine salts may be selected from nicotine lactate, nicotine citrate, nicotine pyruvate, nicotine bitartrate, nicotine benzoate, nicotine pectate, nicotine alginate, and nicotine salicylate. Nicotine may include extracts of tobacco. The aerosol-forming matrix may have a nicotine content greater than about 0.5% by weight of the matrix.

[0135] The aerosol forming matrix may also contain one or more carboxylic acids. These carboxylic acids may be selected from lactic acid, levulinic acid, fumaric acid, maleic acid, malic acid, and combinations thereof. The aerosol forming matrix may have a total carboxylic acid content of at least about 0.5% by weight of the matrix.

[0136] As an example (particularly as an example of a first type of aerosol-forming matrix), the aerosol-forming matrix can be a non-tobacco aerosol-forming matrix containing one or more cellulose-based reagents, preferably having a total cellulose-based reagent content of at least 35% by weight. The matrix may also contain one or more aerosol-forming agents, preferably having a total aerosol-forming agent content of greater than or equal to 30% by weight. Additionally, the matrix may contain nicotine. To stabilize nicotine, the matrix may also contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from fumaric acid, maleic acid, and malic acid, preferably at a total carboxylic acid content of at least 0.5% by weight. The matrix according to this example can be a matrix with a high thermal mass.

[0137] As another example (particularly as an example of a second type of aerosol-forming matrix), the aerosol-forming matrix can be a tobacco-containing aerosol-forming matrix comprising tobacco material (such as tobacco particles, particularly tobacco powder), preferably having a total tobacco content of at least 70% by weight, and particularly at least 75% by weight. Additionally, the matrix may contain one or more cellulose-based agents (such as cellulose fibers), preferably having a total cellulose-based agent content of up to 10% by weight, and particularly up to 5% by weight. The matrix may also contain one or more aerosol-forming agents, preferably having a total aerosol-forming agent content of less than 30% by weight, and more particularly less than 20% by weight. The matrix according to this example can be a matrix with a lower thermal mass.

[0138] The aerosol forming matrix can also be a paste-like material, a porous material pouch containing the aerosol forming matrix, or loose tobacco mixed with a gelling agent or adhesive, which may include common aerosol forming agents such as glycerol, and is then compressed or molded into rods.

[0139] In cases where the aerosol generation apparatus includes an induction heating device, the aerosol generation system may include at least one sensor as a heater (controlled by the apparatus controller) for heating the aerosol forming matrix. The sensor may be an integral part of the aerosol generation article. That is, the aerosol generation article may include the sensor as a heater. Therefore, the aerosol generation article may include at least one sensor as a heater (controlled by the apparatus controller). The sensor may be positioned in thermal proximity or thermal contact with the aerosol forming matrix such that, in use, when the article is attached to the apparatus, the sensor can be inductively heated by the induction heating device. Alternatively, the sensor may be part of the aerosol generation apparatus (forming a heater controlled by the apparatus controller). In this configuration, the sensor may be arranged within the apparatus such that when the article is attached to the apparatus, the sensor is in thermal proximity or thermal contact with the aerosol forming matrix.

[0140] Further features and advantages of the aerosol generation system according to the invention have been described with respect to the aerosol generation apparatus, and are equally applicable.

[0141] This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generation system capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol-forming matrix, and particularly to a method of operating an aerosol generation system according to the invention. The method includes selectively operating the system in a heating mode and a pause mode, wherein in the heating mode, the temperature of a heater for heating the matrix is ​​controlled according to a heating mode temperature profile for generating aerosols, and in the pause mode, the temperature of the heater is controlled according to a pause mode temperature profile for pausing operation in the heating mode, wherein the pause mode temperature profile is adjusted based on an operation history during heating mode operation prior to pausing mode operation and / or based on the duration of pausing mode operation.

[0142] This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generation system capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol-forming matrix, and particularly to a method of operating an aerosol generation system according to the invention. The method includes selectively operating the system in a heating mode and a pause mode, wherein in the heating mode, the temperature of a heater for heating the matrix is ​​controlled according to a heating mode temperature profile for aerosol generation, and in the pause mode, the temperature of the heater is controlled according to a pause mode temperature profile for pausing operation in the heating mode, wherein, in response to termination of operation in the pause mode, operation in the heating mode is resumed by starting from a temperature rise phase, wherein the temperature of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase is higher than the initial temperature level at the start of the heating mode temperature profile and / or higher than the temperature level in the heating mode before activation of the pause mode.

[0143] This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generation system capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol-forming matrix, and particularly to a method of operating an aerosol generation system according to the invention. The method includes selectively operating the system in a heating mode and a pause mode, wherein in the heating mode, the temperature of a heater for heating the matrix is ​​controlled according to a heating mode temperature profile for aerosol generation, and in the pause mode, the temperature of the heater is controlled according to a pause mode temperature profile for pausing operation in the heating mode, wherein, in response to termination of operation in the pause mode, operation in the heating mode is resumed by activating the heater to reheat the matrix for aerosol generation within a variable reheating time, wherein the reheating time is determined based on the operation history during the heating mode operation prior to operation in the pause mode and / or the duration of operation in the pause mode.

[0144] This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generation system capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol-forming matrix, and particularly to a method of the aerosol generation system according to the invention. The method includes selectively operating the system in a heating mode and a pause mode, wherein in the heating mode, the temperature of a heater for heating the matrix is ​​controlled according to a heating mode temperature profile for generating aerosols, and in the pause mode, the temperature of the heater is controlled according to a pause mode temperature profile for pausing operation in the heating mode, wherein, in response to termination of operation in the pause mode, operation in the heating mode is resumed by resuming operation at a shift position in the heating mode temperature profile, the shift position corresponding to a position in the heating mode temperature profile at a time offset by a variable time offset during the pause operation in the heating mode, and wherein the time offset is determined based on the operation history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or based on the duration of the pause mode operation.

[0145] This disclosure also relates to an aerosol generation system capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol-forming matrix, and particularly to a method of the aerosol generation system according to the invention. The method includes selectively operating the system in a heating mode and a pause mode, wherein in the heating mode, the temperature of a heater for heating the matrix is ​​controlled according to a heating mode temperature profile for generating aerosols, and in the pause mode, the temperature of the heater is controlled according to a pause mode temperature profile for pausing operation in the heating mode, wherein the heating mode temperature profile and the pause mode temperature profile are selected such that the temperature of the heater during pause mode operation is lower than the temperature during heating mode operation, and wherein in response to initiating pause mode operation, the temperature of the heater is reduced to, particularly initially reduced to, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile, particularly an initial temperature level between 240°C and 280°C, particularly between 250°C and 270°C, and more particularly within the range of 260°C.

[0146] This disclosure also relates to a method of operating an aerosol generation system capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol-forming matrix. The method includes selectively operating the system in a heating mode and a pause mode, wherein in the heating mode, the temperature of a heater for heating the matrix is ​​controlled according to a heating mode temperature profile for generating aerosols, and in the pause mode, the temperature of the heater is controlled according to a pause mode temperature profile for pausing operation in the heating mode, wherein the heating mode temperature profile and the pause mode temperature profile are selected such that the temperature of the heater during pause mode operation is lower than the temperature during heating mode operation, and wherein in response to initiating pause mode operation, the temperature of the heater is reduced to, particularly initially reduced to, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile, particularly the initial temperature level less than 150°C or at most 145°C. For example, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced in response to initiation of pause mode operation can be between 100°C and 145°C, particularly between 110°C and 145°C, or between 110°C and 140°C, or between 120°C and 145°C, or between 125°C and 145°C, or between 125°C and 140°C, or between 125°C and 135°C, preferably in the range of approximately 130°C. However, the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile can also be higher. Therefore, it is also possible that the temperature level of the pause mode temperature profile to which the heater temperature is reduced in response to initiation of pause operation can be between 100°C and 250°C, particularly between 110°C and 225°C, or between 110°C and 170°C, or between 120°C and 170°C, or between 125°C and 170°C, or between 130°C and 150°C, particularly in the range of 130°C.

[0147] Further features and advantages of the methods (one or more) according to the invention have been described with respect to aerosol generating apparatus and aerosol generating system, and are equally applicable.

[0148] 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.

[0149] Example Ex1: An aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus including a controller configured to control a heater for heating an aerosol forming matrix to generate an aerosol, wherein the controller is configured to selectively: Operating in a heating mode, in which the controller controls the heater according to a heating mode temperature curve to generate aerosols, and In pause mode, the controller controls the heater to pause operation in the heating mode according to the pause mode temperature curve. The controller is further configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile based on the operation history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or based on the duration of the pause mode operation.

[0150] Example Ex2: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex1, wherein the controller is configured to determine and record the operation history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

[0151] Example Ex3: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the operating history includes at least one of the following parameters: The number of aspirations during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode; and The period of time during which the heating mode was operated before the pause mode was operated.

[0152] Example Ex4: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the operating temperature of the heater gradually decreases as the duration of operation in the pause mode progresses.

[0153] Example Ex5: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the decrease in the operating temperature of the heater is adjusted based on the operating history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

[0154] Example Ex6: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the decrease in the operating temperature of the heater progresses less with an increase in the number of suctions during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode and / or with an increase in the time period of operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

[0155] Example Ex7: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the operating temperature of the heater decreases in a continuous temperature gradient as the duration of operation in the pause mode progresses.

[0156] Example Ex8: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex7, wherein during the reduction period, the reduction in the operating temperature of the heater between consecutive temperature steps is in the range of 2°C to 25°C, particularly 5°C to 20°C, more particularly 7°C to 15°C, for example, 10°C.

[0157] Example Ex9: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex7 to Ex8, wherein during the reduction period, the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step is in the range of 1 minute to 6 minutes.

[0158] Example Ex10: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex7 to Ex9, wherein during the reduction period, the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step increases from temperature step to temperature step.

[0159] Example Ex11: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex7 to Ex10, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step according to the operation history during the operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

[0160] Example Ex12: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex7 to Ex11, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step such that the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step increases with the number of aspirations during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode and / or with the increase of the time period of operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

[0161] Example Ex13: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that after the operating temperature is reduced within a predefined reduction period, the operating temperature of the heater gradually increases as the duration of operation in the pause mode further progresses.

[0162] Example Ex14: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex13, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the reduction period based on the operation history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

[0163] Example Ex15: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex13 or Ex14, wherein the reduction time period is in the range of 15 seconds to 6 minutes, particularly 3 minutes to 6 minutes, and more particularly 3.5 minutes to 4 minutes.

[0164] Example Ex16: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex13 to Ex15, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the increase in the operating temperature of the heater is adjusted based on the operating history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

[0165] Example Ex17: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex13 to Ex16, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the increase in the operating temperature of the heater progresses less with an increase in the number of suctions during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode and / or with an increase in the time period of operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

[0166] Example Ex18: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex13 to Ex17, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that after the operating temperature is reduced within a predefined reduction period, the operating temperature of the heater increases in a continuous temperature step as the duration of operation in the pause mode progresses.

[0167] Example Ex19: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex18, wherein during the increase, the increment of the operating temperature of the heater between consecutive temperature steps is in the range of 2°C to 25°C, particularly 5°C to 20°C, more particularly 7°C to 15°C, for example 10°C.

[0168] Example Ex20: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex18 to Ex19, wherein during the increase, the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step is between 15 seconds and 6 minutes, particularly between 1 minute and 6 minutes.

[0169] Example Ex21: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex18 to Ex20, wherein during the increase, the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step increases from temperature step to temperature step.

[0170] Example Ex22: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex18 to Ex21, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step during the increase based on the operation history during the operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

[0171] Example Ex23: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the preceding examples, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that, based on the operation history, for example, if the number of aspirations during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold number and / or if the time period of operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold time, the operating temperature of the heater remains constant.

[0172] Example Ex24: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex23, wherein the predefined threshold number of aspirations is between 6 and 10, particularly between 7 and 9, for example, in the range of 8; and / or wherein the predefined threshold time for operating in the heating mode before operating in the pause mode is between 2 minutes and 8 minutes, particularly between 4 minutes and 7 minutes, for example, in the range of 5 minutes.

[0173] Example Ex25: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the heating mode temperature profile and the pause mode temperature profile are selected such that the operating temperature of the heater during operation in the pause mode is lower than the operating temperature during operation in the heating mode.

[0174] Example Ex26: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein operation in the pause mode is user-termination.

[0175] Example Ex27: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the apparatus includes a user interface operatively coupled to the controller, enabling a user to initiate and / or resume and / or terminate operation in the pause mode.

[0176] Example Ex28: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein operation in the pause mode has a limited total duration, particularly for a single user experience and / or for a single pause, operation in the heating mode.

[0177] Example Ex29: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex28, wherein the defined total duration of operation in the pause mode is between 1 minute and 15 minutes, particularly between 2 minutes and 10 minutes, preferably between 6 minutes and 9 minutes, for example, within the range of 8 minutes.

[0178] Example Ex30: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex28 to Ex29, wherein the defined total duration of operation in the pause mode is predefined before operation in the heating mode begins, and / or depends on the operation history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

[0179] Example Ex31: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex28 to Ex30, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the total duration of operation in the pause mode based on the operation history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

[0180] Example Ex32: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the controller is configured to resume operation in the heating mode after operation in the pause mode has ended, for example, after a defined total duration has elapsed.

[0181] Example Ex33: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the controller is configured to stop supplying power to the heater after operation in the pause mode ends, for example, after a defined total duration of operation in the pause mode has elapsed.

[0182] Example Ex34: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples further includes an indicator, wherein the controller is configured to indicate to the user via the indicator the remaining time before the end of operation in the pause mode.

[0183] Example Ex35: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex34, wherein the indicator includes at least one of the following: a visual indicator, such as a display or light signal, such as one or more LEDs; a tactile indicator (tactile output unit); an audio indicator (audio output unit); and an audiovisual indicator.

[0184] Example Ex36: An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, wherein the apparatus includes a heating device operatively coupled to the controller.

[0185] Example Ex37: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex36, wherein the heating device is a resistance heating device.

[0186] Example Ex38: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex37, wherein the resistance heating device includes a resistance heating element as a heater.

[0187] Example Ex39: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex36, wherein the heating device is an induction heating device.

[0188] Example Ex40: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex39, wherein the induction heating device includes an induction source, the induction source including an induction coil for generating a changing magnetic field.

[0189] Example Ex41: An aerosol generating apparatus according to Example Ex39 or Ex40, wherein the induction heating device further includes a sensor as the heater, the sensor being induced to heat by a changing magnetic field.

[0190] Example Ex42: An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to any of the foregoing examples, and an aerosol generation article comprising an aerosol forming matrix for use with said apparatus.

[0191] Example Ex43: An aerosol generation system according to Example Ex42, wherein the aerosol forming matrix is ​​a solid aerosol forming matrix, particularly a tobacco aerosol forming matrix.

[0192] Example Ex44: An aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples Ex42 to Ex43, including an aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples Ex39 to Ex40, wherein the aerosol generating article includes a sensor as the heater.

[0193] Example Ex45: A method of operating an aerosol generation system capable of generating aerosols by heating an aerosol-forming matrix, particularly according to any one of Examples Ex42 to Ex44, the method comprising selectively operating the system in a heating mode and a pause mode, wherein in the heating mode, the temperature of a heater for heating the matrix is ​​controlled according to a heating mode temperature profile for generating aerosols, and in the pause mode, the temperature of the heater is controlled according to a pause mode temperature profile for pausing operation in the heating mode, wherein the pause mode temperature profile is adjusted based on an operation history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode and / or based on the duration of operation in the pause mode.

[0194] The examples will now be described further with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus and an aerosol generation article for use with the apparatus is illustrated schematically according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 The operation is shown according to Figure 1 Exemplary embodiments of a method for generating aerosols; Figure 3-8 This includes various graphs illustrating the evolution of operating temperature versus time during sequences of operation in different modes for use with a first-type aerosol-forming matrix; and Figures 9-12 include various graphs showing the evolution of operating temperature versus time during sequences of different modes for use with a second type of aerosol forming matrix.

[0195] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of an aerosol generation system 1 according to the present invention, capable of generating inhalable aerosols by heating an aerosol forming matrix, is illustrated schematically. System 1 includes: an aerosol generation article 10 comprising an aerosol forming matrix 21 to be heated; and an aerosol generation apparatus 100 for inductively heating the matrix when the article 10 is engaged with an apparatus 100.

[0196] The aerosol-generating article 10 has a generally strip-shaped form similar to that of a conventional cigarette. In this embodiment, the article 10 includes five elements arranged sequentially in coaxial alignment: a distal front rod element 80, a matrix element 20, a first tube element 40, a second tube element 50, and a filter element 60. The distal front rod element 80 is disposed at the distal end of the article 10 to cover and protect the distal front end of the matrix element 20. The filter element 60 is disposed at the proximal end of the article 10 and, together with the second tube element 50, serves as a mouthpiece. Both the distal front rod element 80 and the filter element 60 may be made of the same filter material. The matrix element 20 includes an aerosol-forming matrix 21 to be heated and a sensor 31 that acts as a heater 30, directly physically contacting the matrix 21 and used for inductively heating the matrix 21. This will be described in more detail below. Each of the first and second tubular elements 40, 50 is a hollow cellulose acetate tube with a central air passage, wherein the cross-section of the central air passage of the second tubular element 50 is larger than that of the central air passage of the first tubular element 40. The aforementioned five elements have a substantially cylindrical shape and substantially the same diameter. Furthermore, the five elements are defined by one or more outer packaging materials to hold the elements together and maintain the desired circular cross-sectional shape of the article 10. In this embodiment, the distal front bar element 80, the matrix element 20, and the first tubular element 40 are defined by a first packaging material, while the second tubular element 50 and the filter element 60 are defined by a second packaging material. The second packaging material also defines (after being wrapped by the first packaging material) at least a portion of the first tubular element 40 to connect the distal front bar element 80, the matrix element 20, and the first tubular element 40, defined by the first packaging material, to the second tubular element 50 and the filter element 60. Preferably, the first and second packaging materials are made of paper. Additionally, the second packaging material may include perforations (not shown) around its perimeter. The packaging material may also include an adhesive for adhering the overlapping free ends of the packaging materials to each other.

[0197] As in Figure 1The aerosol generating apparatus 100, also shown, comprises two parts: a proximal part 102 and a distal part 101. In the proximal part 102, the apparatus 100 includes a cavity 103 for removably receiving at least a portion of the aerosol-generated article 10. In the distal part 101, the apparatus 100 includes a DC power supply 150 (such as a rechargeable battery) for powering operation of the apparatus, and a controller 160 for controlling the operation of the apparatus 100, particularly for controlling the operating temperature of the heater 30 (i.e., the sensor 31) for heating the matrix 21 in the article 10. For this purpose, the apparatus 100 includes an induction heating device 110 operatively coupled to the controller 160. The heating device 110 includes an induction source 115 and an induction coil 118 for generating an alternating, particularly high-frequency, magnetic field within the cavity 103. Figure 1 As can be seen, the induction coil 118 is a helical coil, which is arranged in the proximal portion 102 of the device so as to circumferentially surround the cylindrical receiving cavity 103. Therefore, when the aerosol generating article 10 is joined to the device 100 (e.g., Figure 1 (As shown in the diagram) When the heating device 110 is activated, the sensor 31 in the article 10 experiences an alternating magnetic field, which in turn induces eddy currents and / or causes hysteresis losses in the sensor 31, depending on the magnetic and electrical properties of the sensor material. As a result, the sensor 31 heats up until it reaches a temperature sufficient to cause the aerosol forming matrix 21 surrounding the sensor 31 within the article 10 to evaporate. Instead of induction heating, the aerosol generating device may alternatively include a resistance heating device comprising a resistance heating element as a heater. The resistance heating element may be, for example, a resistance heating track disposed on a heating blade, which is arranged in use to be in thermal contact or thermal proximity to the aerosol forming matrix to be heated.

[0198] When using the system, when the user performs suction, i.e., when a negative pressure is applied at the filter element 60 of the article 10, air is drawn into the cavity 103 at the edge of the article insertion opening 105. The airflow further extends toward the distal end of the cavity 103 through a passage formed between the inner surface of the cylindrical cavity 103 and the outer surface of the article 10. At the distal end of the cavity 103, the airflow enters the aerosol-forming article 10 through the distal front bar element 80 into the matrix element 20. From there, the airflow further passes through the first tube element and the second tube elements 40, 50 and the filter element 60, where it finally exits the article 10. During heating, the evaporating material from the aerosol-forming matrix 21 is entrained in the airflow passing through the matrix element 20. As it further passes through the second support element 40, the cooling element 50 and the filter element 60, the airflow, including the evaporating material, is cooled to form an aerosol that escapes from the article 10 through the filter element 60.

[0199] Typically, once started, the user experience continues uninterrupted until the aerosol-forming matrix 21 in the article 10 is depleted or until predetermined operating conditions are reached. That is, the user typically performs multiple consecutive inhalations until the matrix 21 is sensed to be depleted or until a predetermined number of inhalations or a predetermined maximum operating time is reached. However, the user may also wish to interrupt the user experience and resume it in a later stage using the same article 10 with still acceptable aerosol quality. For this purpose, the aerosol generation apparatus 100 according to the invention is configured to pause the user experience by changing the operation of the controller 160 from heating mode operation to pause mode operation. As used herein, “heating mode” refers to the normal operation of the apparatus for aerosol generation, wherein the controller controls the heater 30 according to a heating mode temperature profile to heat the aerosol-forming matrix 21 at a temperature at or above the evaporation temperature of the aerosol-forming material included in the matrix 21. Conversely, “pause mode” refers to the operating mode in which the controller 160 pauses the heating mode operation, wherein the controller 160 controls the heater 30 according to a pause mode temperature profile associated with a temperature at which aerosol generation does not occur or at least decreases to a lower or minimum level. This can be achieved by selecting heating mode temperature profiles and pause mode temperature profiles such that the operating temperature of heater 30 during pause mode operation is lower than that during heating mode operation to minimize substrate 21 consumption, but still high enough to avoid vapor condensation in cavity 103 that could otherwise adversely affect substrate 21. During both heating mode and pause mode operation, heating device 110 is in active operation to heat heater 30, but with different temperature schemes according to the temperature profiles of the respective modes. While the temperature of the heating mode temperature profile is generally selected to be high enough to generate aerosols, the temperature of the pause mode temperature profile is selected to be low enough to minimize substrate consumption while avoiding degradation.

[0200] In addition to heating and pause modes, controller 160 can also be configured to operate in a preparation mode, in which controller 160 controls heater 30 according to a preparation mode temperature profile. The preparation mode temperature profile may include a preheating phase and / or a calibration phase. In the preheating phase, the controller may control the heater to heat up, thus allowing heat to be distributed within the substrate 21. In the calibration phase, controller 160 may control heater 30 such that the operating temperature of heater 30 passes through one or more reference points, at which the controller measures one or more calibrated values ​​of parameters indicating the operating temperature of the heater. Based on the one or more calibration values, controller 160 may adjust the temperature of heater 30. Further details of the preparation and calibration phases are described, for example, in WO 2022 / 136661 A1.

[0201] Exemplary embodiments of the different operating modes described above are in Figure 2 The figure shows the evolution of the operating temperature T of heater 30 over time t in different modes. Figure 2 Starting from the left side, the user experience is initiated at time t0. For example, through user input via the user interface, such as by pressing user button 165 (see...). Figure 1 The user experience can be initiated either by detecting the insertion of the aerosol-generating article 10 into the device 100. Once initiated, the controller 160 begins operation in a ready-to-use PCM mode, in which the controller controls the heater 30 according to a ready-to-use temperature profile that includes a preheating phase followed by a calibration phase. In the ready-to-use PCM mode, the aerosol-forming matrix 21 in the article 10 is heated from room temperature T3 until a first temperature level T1 is reached at time t1. At time t1, the operation of the controller 160 changes from ready-to-use PCM mode to heating mode HM mode, in which the temperature T of the heater 30 is controlled according to a heating mode temperature profile. At this point, the system is ready to begin the user experience using the fresh article 10, and the user can perform their first aspiration.

[0202] Depending on the substrate and article type, the heating mode temperature profile can have different patterns. In this embodiment, the heating mode temperature profile includes multiple consecutive curve segments, each associated with a change in the temperature of the heater 30 compared to a previous curve segment, particularly an increase in temperature. The stepwise increase in temperature is chosen such that more and more heat is supplied to unconsumed areas of the substrate 21 further away from the heater 30, as consumption of the substrate 21 progresses from areas of the substrate 21 closer to the heater 30 to areas of the substrate 21 further away from the heater 30. Further details of a heating mode temperature profile with a stepwise increase in the temperature of the heater 30 are described, for example, in WO2022 / 136661 A1. In this embodiment, the first temperature level T1 reached after operation in the preparation mode PCM corresponds to the initial temperature level of the heater 30 at the start of the heating mode temperature profile. The initial temperature level is chosen to be sufficient to cause the aerosol-forming substrate 21 to evaporate in order to form an aerosol. Depending on the substrate type, the initial temperature level can be in the range of 325°C to 385°C, particularly 340°C to 370°C, and more particularly 350°C to 360°C. These values ​​and ranges are particularly applicable to aerosol-forming substrates containing tobacco material or a combination of tobacco material and other (one or more) plant-derived materials, and / or to aerosol-forming substrates containing less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, and preferably less than 20% by weight of total aerosol forming agent content, and / or to aerosol-forming substrates with lower thermal mass.

[0203] Once the system is ready to begin the user experience, the user can decide to perform a certain number of sucks until he or she may decide to interrupt the user experience. Based on... Figure 2 In this example, the user performs two suck-ups (indicated by the curved dotted line) and then decides to temporarily interrupt the user experience at time t2. This pause can be initiated, for example, via user input through the user interface, such as by pressing the user button 165 again. Alternatively or additionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a motion sensor 166 for detecting movement of the device 100. For example, the motion sensor 166 may detect that the aerosol generating device 100 has not moved for a certain period of time (which may indicate that the device 100 is not in use), for example because the device 100 is placed idle on a table. As a result, the motion sensor 166 may output a sensor signal indicating that the user experience should be paused.

[0204] In response to the initiation of a user experience pause at time t2, controller 160 changes from operating in heating mode (HM) to operating in pause mode (PM) according to the pause mode temperature profile. Generally, the pause mode temperature profile is associated with a temperature at which aerosol generation does not occur or at least decreases to a low or minimum level. Similarly, depending particularly on the specific matrix type and composition, the temperature of heater 30 during pause mode (PM) operation can range between 160°C and 280°C. In this example, the initial temperature level T2 is approximately 260°C (measured at the center of the main surface of the strip-shaped sensor 31, as indicated by cross 34). This temperature is low enough to minimize the consumption of matrix 21, but still high enough to prevent condensation of evaporated material in cavity 103.

[0205] While the pause mode temperature profile can typically be predefined and therefore fixed, it has been found advantageous that the temperature profile used during pause mode PM operation is not fixed but adjustable, in order to minimize matrix consumption during the user experience pause and, on the other hand, to return to a temperature at or above the evaporation temperature of the aerosol-forming matrix within a reasonable time. To achieve this, the pause mode temperature profile is advantageously adjustable based on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation and / or based on the duration (PD) of pause mode operation. That is, the pause mode temperature profile is preferably dynamically adjusted based on the phase of the user experience initiating pause mode PM and / or the duration (PD) of pause mode PM operation. Primarily, the operating history may include the number of aspirations during the heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation and / or the time period of heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation. Figure 2In the example shown, the number of suctions during the period of operation in heating mode HM before operation in pause mode is two, and the time period t during operation in heating mode HM before operation in pause mode PM is... hpp This corresponds to the time span between time t1 (the end of the PCM operation in preparation mode / the initial start of the HM operation in heating mode) and time t2 (the start of the PM operation in pause mode). As further described above, the controller 160 can determine and / or record the number of aspirations belonging to the operation history (specifically, the number of aspirations during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and the time period t during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation). hpp The parameters of ) and the duration of operation in pause mode, PD.

[0206] To minimize matrix consumption during user experience pauses, the controller 160 of the aerosol generating apparatus 100 according to this embodiment is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the operating temperature of the heater 30 gradually decreases as the duration of pause mode operation (PD) progresses. Advantageously, gradually reducing the operating temperature of the heater 30 during pause mode operation (PM) also helps reduce the total energy consumption of the system. Advantageously, the progression of the temperature reduction is not fixed but is also adjustable based on the operating history during heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation. Therefore, the controller 160 according to this embodiment is also configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the temperature reduction of the heater 30 increases with the number of suctions during heating mode operation (HM) prior to pause mode operation or with the duration of heating mode operation (t) prior to pause mode operation. hpp The more you increase, the less progress you make.

[0207] An exemplary embodiment of the dynamic adaptability of the pause mode temperature profile based on the stage of the user experience initiating the pause mode and / or the duration of the pause mode operation is provided in [the following text is incomplete and likely refers to a different example]. Figures 3-6 As shown in the image. Similar to... Figure 2 , Figures 3-6 Each graph in the diagram illustrates the evolution of the operating temperature T of heater 30 relative to time t during a sequence of operations in different modes (the upper curve in each graph): starting with operation in heating mode HM (the first segment of the step-increasing curve), the user experience is interrupted after a certain number of suction cycles by switching to pause mode PM. Subsequently, after a certain duration PD of operation in pause mode PM (the curve at a lower temperature – partially decreasing), the user experience is restored by resuming operation in heating mode HM (increasing, then continuing the step-increasing curve). Figures 3-6 In each of the figures, the upper curve is shown as being at the center of the far edge of the main surface (by...). Figure 1The location marked by the cross 33 in the diagram is a graph of the temperature T of the sensor 31 measured on one of the main surfaces of the strip-shaped sensor 31 versus time t, i.e., the temperature curve follows the heating mode temperature curve and the pause mode temperature curve. Note: The temperature values ​​further given above regarding the operating temperature of the heater refer to the temperature at the geometric center point of the main surface of the heater (as indicated by the cross 33 in the diagram). Figure 1 The temperature measured at the crosshair (marked 34) or averaged along the geometric center line of the main surface of the heater. Generally, these temperature values ​​are slightly higher than those measured at the edges of the same main surface. Figures 3-6 The lower curve in each figure represents, as in Figure 1 The cylindrical matrix element 20 of the article 10 shown is half the radius (made by) Figure 1 The graph shows the temperature of the aerosol-forming matrix 21 measured relative to time at the location marked by the cross 23 in the graph.

[0208] Figure 3 The graphs illustrate the temporal evolution of operating temperature T during sequential operation in different modes for user experiences that paused after two aspirations in each graph but resumed after different durations of PD of operation in pause mode (as indicated at the top of each graph). Similarly, Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The graph in each figure shows the time evolution of the operating temperature T for different durations of PD operation in pause mode, where Figure 4 The graphic refers to the user experience that pauses after four suctions. Figure 5 The graphic refers to the user experience that pauses after 6 suctions, and Figure 6 The graphic refers to the user experience after pausing following 7 suctions. As shown in the corresponding graph ( Figures 3-6 A comparison of the graphs within each figure shows that the pause mode temperature profile is adapted such that the operating temperature of heater 30 gradually decreases as the duration (PD) of operation in pause mode (PM) increases, particularly through a continuous temperature step. Advantageously, the continuous temperature step is technically easy to implement. The reduction in heater operating temperature between continuous temperature steps can be within the range of 2°C to 25°C, particularly 5°C to 20°C, more particularly 7°C to 15°C, for example, 10°C.

[0209] The response time of a continuous temperature step can depend in particular on the number of temperature step sequences. Generally, the longer the pause mode has been activated, the longer the response time of the temperature step can be. Increasing the response time of continuous temperature steps from one temperature step to another effectively reduces the rate of decrease in the heater's operating temperature, which facilitates the restoration of the user experience within a reasonable timeframe.

[0210] The corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step can also depend on the operating history during the period of operation in heating mode HM prior to operation in pause mode PM. Therefore, the controller 160 according to this embodiment is also configured to adjust the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step based on the operating history during the period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode. Specifically, the controller 160 is configured to adjust the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step such that the time period increases with the number of suctions during the period of operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode. This is from the perspective of the equal duration PD for operation in pause mode PM. Figures 3-6 A comparison of different graphs reveals this. In other words, the deeper the user experience has progressed before pausing, the smaller the temperature drop can be, facilitating a faster recovery of the user experience. Consequently, the deeper the user experience has progressed before pausing, the fewer temperature steps the pause-mode temperature profile can have. Therefore, as the number of suctions during heating mode operation before pausing increases, the number of temperature steps decreases. For example, if the number of suctions before pausing is greater than 4, 5, or 6, the pause-mode temperature profile may include only two or even a single temperature step (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 5 and Figure 6 ).

[0211] As from Figures 3-6 It can be further inferred that, according to the adjustable pause mode temperature profile of this embodiment, the temperature reduction of the heater 30 continues until the end of operation in pause mode PM (unless, due to operational history, the reduction does not slow down to the point where the heater's operating temperature hardly decreases or does not decrease at all during operation in heating mode, such as...). Figure 5 and Figure 6 (In the middle). Alternatively, the pause mode temperature profile can allow the decrease in the heater's operating temperature to stop after a predefined time of pause mode operation, particularly a predefined decrease period and / or a predefined number of temperature steps, and allow the heater's operating temperature to remain constant until the end of pause mode operation.

[0212] Figures 7-8 The temperature profile for the alternative pause mode is shown, where for Figure 7 The graph of different pause durations (PD) in the image refers to the user experience after pausing following 4 puffs, and for... Figure 8 The graph of different pause durations in PD refers to the user experience after a pause following 6 pumps. Figures 3-6 Compared to the temperature curve of the pause mode in the drop, Figure 7 and Figure 8The pause mode temperature profile in the diagram shows that after the operating temperature is reduced within a predefined reduction time period DT, the operating temperature T of heater 30 gradually increases in a continuous temperature step as the duration of operation in pause mode PM progresses. Therefore, Figure 7 and Figure 8 The pause mode temperature profile can be represented as a decreasing-increasing curve. Advantageously, increasing the operating temperature again after a certain decreasing time period DT facilitates the advance preparation of the aerosol formation matrix, so that it is ready for aerosol generation again at an appropriate time. During the increasing period, the increment of operating temperature between successive temperature steps can be similar to or the same as the decrease in operating temperature during the decreasing period. For example, the decrease and increment can be in the range of 2°C to 25°C, particularly 5°C to 20°C, more particularly 7°C to 15°C, for example, within 10°C.

[0213] The time period DT can be fixed. Alternatively, it can be reduced from... Figures 7-8 The comparison of the graphs shows that controller 160 can be configured to adjust the reduction time period DT based on the operation history during the heating mode operation prior to operation in pause mode. In this respect, it has been found that the deeper the user experience has progressed before pause, the less attention is required to avoid or minimize the consumption of unconsumed matrix, and more focus can be placed on preparing the matrix more quickly to restore the user experience. Therefore, the greater the number of aspirations during the heating mode operation prior to operation in pause mode, the shorter the reduction time period DT can be. Advantageously, the reduction time period DT can be adjusted within the range of 15 seconds to 6 minutes, particularly 3 minutes to 5 minutes, and more particularly 3.5 minutes to 4.5 minutes.

[0214] Similar to a descending temperature step, the corresponding time period for a continuously ascending temperature step can be fixed or adjustable, particularly based on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. For example, the progression of the (re)increase in the operating temperature T of heater 30 can depend on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. Therefore, controller 160 can be configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the increase in heater operating temperature increases with the number of suction cycles during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or with the duration t of the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation. hpp The more it increases, the less progress it makes. Specifically, the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature rise step can be adjusted so that it becomes longer with the increase in the number of suctions during heating mode operation prior to pausing mode operation, such as from the same duration of PD for pausing mode PM operation. Figure 7 and Figure 8 The comparison of different graphics in the image shows this.

[0215] If the pause mode is initiated late in the user experience phase (when the aerosol-forming matrix has been at least partially or largely consumed), then maintaining a constant operating temperature T during PM operation in pause mode may more advantageously support a proper first suction after the user experience is restored. Therefore, the controller 160 can be configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that, based on operational history, for example, if the number of suctions during heating mode operation prior to pause mode operation is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold number, the heater's operating temperature remains constant. This in Figure 6 As shown, the temperature of heater 30 remains constant when the user experience is paused after 7 suctions, while... Figure 6 In the process of pausing the user experience after 6 suctions, the operating temperature T during PM operation in pause mode still decreases in a temperature step.

[0216] Once the user has decided to restore the user experience, the change from operation in pause mode (PM) to heating mode can be initiated, for example, via user input (preferably via user button 165). Alternatively, motion sensor 166 can be used to restart operation in heating mode, for example, by detecting movement of device 100, which may indicate that the user is (again) holding device 100 and therefore may be about to restore the user experience. Thus, motion sensor 166 can output a sensor signal indicating that device 100 is in operation again or is expected to be in operation again. In response to such sensor signals or in response to signals generated by pressing user button 165, controller 160 can switch back from operation in pause mode (PM) to heating mode (HM). It is also possible that controller 160 resumes operation in heating mode (HM) after a defined total duration of operation in pause mode has elapsed. In particular, this can happen regardless of whether the user has actively initiated the restoration of the user experience. Advantageously, this avoids leaving device 100 in pause mode (PM) for too long, which in turn prevents the aerosol forming matrix 21 from eventually being consumed without being used. Additionally, having a predetermined maximum pause time helps prevent the device 100 from running out of power. In principle, the total duration of operation in pause mode can be predefined (i.e., fixed), or adjustable based on the operating history during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode.

[0217] To restore a paused user experience with acceptable aerosol quality, it may be necessary to properly prepare the aerosol forming matrix 21 for optimizing delivery with respect to the first aspiration after a pause. Preferably, the aerosol delivery for the first aspiration after restoring the paused user experience should be as high as the first aspiration at the start of the user experience. This is an important aspect to satisfy users who wish to experience a proper aspiration promptly. For this purpose, it has been found advantageous to provide an energy boost to the heater 30 upon restoring the paused user experience. Thus, as Figures 2-8 As shown in each graph, operation in heating mode HM is resumed by starting from the temperature rise phase BP. The rise phase is designed such that the temperature of heater 30 during operation in the temperature rise phase BP is higher than, for example, at least 30°C higher than, the initial temperature level at the start of the heating mode temperature curve after operation in preparation mode PCM, as further described above. Preferably, the temperature of heater 30 during operation in the temperature rise phase BP is also preferably higher than the temperature of heater 30 immediately before starting operation in pause mode PM, as shown from... Figures 2-8 As can be seen from the diagram.

[0218] As from Figure 2 It can be further seen that the BP can then operate at a lower temperature during the temperature rise phase in order to reduce energy consumption and avoid excessive consumption of substrate 21. However, for long durations of operation in pause mode (see, for example) Figure 5 (see the lower part of the graph) and / or for the user experience of pausing at a later stage in the heating mode temperature profile, where the temperature level immediately preceding the pause may have increased compared to the initial temperature level at the start of the heating mode temperature profile (see, for example) Figure 6 (As shown in the graph), the temperature during operation in the temperature rise phase BP can be equal to the temperature during subsequent operation in heating mode immediately following the temperature rise phase BP.

[0219] Furthermore, the duration of the temperature rise phase BP can advantageously be adjusted by the controller, specifically based on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or based on the duration of the pause mode operation PD. Preferably, the duration of the temperature rise phase BP increases with the number of suctions during the heating mode HM operation prior to the pause mode PM operation and / or with the time period t of the heating mode HM operation prior to the pause mode operation. hppIncrease and / or increase with the duration of PM operation in pause mode. For example, the duration of BP during the temperature rise phase can be adjusted to be between 1 second and 90 seconds, particularly between 5 seconds and 90 seconds, more particularly between 15 seconds and 60 seconds, or even more particularly between 15 seconds and 50 seconds, preferably between 20 seconds and 50 seconds, or between 20 seconds and 30 seconds.

[0220] Although the temperature of the heater during the temperature rise phase of BP can theoretically be adjustable, it has been found advantageous to keep it at a fixed temperature level (denoted as the temperature rise level BTL) (see [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 2 Preferably, the temperature rise level BTL is raised as high as possible, i.e., at the maximum temperature achievable by the heater. Advantageously, this simplifies control operations. In absolute terms, the temperature level of the heater during operation in the temperature rise phase BP can be in the range of 300°C to 500°C, particularly 375°C to 400°C, and preferably about 390°C.

[0221] After terminating PM operation in pause mode, heater 30 may typically require some time to thermally prepare the aerosol forming matrix 21 for proper first user aspiration to restore the user experience. This preparation time can be strongly dependent on the operational history during operation in heating mode prior to pause mode operation and / or on the duration of pause mode operation. Therefore, it is preferable to activate heater 30 to achieve a variable reheat time (RHT) (e.g., Figure 2 As indicated in the document, the matrix 21 is reheated for aerosol generation to restore HM operation in heated mode, after which the matrix 21 is prepared for the first aspiration of the restored user experience. Although the reheating time RHT is generally defined as the earliest time after which the user experience should be restored, it does not preclude the possibility of restoring the user experience before the reheating time has ended, and in particular, it does not preclude the possibility of the user performing aspiration before the reheating time RHT has ended.

[0222] As mentioned, the reheat time RHT is variable and is therefore preferably determined by the controller 160 based on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or the duration of the pause mode PM operation. Generally, the more advanced the user experience has been before the pause, especially the greater the number of puffs during the heating mode HM operation prior to the pause mode PM operation, the longer the reheat time RHT should be. Similarly, the longer the duration of the pause mode operation PD, the more the reheat time RHT should be increased. The reheat time can be in the range of 1 second to 90 seconds, particularly between 5 seconds and 60 seconds, more particularly between 5 seconds and 50 seconds, or can be adjustable within said range. These values ​​of reheat time have proven beneficial for providing a satisfactory first user puff.

[0223] Controller 160 is also configured to generate a signal indicating that the variable reheat time (RHT) has ended and / or permitting the user to resume aspiration to generate aerosol from the device. This can be via an indicator, such as a visual indicator (e.g., a display) or a light signal, like... Figure 1 The LED 169 shown herein, along with a tactile indicator (tactile output unit), an audio indicator (audio output unit), or an audiovisual indicator, provides instructions to the user of device 100.

[0224] Generally, the duration of the temperature rise phase (BP) and the reheat time (RHT) are independent of each other. Therefore, the duration of the temperature rise phase (BP) can be shorter than the reheat time (RHT). Thus, when terminating operation in pause mode, the user will perform the first aspiration after the temperature rise phase (BP) has ended. This is in... Figure 2 The instructions specify that the temperature rise phase (BP) lasts from time t3 to time t5, while the reheat time (RHT) is longer, corresponding to the time span between time t3 and time t5. Conversely, the reheat time (RHT) can be shorter than the duration of the temperature rise phase (BP). In this case, the user will perform the first suction after terminating PM operation in pause mode during the temperature rise phase (BP).

[0225] Furthermore, it was found that the position of the heater 30 temperature in the heating mode temperature profile after terminating PM operation in pause mode can significantly affect the quality of the first suction after the user experience is restored. In this regard, it was found that the temperature of the heater 30 should ideally reconnect to approximately the same temperature level as during the pause in heating mode HM operation, but may be shifted by a variable time offset t in the heating mode temperature profile. offsetThe variable time offset depends on the operation history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or on the duration PD of the pause mode operation. As a result, the shifted position in the heating mode temperature profile is restored to the heating mode operation position.

[0226] Time offset at Figure 2 The diagram shows that the duration t of the first curve segment in the continuous stepped curve segment of the heating mode curve corresponds to the time span t1 between time t2. A (i.e. t) A When (t2 - t1) is valid, operation in heating mode will pause at time t2. Without pausing, the predefined total interval time for the first curve segment will be equal to t. A +t B = (t2 - t1) + (t7 - t4). In other words, if the paused operation is reconnected to that time point in the heating mode temperature curve where the operation was paused in heating mode, then the temperature-time curve after resuming heating mode will look as shown by... Figure 2 The dashed double-dot curve indicates this. However, currently, the shifted position in the heating mode temperature curve is restored to heating mode operation, the shifted position corresponding to the variable time offset t during the pause in heating mode operation. offset The position of the time on the temperature curve in the heating mode. That is, the time offset t. offset This is equivalent to the effective remaining time t of operating on the first curve segment. B' = t6 - t4 and calculate the remaining time t B Compared to the effectively shortened (or extended) time shift, the calculated remaining time is determined by the predefined total interval t of the first curve segment (i.e., the curve segment of the effective heating mode temperature curve during the pause in heating mode operation at time t2). A +t B Subtract the predefined total interval t of the first curve segment that has passed until the pause in heating mode HM operation. A +t B t A This section provides the effective remaining time t for operating on the first curve segment. B' = t6 - t4 compared to calculating the remaining time t B Shorten, offset time t offset This is related to the forward time shift in the temperature curve of the heating mode.

[0227] Generally, the deeper the user experience has progressed before pausing, especially the greater the number of suctions during heating mode (HM) operation before pausing, the larger the forward time shift in the heating mode temperature curve. Similarly, the longer the duration (PD) of pausing mode operation, the larger the forward time shift in the heating mode temperature curve. Therefore, as from... Figures 3-6 A comparison of the various graphs shows that controller 160 determines the time offset t. offset This is so that the value associated with the forward time shift in the heating mode temperature curve increases with the number of aspirations during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or with the time period of the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or with the duration PD of the pause mode operation.

[0228] In absolute terms, time offset t offset The heating mode temperature profile can be adjusted backwards and / or forwards within the range of 0 to 180 seconds, or 1 to 180 seconds, particularly 1 to 100 seconds, and even more particularly within the range of 1 to 70 seconds, 10 to 80 seconds, 20 to 70 seconds, or 30 to 70 seconds. These values ​​have proven particularly beneficial for the proper restoration of the user experience.

[0229] In comparison, the effective remaining time t B' The remaining time t can be calculated B Within the range of 0% to 100%, specifically between 0% and 80%, even more specifically between 25% and 75%, or between 30% and 50%. Similarly, the effective remaining time t... B' The predefined total interval t of the heating mode temperature curve segment that can be effectively used during the pause of operation in heating mode HM for a time t2. A +t B Between 0% and 100%, particularly between 0% and 80%, even more particularly between 25% and 75% or between 30% and 50%.

[0230] As further mentioned above, the temperature profiles for heating mode and pause mode can depend not only on operating parameters (such as operating history) but also, and often more importantly, on the matrix type (particularly on its composition, thermal stability, total aerosol-forming agent content, and / or matrix basis weight). The matrix type can affect both the general temperature level and the process of the profiles during various modes. The matrix type can even influence whether one or more parameters of various profiles are adjusted (e.g., based on operating history). In this regard, Figures 2-8The various heating mode temperature profiles and pause mode temperature profiles shown herein preferably refer to the use of an aerosol-forming matrix containing tobacco material or a combination of tobacco material and other (one or more) plant-derived materials and / or for an aerosol-forming matrix containing less than 30% by weight, particularly less than 25% by weight, and preferably less than 20% by weight of total aerosol forming agent content and / or for an aerosol-forming matrix with lower thermal mass. As an example, the matrix may be a tobacco-containing aerosol-forming matrix containing tobacco material (such as tobacco particles, particularly tobacco powder), preferably having a total tobacco content of at least 70% by weight, particularly at least 75% by weight. Additionally, the matrix may contain one or more cellulose-based agents (such as cellulose fibers), preferably having a total cellulose-based agent content of up to 10% by weight, particularly up to 5% by weight. The matrix may also contain one or more aerosol forming agents, preferably having a total aerosol forming agent content of less than 30% by weight, more particularly less than 20% by weight.

[0231] In contrast, the lower graphs in each of Figures 9-12 show temperature profiles for various heating and pause modes, preferably designed for the use of tobacco-free aerosol-forming matrices. Specifically, the user experience is designed for non-tobacco aerosol-forming matrices and / or aerosol-forming matrices with higher thermal mass and / or aerosol-forming matrices containing greater than or equal to 30% by weight, particularly greater than or equal to 35% by weight, more particularly greater than 40% by weight, or greater than 45% by weight of total aerosol-forming agent content. For example, a non-tobacco aerosol-forming matrix may contain one or more cellulose-based reagents, preferably with a total cellulose-based reagent content of at least 35% by weight. The matrix may also contain one or more aerosol-forming agents, preferably with a total aerosol-forming agent content of greater than or equal to 30% by weight. Additionally, the matrix may contain nicotine. To stabilize nicotine, the matrix may also contain one or more carboxylic acids selected from fumaric acid, maleic acid, and malic acid, preferably with a total carboxylic acid content of at least 0.5% by weight.

[0232] as Figures 3-5 and Figures 6-8 The graphs in each figure, the lower graphs in each of Figures 9-12, show the time evolution of the operating temperature T of the PD heater for different durations of operation in pause mode, where the lower graph of Figure 9 ( Figure 9-1 – Figure 9-4 This refers to the user experience of pausing after two suctions, as shown in the lower part of Figure 10. Figure 10-1 – Figure 10-4 This refers to the user experience after pausing following four suctions, as shown in the lower part of Figure 11. Figure 11-1 – Figure 11-4 This refers to the user experience after pausing following 6 suctions, and the lower part of Figure 12 ( Figure 12-1 – Figure 12-4 This refers to the user experience of pausing after 7 suctions.

[0233] The curves shown in the lower figures of Figures 9-12 deviate in the following ways: Figures 2-8 The curve shown: First, aerosol-forming matrices without tobacco material typically have a higher total aerosol-forming agent content compared to those with tobacco material. Generally, this requires lower temperatures during heating and pause modes. As can be seen from the lower graphs in each of Figures 9-12, during operation in “normal” heating mode—that is, during any phase of the heating mode except the temperature rise phase—the heater temperature is in the range of approximately 255°C. Conversely, during operation in pause mode, the heater temperature is in the range of approximately 130°C. This latter value represents a trade-off between a temperature level low enough to reduce matrix consumption during pause mode but still high enough to increase delivery for the first puff after restoring the user experience, and a temperature level within a technically feasible adjustment range for the controller. Currently, the technically feasible adjustment range is given by the inherent magnetic and electrical properties of the sensor 31, which are associated with inherent calibration / reference values ​​that are the same as or similar to those described in WO 2023 / 285458 A1. More specifically, the temperature level of the heater during operation in pause mode is selected such that it is slightly below, but not too close to, the minimum (valley) of the conductance of the sensor as described in WO 2023 / 285458 A1. Otherwise, calibration could become an issue.

[0234] Secondly, as can be seen from the comparison of the lower plots in each of Figures 9-12, regardless of the operating history prior to operation in pause mode—that is, independent of the operating history during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode—the temperature level to which the heater is reduced is always the same when operation in pause mode is initiated. Furthermore, as can be seen from the comparison of the various lower plots in each of Figures 9-12, the temperature level during pause operation is constant over time, that is, independent of the duration of operation in pause mode.

[0235] Third, the curves shown in the lower part of Figures 9-12 deviate from the heating mode temperature curves. Figures 2-8 The curve shown. Although in Figures 2-8 In the figure, the heating mode temperature curve includes multiple curve segments at different temperature levels, but the heating mode temperature curve in the lower part of Figures 9-12 is flat (except for the temperature rise), that is, the substrate is heated at a constant temperature level throughout the user experience.

[0236] Fourth, similar to Figures 2-8 The curves shown in the lower part of Figures 9-12 include the temperature rise phase BP, which marks the beginning of the return to heating mode operation. However, compared with... Figures 2-8 By comparing the curves shown, it has been found that when resuming the user experience after a short duration (e.g., less than 30 seconds) of operation in pause mode, an aerosol-forming matrix containing no tobacco material but a high total aerosol-forming agent content does not require a temperature rise. That is, after the pause, the heater temperature "only" increases to the temperature level of the "normal" heating mode prior to operation in pause mode. Only for pause mode operation durations longer than 30 seconds, a temperature rise phase at a temperature level higher than during "normal" heating operation can prove beneficial for properly preparing the matrix for the first puff after the pause. In a given example, the temperature during the heater's operation in the temperature rise phase, particularly the temperature rise level, can be in the range of 250°C to 400°C, particularly 250°C to 300°C, more particularly 260°C to 275°C, for example, 270°C, or can be adjustable within said range. Similarly, these values ​​can be a trade-off between a temperature level that is still high enough on the one hand to increase the delivery of the first puff after the user experience is resumed, and a temperature level within a technically feasible range of adjustment for the controller on the other hand. Currently, the temperature during the heater's operation in the temperature rise phase is selected such that it is slightly below, but not too close to, the maximum conductance (Ω) of the sensor as described in WO 2023 / 285458 A1. In this respect, this temperature corresponds to the maximum temperature achievable by the heater.

[0237] In addition, with Figures 2-8 Compared to the curves shown, the duration of the temperature rise phase (BP) is always equal to the reheat time (RHT) (i.e., the time required for the aerosol generating device to prepare the aerosol-forming matrix for the appropriate first user aspiration after a pause). As a result, the temperature rise phase always ends simultaneously with the device being ready for the user to perform the first aspiration after a pause. At this point, the controller 160 can, for example, via... Figure 1 The LED 169 shown generates a signal indicating that the reheating time (RHT) has ended and allows the user to resume suction to generate an aerosol from the device.

[0238] as Figures 2-8 In this context, the duration of the reheating time (RHT) / temperature rise phase (BP) can typically depend on the operating history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and the duration of the pause mode operation (PM).

[0239] For very short pause durations (e.g., less than 30 seconds), especially for pause durations where no temperature rise is required, the reheat time (RHT) can be short, for example, approximately 5 seconds. In particular, for short pause durations, the reheat time (RHT) can also be constant, regardless of the operational history during the period of operation in heated mode prior to operation in pause mode, and especially regardless of the number of aspirations during the period of operation in heated mode (HM) prior to operation in pause mode (PM).

[0240] For longer pause durations (e.g., longer than 30 seconds), the duration of the reheat time (RHT) / temperature rise phase (BP) is adjustable by controller 160 such that the duration of the reheat time (RHT) / temperature rise phase (BP) increases with the number of aspirations during the heating mode (HM) operation prior to the pause mode (PM) operation and / or with the increase in the time period of the heating mode (HM) operation prior to the pause mode operation. In this example of Figures 9-12, the duration of the reheat time (RHT) / temperature rise phase (BP) can be increased from 22 seconds (for zero or one aspiration before the pause) to 30 seconds (for four or more aspirations before the pause). For longer pause durations, the operational history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation can be the primary, and particularly the sole, factor in adjusting the duration of the reheat time (RHT) / temperature rise phase (BP), while the duration of the pause mode (PM) operation can have a minor or even no effect on it. In particular, for a given operational history, such as for a given number of aspirations performed before the pause, the duration of the reheat time (RHT) / temperature rise phase (BP) can be constant for any duration of PM operation in pause mode that is greater than, for example, 30 seconds, i.e., always the same.

[0241] The findings regarding reheating time and the duration of the temperature rise phase BP, as described herein, have been tested and demonstrated to provide acceptable aerosol delivery. In this regard, the upper graph of each of Figures 9-12 illustrates experimental evidence and simulation data reflecting glycerol delivery (aerosol-forming agent delivery) as a result of the number of aspirations, serving as an indicator and measure of aerosol delivery. While the upper curve in each graph reflects glycerol delivery for a non-pause user experience, the two lower curves in each upper graph of Figures 9-12 respectively relate to a user experience that is paused after 2 aspirations and resumed at the 3rd aspiration. Figure 9-1 – Figure 9-4 Figure 10 shows the user experience of pausing after 4 suctions and resuming after 5 suctions. Figure 10-1 – Figure 10-4 The user experience of pausing after 6 suctions and resuming after 7 suctions (Figure 11) Figure 11-1 – Figure 11-4), and the user experience of pausing after 7 pumps and resuming after 8 pumps ( Figure 12-1 – Figure 12-4 In each graph, the dashed curve in the two lower curves indicates the duration of the approximately 20-second reheat time / temperature rise phase (BP), while the continuous (non-dashed) curve in the two lower curves indicates the duration of the longer reheat time / temperature rise phase (BP) in the range of 25 to 30 seconds. As can be seen from the comparison of the corresponding lower curves in each upper graph of Figures 9-12, glycerol delivery is more consistent with the longer duration of the reheat time / temperature rise phase (BP), i.e., closer to a non-pause user experience for glycerol delivery.

[0242] For the purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all figures representing quantities, quantities, percentages, etc., shall be understood to be modified by the term "about" in all cases. Furthermore, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges that may be specifically listed or not listed herein. Thus, in this context, the numeral A is understood to be 5% of A ± A. In this context, the numeral A can be considered as including a value within the general standard error for the measurement of the property modified by the numeral A. In some cases as used in the appended claims, the numeral A may deviate from the percentages listed above, provided that the amount of deviation from A does not significantly affect the fundamental and novel features of the claimed invention. Moreover, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges that may be specifically listed or not listed herein.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus, the aerosol generating apparatus comprising a controller configured to control a heater for heating an aerosol forming matrix to generate aerosols. The controller is configured to selectively: Operating in a heating mode, in which the controller controls the heater according to a heating mode temperature curve to generate aerosols, and In pause mode, the controller controls the heater to pause operation in the heating mode according to the pause mode temperature curve. The controller is further configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile based on the operation history during the heating mode operation prior to the pause mode operation and / or based on the duration of the pause mode operation.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operating history includes at least one of the following parameters: - The number of suctions during operation in heating mode prior to operation in pause mode; - The period of time during which the heating mode was operated before the pause mode was operated.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the operating temperature of the heater gradually decreases as the duration of operation in the pause mode progresses.

4. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the decrease in the operating temperature of the heater is adjusted based on the operating history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode, particularly such that the decrease in the operating temperature of the heater decreases less with increasing number of aspirations during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode and / or with increasing time period of operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

5. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the operating temperature of the heater decreases in a continuous temperature step as the duration of operation in the pause mode progresses, wherein the controller is preferably configured to adjust the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step based on the operating history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

6. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 5, wherein during the reduction period, the reduction in the operating temperature of the heater between consecutive temperature steps is in the range of 2°C to 25°C, particularly 5°C to 20°C, more particularly 7°C to 15°C, for example, 10°C.

7. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that after the operating temperature is reduced within a predefined reduction period, the operating temperature of the heater gradually increases as the duration of operation in the pause mode further progresses, particularly by a continuous temperature step.

8. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 7, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the reduction period based on the operating history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the reduction time period is in the range of 15 seconds to 6 minutes, particularly 3 minutes to 6 minutes, and more particularly 3.5 minutes to 4 minutes.

10. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that the increase in the operating temperature of the heater is adjusted based on the operating history during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein during the increase, the corresponding time period of the continuous temperature step is between 15 seconds and 6 minutes, particularly between 1 minute and 6 minutes.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller is configured to adjust the pause mode temperature profile such that, based on the operating history, for example, if the number of aspirations during operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold number and / or if the time period of operation in the heating mode prior to operation in the pause mode is equal to or greater than a predefined threshold time, the operating temperature of the heater remains constant.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus of claim 12, wherein the predefined threshold number of aspirations is in the range of 6 to 10, particularly 7 to 9, for example 8; and / or wherein the predefined threshold time for operating in the heating mode before operating in the pause mode is in the range of 2 to 8 minutes, particularly 4 to 7 minutes, for example 5 minutes.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heating mode temperature profile and the pause mode temperature profile are selected such that the operating temperature of the heater during operation in the pause mode is lower than the operating temperature during operation in the heating mode.

15. An aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol generation apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, and an aerosol generation article comprising an aerosol forming matrix for use with said apparatus.

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