Apparatus for generating aerosol from aerosolizable medium, article of aerosolizable medium, and method of operating aerosol generating apparatus

Abstract

To provide an apparatus for generating aerosol from an aerosolizable medium.SOLUTION: An apparatus 100 includes: a housing 102; a chamber 112 for receiving an article 102; a sensor 122; and a cover system 128. The article includes an aerosolizable medium, and a detectable element provided in association with the article. The sensor is configured to sense the detectable element when an article is received in the chamber. The cover system can be configured in at least a first configuration to substantially cover the sensor, and a second configuration in which a field of view of the sensor is substantially without obstruction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium, an article of aerosolizable medium, a system comprising an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium and an article of aerosolizable medium, and a method of operating an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium. Background

[0002] Articles such as cigarettes and cigars generate tobacco smoke by burning the tobacco during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these articles by creating products that release compounds without burning. Examples of such products are so-called "non-combustion heating" products, also known as tobacco heating products or tobacco heating devices, which release compounds by heating rather than burning the material. Summary

[0003] In a first example, an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium is provided. The apparatus comprises a housing, a chamber for receiving an article, the article comprising an aerosolizable medium and a detectable element provided in association with the article, a sensor configured to detect the detectable element when the article is received within the chamber, and a cover system. The cover system can be configured in at least a first arrangement that substantially covers the sensor and a second arrangement in which the field of view of the sensor is substantially unobstructed.

[0004] In a second example, an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium is provided. The apparatus includes a housing, a chamber for receiving an article, the article comprising an aerosolizable medium and an optically detectable mark provided in association with the article, an optical sensor configured to detect the mark when the article is received within the chamber, and a cover system. The cover system can be configured in at least a first arrangement that substantially covers the optical sensor and a second arrangement in which the field of view of the optical sensor is not substantially obstructed.

[0005] In a third example, an aerosol supply system is provided that includes an apparatus, an aerosolizable medium, and an article comprising an optically detectable mark.

[0006] In a fourth example, a method of operating an aerosol generating device having an optical sensor is provided. The method includes monitoring for the presence or absence of an article for use with the aerosol generating device, the article comprising an aerosolizable medium and a mark; detecting the mark of the article by the optical sensor; operating the aerosol generating device based on the detected mark; and closing a cover system after detecting the mark of the article.

[0007] In a fifth example, an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium is provided. The apparatus includes a chamber for receiving an article, the article comprising an aerosolizable medium and a mark, and an optical sensor assembly for reading the mark. The surface of the optical sensor assembly is arranged to contact an article received within the chamber during use.

[0008] In a sixth example, an article is provided that includes an aerosolizable medium and a mark. At least a portion of the outer surface of the article is compressible and is configured to contact an optical sensor assembly of an apparatus when the article is inserted into the apparatus for generating an aerosol from the aerosolizable medium, the apparatus being configured to receive the article and aerosolize the aerosolizable medium of the article.

[0009] In a seventh example, a method for cleaning an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium is provided. The apparatus comprises a chamber for receiving an article comprising the aerosolizable medium and an optical sensor assembly. The method includes inserting an article comprising the aerosolizable medium into the chamber and, at least in part during the inserting step, wiping the surface of the optical sensor assembly with the surface of the article.

[0010] In an eighth example, an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium is provided. The apparatus comprises a chamber for receiving an article, the chamber defining a longitudinal axis, wherein the article comprises the aerosolizable medium and a mark, and a sensor for reading the mark received in the chamber during use. The sensor is spaced apart from the chamber during use so as to define a gap between the sensor and the article received in the chamber, and is spaced apart from the chamber in a direction not parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0011] In a ninth example, an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium is provided. The apparatus comprises a housing, a chamber for receiving an article, the article comprising the aerosolizable medium and a detectable element provided in association with the article, a sensor configured to detect the detectable element when the article is received in the chamber, and a replaceable cover. The replaceable cover is disposed to cover the sensor and does not substantially affect the operation of the sensor.

[0012] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, given by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013]

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[0014] As used herein, the term "aerosolizable medium" includes materials that, when heated, typically provide volatile components in the form of an aerosol. The "aerosolizable medium" includes any tobacco-containing material and may include, for example, one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. The "aerosolizable medium" may also include other non-tobacco products, which may or may not contain nicotine depending on the product. The "aerosolizable medium" may take the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, or wax. The "aerosolizable medium" may also be, for example, a combination or blend of materials.

[0015] The present disclosure typically relates to an apparatus for heating an aerosolizable medium to volatilize at least one component of the aerosolizable medium without burning or combusting the aerosolizable medium to form an aerosol that can be inhaled. Such an apparatus is sometimes described as a "non-combustion heating device", or a "tobacco heating product", or a "tobacco heating device", or something similar. Similarly, there are so-called e-cigarette devices that typically vaporize an aerosolizable medium in the form of a liquid that may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosolizable medium may take the form of a rod, cartridge or cassette that can be inserted into the apparatus, or may be provided as part of these. One or more aerosol generation elements for volatilizing the aerosolizable medium may be provided as a "permanent" part of the apparatus, or may be provided as part of a consumable that is discarded and replaced after use. In one example, one or more aerosol generation elements may be in the form of a heater configuration. FIG. 1 shows an example of an apparatus 100 for generating an aerosolizable medium. The apparatus 100 may be an aerosol supply device. Briefly described, the apparatus 100 can be used to heat a replaceable article 102 comprising an aerosolizable medium to generate an aerosol or other inhalable medium that is inhaled by a user of the apparatus 100. FIG. 2 is a top view of the example of the apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1.

[0016] The device 100 comprises a housing 104. The housing 104 has an opening 106 at one end, and the article 102 can be inserted through this opening into a heating chamber (not shown). In use, the article 102 can be inserted completely or partially into the chamber. The heating chamber can be heated by one or more heating elements (not shown). The device 100 may also include a lid or cap 108 to cover the opening 106 when the article 102 is not in place. In FIGS. 1 and 2, the cap 108 is shown in an open configuration, but the cap 108 can be moved, for example, to a slid closed configuration. The device 100 may include a user-operable control element 110, such as a button or switch that, when pressed, operates the device 100.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of an example of the device 100 as shown in FIG. 1. The device 100 has a receiving portion or heating chamber 112 configured to receive the article 102 to be heated. In one example, the heating chamber 112 is generally in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube, and in use, the article 102 with an aerosolizable medium is inserted for heating. However, different configurations are possible for the heating chamber 112. In the example of FIG. 3, the article 102 with an aerosolizable medium is inserted into the heating chamber 112. The article 102 in this example is an elongated cylindrical rod, but the article 102 may take any suitable shape. In this example, the end of the article 102 protrudes from the device 100 through the opening 106 of the housing 104 so that the user can inhale the aerosol through the article 102 during use. The end of the article 102 protruding from the device 100 may include filter material. In other examples, the article 102 is completely received within the heating chamber 112 so as not to protrude from the device 100. In such a case, the user can inhale the aerosol directly from the opening 106 or through a suction port that can be connected to the housing 102 around the opening 106.

[0018] Device 100 comprises one or more aerosol - generating elements. In one example, the aerosol - generating element is in the form of a heater assembly 120 configured to heat an article 102 disposed within chamber 112. In one example, heater assembly 120 comprises a resistive heating element that increases in temperature when an electric current passes through it. In other examples, heater assembly 120 may comprise a susceptor material that is heated by inductive heating. In an example of heater assembly 120 comprising a susceptor material, device 100 also comprises one or more inductive elements that generate a varying magnetic field that penetrates heater assembly 120. The heater assembly can be disposed inside or outside of the heating chamber 112. In one example, the heater assembly may comprise a thin - film heater wound around the outer surface of heating chamber 112. For example, heater assembly 120 may be formed as a single heater or may be formed from a plurality of heaters aligned along the longitudinal axis of heating chamber 112. Heating chamber 112 may be annular or tubular, or its perimeter may be at least partially annular or partially tubular. In one particular example, heating chamber 112 is defined by a stainless - steel support tube. Heating chamber 112 is dimensioned such that, in use, substantially the entire aerosolizable medium of article 102 is disposed within heating chamber 112 so as to be able to heat the entire aerosolizable medium. In other examples, heater assembly 120 may include a susceptor disposed on or within article 102, in which case the susceptor material is heatable by a varying magnetic field generated by device 100. Heating chamber 112 may be configured to selectively heat selected portions of the aerosolizable medium, for example, independently in sequence (over time) or together (simultaneously), if desired.

[0019] In some examples, device 100 includes an electronic device compartment 114 that houses an electrical control circuit or controller 116 and / or a power source 118 such as a battery. In other examples, a dedicated electronic device compartment may not be provided, and the controller 116 and power source 118 may be disposed throughout device 100. The electrical control circuit or controller 116 may include a microprocessor configuration configured and arranged to control heating of the aerosolizable medium, as further discussed below. Device 100 includes a sensor configuration 122 configured to detect a marker configuration or indicia 126 indicative of a parameter associated with article 102, as further discussed below.

[0020] In some examples, controller 116 is configured to receive one or more inputs / signals from sensor configuration 122. Controller 116 can also receive a signal from control element 110 and activate heater configuration 120 in response to the received signal and received inputs. The electronic elements within device 100 can be electrically connected by one or more connection elements 124 shown in dashed lines.

[0021] Power source 118 can be a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery, for example. Examples of suitable batteries include, for example, lithium-ion batteries, nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), and / or alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically coupled to one or more heaters to supply power when needed and to heat the aerosolizable medium without combusting the aerosolizable medium under the control of controller 116. Placing power source 118 adjacent to heater configuration 120 means that a physically larger power source 118 can be used without making device 100 overly long as a whole. As is understood, generally, a physically larger power source 118 has a greater capacity (i.e., the total electrical energy that can be supplied, often measured in ampere-hours, etc.) and can thus provide a longer battery life for device 100.

[0022] It may be desirable for the device to be able to identify or recognize a particular article 102 introduced into the device 100 without further input from the user. For example, in particular, a device 100 including heating control provided by a controller 116 is often optimized for a particular configuration of the article 102. Examples include controlling based on one or more of size, shape, a particular smoking material, etc. It is not desirable for the device 100 to be used with an aerosol medium or article 102 having different characteristics.

[0023] Furthermore, if the device 100 can identify or recognize a particular article 102 introduced into the device 100 or at least the general type of the article 102, this can help to eliminate or at least reduce the use of counterfeit or other non-genuine articles 102 with the device 100.

[0024] In one example, a sensor assembly 122 in the form of an optical sensor is configured to detect a mark 126 indicative of a parameter associated with the article 102. The problem associated with using an optical sensor to read the mark 126 of the article 102 is that particles from the aerosol may deposit on the surface of the optical sensor, and thus the ability of the optical sensor to read or detect the mark 126 is impaired. In other cases, other components such as non-aerosolized particles or condensates from the article 102 may also deposit on the sensor. Therefore, it is advantageous to eliminate or reduce the amount of deposits on the surface of the optical sensor, or alternatively, to provide means for removing any deposits on the surface of the optical sensor. "Optical" includes any optical detection system that operates using visible light, infrared (IR), and ultraviolet (UV).

[0025] In some examples, the sensor assembly may include a first sensor (not shown) and a second sensor (not shown). The first sensor may be a detection sensor configured to detect the presence of the article 102 within the chamber 112, for example, by monitoring the presence or absence of the reference marker 125 on the article 102. The second sensor is configured to detect a mark 126 indicating a parameter associated with the article 102. In some examples, the first sensor and the second sensor are arranged spaced apart from each other at approximately the same distance from the reference marker 125 and the mark 126b. By arranging the first sensor and the second sensor spaced apart from each other at approximately the same distance from the reference marker 125 and the mark 126, it is possible to further confirm whether the article is genuine.

[0026] Based on the detected mark 126, the sensor assembly 122 can provide one or more inputs to the controller 116. Based on the received one or more inputs, the controller 116 can determine parameters of the article 102, such as whether the article 102 is genuine. The controller 116 can activate the heating assembly 120 according to the determined parameters of the article 102. Thus, the apparatus 100 includes means for detecting whether the article 102 is a genuine product, and thus, for example, when a non-genuine product is detected, the operation of the apparatus 100 can be changed by not supplying power to the heater assembly 120. Preventing the use of the apparatus 100 when a non-genuine product is inserted into the apparatus 100 reduces the possibility that a consumer will have a bad experience due to the use of counterfeit consumables.

[0027] In some examples, the controller 116 can determine a parameter of the article 102 based on one or more inputs received from the sensor assembly 122 and adjust a heat profile provided by the heater assembly 120 based on the determined parameter. The heater assembly 120 of the apparatus 100 can be configured to provide a first heating profile (e.g., by a controller 116 that controls the supply of power) when the mark on the article 102 has a first characteristic, and the heater assembly 120 is configured to provide a second heating profile when the mark has a second characteristic that is different from the first characteristic. For example, the apparatus 100 can determine whether the consumable is a solid or non-solid consumable and adjust the heating profile accordingly. In other examples, the apparatus 100 can distinguish different blends of tobacco in the article 102 and, accordingly, adjust the heating profile to provide an optimal heating profile for a particular blend of tobacco inserted into the apparatus 100.

[0028] FIG. 4 is a schematic longitudinal side view of an example of an article 102 with an aerosolizable medium for use with the apparatus 100. In some examples, the article 102 also includes a filter assembly (not shown) in addition to the aerosolizable medium.

[0029] Article 102 also comprises a mark 126 configured to be detected by a sensor assembly 122 in the form of an optical sensor of the apparatus 100. The mark may be composed of marker elements and represents coded information indicating parameters of the article 102. As described above, the parameters may indicate the manufacturer of the article 102 so that it can be confirmed that the article 102 is an authentic product. In other examples, the parameters may indicate the type of aerosolizable medium of the article 102, such as whether the aerosolizable medium is in a fixed form, a liquid form, or a gel form. The parameters may also indicate the type of aerosolizable medium, such as whether the aerosolizable medium contains barlera tobacco or virginia tobacco. In other examples, the parameters may indicate the heating profile to be used to heat the article 102. The parameters may indicate other characteristics of the article 102. By providing the mark 126, the apparatus 100 can provide an adjusted experience to the user based on the identification information of the article 102.

[0030] In some examples, the article 102 also includes a reference marker 125. The reference marker 125 can be configured to be detected by a second sensor in the form of a detection sensor to indicate the presence of the article 102. The reference marker 125 may be composed of one or more marker elements, as described below.

[0031] The mark 126 can have optical characteristics. For example, in FIG. 4, the mark 126 is in the form of a plurality of lines on the outside of the article 102. In FIG. 4, these lines are shown to have a uniform width, but in other examples, the widths of the lines may vary. In the example of FIG. 4, the mark 126 indicates a coded parameter associated with the article 102. When the mark 126 is read, it can be compared with a look-up table (LUT) that correlates the data associated with the mark (e.g., the binary sequence indicated by the mark) with other operations related to the heating profile or the device. Further, the data associated with the mark may be coded according to a secret key common to all aerosol supply devices from a particular manufacturer / origin, and the device is configured to decode the coded data and then search for the decoded data in the LUT.

[0032] In the example of the cylindrical article 102, one or more marker elements such as lines may extend around or a part around the circumference of the article 102, or all around the circumference of the article 102. In some examples, the sensor assembly 122 configured to detect the mark 126 may be disposed at a specific location within the device 100. For example, the sensor assembly 122 may be disposed adjacent to one side of the chamber 112 and may have a limited detection range. Providing a marker element that extends all around the circumference of the article 102 facilitates the detection of the mark 126 by the sensor assembly 122 regardless of the specific orientation of the article 102 within the device 100.

[0033] The mark 126 may be formed in several different ways and may be formed from several different materials depending on the particular sensor assembly 122 of the device 100 intended to be used with the article 102. The mark 126 may include optical features such as lines, gaps or notches, surface roughness, and / or reflective materials. The mark 126 may include optical features such as barcodes or QR codes. In one example, the mark 126 includes fluorescent features.

[0034] In one example, the reference marker 125 includes a conductive feature, and the first sensor is in the form of a capacitive second sensor configured to detect a change in capacitance or resistance when the article 102 is inserted into the device 100. In addition to the optical sensor 122, providing a non-optical sensor configuration may be more robust compared to the optical sensor as it is not affected by deposits on the optical sensor or degradation of the optical sensor during the use of the device 100. The non-optical sensor may be in the form of an RF sensor, or a Hall effect sensor having a permanent magnet or an electromagnet and a Hall effect sensor.

[0035] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a device, an article, and a sensor. A cover system 128 is disposed between the sensor 122 and the chamber 112. The cover system 128 can be configured in at least a first arrangement that substantially covers the sensor 122 and a second arrangement in which the field of view of the sensor 122 is not substantially obstructed.

[0036] In one example, the cover system 128 is configured such that when the cover 128 is open, i.e., in the second arrangement, the sensor 122 can detect the marker 126 of the article 102, but when the cover system 128 is closed, i.e., in the first arrangement, it cannot detect the marker 126 of the article 102. In other examples, the cover system 128 is not opened and closed, but is moved to a second arrangement outside the field of view of the sensor 122 rather than being opened. The cover system 128 may include any suitable mechanism for moving or opening the cover, such as a swivel, a slide, a spring and latch, or a diaphragm mechanism.

[0037] In one example, the sensor configuration 122 includes a second sensor for monitoring the presence or absence of the article 102 within the chamber 112. The second sensor may be configured to detect the reference marker 125 of the article 102 or to directly detect the article 102. In some examples, the second sensor may be in the form of a pressure sensor or a switch configured to detect when the article 102 is inserted into the chamber 112.

[0038] In some embodiments, in response to the second sensor determining that the article 102 is within the chamber 112, the cover system 128 can move to a second configuration. The detection sensor can operate by monitoring for the presence or absence of the article 102 or a reference marker 125 of the article 102. In one example, the detection sensor non - continuously monitors for the presence or absence of the reference marker 125 or the article 102. Non - continuous monitoring of the presence or absence of the reference marker 125 is efficient compared to continuous monitoring of the presence or absence of the reference marker 126a as it does not constantly require power. In other examples, the cover system 128 may move to the second configuration in response to input from a user. In a further example, the cover system may initially be in the second configuration, for example, when the user first powers on the device.

[0039] The cover system 128 may be configured to return to the first arrangement after a predetermined time has elapsed since it was opened. For example, the cover system 128 may close after sufficient time has passed for the mark 126 to be detected by the sensor 122. In some examples, the cover system 128 is configured to move to the first arrangement 2 seconds after moving to the second arrangement, but this 2 - second time is merely an example, and it should be understood that the time interval may be longer or shorter than 2 seconds depending on the application at that time. This time interval may also be set according to detection of a user input, for example, a button being pressed, that can power (and thus start aerosol generation) the aerosol - generating element of the device, as opposed to reading a mark. By closing the cover system 128 after a predetermined time, the sensor 122 can have sufficient time to detect the mark 126, but the likelihood of aerosol particles or other components depositing on the surface of the sensor 122 is reduced. In some embodiments, this time interval may be selected based on the aerosol - generation response of the device, and in particular, it should be understood that this time interval may be shorter than the aerosol - generation response of the device. In other words, if the device begins to generate aerosol 4 seconds after power is supplied to the aerosol - generating element (e.g., a heater), the cover system 128 may be set to close within 4 seconds after power is first supplied. In other examples, the cover system 128 is configured to return to the first arrangement after the sensor 122 has read the mark 126.

[0040] In one example, the device 100 is further configured to determine a characteristic such as the temperature of the chamber 112 and / or the article 102 and operate the cover system 128 based on the determined characteristic. The characteristic to be determined may be one or more of temperature, humidity, and air composition. The determined characteristic of the chamber 112 and / or the article 102 can indicate that aerosol generation has reached a predetermined level. Thus, when aerosol generation reaches a predetermined level, the device 100 may be configured to close the cover system 128.

[0041] In one example, when the determined temperature of the chamber 112 and / or the article 102 is greater than or equal to a first threshold temperature (which may be predetermined), the apparatus 100 is configured to return the cover system 128 from the second arrangement to the first arrangement. In one example, when the determined temperature of the chamber 112 and / or the article 102 is less than or equal to a second threshold temperature, the apparatus 100 is configured to allow the cover system 128 to move from the first arrangement to the second arrangement. The second threshold temperature may be predetermined and may be equal to or different from the first threshold temperature.

[0042] FIG. 6 shows an example of a flowchart of a method of operating an aerosol generating device having an optical sensor. At block 700, the apparatus 100 monitors for the presence of an article for use with the aerosol generating device. Here, the article comprises an aerosolizable medium 102 and a mark 126 indicative of a parameter of the article 102. At block 702, the apparatus detects the presence of the article 102 during monitoring. If the cover system 128 is initially provided in a first closed arrangement, at block 704, in response to the detection, the apparatus moves the cover system 128 to expose the optical sensor (i.e., after the cover system 128 has been moved to a second open arrangement) and then proceeds to block S706. If the cover system 128 is initially provided in a second open arrangement, the method proceeds to block 706. At block 706, the optical sensor 122 detects the mark 126 of the article 102. At block 708, the apparatus operates based on the detected mark 126. Thereafter, at block S710, the cover system 128 moves (or returns) to the first closed arrangement. As described above, this may be based on a predetermined time after the mark 126 has been read or based on detecting another parameter such as temperature.

[0043] In some examples, the cover system 128 closes after the mark 126 of the article 102 is detected. In some examples, the controller 116 controls the operation of one or more heaters 120 based on the parameters of the article. For example, if the controller determines that a counterfeit has been inserted into the device 100, the heater will not operate. Alternatively, the controller 116 may determine the type of aerosolizable medium within the article, such as a solid, liquid, or gel, and adjust the heating profile accordingly.

[0044] Figure 7 shows an alternative example of a chamber 212 of a device for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium, an article 202, and a sensor assembly 222 in the form of an optical sensor. In this example, the sensor 222 is configured to contact, in use, an aerosolizable medium received within the chamber 212 and an article 202 having a mark 226. When the article 202 is inserted into the chamber 212, during insertion it slides past the surface of the sensor assembly 222, such that any residue or deposit on the surface of the sensor is at least partially removed by the consumable. In one example, the sensor assembly 222 is stretchable, such that the sensor assembly 222 can move from a position where it contacts the surface of the sensor 222 when the article 202 is inserted to a position away from the article 202. For example, the sensor assembly can be retracted to provide a wider field of view for detecting the mark 226. The sensor assembly 222 may be equipped with any suitable mechanism for retraction.

[0045] In one example, the article 202 comprises an aerosolizable medium and a mark 226. At least a portion of the outer surface of the article 202 is compressible and is configured to contact the optical sensor assembly 222 of the device for generating an aerosol from the aerosolizable medium when the article 202 is inserted into the device. Examples of compressible materials include silicone or elastomer. This can more effectively wipe the material from the surface of the optical sensor assembly.

[0046] FIG. 8 shows an example of a flowchart of a method for cleaning an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium. Here, the apparatus includes a chamber 212 for receiving an article 202 comprising the aerosolizable medium and an optical sensor assembly 222. In block 800, the article 202 comprising the aerosolizable medium is inserted into the chamber 212. In 802, the method includes wiping the surface of the optical sensor assembly 222 using the surface of the article 202 at least in part of the insertion.

[0047] FIG. 9 shows an alternative example of a chamber 312, an article 302, and a sensor assembly 322 in the form of an optical sensor for an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium. In this example, the chamber 312 defines a longitudinal axis 330. The sensor assembly 322 is configured to read a mark 326 of the article 302 received within the chamber 312 during use.

[0048] In this example, during use, the optical sensor 322 is spaced apart from the chamber 312 so as to define a gap between the optical sensor 322 and the article 302 received within the chamber 312. The optical sensor 322 is spaced apart from the chamber 312 in a direction that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis 330 of the chamber 312. For example, the optical sensor 322 may be radially offset from the chamber 312. The optical sensor 322 is positioned so as to be able to detect a mark 326 disposed on a side surface of the article 302. The optical sensor 332 may be provided within a hollow element or recess that is connected to or integrated with the chamber 312. For example, the optical sensor 322 may be disposed within a hollow tube. The hollow tube can have a length and diameter selected such that the path by which the aerosol travels to the sensor assembly 322 is greater than a defined resistance level. For example, reducing the diameter of the tube and increasing the length of the tube generally reduces the likelihood that aerosol particles will travel along the tube and deposit on the sensor assembly 322. Further, in some applications, the diameter of the tube may be set according to the field of view of the tube, and / or the length of the tube may be set based on the focal length of the sensor 322. By way of mere example, the length of the hollow tube may be between 0.5 cm and 1.5 cm, more preferably 1 cm.

[0049] In other examples, the hollow tube may have a polygonal cross-section. In other examples, the hollow tube need not define a straight line. For example, the tube may be composed of a plurality of sections, each section having a longitudinal axis, and the longitudinal axes of two adjacent sections being offset from each other. For example, in one embodiment, the first section of the hollow tube may have a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the chamber 312, and the second section of the tube may have a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first section of the tube (i.e., the longitudinal axis of the second section may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the chamber 312). The optical sensor 322 can be disposed at the end of the second section of the tube. In order to provide an optical path from the sensor 322 to the chamber 312 (and thus to the surface of the article), a mirror or other reflective surface can be provided at the intersection of the first and second sections of the hollow tube.

[0050] The optical sensor 322 may be spaced apart from the chamber housing 312 in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 330 of the chamber 312. In one example, a cover system (not shown in FIG. 9) may be disposed between the optical sensor 322 and the chamber 312.

[0051] In one example, the apparatus may be configured to supply an air flow in the direction from the sensor 322 towards the chamber 312. The air flow may be supplied by a user exhaling / sucking in the space between the sensor 322 and the chamber 312. In another example, an air pumping / pressurizing source can provide an air source through which air can flow. When an air flow is supplied, "clean" air blows against the surface of the sensor 322, preventing aerosol from entering the channel from the chamber 312.

[0052] The mark indicating the parameters of the article includes marker elements, which are configured to be detected by the sensor assembly and enable the controller to determine the parameters associated with the article. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the mark comprises four marker elements in the form of lines. The marker elements are spaced apart from each other at different intervals. As will be described in more detail below, the configuration of the marker elements indicates the parameters of the article. For example, the configuration of the marker elements may indicate that the article to be used with the device is a genuine article, or it may indicate the heating profile used with this article. The sensor assembly is configured to provide an input indicating the parameters of the article to the controller.

[0053] When using a second sensor in the form of a capacitance sensor or a resistance sensor to detect the presence of a conductive reference marker, the reference marker may be provided inside and / or outside the article. The reference marker may be literally "marked" on the article, such as by printing. Alternatively, the reference marker may be provided inside or on the article by other techniques, such as being integrally formed with the article during manufacture. The capacitance sensor or the resistance sensor may be configured to monitor the presence or absence of the reference mark of the article in a first low-power mode. The reference marker may be, for example, a metal component such as aluminum, or a conductive ink, or an iron or non-ferrous coating. The ink may be printed on the chip paper of the article using, for example, the rotogravure printing method, screen printing, inkjet printing, or any other suitable process.

[0054] Generally, capacitance sensing as used herein operates by effectively detecting capacitance changes when an article is placed within the device 100. In fact, in one embodiment, capacitance can be measured. If the capacitance meets one or more criteria, the article may be determined to be suitable for use with the device and then proceed to detecting the mark. Alternatively, if the capacitance does not meet one or more criteria, the article is determined not to be suitable for use with the device and the device does not function to heat the aerosolizable medium and / or can issue some warning message to the user. Generally, capacitance sensing can function by providing the device with (at least) one electrode that provides, in effect, one “plate” of a capacitor and the other “plate” of the capacitor provided by the reference marker of the device described above. When the article is inserted into the device, the capacitance formed by the combination of the electrode of the device and the article can be measured and then compared to one or more criteria to determine whether the device can proceed to heat the article. As an alternative, the device may comprise (at least) two electrodes that provide, in effect, a pair of “plates” of a capacitor. When the article is inserted into the device, the article is inserted between the two electrodes. As a result, the capacitance formed between the two electrodes of the device changes. This capacitance formed by the two electrodes of the device can be measured and the measurement can be compared to one or more criteria to determine whether the device 100 can then proceed to detect the mark.

[0055] The controller 116 can comprise pre-programmed information such as a look-up table, which includes details of various possible configurations of the mark and which parameters are associated with each configuration. Thus, the controller 116 can determine the parameters associated with the article.

[0056] The controller 116 may be configured to heat only the recognized articles and not operate with unrecognized articles. The apparatus may be configured to provide some indication to the user that an article is not recognized. This indication may be visual (e.g., a warning light that can blink or shine continuously for a certain time), and / or auditory (e.g., a warning "beep" sound, etc.), and / or tactile (e.g., vibration). Alternatively, or in addition to this, the apparatus may be configured to follow, for example, a first heating pattern when a first type of article is recognized and a second different heating pattern when a second type of article is recognized (and additional heating patterns may be provided for other types of articles). The heating pattern may differ in several ways, for example, the rate of heat delivery to the aerosolizable medium, the timing of various heating cycles, which part(s) of the aerosolizable medium to heat first, etc. This allows the same apparatus to be used with different basic types of articles with minimal interaction required from the user.

[0057] FIG. 10 is a schematic longitudinal side view of another example of an article 402 with an aerosolizable medium for use with apparatus 100. Similar to article 102 shown in FIG. 4, article 402 includes a mark 426 in the form of an optical line. In this example, rather than extending substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis as shown in the example of article 102 of FIG. 4, the line extends substantially along the longitudinal axis of article 402. In some examples, the article may also include a reference marker 425.

[0058] In the example shown in FIG. 10, the mark 426 indicating the parameters of the article 402 includes four marker elements in the form of lines with different intervals between the lines. In one example, the intervals of the marker elements may be for generating, for example, a defined start and a defined end of the marker elements. Since the article 402 can be inserted into the device 100 in any orientation, the article 402 needs to be rotated one full turn or a partial turn with respect to all of the marker elements and read by the sensor assembly in order to determine the intervals of the marker elements.

[0059] In some examples, the article may have a position feature that allows the consumable to be inserted into the device in a defined orientation. For example, the article may comprise a protrusion or notch feature that corresponds to the shape of the opening 106 of the device. Thus, in some embodiments, the article can only be inserted into the device in a single orientation. In the example of an article that is subsequently rotated, the starting position is known, and thus it is not necessary to rotate the article at least 360 degrees. In other examples, the article may have a predefined handle or orientation for alignment or for feeding into the device (which ensures that the consumable is inserted in a predefined manner).

[0060] In some examples, the sensor assembly may be disposed at a specific location within the device. For example, the sensor assembly may be disposed within the chamber and may have a limited detection range. Similarly, the mark may be disposed at a specific location on or within the article and may occupy a specific area or volume of the article. In order to ensure that the mark is detected when the user inserts the article into the receiving portion, it is desirable that the device 100 can limit the orientation of the article to a single orientation when the article engages the chamber. This can ensure that the mark can be correctly aligned with the sensor assembly and detected.

[0061] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of another example of a device, an article, and a sensor. An exchangeable cover 529 is disposed between the sensor 522 and the chamber 512. The exchangeable cover 529 does not substantially affect the signal detected by the sensor 522. For example, if the sensor 522 is an optical sensor, the exchangeable cover can be substantially transparent to the wavelength of light used by the optical sensor. During use, some dirt and / or condensate occurs on the exchangeable cover 529 but not on the sensor. At that time, the exchangeable cover can be replaced with a new one, or removed and washed and replaced so that the effect of any accumulated dirt or condensate on the sensor is reduced.

[0062] In the example of FIG. 11, the exchangeable cover 529 covers an opening in front of the disposed sensor 522. For example, the exchangeable cover may be slid into a recess that defines a groove to hold the exchangeable cover in a fixed position within the device. Other configurations can also be used, such as an exchangeable sleeve that surrounds the entire chamber 512, or an exchangeable cover that extends over a portion or the entire length of the chamber 512.

[0063] The exchangeable cover can be formed from any suitable material that does not interfere with the operation of the sensor 522. Since the cover may be exposed to a relatively high temperature within the chamber 512, this material can have an appropriate high melting point so that the cover does not melt during use. In some examples, the melting point of the cover is higher than 200°C, higher than 250°C, or higher than 300°C. For example, the cover may be formed from polyetheretherketone (PEEK) or glass.

[0064] The article may contain one or more flavoring agents. As used herein, the terms "flavor" and "flavoring agent" refer to materials that can be used (when permitted by local regulations) to produce a desired taste or smell in products for adult consumers. These materials include extracts (e.g., licorice, hydrangea, phoebe leaf, chamomile, fenugreek, clove, menthol, Japanese mint, aniseed, cinnamon, herb, wintergreen, strawberry, berry, peach, apple, drambuie, bourbon, scotch, whiskey, spearmint, peppermint, lavender, cardamom, celery, cascarilla, nutmeg, frankincense, bergamot, geranium, honey essence, rose oil, vanilla, lemon oil, orange oil, cassia, caraway, cognac, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sage, perilla, pepper, ginger, anise, coriander, coffee, or peppermint oil from any species of the genus Mentha), flavor enhancers, bitter receptor site blockers, sensory receptor site activators, or sensory receptor site stimulants, sugars and / or alternative sugars (e.g., sucralose, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, saccharin, thaumatin, lactose, sucrose, glucose, fructose, sorbitol, or mannitol), and other additives (e.g., charcoal, chlorophyll, minerals, plant substances, or breath fresheners). These may be imitation, synthetic, or natural materials, or mixtures thereof. They may contain natural or natural-identical fragrance chemicals. They may be in any suitable form, such as an oil, liquid, powder, or gel.

[0065] The above examples have been discussed with respect to optical sensors and marks detectable by optical sensors, but other examples may apply other types of sensors. For example, acoustic or sonic sensors, contact switches, and RF sensors may also be used to detect detectable elements provided in association with an article. These sensors may also be affected by dirt and / or condensate buildup during use. The above examples are equally applicable to systems, devices, articles, and methods using these sensors other than optical sensors.

[0066] It should be understood that the above embodiments are examples for the description of the present invention. Further embodiments of the present invention are also conceivable. Any feature described with respect to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, or in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or in any combination of any other of the embodiments. It should further be understood that equivalents and modifications not described above may also be used without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A housing, a chamber for receiving an article, the article comprising an aerosolizable medium and a detectable element provided in association with the article, a sensor configured to detect the detectable element when the article is received within the chamber, and a cover system configurable in at least a first arrangement substantially covering the sensor and a second arrangement in which the field of view of the sensor is substantially unobstructed for an apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the detectable element is an optically detectable mark provided in association with the article, and the sensor is an optical sensor.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the cover system is movable from the first arrangement to the second arrangement such that the sensor can read the mark.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, 2, or 3, wherein the cover system comprises one or more of a pivot, a slide, a spring and latch, and a diaphragm mechanism.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a second sensor for determining whether the article is present within the chamber, and in response to the second sensor determining that the article is present within the chamber, the cover system is moved to the second arrangement.

6. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the cover system is moved to the second arrangement in response to an input from a user.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the cover system is configured to return to the first arrangement after the optical sensor has read the mark.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the cover system is configured to return from the second arrangement to the first arrangement after a predetermined time.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further configured to determine a temperature of the chamber and / or the article and to operate the cover system based on the determined temperature.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, further configured to return the cover system from the second arrangement to the first arrangement when the determined temperature is above a threshold temperature.

11. The apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, further configured such that the cover system can shift from the first arrangement to the second arrangement when the determined temperature is below a threshold value.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising one or more aerosol-generating elements configured to operate based on the mark of the article.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the one or more aerosol-generating elements comprise a heater assembly.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein when the mark has a first characteristic, the heater assembly is configured to provide a first heating profile, and when the mark has a second characteristic different from the first characteristic, the heater assembly is configured to provide a second heating profile.

15. An apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 14, and An article comprising An aerosolizable medium, and An optically detectable mark An aerosol supply system comprising an article.

16. A method of operating an aerosol-generating device having an optical sensor, the method comprising: Monitoring for the presence of an article for use with the aerosol-generating device, the article comprising an aerosolizable medium and a mark; Detecting the mark of the article by the optical sensor; Operating the aerosol-generating device based on the detected mark; and Closing a cover system after the step of detecting the mark of the article. A method comprising

17. During the monitoring step, detecting the presence of the article; and In response to the detecting step, opening a cover system to expose the optical sensor to enable the detecting step of detecting the mark of the article by the optical sensor. The method according to claim 16, further comprising

18. A chamber for receiving an article, the article comprising an aerosolizable medium and a mark, and An optical sensor assembly for reading the mark, the surface of the sensor assembly being arranged to contact the article received in the chamber during use. An apparatus for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium, comprising

19. ​ The device according to claim 18, wherein the optical sensor assembly is arranged such that the article slides past the surface of the optical sensor assembly during insertion.

20. An article comprising an aerosolizable medium and a mark wherein at least a portion of the outer surface of the article is compressible and is configured to contact an optical sensor assembly of a device for generating an aerosol from the aerosolizable medium when the article is inserted into the device, and the device is configured to receive the article and aerosolize the aerosolizable medium of the article.

21. A system comprising the device according to claim 18 or 19 and the article according to claim 20.

22. A method of cleaning a device for generating an aerosol from an aerosolizable medium, the device comprising a chamber for receiving an article comprising the aerosolizable medium and an optical sensor assembly, inserting an article comprising the aerosolizable medium into the chamber, and wiping the surface of the optical sensor assembly with the surface of the article during at least a portion of the inserting step.

23. A chamber for receiving an article, the chamber defining a longitudinal axis, wherein the article comprises an aerosolizable medium and a mark, and a sensor for reading the mark received in the chamber during use, the sensor being spaced from the chamber so as to define a gap between the sensor and the article received in the chamber during use, and the sensor being spaced from the chamber in a direction not parallel to the longitudinal axis.

24. The device according to claim 23, wherein the sensor is spaced from the chamber in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the chamber housing.

25. The device according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the sensor is disposed in a recess connected to the chamber.

26. The device according to any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the sensor is spaced from the article received in the chamber by at least 1 cm during use.

27. The device according to any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein an air flow is configured to be supplied from the sensor towards the chamber. ​ ​ ​ ​

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