Aerosol provision device

Abstract

To provide an aerosol provision device and a method of operating the aerosol provision device.SOLUTION: An aerosol provision device 100 comprises: a coil; a heater component arranged to heat aerosol generating material, where the heater component is heatable by the coil; an indicator assembly; and a controller. The controller is configured to cause the coil to heat the heater component and cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use within a predetermined period of time after causing the coil to heat the heater component, where the predetermined period of time is less than about 60 seconds.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device and a method of operating the aerosol supply device.

Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars burn the tobacco during use to produce tobacco smoke. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these tobacco-burning articles by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products include heating devices that release compounds by heating a material without burning it. This material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, and may or may not contain nicotine.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol supply device comprising: a coil; a heating component configured to heat an aerosol generating material and heatable by the coil; an indicator assembly; heating the heating component by the coil; causing the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use within a predetermined time after heating the heating component by the coil, the predetermined time being less than about 60 seconds; a controller configured to perform; is provided.

[0004] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol supply device comprising: an inductor coil that generates a variable magnetic field; a susceptor configured to heat an aerosol generating material and heatable by the penetration of the variable magnetic field; an indicator assembly; Generating a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil, Causing the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use within a predetermined time after generating the variable magnetic field in the inductor coil, where the predetermined time is about 60 seconds or less, A controller configured to perform the above, An aerosol supply device is provided that includes the above.

[0005] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol supply device, A heating assembly configured to heat an aerosol-generating material, An indicator assembly, Starting the heating of the aerosol-generating material in the heating assembly, Causing the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use within a predetermined time after starting the heating of the aerosol-generating material in the heating assembly, where the predetermined time is about 60 seconds or less, A controller configured to perform the above, An aerosol supply device is provided that includes the above.

[0006] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol supply device, A coil, A heating component configured to heat an aerosol-generating material and heatable by the coil, An indicator assembly, Starting the heating of the heating component in the coil, Causing the indicator assembly to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after starting the heating of the aerosol-generating material in the coil, A controller configured to perform the above, An aerosol supply device is provided that includes the above.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol supply device, An inductor coil that generates a variable magnetic field, A susceptor configured to heat an aerosol-generating material and capable of being heated by the penetration of a variable magnetic field, An indicator assembly, Starting the generation of a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil, Causing the indicator assembly to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after starting the heating of the aerosol-generating material in the inductor coil, A controller configured to perform, An aerosol supply device is provided that includes.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating an aerosol supply device, comprising: Heating a heating component in a coil of the aerosol supply device, Causing the indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the device is ready for use within a predetermined time after heating the heating component in the coil, the predetermined time being less than about 60 seconds, A method is provided that includes.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating an aerosol supply device, comprising: Generating a variable magnetic field in an inductor coil of the aerosol supply device that heats a susceptor, Causing the indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the device is ready for use within a predetermined time after generating the variable magnetic field in the inductor coil, the predetermined time being less than or equal to about 60 seconds, A method is provided that includes.

[0010] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating an aerosol supply device, comprising: heating a heating component in a coil of an aerosol supply device; causing an indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after heating the heating component in the coil; A method is provided that includes these steps.

[0011] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating an aerosol supply device, comprising: generating a variable magnetic field that heats a susceptor in an inductor coil of the aerosol supply device; causing an indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after heating the susceptor in the inductor coil assembly; A method is provided that includes these steps.

[0012] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] In this specification, the term "aerosol generating material" includes materials that normally give volatile components when heated, usually in the form of an aerosol. The aerosol generating material includes any tobacco-containing material, for example, one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Also, other non-tobacco products are included as aerosol generating materials, and depending on the product, they may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol generating material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, wax, etc. Also, the aerosol generating material may be, for example, a combination or mixture of materials. Also, the aerosol generating material may be known as a "smoking material".

[0015] Devices are known which form an aerosol that can be inhaled, usually without burning or combusting the aerosol-forming material, by heating the aerosol-forming material to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol-forming material. Such devices may be described as "aerosol generating devices", "aerosol supply devices", "non-combustion heating devices", "tobacco heating product devices", or "tobacco heating devices" or the like. Similarly, there are so-called e-cigarette devices that vaporize an aerosol-forming material, which may or may not contain nicotine, usually in liquid form. The aerosol-forming material may be in the form of a rod, cartridge, or cassette that can be inserted into the device, or may be provided as part of it. The heater that heats and volatilizes the aerosol-forming material may be provided as a "permanent" part of the device.

[0016] An aerosol supply device can receive and heat an article containing an aerosol-forming material. In this context, an "article" is a component that, in use, comprises or contains an aerosol-forming material and is heated to volatilize the aerosol-forming material and optionally other components in use. After the user inserts the article into the aerosol supply device, the aerosol supply device may be heated to generate an aerosol that the user can inhale later. The article may be of a predetermined or specific size configured to be placed, for example, within a heating chamber of a device sized to receive the article.

[0017] A first aspect of the present disclosure defines an aerosol supply device comprising an indicator assembly configured to provide an indication that the device is ready for use within a predetermined time after heating a heating component such as a susceptor with a coil such as an inductor coil. As discussed in more detail herein, a susceptor is a conductor that can be heated by the penetration of a varying magnetic field. The varying magnetic field that heats the susceptor is generated by the inductor coil. When heated, the susceptor transfers heat to the aerosol-forming material, and the aerosol-forming material emits an aerosol. In one example, the susceptor defines a receptacle and receives the aerosol-forming material.

[0018] It has been found that certain heating systems are capable of heating the aerosol-forming material to a suitable temperature in a short time compared to other types of heating assemblies. Thus, a user of the device can inhale an aerosol using the device within a time period of less than about 60 seconds. The aerosol supply device comprises an indicator assembly that indicates to the user that the device is ready for the user to inhale an aerosol. Since the inductor coil can rapidly heat the susceptor and the aerosol-forming material, the aerosol-forming material will emit a sufficient amount of aerosol at the time the device indicates that it is ready.

[0019] "Ready for use" can mean that the aerosol-forming material has reached a desired / sufficient temperature, that the aerosol-forming material has generated a desired / sufficient amount of aerosol, or that the user can inhale the aerosol generated by the aerosol-forming material by taking a first "puff" on the device.

[0020] The reference to "within a predetermined time" includes an example where the indicator makes a display at a predetermined time. For example, even if the characteristics of the article used in combination with the aerosol supply device and the heat applied by the aerosol supply device are known so that the time until "ready for use" can be determined in advance. Also included is an example where it is determined whether the article is ready for use by monitoring some of the characteristics of the aerosol supply device and / or the article. For example, a temperature sensor that measures at a predetermined temperature or higher may be used to indicate that the device is ready for use.

[0021] In some examples, the predetermined time is less than about 50 seconds, less than about 40 seconds, less than about 30 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 15 seconds, or less than about 10 seconds after heating the heating component in the coil. For heating the aerosol generating material, an induction heating system may be more efficient. In the induction heating system, the predetermined time may be less than about 20 seconds.

[0022] In some examples, the coil is an inductor coil and the heating component is a susceptor. The controller may be configured to heat the heating component in the coil by generating a varying magnetic field in the inductor coil. The susceptor is heatable by the penetration of the varying magnetic field.

[0023] This device may be configured to operate in one of a first mode and a second mode. When the device is operating in the second mode, the inductor coil is configured to heat the aerosol generating material to a higher temperature than when the device is operating in the first mode. The predetermined time is the first predetermined time when the device is operating in the first mode and the second predetermined time when the device is operating in the second mode, and the second predetermined time is different from the first predetermined time.

[0024] As a result, in some examples, this device may operate in different modes. For example, in a first mode, the induction coil may be configured to heat the susceptor to a first temperature. For example, in a second mode, the induction coil may be configured to heat the susceptor to a second temperature. In some examples, the second temperature is higher than the first temperature. The first and second temperatures may be the average temperature of the susceptor measured during a single session.

[0025] The first temperature may be from about 240 °C to about 260 °C, and the second temperature may be from about 270 °C to about 290 °C. The temperature of the aerosol - generating material may be slightly lower than the temperature of the susceptor.

[0026] The first mode may be known as the default mode, and the second mode may be known as the boost mode. In the second mode, for example, a larger quantity or higher concentration of aerosol may be generated than in the first mode.

[0027] In a particular example, the second predetermined time is less than the first predetermined time. For example, when the aerosol - generating material is heated to a high temperature, it may release aerosol more rapidly than when it is heated to a low temperature. This may mean that the device is quickly ready for use.

[0028] In another example, this device is configured to operate in one of a first mode and a second mode. When the device is operating in the second mode, the induction coil is configured to heat the susceptor to a higher temperature than when the device is operating in the first mode. The predetermined time is the first predetermined time when the device is operating in the first mode and the second predetermined time when the device is operating in the second mode, and the second predetermined time is less than the first predetermined time.

[0029] In some examples, the indicator assembly may be configured to indicate a selected heating mode. In some examples, this display may be the same as the display indicating that the device is ready for use. Thus, the type of display used to indicate that the device is ready for use may be based on the mode in which the device is operating. In other examples, the display indicating the mode may be made after a particular mode is selected and before the device is ready for use. Thus, two separate displays may be made. The first display may indicate the mode and the second display may indicate that the device is ready for use. This may allow the user to cancel heating if they inadvertently select the wrong mode. In one particular example, the first display is provided by a tactile component and the second display is provided by a visual component. This is useful because the user may hold the device when selecting the heating mode, while the device may be placed on a surface while waiting for the device to be ready for use. The visual display may be more easily confirmable when the user is no longer holding the device.

[0030] This device may further comprise an input interface, and the controller is configured to generate a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil in response to an input received from the input interface. Thus, the user can start heating the device by interacting with or operating the input interface.

[0031] The input interface may also be referred to as a user interface. The input interface may be a button, a touch screen, a dial, a knob, or a wireless connection to a mobile device (e.g., using Bluetooth®).

[0032] In a specific example, the input interface includes a button, and the above input includes a signal indicating that the button has been released. Thereby, the induction coil starts heating the susceptor if the button is released only once. While the user is pressing the button, the induction coil may be configured not to heat the susceptor. Therefore, the above predetermined time starts when the user releases the button. The button may be a software button or a hardware button. The above signal may be a single signal or two or more signals.

[0033] In a specific example, the above input further includes a signal indicating the length of time the button has been pressed, and the controller is configured to cause the induction coil to generate a variable magnetic field in response to (i) receiving a signal indicating that the button has been released and (ii) determining that the length of time the button has been pressed is equal to or greater than a threshold time. The signal indicating the length of time the button has been pressed may be part of the same signal indicating that the button has been released or a separate signal. Thereby, in some examples, the induction coil may be configured to start heating the susceptor only if the button has been pressed for a specific length of time equal to or greater than the threshold time. In a specific example, the threshold time is 3 seconds or 5 seconds. If the time from when the button is held until it is released is less than the threshold time, the induction coil may be configured not to start heating the susceptor. Thereby, it is possible to avoid heating the susceptor when there is a risk that the user may accidentally press the button and consume energy. For this reason, the controller determines not to cause the induction coil to generate a variable magnetic field if it determines that the length of time the button has been pressed is less than the threshold.

[0034] In one example, this device is configured to operate in a first mode when the length of time the button is pressed is equal to or greater than a first threshold time and less than a second threshold time, and to operate in a second mode when the length of time the button is pressed is equal to or greater than the second threshold time. For example, the first threshold time may be 3 seconds, and the second threshold time may be 5 seconds. Thereby, the user can select different modes using a single button. Selecting multiple modes with a single interface simplifies the operation of the device and reduces the number of components. When the number of components is reduced, the device becomes lighter and there are fewer parts that can lead to breakage or malfunction.

[0035] This device may further include a puff detector that detects the timing when the user takes a puff (inhales once) on the device, and the controller is configured to generate a varying magnetic field in the inductor coil in response to the puff detector detecting the timing when the user takes a puff on the device. Therefore, this device may automatically start heating when the user inhales on the device.

[0036] In some examples, the indicator assembly indicates that the inductor coil has started generating a varying magnetic field. Thereby, the user does not have to try to start operating the device again.

[0037] In one configuration, the indicator assembly includes a visual component configured to provide a visual indication that the device is ready for use. For example, the visual component may include an LED, a plurality of LEDs, a display, an e-ink display, or a mechanical component that displays one or more patterns by movement. In some examples, the visual component is configured to emit light.

[0038] In a specific example, the indicator assembly includes a plurality of LEDs, and the number of lit LEDs indicates the timing when the device is ready for use. For example, when the inductor coil first starts generating a variable magnetic field, the first number of LEDs light up, and when the device is ready for use, the second number of LEDs light up, and the second number may be greater than the first number. The first number of LEDs may be zero. The second number may be all the LEDs. Thus, the indicator assembly can indicate how close the device is to being ready for use. The LEDs may be arranged to light up sequentially at the above-mentioned predetermined time.

[0039] In a specific example, there are four LEDs, and these LEDs light up sequentially at the above-mentioned predetermined time. For example, the first LED may be arranged to light up 5 seconds after the inductor coil generates a magnetic field, the second LED may be arranged to light up 10 seconds after the inductor coil generates a magnetic field, the third LED may be arranged to light up 15 seconds after the inductor coil generates a magnetic field, and the fourth LED may be arranged to light up 20 seconds after the inductor coil generates a magnetic field. The lighting of the last LED may indicate that the device is ready for use. The LEDs that light up earlier may remain lit when the next LED lights up. Alternatively, when the subsequent LED lights up, the previous LED may turn off.

[0040] In another example, the indicator assembly comprises a tactile component configured to provide tactile feedback indicating that the device is ready for use. For example, the tactile component may be a tactile motor that vibrates the device when it is ready for use. In some examples, the tactile component provides tactile feedback according to a first pattern after the inductor coil generates a varying magnetic field, and provides tactile feedback according to a second pattern when the device is ready for use. The first pattern may continue until the device is ready for use, or may terminate after a short time. Thus, the tactile component may also indicate that the device has started heating the aerosol-generating material so that the user can recognize that the device is operating.

[0041] In another example, the indicator assembly comprises an auditory indicator configured to emit a sound indicating that the device is ready for use. The auditory indicator may be a transducer, buzzer, bell, or the like.

[0042] In a specific example, the indicator assembly comprises a tactile component and a visual component. The tactile component may be configured to provide a tactile indication that the inductor coil has started generating a varying magnetic field. The visual component may be configured to provide a visual indication that the device is ready for use.

[0043] In some examples, the indicator assembly is configured to indicate the time remaining until the device finishes operating. For example, the indicator assembly may provide different displays according to the time remaining until the device finishes operating. The device may be made to "end operation" when the inductor coil stops generating a varying magnetic field, or at a point in time when the temperature / quantity of the aerosol is considered to have fallen below an acceptable level range (which may be a few seconds after the inductor coil stops generating the magnetic field).

[0044] In a particular example, the indicator assembly includes a plurality of LEDs, and the number of lit LEDs indicates the time remaining until the device finishes operating. For example, when the device is operating, the first number of LEDs are lit, and when the device finishes operating, the second number of LEDs are lit, and the second number may be smaller than the first number. The second number may be, for example, zero. The first number may be all the LEDs. Thus, the LEDs may be made to "count down" as the device approaches completion.

[0045] In a particular example, there are a plurality of LEDs, such as four LEDs, and these LEDs are sequentially turned off as the end of the heating session approaches. For example, all four LEDs may be lit 20 seconds before the device finishes operating. When there are 15 seconds remaining, one of the four LEDs may be turned off. When there are 10 seconds remaining, another LED may be turned off. When there are 5 seconds remaining, another LED may be turned off, and at 0 seconds remaining, all four LEDs may be turned off.

[0046] In another example, the tactile component may be made to provide different tactile feedback patterns according to the remaining time. For example, the tactile component may be made to provide tactile feedback indicating that a certain amount of time remains. The type of tactile feedback may indicate the remaining time. For example, when 20 seconds remain, there may be short and low-intensity tactile feedback, and when only 5 seconds or 0 seconds remain, the tactile feedback may be longer and higher-intensity.

[0047] In yet another example, the auditory indicator may be made to provide different sounds according to the remaining time. For example, the pitch, tone, sound pattern, etc. may change over time.

[0048] In another example, the controller is configured to cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a third predetermined time after generating the variable magnetic field in the inductor coil. Thereby, the indicator assembly may indicate the moment when the operation has ended or is about to end. For example, when the device has finished operating, the visual indicator may not give any visual indication. In a specific example, when the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating, all the LEDs may be turned off. This indicates to the user that the suction from the device should be stopped. The third predetermined time is longer than the first or second predetermined time described above. The third predetermined time may be, for example, 3 minutes, 3 minutes and 30 seconds, or 4 minutes. The third predetermined time may be determined by the mode in which the device is operating.

[0049] This device may define a longitudinal axis. In some examples, the inductor coil is the first inductor coil, and the device further includes a second inductor coil that generates a second variable magnetic field. In a specific configuration, the first inductor coil is adjacent to the second inductor coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis, and the controller is configured to generate a second variable magnetic field in the second inductor coil after causing the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use. During use, the aerosol is drawn towards the proximal end of the device along the flow path of the device, and the first inductor coil is disposed closer to the proximal end of the device than the second inductor coil.

[0050] Accordingly, the device may comprise two inductor coils, with the first inductor coil being close to the mouth-side end of the device. Accordingly, the first inductor coil heats the aerosol-generating material close to the user's mouth. First, the first inductor coil operates. The second inductor coil can be made to operate later. For example, the controller may cause a second magnetic field to be generated in the second inductor coil at a fourth predetermined time after causing a first magnetic field to be generated in the first inductor coil. The fourth predetermined time may be, for example, from about 40 seconds to about 60 seconds. The fourth predetermined time may depend on the mode in which the device is operating.

[0051] The first inductor coil may continue to generate the first magnetic field while the second inductor coil generates the second magnetic field.

[0052] In a particular example, the first inductor coil has a first length, the second inductor coil has a second length, and the first length is shorter than the second length. A shorter length results in less aerosol-generating material being heated and less aerosol being generated, thus suppressing the phenomenon known as the "hot puff".

[0053] In another aspect, a method of operating the aerosol supply device described above is provided. The method includes causing a variable magnetic field that heats the susceptor to be generated in the inductor coil of the aerosol supply device, and causing an indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the device is ready for use within a predetermined time after causing the variable magnetic field to be generated in the inductor coil, the predetermined time being less than about 20 seconds.

[0054] In some examples, the device is configured to operate in one of a first mode and a second mode, and the method includes operating the device in the second mode by heating an aerosol-forming material in an inductor coil to a higher temperature than when the device is operating in the first mode, the predetermined time being a first predetermined time when the device is operating in the first mode and a second predetermined time when the device is operating in the second mode, the second predetermined time being different from the first predetermined time.

[0055] In another example, the device is configured to operate in one of a first mode and a second mode, and the method includes operating the device in the second mode by heating a susceptor in an inductor coil to a higher temperature than when the device is operating in the first mode, the predetermined time being a first predetermined time when the device is operating in the first mode and a second predetermined time when the device is operating in the second mode, the second predetermined time being less than the first predetermined time.

[0056] The method may further include generating an alternating magnetic field in the inductor coil in response to receiving an input from an input interface of the device.

[0057] The input interface may comprise a button, and the input includes (i) a signal indicating that the button has been released and (ii) a signal indicating the length of time the button has been pressed. The method may further include generating an alternating magnetic field in the inductor coil in response to receiving the signal and determining that the length of time the button has been pressed is greater than or equal to a threshold time.

[0058] The method may further include generating an alternating magnetic field in the inductor coil in response to a puff detector detecting that the user has taken a puff on the device.

[0059] This method may further include a step of causing an indicator assembly to display the remaining time until the device finishes operating.

[0060] This method may further include a step of causing an indicator assembly to display that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a third predetermined time after generating an alternating magnetic field in the inductor coil.

[0061] In one configuration, the inductor coil is a first inductor coil, and the device further includes a second inductor coil that generates a second alternating magnetic field. The first inductor coil may be adjacent to the second inductor coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis. During use, an aerosol is drawn toward the proximal end of the device along the flow path of the device, and the first inductor coil is disposed closer to the proximal end of the device than the second inductor coil. This method may further include a step of generating a second alternating magnetic field in the second inductor coil after causing the indicator assembly to display that the device is ready for use.

[0062] Although this method has been described with respect to an induction heater, it is of course applicable to devices equipped with a non-inductive heating assembly. For example, this device may include a heating assembly configured to heat an aerosol-generating material instead of an inductor coil.

[0063] In a second aspect, the aerosol supply device includes a heating assembly configured to heat an aerosol-generating material, an indicator assembly, and a controller. The controller is configured to cause the heating assembly to start heating the aerosol-generating material and to cause the indicator assembly to display that the device is ready for use within a predetermined time after causing the heating assembly to start heating the aerosol-generating material, where the predetermined time is less than about 20 seconds.

[0064] Accordingly, in some examples, the device may comprise a non-inductive heating assembly. For example, the heating assembly may comprise a resistive heating component configured to heat the aerosol-forming material. The features described above with respect to the first aspect are also applicable to the aerosol supply device of the second aspect.

[0065] In a third aspect, the aerosol supply device comprises an inductor coil configured to generate a varying magnetic field, a susceptor configured to heat the aerosol-forming material and heatable by the penetration of the varying magnetic field, an indicator assembly, and a controller. The controller is configured to cause the inductor coil to start generating the varying magnetic field and cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device has ended or is about to end operation within a predetermined time after starting to heat the aerosol-forming material in the inductor coil. Thereby, when the device has ended or is about to end operation, the user can be notified. Thereby, when the amount, concentration, or temperature of the generated aerosol becomes insufficient, the user stops continuing to use the device.

[0066] In another aspect, a method of operating an aerosol supply device includes generating, in an inductor coil of the aerosol supply device, a varying magnetic field that heats a susceptor, and causing an indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the device has ended or is about to end operation within a predetermined time after starting to heat the aerosol-forming material in the inductor coil assembly.

[0067] Although this method has been described with respect to an induction heater, it is of course also applicable to a device comprising a non-inductive heating assembly. For example, the device may comprise a heating assembly configured to heat the aerosol-forming material instead of the inductor coil.

[0068] In a particular example, the indicator assembly comprises one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and an outer member disposed above the one or more LEDs. The outer member comprises a plurality of openings that are visible from outside the aerosol supply device. Electromagnetic radiation (e.g., in the form of visible light) passes through the plurality of openings and is visible to the user. At least a portion of the outer member may constitute the outer surface of the device.

[0069] The indicator assembly may further comprise a light shaping member disposed between the one or more LEDs and the outer member. The light shaping member may comprise one or more light conductors that guide light therethrough to produce a particular pattern or design. The light shaping member may include an opaque region configured to block a portion of the light from the LEDs. The light shaping member may include a transparent or translucent region through which light can pass. Alternatively, the light shaping member may include an opening through which light can pass. A light shaping member that includes an opaque region as well as a transparent or translucent region may be more robust than a light shaping member having an opening. Also, the translucent region may further enable diffusion / reduction of light.

[0070] In some examples, the light shaping member is formed by two or more outer covering components. For example, the opaque and transparent / translucent regions may be formed by two outer covering components.

[0071] In one example, the light shaping member includes an opaque region extending around its perimeter / periphery / outer circumference. This can prevent light from leaking to the outer periphery of the outer member. The opaque region may be an outer ring.

[0072] In one example, the opaque region is colored black or dark gray.

[0073] In one example, the opaque region is in the shape of a cross.

[0074] In a particular example, the device comprises four LEDs, each of which is disposed below the light shaping member and is arranged between adjacent opaque regions such that the light from the LEDs is separated into four quadrants. The opaque regions are configured to prevent light leakage from one quadrant to an adjacent quadrant.

[0075] This device is preferably a tobacco heating device, also known as a non-combustion heating device.

[0076] As briefly described above, in some examples, the (one or more) coils are configured to heat at least one electrically conductive heating component / element (also known as a heating component / element) during use, so that thermal energy can be transferred from at least one electrically conductive heating component to the aerosol-forming material and the aerosol-forming material can be heated.

[0077] In some examples, the (one or more) coils are configured to generate a varying magnetic field that penetrates at least one heating component / element during use to perform induction heating and / or magnetic hysteresis heating of at least one heating component. In such a configuration, the said or each heating component may be referred to as a "susceptor". A coil configured to generate a varying magnetic field that penetrates at least one electrically conductive heating component during use to inductively heat at least one electrically conductive heating component may be referred to as an "induction coil" or "inductor coil".

[0078] This device may comprise one or more heating components (e.g., one or more conductive heating components), and these one or more heating components can enable heating of the one or more heating components as described above by being appropriately arranged or being able to be arranged relative to one or more coils. The one or more heating components may be present at a fixed position relative to the one or more coils. Alternatively, at least one heating component (e.g., at least one conductive heating component) may be included in an article inserted into the heating zone of the device, and this article also contains an aerosol-generating material and is removable from the heating zone after use. Alternatively, both the device and such an article may each comprise at least one heating component (e.g., at least one conductive heating component), and the one or more coils may be configured to heat the one or more heating components of each of the device and the article when the article is in the heating zone.

[0079] In some examples, the one or more coils are helical. In some examples, the one or more coils surround at least a portion of the heating zone of a device configured to receive an aerosol-generating material. In some examples, the one or more coils are one or more helical coils that surround at least a portion of the heating zone. The heating zone may be a receptacle shaped to receive an aerosol-generating material.

[0080] In some examples, this device comprises a conductive heating component that at least partially surrounds the heating zone, and the one or more coils are one or more helical coils that surround at least a portion of the conductive heating component. In some examples, the conductive heating component is tubular. In some examples, the coil is an inductor coil.

[0081] Figure 1 shows an example of an aerosol supply device 100 that generates an aerosol from an aerosol generating medium / material. Generally, the device 100 may be adapted to heat a replaceable article 110 containing an aerosol generating medium to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium that is inhaled by a user of the device 100.

[0082] The device 100 comprises a housing 102 (in the form of an outer cover) that surrounds and houses various components of the device 100. The device 100 has an opening 104 at one end through which the article 110 can be inserted and heated by a heating assembly. In use, the article 110 may be inserted in whole or in part into the heating assembly and heated by one or more components of the heating assembly.

[0083] The device 100 of this example comprises a first end member 106 having a lid 108 that can close the opening 104 by moving relative to the first end member 106 when the article 110 is not in a predetermined position. In Figure 1, the lid 108 is shown in an open configuration, but the cap 108 can also be moved to a closed configuration. For example, the user may slide the lid 108 in the direction of arrow "A".

[0084] Also, the device 100 may comprise a button or switch and may include an input interface 112 that operates the device 100 when pressed. For example, the user may turn on the device 100 by operating the input interface 112.

[0085] Also, the device 100 may comprise an electrical connector / component such as a socket / port 114 that can receive a cable to charge the battery of the device 100. For example, the socket 114 may be a charging port such as a USB charging port. In some examples, the socket 114 may be used for data transfer between the device 100 and another device such as a computer device, in addition to or as an alternative to the above.

[0086] Figure 2 shows the device 100 of FIG. 1 with the outer cover 102 removed and in a state where the article 110 is absent. The device 100 defines a longitudinal axis 134.

[0087] As shown in FIG. 2, the first end member 106 is disposed at one end of the device 100, and a second end member 116 is disposed at the opposite end of the device 100. The first and second end members 106, 116 together at least partially define the end faces of the device 100. For example, the bottom surface of the second end member 116 at least partially defines the bottom surface of the device 100. Also, the edge of the outer cover 102 may define a part of the end face. Further, in this example, the lid 108 defines a part of the upper surface of the device 100.

[0088] The end of the device closest to the opening 104 is considered to be the proximal end (or the mouth-side end) of the device 100 because it is closest to the user's mouth during use. During use, the user inserts the article 110 into the opening 104, operates the user control 112 to start heating the aerosol-generating material, and utilizes the aerosol generated in the device. Thereby, the aerosol flows through the device 100 along the flow path towards the proximal end of the device 100.

[0089] The other end of the device farthest from the opening 104 is considered to be the distal end of the device 100 because it is the end farthest from the user's mouth during use. When the user utilizes the aerosol generated in the device, the aerosol flows in a direction away from the distal end of the device 100.

[0090] Device 100 further includes a power source 118. The power source 118 may be a battery such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium batteries (such as lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically coupled to the heating assembly and supplies power as needed, and heats the aerosol-generating material under the control of a controller (not shown). In this example, the battery is connected to a central support portion 120 that holds the battery 118 in a predetermined position. The central support portion 120 may also be known as a battery support or a battery carrier.

[0091] The device further includes at least one electronic device module 122. The electronic device module 122 may include, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB 122 may support at least one controller such as a processor and a memory. Also, the PCB 122 may include one or more electrical tracks that electrically and integrally connect various electronic components of the device 100. For example, battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB 122 so that power can be distributed throughout the device 100. Also, the socket 114 may be electrically coupled to the battery via an electrical track.

[0092] In exemplary device 100, the heating assembly is an induction heating assembly and includes various components for heating the aerosol - generating material of article 110 by an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating a conductor (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly may include an induction element (e.g., one or more inductor coils) and a device for passing an alternating current or other fluctuating current through the induction element. The fluctuating current in the induction element generates a fluctuating magnetic field. The fluctuating magnetic field penetrates a susceptor suitably arranged relative to the induction element and generates eddy currents inside the susceptor. Since the susceptor has an electrical resistance to the eddy currents, the susceptor is heated by Joule heating due to the flow of the eddy currents against this resistance. Also, when the susceptor contains a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis loss in the susceptor, i.e., by the fluctuating orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of alignment with the fluctuating magnetic field. In induction heating, heat is generated inside the susceptor, for example, as compared with heating by conduction, enabling rapid heating. Furthermore, since no physical contact is required between the induction heater and the susceptor, the degrees of freedom in configuration and application increase.

[0093] The induction heating assembly of exemplary device 100 includes a susceptor construct 132 (referred to herein as the "susceptor"), a first inductor coil 124, and a second inductor coil 126. The first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are made of a conductive material. In this example, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are formed of Litz wire / cable wound in a spiral to form helical inductor coils 124, 126. The Litz wire includes a plurality of individual wires that are individually insulated and form a single wire by an integral twist. The Litz wire is designed to suppress the skin - effect loss of the conductor. In exemplary device 100, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are formed of copper Litz wire having a rectangular cross - section. In other examples, the Litz wire may have a cross - section of other shapes, such as circular.

[0094] The first inductor coil 124 is configured to generate a first alternating magnetic field that heats a first portion of the susceptor 132, and the second inductor coil 126 is configured to generate a second alternating magnetic field that heats a second portion of the susceptor 132. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 is adjacent to the second inductor coil 126 in a direction along the longitudinal axis 134 of the device 100 (i.e., the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 do not overlap). The susceptor structure 132 may comprise a single susceptor or two or more separate susceptors. The ends 130 of the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are connectable to the PCB 122.

[0095] Of course, in some examples, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 may have at least one characteristic that is different from each other. For example, the first inductor coil 124 may have at least one characteristic that is different from the second inductor coil 126. More specifically, in one example, the first inductor coil 124 may have an inductance value that is different from the second inductor coil 126. In FIG. 2, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 have different lengths such that the portion of the first inductor coil 124 wound around the susceptor 132 is smaller than the second inductor coil 126. For this reason, the first inductor coil 124 may have a different number of turns from the second inductor coil 126 (assuming that the spacing between individual turns is substantially the same). In yet another example, the first inductor coil 124 may be composed of a material different from the second inductor coil 126. In some examples, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 may be substantially identical.

[0096] In this example, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are wound in opposite directions. This can be useful when the two inductor coils operate at different timings. For example, after the first inductor coil 124 first operates to heat the first portion of the article 110, the second inductor coil 126 may operate to heat the second portion of the article 110. Winding the coils in opposite directions helps to suppress the current induced in the non-operating coil when used in conjunction with a particular type of control circuit. In FIG. 2, the first inductor coil 124 is a right-handed helix and the second inductor coil 126 is a left-handed helix. However, in another embodiment, the inductor coils 124, 126 may be wound in the same direction, or the first inductor coil 124 may be a left-handed helix and the second inductor coil 126 may be a right-handed helix.

[0097] Since the susceptor 132 of this example is hollow, it defines a receptacle for receiving the aerosol-forming material. For example, the article 110 can be inserted into the susceptor 132. In this example, the susceptor 120 is tubular with a circular cross-section.

[0098] The device 100 of FIG. 2 is generally tubular and further includes a heat insulating member 128 that can at least partially surround the susceptor 132. The heat insulating member 128 may be composed of any heat insulating material such as, for example, plastic. In this particular example, the heat insulating member is composed of polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The heat insulating member 128 can help to insulate the various components of the device 100 from the heat generated in the susceptor 132.

[0099] Furthermore, the heat insulating member 128 can support all or part of the first and second inductor coils 124, 126. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are arranged around the heat insulating member 128 and are in contact with the radially outer surface of the heat insulating member 128. In some examples, the heat insulating member 128 is not adjacent to the first and second inductor coils 124, 126. For example, there may be a small gap between the outer surface of the heat insulating member 128 and the inner surfaces of the first and second inductor coils 124, 126.

[0100] In a specific example, the susceptor 132, the heat insulating member 128, and the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are coaxial around the central longitudinal axis of the susceptor 132.

[0101] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the device 100. In this example, there is an outer cover 102. The rectangular cross-sectional shapes of the first and second inductor coils 124, 126 are more clearly visualized.

[0102] The device 100 further includes a support portion 136 that engages with one end of the susceptor 132 to hold the susceptor 132 in a predetermined position. The support portion 136 is connected to the second end member 116.

[0103] The device may also include a second printed wiring board 138 associated within the input interface 112.

[0104] The device 100 further includes a second lid / cap 140 and a spring 142 arranged toward the distal end of the device 100. The spring 142 enables access to the susceptor 132 by opening the second lid 140. The user may clean the susceptor 132 and / or the support portion 136 by opening the second lid 140.

[0105] Device 100 further includes an expansion chamber 144 that extends from the proximal end of susceptor 132 toward the opening 140 of the device. At least a portion of a holding clip 146 for holding adjacent to an article 110 received within device 100 is disposed within expansion chamber 144. Expansion chamber 144 is connected to end member 106.

[0106] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of device 100 of FIG. 1 with outer cover 102 omitted.

[0107] FIG. 5A of FIG. 5 shows a partial cross-section of device 100 of FIG. 1. FIG. 5B of FIG. 5 shows an enlarged view of a region of FIG. 5A of FIG. 5. FIGS. 5A and 5B of FIG. 5 show article 110 received within susceptor 132, which article 110 is dimensioned such that its outer surface is adjacent to the inner surface of susceptor 132. Thereby, heating is most efficient. Article 110 of the present example includes aerosol-generating material 110a. Aerosol-generating material 110a is disposed within susceptor 132. Also, article 110 may include other components such as a filter, packaging material, and / or a cooling structure.

[0108] FIG. 5B of FIG. 5 shows that the outer surface of susceptor 132 is separated from the inner surfaces of inductor coils 124, 126 by a distance 150 as measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of susceptor 132. In a particular example, distance 150 is about 3 mm to 4 mm, about 3 mm to 3.5 mm, or about 3.25 mm.

[0109] FIG. 5B of FIG. 5 shows that the outer surface of heat-insulating member 128 is separated from the inner surfaces of inductor coils 124, 126 by a distance 152 as measured in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of susceptor 132. In a particular example, distance 152 is about 0.05 mm. In another example, distance 152 is substantially 0 mm such that inductor coils 124, 126 are adjacent to and in contact with heat-insulating member 128.

[0110] In one example, the susceptor 132 has a wall thickness 154 of about 0.025 mm to 1 mm or about 0.05 mm.

[0111] In one example, the susceptor 132 has a length of about 40 mm to 60 mm, about 40 mm to 45 mm, or about 44.5 mm.

[0112] In one example, the insulating member 128 has a wall thickness 156 of about 0.25 mm to 2 mm, about 0.25 mm to 1 mm, or about 0.5 mm.

[0113] FIG. 6 is a front view of the device 100. As briefly described above, this device may include an input interface 112. In some examples, the user may operate the device 100 by interacting with the input interface 112. Proximate to the input interface 112, an indicator assembly may be disposed, which may indicate to the user the occurrence of one or more events, such as when the device is ready for use and / or when the device has finished operating. Also, the indicator assembly may indicate the mode in which the device 100 is operating.

[0114] FIG. 6 shows an outer member 202 disposed above (i.e., in front of) the indicator assembly. In other examples, the indicator assembly may be disposed at other locations on the device. In the examples described herein, the indicator assembly includes visual components configured to provide a visual display. The visual components include a plurality of LEDs that emit electromagnetic radiation such as light to indicate a particular event to the user. Of course, the indicator assembly may include, in addition or in place of this, tactile components or auditory indicators. In this device 100, the indicator assembly includes visual components and tactile components.

[0115] The outer member 202 constitutes the outermost component of the input interface 112. The user may interact with the device 100 by pressing the outer member 202. As will be described in more detail below, the outer member 202 includes a plurality of openings 204 through which light from a plurality of LEDs can pass.

[0116] FIG. 7 shows the housing 102 (also known as the outer cover) of the device 100. The housing 102 defines an opening 206. An outer member (not shown in FIG. 7) can be disposed within the opening 206. For example, the outer member may be disposed in the same plane as the outer surface of the housing 102, or may protrude above or below the outer surface of the housing 102.

[0117] FIG. 8 shows the device 100 with the housing 102 not in place. In this example, the outer member 202 is attached to the light shaping member 210 via an adhesive layer 208. The adhesive of the adhesive layer 208 may cover part or all of the inner surface of the outer member 202. A sealing member 212 extends around the light shaping member 210.

[0118] In some examples, the outer member 202, the adhesive layer 208, the light shaping member 210, and the sealing member 212 may be omitted from the device.

[0119] FIG. 9 shows the device 100 with the outer member 202, the light shaping member 210, and the sealing member 212 removed. The device 100 includes a visual component with four LEDs 214, although in other examples, the number of LEDs, such as one or more LEDs 214, may be different. The LEDs 214 are disposed below the outer member 202 such that light travels from the LEDs 214 through the plurality of openings 204 formed in the outer member 202. Thus, the light also passes through the light shaping member 210 and the adhesive layer 208. Also, one or more additional components may be disposed between the LEDs 214 and the outer member 202.

[0120] In the example of FIG. 9, the LED 214 is disposed around the input interface 112 configured to detect interaction from the user. For example, the user may press or operate the outer member 202, which is detected by the input interface 112. The input interface 112 may be a button or a switch that operates when the user applies a force to the outer member 202. In another example, the input interface 112 and the outer member 202 may be part of a capacitance sensor that detects the timing when the user touches the outer member 202.

[0121] FIG. 10 is a front view of the outer member 202. As described above, the outer member 202 defines a plurality of openings 204. In this example, each of the openings 204 constitutes a slot having a certain length and a certain width.

[0122] The openings 204 are preferably disposed around / on the periphery / outer peripheral side of the outer member 202. As shown in FIG. 10, the openings 204 are disposed closer to the periphery of the outer member 202 than to the center of the outer member 202. Thereby, even when the user presses the outer member 202, the openings 204 can be exposed (and thus the light can be confirmed). The user may be more likely to press / hold the center of the outer member 202 rather than the edge of the outer member 202.

[0123] FIG. 11 is an exploded view showing a part of the components of the device 100. As described above, the device 100 may include an adhesive layer 208 disposed between the LED 214 and the outer member 202. In the illustrated example, the adhesive layer has the same shape and size as the outer member 202 such that the adhesive covers the openings 204. And the light can pass through the adhesive layer 208 before passing through the openings 204. Therefore, the adhesive layer 208 can be transparent or translucent. The translucent adhesive layer 208 can help diffuse the light from the LED so as to avoid "hot spots". A hot spot is a region where the light intensity is higher than that of the surrounding region.

[0124] In some examples, the outer member 202 is attached to the light shaping member 210 via an adhesive layer 208. In the illustrated example, the light shaping member 210 includes one or more opaque regions 230 (which can be integrally joined) and one or more translucent or transparent regions 232 (which can also be integrally joined). The translucent or transparent regions 232 may be known as light conductors since they guide light passing through the light shaping member 210. Light from the LED 214 can pass through the translucent or transparent regions 232 but is blocked by the opaque regions 230. Thus, the opaque regions 230 reduce the intensity of the light passing through some of the openings 204 (i.e., the openings 204 disposed above the opaque regions 230). The opaque regions 230 and the translucent or transparent regions 232 may be regions of a single integral component, or one or both of these regions may be treated to have their own optical properties. In another example, the opaque regions 230 and the translucent or transparent regions 232 are separate components with an outer coating.

[0125] In this example, the light shaping member 210 includes an opaque region 230 extending around its perimeter / periphery / outer circumference. This can prevent light from leaking to the outer periphery of the outer member 202. The opaque region may be, for example, an outer ring.

[0126] In this example, the device 100 includes four LEDs 214, and these LEDs 214 are each disposed between adjacent opaque regions 230 such that the light from the LEDs is separated into four quadrants. In other words, the LEDs 214 may be disposed below the transparent or translucent regions. By separating the light into different regions, different displays can be provided to the user. For example, the number of lit quadrants can indicate a specific event to the user. Thus, the light may be blocked by the opaque regions so that the light cannot pass through a part of the opening.

[0127] In some examples, the regions between the opaque regions 230 are openings and thus do not include a translucent or transparent material.

[0128] A sealing member 212 such as a gasket is disposed between the optical forming member 210 and the LED 214. The outer diameter of the sealing member 212 is larger than the outer diameters of the outer member 202 and the optical forming member 210. In some examples, the sealing member 210 is adjacent to the inner surface of the housing 102 and prevents the intrusion of liquid and dust into the device 100.

[0129] (Indication that the device is ready for use) FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of a system including a controller 302 (one or more processors, etc.), a heating assembly 304, an indicator assembly 306, and an input interface 112. The controller 302 is communicatively coupled to the heating assembly 304, the indicator assembly 306, and the input interface 112 via one or more wired or wireless connections (shown by dashed lines).

[0130] The controller 302 may be disposed, for example, on the PCB 122. The controller 302 can control the operation of the device 100, such as heating the aerosol generating material in the heating assembly 304. In some examples, the controller 302 receives a signal from the input interface 112 and, in response, controls the heating assembly 304 and the indicator assembly 306. The user can operate the device by providing an input to the input interface 112. In a particular example, a heating mode is selected via the input interface 112.

[0131] As described above, the indicator assembly 306 can indicate to the user the occurrence of one or more events. To cause the indicator assembly 306 to display, the controller 302 can send a signal or command to the indicator assembly 306. In the examples of FIGS. 6-11, the indicator assembly 306 includes a visual component including a plurality of LEDs 214. Naturally, the following description is also applicable to other types of indicator assemblies 306.

[0132] In the following example, the heating assembly 304 comprises one or more inductor coils that generate one or more magnetic fields to heat the susceptor. The controller 302 can cause a varying magnetic field to be generated in the (one or more) inductor coils of the device 100. For example, the controller 302 can send one or more signals to the (one or more) inductor coils. When the (one or more) inductor coils generate a varying magnetic field, the susceptor 132 is heated, thereby heating the aerosol-generating material near the susceptor 132. Of course, the following description can also apply to other types of heating assemblies 304.

[0133] The controller 302 may cause the susceptor to be heated in one or more inductor coils to a temperature of about 240°C to about 290°C. In a particular example, the device is configured to operate in one of a first mode and a second mode, and these first and second modes are heating modes. In one example, when the device is operating in the first (default) mode, the controller 302 may cause the first region of the susceptor 132 to be heated in the first inductor coil 124 to a temperature of about 240°C to about 260°C (such as about 250°C). In another example, the device may be operating in the second (boost) mode, and the controller 302 may cause the first region of the susceptor 132 to be heated in the first inductor coil 124 to a temperature of about 270°C to about 290°C (such as about 280°C).

[0134] The second inductor coil 126 may be configured to generate a second magnetic field later during the heating session. For example, the second inductor coil 126 may be configured to generate the second magnetic field about 60 seconds to about 130 seconds after the first inductor coil 124 generates the first magnetic field. The second inductor coil is configured to heat a second region of the susceptor 132. In some examples, both inductor coils 124, 126 operate simultaneously.

[0135] After the first inductor coil 124 starts heating the susceptor 132, the first region of the susceptor 132 can reach the desired temperature within 2 seconds. However, it may take a longer time for heat to penetrate the aerosol-forming material. For example, it may take up to 60 seconds for the aerosol-forming material to approach the temperature of the susceptor 132. Due to the efficiency of inductive heating, the aerosol generated in the first 10 - 30 seconds can still maintain a state suitable for inhalation even though the aerosol-forming material is not fully heated.

[0136] Accordingly, the controller 302 may be configured to cause the device's indicator assembly 306 to indicate that the device is ready for use within a predetermined time after causing the first inductor coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. For example, the predetermined time may be less than about 30 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 15 seconds, or less than about 10 seconds after causing the inductor coil to generate an alternating magnetic field. The controller 302 may start a timer at the moment (or immediately after) causing the inductor coil to generate an alternating magnetic field.

[0137] In a particular example, the predetermined time is determined by the mode in which the device is operating. For example, when the device is operating in a second boost mode, the predetermined time is shorter than the predetermined time when the device is operating in a first default mode. This is presumably because the aerosol-forming material is heated to a higher temperature in a shorter time in the second boost mode, meaning that the device can be made ready for use more quickly.

[0138] In one example, the LED 214 emits light indicating the timing when the device 100 is ready for use. For example, when the device 100 is ready for use (i.e., after the predetermined time has elapsed), one or all of the LED 214s may be turned on.

[0139] In a specific example, the number of lit LEDs 214 indicates the timing when the device is ready for use. For example, when all the LEDs 214 are lit, the device may be ready for use.

[0140] Fig. 13A of FIG. 13 shows the outer member 202 disposed above the four LEDs 214. Since none of the LEDs 214 are lit, there is no light passing through the opening 204. At this point, since the user may not have pressed the input interface 112 yet, the controller 302 may not have received an input from the input interface 112, nor generated a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil 124. When an input is detected, the controller 302 generates a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil 124. Also, Fig. 13A of FIG. 13 shows the outer member 202 at a point in time after the user has pressed the input interface 112 but before any of the LEDs 214 turn on.

[0141] Fig. 13B of FIG. 13 shows the outer member 202 at a first threshold time after the controller 302 has generated a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil 124. The first threshold time may be, for example, 5 seconds. At this point, one of the LEDs is lit, and the light passes through some of the openings 204, illuminating one quadrant of the outer member 202.

[0142] Fig. 13C of FIG. 13 shows the outer member 202 at a second threshold time after the controller 302 has generated a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil 124. The second threshold time may be, for example, 10 seconds. At this point, two of the LEDs are lit, and the light passes through some of the openings 204, illuminating two quadrants of the outer member 202.

[0143] Fig. 13D of FIG. 13 shows the outer member 202 at a third threshold time after the controller 302 generates a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil 124. The third threshold time may be, for example, 15 seconds. At this point, three of the LEDs are lit, and light passes through some of the openings 204, lighting three quadrants of the outer member 202.

[0144] Fig. 13E of FIG. 13 shows the outer member 202 at a fourth threshold time after the controller 302 generates a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil 124. The fourth threshold time may be, for example, 20 seconds. At this point, all four of the LEDs are lit, and light passes through most of the openings 204, lighting four quadrants of the outer member 202. Thus, when all four LEDs are lit, the indicator assembly 306 indicates that the device is ready for use. This occurs within 20 seconds after generating a magnetic field in the inductor coil 124.

[0145] In another example, the first threshold time may be from about 3 seconds to about 5 seconds, the second threshold time may be from about 6 seconds to about 10 seconds, the third threshold time may be from about 9 seconds to about 15 seconds, and the fourth threshold time may be from about 12 seconds to about 20 seconds. The first, second, third, and fourth threshold times may depend on the mode in which the device is operating. For example, when the device is operating in a first default mode, the first, second, third, and fourth threshold times may each be longer than the first, second, third, and fourth threshold times, respectively, when the device is operating in a second boost mode. This may be because the aerosol-generating material is heated more rapidly in the second boost mode.

[0146] In a particular example, the indicator assembly 306 may further comprise a tactile component configured to provide tactile feedback indicating that the device has started heating the aerosol-forming material. This can be useful when the first LED does not light up when the inductor coil starts generating a magnetic field, but instead lights up after a first threshold time. The tactile feedback may be configured to indicate the mode in which the device is operating.

[0147] In some examples, the first LED may light up substantially simultaneously with the controller 302 causing the inductor coil 124 to generate a magnetic field (i.e., not after the first threshold time has elapsed). Thus, the visual component of the indicator assembly 306 may also indicate that the device has started heating the aerosol-forming material. Also, the tactile component may provide an indication substantially simultaneously with the inductor coil starting to generate a magnetic field.

[0148] In another example, the indicator assembly 306 may comprise a tactile component configured to provide tactile feedback indicating that the device is ready for use. This may occur as an alternative or addition to any other type of indication. For example, the indicator assembly 306 may provide both a visual indication and tactile feedback indicating that the device is ready for use.

[0149] In another example, the indicator assembly 306 may comprise an auditory indicator configured to emit a sound indicating that the device is ready for use. This may occur as an alternative or addition to any other type of indication. For example, the indicator assembly 306 may provide both a visual indication and sound emission indicating that the device is ready for use.

[0150] (Input Interface) As described above, the controller 302 detects an input from the input interface 112 and, in response thereto, generates a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil 124. In this example, the input interface 112 includes a single button and transmits a signal indicating that the user has operated the input interface to the controller. In a specific example, this signal indicates that the user has released the button. Thus, the user can press and hold the button, and the controller 302 generates a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil 124 when the button is released.

[0151] In a specific example, the user can press and hold the button for different lengths of time, and the device operates in a specific mode according to this length of time. Thus, the input received from the input interface 112 may include a signal indicating the length of time the button was pressed, for example, as a display of the time itself, or by transmitting two signals (one for pressing and the other for releasing) measurable by the controller 302 for time measurement. The controller 302 may be configured to generate a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil 124 in response to receiving a signal indicating that the button has been released and determining that the length of time the button was pressed is equal to or greater than a threshold time. If the length of time is less than the threshold time, the device 100 does not start heating. In a specific example, if the length of time is less than the threshold time, the device 100 may display the power level of the device's power supply 118.

[0152] As described above, the device 100 may be configured to operate in a first mode or a second mode. For this reason, in a specific example, when the length of time the button is pressed is equal to or greater than a first threshold time and less than a second threshold time, the controller 302 is configured to operate the device in the first mode. When the length of time the button is pressed is equal to or greater than the second threshold time, the device is configured to operate in the second mode. For example, the first threshold time may be 3 seconds, and the second threshold time may be 5 seconds. Thereby, the user can select different modes using a single button. When the user presses the button for a time longer than 3 seconds and shorter than 5 seconds, the device operates in the first mode.

[0153] In a specific example, when the length of time the button is pressed is equal to or greater than a third threshold time, the device is configured to operate in a setting mode. According to the setting mode, the user can set the device. The third threshold time may be longer than the second threshold time. In a specific example, the third threshold time is 8 seconds. When the user presses the button for a time longer than 5 seconds and shorter than 8 seconds, the device operates in the second mode.

[0154] In another example, when the length of time the button is pressed is equal to or greater than a fourth threshold time and less than a first time, the device is configured to display the power level of the power supply 118. The fourth threshold time may be, for example, 1 second. When the user presses the button for a time longer than 1 second and shorter than 3 seconds, the device can display the power level. The power level may be indicated by the indicator assembly 306. For example, when the power level is 0% - 25%, one of the four LEDs 214 may be lit. When the power level is 25% - 50%, two of the LEDs 214 may be lit. When the power level is 50% - 75%, three of the LEDs 214 may be lit. When the power level is 75% - 100%, all four of the LEDs 214 may be lit.

[0155] Above, only one specific type of input interface 112 has been described. In another example, the user selects an operation mode using a touch screen. In another example, one or more input interfaces may exist. For example, to operate the device in a first mode, the user may operate a first input interface, and to operate the device in a second mode, the user may operate a second input interface. Accordingly, the controller 302 may be configured to generate a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil in response to an input received from one of the first and second input interfaces.

[0156] (Display indicating that the device has finished operating) As described above, the indicator assembly 306 can indicate that the device is ready for use or that the device has started heating the aerosol-generating material. As an alternative or addition to this, the indicator assembly 306 can indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating. In a specific example, the indicator assembly 306 is configured to indicate the time remaining until the device finishes operating.

[0157] The device may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating material for a predetermined time. Accordingly, the controller 302 may cause the indicator assembly 306 to display that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after generating a variable magnetic field in the inductor coil. This predetermined time may be, for example, about 3 minutes, 3 minutes and 30 seconds, or 4 minutes. In some examples, this predetermined time is determined by the mode in which the device is operating.

[0158] In another example, the device may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating material over a predetermined number of "puffs". For example, the device may include a puff sensor that determines the timing at which the user takes a puff or draws on the device. Accordingly, the controller 302 may cause the indicator assembly 306 to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating when a predetermined number of puffs are detected by the puff sensor.

[0159] In another example, the device may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating material until a predetermined amount of air is drawn through the device. For example, the device may include a flow sensor that determines the amount of air flowing through the device over the entire heating session. Accordingly, the controller 302 may cause the indicator assembly 306 to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating when a predetermined amount of air has flowed through the device.

[0160] In another example, the device may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating material until a predetermined amount of energy is used by the device. For example, the device may include an energy detection module that determines the amount of energy used by the device during the heating session. Accordingly, the controller 302 may cause the indicator assembly 306 to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating when a predetermined amount of energy has been used by the device.

[0161] In another example, the device may be configured to heat the aerosol - generating material and may also be configured to stop heating when the battery level drops below a threshold. For example, the device may include an energy - detection module that determines the amount of energy remaining in the battery. Thus, the controller 302 may cause the indicator assembly 306 to display that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating when the remaining energy drops below the threshold.

[0162] In one example, the indicator assembly 306 indicates that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating by stopping the display. For example, during operation of the device, visual components such as one or more LEDs may be configured to visually indicate that the device is operating. When the visual display stops, the user may be informed that the device has finished operating. For example, if one or more LEDs are lit during operation of the device, they may be turned off when the device has finished operating to indicate to the user.

[0163] In another example, the indicator assembly 306 indicates that the device has finished operating by a specific display. For example, the visual component may be configured to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating by a specific display. This visual display may be different from the previous visual display. For example, if one or more LEDs are lit during operation of the device, they may blink in a specific pattern to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating.

[0164] In a particular example, the indicator assembly 306 may further comprise a tactile component configured to provide tactile feedback indicating that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating. In another example, the indicator assembly 306 may comprise an auditory indicator configured to emit a sound indicating that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating. Two or more different types of indications may be provided.

[0165] In some examples, the indicator assembly 306 is configured to indicate the time remaining until the device finishes operating. For example, indications may be provided at various times as the device approaches its end time.

[0166] In one example, the tactile component may provide tactile feedback 20 seconds after the end of the heating session, or 15 seconds, 10 seconds, 5 seconds after the end of the heating session, and at the end of the heating session. The tactile feedback provided at each time point may be the same or different. For example, the feedback may increase in intensity or duration towards the end of the heating session.

[0167] In another example, the indicator assembly 306 comprises a plurality of LEDs, and the number of lit LEDs indicates the time remaining until the device finishes operating. For example, when the device is operating, a first number of LEDs are lit, and when the device has finished operating, a second number of LEDs are lit, and the second number may be smaller than the first number. The second number may be zero, for example. The first number may be all the LEDs. Thus, the LEDs may perform a "countdown" as the device approaches the end.

[0168] In a specific example, there are multiple LEDs, such as four LEDs, and these LEDs are sequentially turned off as the end of the heating session approaches. Fig. 13E in FIG. 13 can show the outer member 202 when the device is operating. The first and / or second inductor coil may or may not be operating at this point. At this point, all four LEDs are lit, indicating that the user can still use the device. There may be a certain threshold time remaining until the device finishes operating. For example, 20 seconds may remain until the device finishes operating.

[0169] In one example, this device can be said to have "finished operating" when the first and / or second inductor coil stops generating a variable magnetic field. In another example, this device can be said to have "finished operating" when the temperature / amount of the aerosol is considered to have fallen below the allowable range level (which may be after the point when the first and / or second inductor coil stops generating a variable magnetic field).

[0170] Fig. 13D in FIG. 13 can show the outer member 202 at a point in time after Fig. 13E in FIG. 13. For example, there may be only 15 seconds remaining until the device finishes operating. At this point, one of the four LEDs is off, and light passes through some of the openings 204, lighting three quadrants of the outer member 202.

[0171] Fig. 13C in FIG. 13 can show the outer member 202 at a point in time after Fig. 13D in FIG. 13. For example, there may be only 10 seconds remaining until the device finishes operating. At this point, two of the four LEDs are off, and light passes through some of the openings 204, lighting two quadrants of the outer member 202.

[0172] Fig. 13B of FIG. 13 may show the outer member 202 at a point in time after Fig. 13C of FIG. 13. For example, there may be only 5 seconds left until the device finishes operating. At this point, 3 out of the 4 LEDs are off, and light passes through some of the openings 204 to light up one quadrant of the outer member 202.

[0173] Fig. 13A of FIG. 13 may show the outer member 202 at a point in time after Fig. 13B of FIG. 13. For example, this device may have finished operating. At this point, all 4 LEDs are off and no light is visible. Thus, the indicator assembly 306 indicates that the device has finished operating while also showing the time remaining until the device finishes operating.

[0174] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method of operating an aerosol supply device. This method includes, at block 402, generating an alternating magnetic field that heats a susceptor in an inductor coil of the aerosol supply device. This method includes, at block 404, causing an indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the device is ready for use within a predetermined time after generating the alternating magnetic field in the inductor coil, where the predetermined time is about 20 seconds or less. In one example, the indicator assembly indicates that the device is ready for use at a predetermined time after generating the alternating magnetic field in the inductor coil.

[0175] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of another method of operating an aerosol supply device. This method includes, at block 502, generating an alternating magnetic field that heats a susceptor in an inductor coil of the aerosol supply device. This method includes, at block 504, causing an indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after starting to heat an aerosol-generating material in the inductor coil assembly.

[0176] The above-described embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples for explaining the present invention. Other embodiments of the present invention are also conceivable. It is to be understood that any feature described with respect to any one embodiment can be used alone or in combination with other described features, and also in combination with one or more features of any other or any arbitrary combination of embodiments. Further, equivalents and improvements not described above as defined in the appended claims can be employed without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0177] The present disclosure includes the following aspects. [Claim 1] A coil, A heating component configured to heat an aerosol-generating material and heatable by the coil, An indicator assembly, And a controller An aerosol supply device comprising: The controller is configured to Cause the coil to heat the heating component, And cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the aerosol supply device is ready for use within a predetermined time after heating the heating component by the coil, wherein the predetermined time is less than about 60 seconds. An aerosol supply device configured to perform the above. [Claim 2] The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined time is less than about 15 seconds after heating the heating component by the coil. [Claim 3] When the aerosol supply device is configured to operate in one of a first mode and a second mode, and when the aerosol supply device is operating in the second mode, the coil is configured to heat the aerosol generating material to a higher temperature than when the aerosol supply device is operating in the first mode, the predetermined time is a first predetermined time when the aerosol supply device is operating in the first mode and a second predetermined time when the aerosol supply device is operating in the second mode, and the second predetermined time is different from the first predetermined time. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2. [Claim 4] When the aerosol supply device is configured to operate in one of a first mode and a second mode, and when the aerosol supply device is operating in the second mode, the coil is configured to heat the heating component to a higher temperature than when the aerosol supply device is operating in the first mode, the predetermined time is a first predetermined time when the aerosol supply device is operating in the first mode and a second predetermined time when the aerosol supply device is operating in the second mode, and the second predetermined time is less than the first predetermined time. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1 or 2. [Claim 5] The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the aerosol supply device further comprises an input interface, and the controller is configured to cause the coil to heat the heating component in response to an input received from the input interface. [Claim 6] The aerosol supply device according to claim 5, wherein the input interface comprises a button, and the input comprises a signal indicating that the button has been released. [Claim 7] The input further comprises a signal indicating the length of time the button has been pressed, and the controller receiving the signal indicating that the button has been released, Determining that the length of the time when the button is pressed is equal to or greater than a threshold time The aerosol supply device according to claim 6, configured to cause the heating component to be heated in the coil in response thereto. [Claim 8] The aerosol supply device further includes a puff detector that detects the timing when the user takes one puff with the aerosol supply device, The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the controller is configured to cause the heating component to be heated in the coil in response to the puff detector detecting the timing when the user takes one puff with the aerosol supply device. [Claim 9] The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the indicator assembly includes a visual component configured to provide a visual indication that the aerosol supply device is ready for use. [Claim 10] The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the indicator assembly includes a tactile component configured to provide tactile feedback indicating that the aerosol supply device is ready for use. [Claim 11] The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the indicator assembly includes an auditory indicator configured to emit a sound indicating that the aerosol supply device is ready for use. [Claim 12] The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the indicator assembly is configured to indicate the time remaining until the aerosol supply device finishes operating. [Claim 13] The controller is configured to cause the indicator assembly to display that the aerosol supply device has ended or is about to end operation within a third predetermined time after heating the heating component in the coil, the aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 12. [Claim 14] The coil is a first coil, and the aerosol supply device further includes a second coil that heats the heating component. The first coil is adjacent to the second coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device. After the controller causes the indicator assembly to display that the aerosol supply device is ready for use, the controller is configured to heat the heating component in the second coil. During use, aerosol is drawn toward the proximal end of the aerosol supply device along the flow path of the aerosol supply device, and the first coil is disposed closer to the proximal end of the aerosol supply device than the second coil, the aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 13. [Claim 15] A coil, A heating component configured to heat an aerosol generating material and heatable by the coil, An indicator assembly, And a controller An aerosol supply device comprising: The controller is To start heating the heating component in the coil, To cause the indicator assembly to display that the aerosol supply device has ended or is about to end operation within a predetermined time after starting heating of the aerosol generating material in the coil And is configured to perform, an aerosol supply device. [Claim 16] A method of operating an aerosol supply device, comprising: heating a heating component in a coil of the aerosol supply device; causing an indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the aerosol supply device is ready for use within a predetermined time after heating the heating component in the coil, the predetermined time being less than about 60 seconds; and a method comprising the steps of: [Claim 17] The method according to claim 16, wherein the predetermined time is less than about 15 seconds after heating the heating component in the coil. [Claim 18] The aerosol supply device is configured to operate in one of a first mode and a second mode, the method comprising operating the aerosol supply device in the second mode by heating an aerosol generating material in the coil to a higher temperature than when the aerosol supply device is operating in the first mode, the predetermined time being a first predetermined time when the aerosol supply device is operating in the first mode and a second predetermined time when the aerosol supply device is operating in the second mode, the second predetermined time being different from the first predetermined time, the method according to claim 16 or 17. [Claim 19] The aerosol supply device is configured to operate in one of a first mode and a second mode, the method comprising operating the aerosol supply device in the second mode by heating the heating component in the coil to a higher temperature than when the aerosol supply device is operating in the first mode, the predetermined time being a first predetermined time when the aerosol supply device is operating in the first mode and a second predetermined time when the aerosol supply device is operating in the second mode, the second predetermined time being less than the first predetermined time, the method according to claim 16 or 17. Claim 20 The method according to any one of claims 16 to 19, further comprising heating the heating component in the coil in response to receiving an input from the input interface of the aerosol supply device. Claim 21 The input interface includes a button, and the input is the button being released, and the length of time the button is pressed and includes a signal indicating, The method further includes receiving the signal and heating the heating component in the coil in response to determining that the length of time the button is pressed is equal to or greater than a threshold time. The method according to claim 20. Claim 22 The method according to any one of claims 16 to 21, further comprising heating the heating component in the coil in response to the puff detector detecting that the user has taken one puff with the aerosol supply device. Claim 23 The method according to any one of claims 16 to 22, further comprising causing the indicator assembly to display the time remaining until the aerosol supply device finishes operating. Claim 24 The method according to any one of claims 16 to 23, further comprising causing the indicator assembly to display that the aerosol supply device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a third predetermined time after heating the heating component in the coil. Claim 25 The coil is a first coil, and the aerosol supply device further comprises a second coil that heats the heating component, wherein the first coil is adjacent to the second coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol supply device, In use, the aerosol is drawn along the flow path of the aerosol supply device towards the proximal end of the aerosol supply device, and the first coil is disposed closer to the proximal end of the aerosol supply device than the second coil. The method further includes heating the heating component in the second coil after the indicator assembly indicates that the aerosol supply device is ready for use, the method according to any one of claims 16 to 24. [Claim 26] A method of operating an aerosol supply device, heating a heating component in a coil of the aerosol supply device; causing an indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the aerosol supply device has ended or is about to end operation within a predetermined time after heating the heating component in the coil; comprising.

Claims

[Claim 1] A coil and a heating component configured to heat the aerosol-forming material and heatable by the coil; An indicator assembly; Controller and 1. An aerosol delivery device comprising: The controller: causing the coil to heat the heating component; causing the indicator assembly to indicate that the aerosol delivery device is ready for use within a predetermined time after causing the coil to heat the heating component, the predetermined time being less than about 60 seconds; The aerosol delivery device is configured to:

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