Aerosol-generating device providing gesture initiation of status query

Abstract

To provide aerosol-generating devices configured to generate an aerosol during a usage session, and to provide methods of using such devices.SOLUTION: An aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate is configured to generate the aerosol during a usage session. The aerosol-generating device comprises an indicator system (60), a motion detection unit (440) configured to detect movement of the device and identify a gesture associated with the detected movement, and a controller (420). The motion detection unit is configured to detect movement of the device and identify a first gesture and a second gesture that is different from the first gesture.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device configured to generate an aerosol during a use session, and to a method of using such a device. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol-generating devices configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a tobacco-containing substrate, are known in the art. Typically, an inhalable aerosol is generated by transferring heat from a heat source to a physically separate aerosol-forming substrate or material, which may be located within, around, or downstream of the heat source. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid substrate contained in a reservoir. The aerosol-forming substrate may also be a solid substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a component part of a separate aerosol-generating article configured to engage with the aerosol-generating device to form an aerosol. During consumption, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-forming substrate by heat transfer from the heat source and are entrained in the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. As the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol, which is inhaled by the consumer.

[0003] Some aerosol generating devices include a power source, such as a battery, to provide energy for generating the aerosol. Because many aerosol generating devices are intended to be handheld, there is a limit to the space available within the device to accommodate the power source. Thus, some aerosol generating devices are configured to provide a finite number of user experiences before the power source needs to be replaced or recharged.

[0004] Some aerosol generating devices are configured to provide a user experience that has a finite duration. For example, the aerosol generating device may be configured to operate for a predetermined time in any single use session. Aerosol generating devices configured for use with separate aerosol-generating articles may be configured to operate in individual use sessions that last no longer than the time it takes to deplete the aerosol-forming substrate within the individual aerosol-generating articles.

[0005] Traditional combustible cigarettes have a burn line that moves along the cigarette as it is consumed, thereby providing the user with a constant visual indication of progress throughout the user experience. Thus, the user can determine how much of the cigarette is available for consumption at any given time. With many aerosol generating devices, this determination is more difficult. Some devices indicate when a usage session has ended shortly before the end of such session, but this does not provide the user with information regarding the progress of the usage session during the usage session. Progression information is particularly useful to the user when the duration of the usage session is controlled by more than one parameter. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session. The aerosol generating device includes an indicator system, a motion detection unit configured to detect movement of the device and identify a gesture associated with the detected movement, and a controller. In response to the gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the progress of the use session or the number of available use sessions.

[0007] The motion detection unit may be configured to detect movement of the device and identify a first gesture associated with the detected movement and a second gesture different from the first gesture associated with the detected movement. In response to the first gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller may be configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicative of the progress of the usage session. In response to the second gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller may be configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicative of the number of available usage sessions.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session. The aerosol generating device includes an indicator system, a motion detection unit, and a controller. The motion detection unit is configured to detect movement of the device and identify a first gesture associated with the detected movement and a second gesture different from the first gesture associated with the detected movement. In response to the first gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the progress of the use session. In response to the second gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of available use sessions.

[0009] The aerosol generating device is typically a handheld device. The aerosol generating device may have dimensions similar to, for example, a traditional cigar or a traditional cigarette. A user may find it preferable to be able to see the number of usage sessions the device can deliver before requiring recharging. For example, a user may want to know how many usage sessions are available before attempting to insert a consumable aerosol-generating article. Advantageously, the user can pick up the device and perform a predetermined gesture on the device to obtain an indication of the number of usage sessions available. Such a predetermined gesture can be automatic on the user's part, which has the advantage of reducing the likelihood that the user will attempt to start a usage session when the device does not have enough power available to complete the usage session.

[0010] A user may be engaged in other activities, such as conversation, while using an aerosol generating device. In such situations, the user may wish to monitor the progress of the usage session in a discontinuous and non-intrusive manner. For example, it may be beneficial if the user can trigger a status query and obtain an indication of the progress of the usage session by moving the device in a predetermined gesture.

[0011] If a user does not have adequate feedback regarding the progress of a usage session, the user may tend to interact with the aerosol-generating device more frequently. For example, if the user is unsure of how much time is remaining in the usage session, the user may take more frequent puffs than they would otherwise, resulting in more rapid depletion of the aerosol-forming substrate and potentially ending the usage session sooner than they would otherwise prefer. The ability to discontinuously trigger status queries using gestures to monitor the progress of a usage session may make the user more relaxed during the usage session and therefore the user experience more enjoyable.

[0012] The aerosol generating device may be configured to be used for multiple individual use sessions. For example, the multiple individual use sessions may be between 2 and 20 individual use sessions. The aerosol generating device may be configured to provide an integer number of use sessions when the battery is fully charged, the integer being between 2 and 20. The ability to trigger a status query and receive an indication of the number of remaining use sessions allows a user to determine whether the device needs to be recharged, for example, before leaving home with the device.

[0013] The number of available usage sessions may be determined with respect to the energy available at the power source. The controller may be configured to query the power source and receive information regarding parameters such as the charge level of the power source or the voltage of the power source that enable the determination of the number of available usage sessions that can be delivered without further charging.

[0014] In response to a gesture, such as the second gesture, identified by the motion detection unit, the controller may be configured to receive information indicative of energy available in the power source and control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of usage sessions available.

[0015] The power source may be a battery and the energy available in the power source may be the charge available in the battery.

[0016] The motion detection unit may comprise an accelerometer and / or a gyroscope for detecting movement of the device.

[0017] The gestures identified by the motion detection unit are preferably simple gestures that are easy for the user to perform repeatedly. The gestures identified by the motion detection unit, such as the first gesture or the second gesture, may be gestures selected from a list including lifting the device to a vertical position, shaking the device, tapping the device a predetermined number of times, e.g., double-tapping the device, raising the device, rotating the device, and moving the device in a particular pattern.

[0018] The indicator system may include a light emitting indicator for providing a visual indication of the number of available use sessions, a visual indication of the progress of the use sessions, or for providing both a visual indication of the number of available use sessions and a visual indication of the progress of the use sessions.

[0019] The indicator system may include a tactile feedback unit for providing a tactile indication of the number of available usage sessions, a tactile indication of the progress of the usage sessions, or for providing both a tactile indication of the number of available usage sessions and a tactile indication of the progress of the usage sessions.

[0020] The indicator may include both a light emitting indicator and a tactile output unit to provide both a visual and a tactile indication.

[0021] The indicator system may separately or additionally comprise an audio feedback unit for providing an audible indication of the number of available usage sessions, an audible indication of the progress of the usage sessions, or for providing both an audible indication of the number of available usage sessions and an audible indication of the progress of the usage sessions.

[0022] An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session that progresses through a plurality of successive stages between a use session start and a use session stop. The aerosol generating device includes a timer, a tactile output unit, and a controller. The progression of the use session through the plurality of successive stages is controlled by the controller in response to timing signals from the timer and in response to signals representative of monitored user interaction parameters. The controller is configured to control the tactile output unit to emit a different tactile output during each of the plurality of successive stages to indicate the progression of the use session.

[0023] Handheld aerosol generating devices have limited surface area for mounting or otherwise arranging information displays, such as indicators. Therefore, displays with multiple display units, such as multiple light-emitting units, occupy significant area on the surface of a typical aerosol generating device. Furthermore, displays with multiple display units also consume large amounts of energy. Typical aerosol generating devices have limited space for power sources, such as batteries, and therefore, features requiring high energy consumption require larger capacity, and therefore physically larger, power sources. More complex displays, such as screens, can be configured to display a wide range of information, but also consume large amounts of energy and present other associated design complexities due to the need for complex electronic architectures and requirements to provide sufficient power to the display and dissipate heat generated by the display.

[0024] The haptic output unit may be configured to emit a haptic output in response to a user input, the haptic output representing the stage of the current use session. For example, a user may initiate a status query, for example, by pressing a button on the aerosol generating device. A haptic output representing the current use session may then be emitted in response to the status query.

[0025] The haptic output unit may comprise, for example, a haptic actuator or a haptic motor, such as an eccentric rotating mass actuator. The haptic output may be in the form of one or more vibrations or buzzers detectable by a user holding the device.

[0026] The haptic output unit may be configured to emit a haptic output representative of the stage of the current use session in response to a transition from one of the plurality of successive stages to one of the plurality of subsequent successive stages. Thus, a haptic signal may be emitted automatically upon transition from one stage to a subsequent stage. This may provide a user with a continuous haptic indication of the progress of the use session.

[0027] A usage session may be a finite usage session, i.e., a usage session having a beginning and an end. The duration of the usage session, measured by time, may be affected by use during the usage session. The duration of the usage session may have a maximum duration determined by the maximum time from the start of the usage session. The duration of the usage session may be less than the maximum duration if one or more monitored parameters reach a predetermined threshold before the maximum time from the start of the usage session.

[0028] An aerosol generating device that can be queried and provides feedback indicating the progress of a use session allows a user to discontinuously monitor the progress of a use session while continuing other activities, such as conversing with others.

[0029] A use session may be defined as a finite period of time during which a user can obtain a user experience. A use session may extend between a start of the use session, which may be referred to as a session start, and an end of the use session, which may be referred to as a session stop. A session start may be defined as the moment an aerosol generating device is activated. For example, a user may manually initiate a use session by activating the aerosol generating device, for example, by pressing a button that activates the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may also be configured to automatically initiate a use session, for example, in response to an aerosol-generating article engaging the aerosol generating device.

[0030] The aerosol generating device can be configured such that a use session has a maximum duration determined by a timer. The maximum duration can ensure that the use session is terminated without further input from the user. An aerosol generating device configured to provide a use session with a maximum duration helps maintain the quality of the user experience by preventing the user from attempting to generate aerosol when the aerosol-forming substrate is depleted. A use session with a maximum duration also helps ensure safety, as the operating system, typically including a heater, is not left activated if the user forgets that a use session has begun. A use session with a maximum duration also requires the user to make a conscious decision to initiate another use session, which can help the user control their aerosol intake.

[0031] The aerosol-generating device may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the aerosol-generating device may be configured to receive a cartridge containing an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to receive a heated aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0032] The aerosol-generating device may be configured to detect the presence of an aerosol-generating article. A sensor or detector within the device may detect the presence of the article and can distinguish between one article configured for use with the device and another article configured for use with the device. The device can distinguish between an article configured for use with the device and another article not configured for use with the device. The device can prevent the initiation of a use session if the aerosol-generating article is not an article configured for use with the device.

[0033] The aerosol generating device may be configured such that a use session is terminated if the aerosol-generating article is removed from the aerosol generating device. Thus, in such a configuration, if a user removes the article from the device during a use session, the use session may be terminated before its maximum duration. This may improve both safety and the user experience.

[0034] The aerosol-generating device may be configured to monitor a user interaction parameter indicative of use of the aerosol-generating device during a use session. The use session may be configured to be terminated if the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold. Thus, in such a configuration, if the monitored user interaction parameter reaches the threshold before the maximum duration of the use session is reached, the use session may be terminated before the maximum duration. If a user overuses the device during a use session, the aerosol-forming substrate may be depleted sooner than if the user had not overused the device. Thus, the ability to monitor and terminate a use session when the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold can improve the user experience by preventing aerosol generation from a depleted aerosol-generating article. To continue use, the user may need to replace the article and begin another use session.

[0035] By way of example, the user interaction parameter may indicate the user's puffs taken during a use session. The aerosol generating device may include a puff counting mechanism for determining the number of puffs taken by the user during a use session. The aerosol generating device may be configured to terminate a use session when the number of puffs taken by the user during a use session reaches a predetermined threshold. Thus, a use session may include a limited number of puffs that the user can take. The use session may be terminated before the maximum duration determined by the timer if the number of puffs taken during the use session reaches the predetermined threshold before the maximum duration determined by the timer. Thus, if a user depletes an aerosol-forming substrate by taking multiple puffs in a short period of time, the user experience is maintained by preventing puffs from being taken after the aerosol-forming substrate is depleted.

[0036] When the length of a usage session is determined by multiple thresholds, for example, a maximum duration determined by a time threshold and a threshold determined by one or more user interaction parameters, the display showing progress through the usage session becomes more complex.

[0037] A use session is determined to include multiple consecutive stages. Progression of the use session as a whole may be determined relative to progression through the multiple consecutive stages. The multiple consecutive stages may be at least three consecutive stages, or at least four consecutive stages. For example, the multiple consecutive stages may include at least five consecutive stages, or at least six consecutive stages. The greater the number of stages into which a use session is divided, the more accurate the indication of progression during the session. However, if the number of stages is too large, the indication of progression may become confusing and may be of little practical benefit to the user.

[0038] The aerosol generating device may be configured such that any or each of a plurality of consecutive stages has a stage duration defined by a stage start and a stage end. The aerosol generating device may be configured such that any or each of a plurality of consecutive stages has a maximum stage duration determined by a timer. Thus, any or each of a plurality of consecutive stages may end when a monitored period reaches a predetermined threshold for the stage, unless the stage has ended earlier.

[0039] A first stage of multiple consecutive stages may have a first stage duration defined, for example, by a first stage start and a first stage end. The first stage may be considered to begin at the session start of a usage session.

[0040] If the aerosol generating device includes a heater, the first stage may include a heating period during which the heating element increases the temperature from ambient temperature to an operating temperature for generating the aerosol.

[0041] A first stage of multiple consecutive stages may have a first stage duration, for example, defined by a first stage start and a first stage end, and the first stage may be considered to begin at the end of a pre-stage heating period, which in turn may be considered to begin at the session start. The pre-stage heating period may be a heating period during which the heating element increases temperature from ambient temperature to an operating temperature for generating an aerosol.

[0042] A second phase of the plurality of consecutive phases may have a second phase duration defined by a second phase start and a second phase end. The second phase may begin at the end of the first phase.

[0043] A third stage of the plurality of consecutive stages may have a third stage duration defined by a third stage start and a third stage end. The third stage may begin at the end of the second stage. The use session may end at the end of the third stage. Thus, a use session may be divided into three stages, each having its own duration, with the use session ending at the end of the third stage. Progression through the use session may then be determined by determining which stage the use session is in at any time during the use session.

[0044] A usage session may be divided into four or more stages.

[0045] A fourth stage of the plurality of consecutive stages may have a fourth stage duration defined by a fourth stage start and a fourth stage end. The fourth stage may begin at the end of the third stage.

[0046] The use session may end at the end of the fourth stage. Thus, the use session may be divided into four stages, each having its own duration, with the use session ending at the end of the fourth stage. Progression through the use session may then be determined by determining what stage the use session is in at any time during the use session.

[0047] A use session may be divided into five or more stages. A fifth stage of the plurality of consecutive stages may have a fifth stage duration and be defined by a fifth stage start and a fifth stage end. The fifth stage may begin at the end of the fourth stage. The use session may end at the end of the fifth stage.

[0048] A use session may be divided into more than five phases. A sixth phase of a plurality of consecutive phases may have a sixth phase duration defined by a sixth phase start and a sixth phase end. A sixth phase may begin at the end of the fifth phase. A use session may end at the end of the sixth phase.

[0049] The aerosol generating device may be configured to monitor a user interaction parameter indicative of use of the aerosol generating device during a use session. The duration of any of the plurality of successive stages, or each of the successive stages, may be controlled with reference to the monitored user interaction parameter. Preferably, the duration of any of the plurality of successive stages, or each of the successive stages, is controlled with reference to the user interaction parameter and at least one further parameter, preferably the passage of time determined by a timer.

[0050] Thus, the progress of a usage session through each of a number of successive stages may be determined by reference to both a timer providing a maximum duration for each stage and monitored user interaction parameters that, if a predetermined threshold is reached, may terminate a stage earlier than the maximum possible duration for that stage.

[0051] The user interaction parameter may be indicative of the puffs taken by the user during the use session.

[0052] The user interaction parameter may be indicative of the amount or volume of aerosol emitted by the aerosol-forming substrate. The user interaction parameter may be indicative of the amount or volume of aerosol delivered to the user. The user interaction parameter may be the cumulative volume of aerosol delivered to the user.

[0053] The user interaction parameter may indicate the power supplied to the heating element during a use session.

[0054] The aerosol generating device may include a puff counting mechanism for determining the number of puffs taken by the user during a use session. The puffs taken by the user may be determined, for example, by monitoring the power supplied by the power source during a use session or by monitoring the temperature of the heating element during a use session. The puffs taken by the user may be determined by monitoring the airflow through the device during a use session. Thus, any of the multiple successive stages, or the duration of each, may be controlled with reference to the number of puffs taken by the user during a use session.

[0055] The aerosol generating device may be configured such that a use session has a maximum use session duration determined by a timer, and the aerosol generating device is configured to record at least one user interaction parameter during the use session. The duration of any or each of a plurality of successive stages may have a duration shorter than the maximum stage duration if the value of the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold before the end of that stage.

[0056] The aerosol generating device may be configured such that any or each of a plurality of successive stages has a maximum stage duration determined by a timer, and the aerosol generating device is configured to record at least one user interaction parameter during a usage session. The duration of any or each of the plurality of successive stages may have a duration shorter than the maximum stage duration if the value of the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold before the end of that stage.

[0057] A use session may include, for example, a first phase, a second phase, a third phase, and a fourth phase. The first phase may begin at a session initiation of the use session. The first phase may end, and thus the second phase may begin, after a monitoring period beginning at monitoring initiation reaches a predetermined first phase time threshold or after a recorded user interaction parameter reaches a first predetermined value if the first predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the predetermined first phase time threshold.

[0058] The second phase may end, and thus the third phase may begin, after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a second predetermined value if the monitoring time, which begins at the start of monitoring, reaches a predetermined second phase time threshold, or if the second predetermined value reaches a time preceding the predetermined second phase time threshold.

[0059] The third stage may end, and thus the fourth stage may begin, after the monitoring time starting at the start of monitoring reaches a predetermined third stage time threshold, or after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a third predetermined value if the third predetermined value reaches a time preceding the predetermined third stage time threshold.

[0060] The fourth stage may end after the monitoring time, which begins at the start of monitoring, reaches a predetermined fourth stage time threshold, or after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a fourth predetermined value if the fourth predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the predetermined fourth stage time threshold.

[0061] The time of monitoring initiation may conveniently be the session initiation of a use session. The recorded user interaction parameter may represent the number of puffs taken by the user during the use session.

[0062] The first tier time threshold may be a value between 75 seconds and 105 seconds from the start of the use session. The first predetermined value may be 3 puffs or 4 puffs.

[0063] The second tier time threshold may be a value between 150 seconds and 210 seconds from the start of the use session. The second predetermined value may be 6 puffs or 7 puffs.

[0064] The third tier time threshold may be a value between 225 seconds and 315 seconds from the start of the use session. The third predetermined value may be 9 puffs or 10 puffs.

[0065] The fourth tier time threshold may be a value between 300 seconds and 420 seconds from the start of the use session. The fourth predetermined value may be 12 puffs or 13 puffs.

[0066] In another example, the recorded user interaction parameter can represent the volume of aerosol delivered to the user during a use session. This parameter can be calculated, for example, by monitoring the power signal, detecting the start and end points of the user's puff, and integrating to determine the total power delivered during the user's puff. From this total delivered power, it may be possible to calculate the volume of aerosol delivered.

[0067] For example, a device may be configured to monitor parameters indicative of aerosol generation, such as power supplied to a heater, during operation of the aerosol generating device, analyze the monitored parameters to identify a user puff defined by a puff start and an end, analyze the monitored parameters during the user's puff to calculate a puff volume, which is the volume of aerosol generated during the user's puff, and use the puff volume as a user interaction parameter.

[0068] The first stage time threshold may be a value between 75 seconds and 105 seconds from the start of the use session. The first predetermined value may be between 50 ml and 200 ml of aerosol.

[0069] The second tier time threshold may be a value between 150 seconds and 210 seconds from the start of the use session. The second predetermined value may be 100 ml and 400 ml of aerosol.

[0070] The third tier time threshold may be a value between 225 seconds and 315 seconds from the start of the use session. The third predetermined value may be between 150 ml and 600 ml of aerosol.

[0071] The fourth tier time threshold may be a value between 300 seconds and 420 seconds from the start of the use session.The fourth predetermined value may be between 200 ml and 800 ml of aerosol.

[0072] The use session may include a final stage, which may be a fourth or subsequent stage, and which may end after a monitored period of time, such as after a time beginning at the session start of the use session reaches a predetermined final stage time threshold, or after a recorded user interaction parameter reaches a final predetermined value if the final predetermined value is reached before the predetermined final stage time threshold.

[0073] Thus, a usage session entering a final phase may be an indication to the user that the usage session is about to end. The final phase may have a maximum duration that is shorter than the maximum duration of any preceding phase.

[0074] The aerosol generating device may include a haptic output unit. The aerosol generating device may be configured such that a use session includes at least four consecutive stages. When a first gesture is detected, the controller may be configured to instruct the haptic output unit to emit a different haptic output depending on which of the at least four consecutive stages the use session is in when the gesture is determined. The haptic output may be in the form of one or more vibrations or buzzers that are perceptible to a user holding the device.

[0075] During the first stage, the haptic output unit may emit an output including a first frequency, such as a first frequency selected from a list including single vibration, double vibration, triple vibration, and quadruple vibration.

[0076] During the second stage, the haptic output unit may emit an output including a second frequency, such as a second frequency selected from a list including single vibration, double vibration, triple vibration, and quadruple vibration, and the haptic output emitted during the second stage is different from the haptic output emitted during the first stage.

[0077] During the third stage, the haptic output unit may emit an output including a third frequency, such as a third frequency selected from a list including single vibration, double vibration, triple vibration, and quadruple vibration, and the haptic output emitted during the third stage is different from the haptic output emitted during both the first stage and the second stage.

[0078] During the fourth stage, the haptic output unit may emit an output including a fourth frequency, such as a fourth frequency selected from a list including single vibration, double vibration, triple vibration, and quadruple vibration, and the haptic output emitted during the fourth stage is different from the haptic output emitted during any of the first stage, second stage, and third stage.

[0079] The aerosol generating device may include a light-emitting indicator. The light-emitting indicator may have at least one light-emitting unit and may have no more than two light-emitting units. The light-emitting indicator may be configured to display any one of at least three different display modes during a use session. The controller may be configured to control the light-emitting indicator to display any one of the at least three display modes to indicate the progress of the use session.

[0080] Handheld aerosol generating devices have limited surface area for mounting or otherwise arranging information displays, such as indicators. Therefore, displays with multiple display units, such as multiple light-emitting units, occupy significant area on the surface of a typical aerosol generating device. Furthermore, displays with multiple display units also consume large amounts of energy. Typical aerosol generating devices have limited space for power sources, such as batteries, and therefore, features requiring high energy consumption require larger capacity, and therefore physically larger, power sources. More complex displays, such as screens, can be configured to display a wide range of information, but also consume large amounts of energy and present other associated design complexities due to the need for complex electronic architectures and requirements to provide sufficient power to the display and dissipate heat generated by the display.

[0081] A luminous indicator with two or fewer light-emitting units does not occupy a significant proportion of the space on the aerosol generating device. Each light-emitting unit provides a single display area for the light-emitting indicator. The display area of ​​each light-emitting unit may be small relative to the dimensions of the aerosol generating device. A luminous indicator with two or fewer light-emitting units may consume less energy and may not generate as much heat to be dissipated compared to an indicator with more than two light-emitting units or a display screen. An aerosol generating device with a luminous indicator with two or fewer light-emitting units may have fewer components and a less complex design, thereby reducing the overall cost of the aerosol generating device. Furthermore, a luminous indicator with two or fewer light-emitting units can present progress information in a relatively simple manner, thereby increasing user convenience.

[0082] The aerosol generating device may include a light-emitting indicator having at least one light-emitting unit and up to two light-emitting units. The or each light-emitting unit may be a light-emitting diode (LED) unit. The LED unit may include one or more LED chips configured to emit light.

[0083] The or each lighting unit may be configured to display at least three operating states. The at least three operating states may be selected from a list including, for example, always on, always off, flashing, and intensity modulation. Always on means that the lighting unit is switched on and emitting light. Always off means that the lighting unit is switched off and not emitting light. Flashing means that the lighting unit is modulated between switched off and on, resulting in light emitted in a blinking or flashing pattern. Intensity modulation means that the power supplied to the light source, for example, an LED unit, is modulated. The lighting unit emits light of varying intensity over a period of time, appearing to fluctuate between a bright and a dark appearance.

[0084] Other operating states are possible, for example, the frequency at which the lighting units are switched on and off may provide a fast blink state and a slow blink state that is different from the fast blink state.

[0085] The, any or each light emitting unit may be operable to emit light in a first color and a second color.

[0086] The light-emitting indicator may comprise a single light-emitting unit operable to emit light in a first color and a second color, the light-emitting unit configured to display at least four operating states, such that the light-emitting indicator can be displayed in at least four display modes, which may be selected from a list including: always off, always on first color, flashing first color, intensity modulated first color, always on second color, flashing second color, intensity modulated second color, and alternating first color / second color flashing.

[0087] The light emitting unit may be configured to display in at least three, four, or five operating modes, thereby potentially allowing the light emitting indicator to display in at least three, four, or five display modes.

[0088] The aerosol generating device may be configured such that the light-emitting indicator comprises two light-emitting units, a first light-emitting unit and a second light-emitting unit. Each of the light-emitting units may be configured to display a first operating state, a second operating state, and a third operating state. The controller may be configured to independently control the operating states of the first light-emitting unit and the second light-emitting unit for any one of the first, second, or third operating states, such that the light-emitting indicator displays at least three or at least four display modes. The light-emitting indicator may be configured to display at least five or at least six display modes. For example, a usage session may include at least three or four consecutive stages, and the light-emitting indicator may be configured to display a different display mode during or between each of the consecutive stages.

[0089] During the first stage, the light-emitting indicator may display in a first display mode resulting from the first light-emitting unit displaying the first operating state and the second light-emitting unit displaying the first operating state.

[0090] During the second stage, the light-emitting indicator may display in a second display mode resulting from the first light-emitting unit displaying a first operating state and the second light-emitting unit displaying a second operating state.

[0091] During the third stage, the light-emitting indicator may display in a third display mode resulting from the first light-emitting unit displaying the first operating state and the second light-emitting unit displaying the third operating state.

[0092] During the fourth stage, if the fourth stage is present, the light-emitting indicator may display in a fourth display mode resulting from the first light-emitting unit displaying the second operating state and the second light-emitting unit displaying the second operating state.

[0093] During the fifth stage, if the fifth stage is present, the light-emitting indicator may display in a fifth display mode resulting from the first light-emitting unit displaying the third operating state and the second light-emitting unit displaying the third operating state.

[0094] Thus, the aerosol generating device may be configured to generate aerosol during a finite use session. The use session may be divided into multiple consecutive phases. The controller may be configured to determine and control the duration of the use session with reference to the monitored parameters. The controller may also determine and control the duration of each of the multiple phases with reference to the monitored parameters. The length of the use session and the length of any phase within the use session may have a maximum duration or a latest endpoint determined by a timing threshold. The length of the use session and the length of any phase within the use session may have a duration shorter than the maximum duration allowed by the timing threshold when one or more monitored parameters reach a threshold. The controller may determine which phase of the use session the device is in. The motion detection unit may be configured to detect a gesture made by the user. The gesture may initiate a status query regarding the number of available use sessions. The gesture may initiate a status query regarding the progress of the current use session. The controller is configured to control an indicator system that emits an output in response to the status query.

[0095] The aerosol-generating device may include a heater for heating the aerosol-forming substrate to form the aerosol. The heater may be a conduction heater. The conduction heater may include an inductor configured to generate a varying magnetic field designed to heat the susceptor. The heater may be a resistance heater.

[0096] The heater may comprise a heating element for heating the consumable aerosol-generating article. The heating element may be an internal heater designed to be inserted into the consumable aerosol-generating article, for example, a resistance heating element or susceptor in the form of a pin or blade that can be inserted into an aerosol-forming substrate located within the consumable aerosol-generating article. The heating element may also be an external heater designed to heat the exterior surface of the consumable aerosol-generating article, for example, a resistance heating element or a susceptor located around or surrounding a substrate-receiving cavity for receiving the consumable aerosol-generating article.

[0097] The aerosol generating device may be configured such that power is supplied to the heater to maintain the heater at a predetermined temperature during a use session.

[0098] Power may be supplied to the heater to raise the temperature of the heating element to an operating temperature range for generating an aerosol, and the heating element remains within the operating temperature range until the end of the use session. Power may be supplied to the heater during a use session both when the user is taking a puff and when the user is not taking a puff. In such a configuration, the power supplied while the user is taking a puff is likely to be greater than the power supplied when the user is not taking a puff, because less power is required to maintain the temperature of the heater between puffs.

[0099] The aerosol generating device may include a replaceable substrate section containing the aerosol-forming substrate. The replaceable substrate section may form part of the body of the aerosol generating device and may itself position or contain a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate within the device for consumption. The replaceable substrate section may be located distal to the proximal end of the device, for example, distal to the mouthpiece. The replaceable substrate section may be located proximal to the distal end of the device. The replaceable substrate section may be connected to one or more other sections forming the body of the aerosol generating device by connecting means such as a screw thread, or a bayonet joint, or a magnetic connection, or a mechanical latching means such as a snap fit or interference fit.

[0100] The replaceable substrate section may comprise a reservoir of liquid aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the replaceable substrate section may include a reservoir of a nicotine-containing liquid and an aerosol former such as propylene glycol or glycerin. Alternatively, the replaceable substrate section may include a reservoir of solid aerosol-forming substrate or a reservoir of colloidal aerosol-forming substrate such as a gel substrate.

[0101] The aerosol generating device may include a replaceable base section that includes two or more components that, when combined, form an aerosol.

[0102] The replaceable substrate section may include an atomizer, such as a heating element, for heating the aerosol-forming substrate or for heating at least one of two or more components that, when combined, form the aerosol. Thus, the replaceable substrate section may be in the form of an atomizer and include both the aerosol-forming substrate and the atomizing component. In such embodiments, the replaceable substrate section preferably includes electrical contacts configured to contact corresponding electrical contacts on the battery portion of the aerosol generating device to provide power for operation of the atomizer.

[0103] In one example, the atomizer may be a resistive heater such as a resistive wire or a resistive track on a substrate. In another example, the atomizer may be an induction susceptor that can be heated when placed in a varying magnetic field generated by an induction coil.

[0104] The aerosol-generating device may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may, for example, comprise a substrate-receiving cavity for receiving a consumable aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. Examples of aerosol-generating articles include cigarette paper, solid aerosol-forming substrates comprising an aerosol-forming substrate contained within a wrapper such as a capsule or container of a liquid aerosol-forming substrate or a colloidal aerosol-forming substrate, cigarettes, and sachets filled with cigarette-like articles. The consumable aerosol-generating article may comprise an interchangeable substrate section comprising two or more components that, when combined, form an aerosol.

[0105] The consumable aerosol-generating article may include an atomizer, such as a heating element, for heating an aerosol-forming substrate or for heating at least one of two or more components that, when combined, form an aerosol. Thus, the consumable aerosol-generating article may be in the form of an atomizer and include both an aerosol-forming substrate and an atomizing component. In such embodiments, the consumable aerosol-generating article preferably includes electrical contacts configured to contact corresponding electrical contacts on a battery portion of the aerosol generating device to provide power for operation of the atomizer.

[0106] In an example, the atomizer may be a resistive heater, such as a resistive wire or a resistive track on a substrate. In other embodiments, the atomizer may be an induction susceptor that can be heated when placed in a varying magnetic field generated by an induction coil.

[0107] A preferred consumable aerosol-generating article may be in the form of a cigarette or cigarette-like article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate contained within a wrapper. Such articles preferably comprise a mouth end intended to be inserted into a user's mouth for consumption of the article. The mouth end preferably comprises a filter that mimics a traditionally formulated cigarette. The consumable aerosol-generating article is preferably configured to interact with an atomizer, preferably a heater, located within the body of the aerosol-generating device. Accordingly, a heating means, such as a resistive heating element, may be located within or around a substrate-receiving cavity for receiving the consumable aerosol-generating article. The substrate-receiving cavity may be located at the proximal end of the device. For example, an opening to the substrate-receiving cavity may be located at the proximal end of the device.

[0108] An aerosol-generating system may comprise an aerosol generator as described above and an aerosol-generating article configured to be received by the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0109] The aerosol generation system may further comprise a charging device for charging the aerosol generation device. The charging device may comprise a primary power source and has a docking arrangement configured to engage the aerosol generation device.

[0110] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for providing user information to an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate during a use session, the aerosol generating device comprising an indicator system and a motion detection unit configured to detect movement of the device and identify a gesture associated with the detected movement, the method comprising the steps of detecting movement of the device, determining whether the movement corresponds to a gesture, and, if the movement corresponds to a gesture, controlling the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicative of the progress of the use session.

[0111] The aerosol generating device may include a power source. The aerosol generating device may include a motion detection unit configured to detect movement of the device and identify a first gesture associated with the detected movement and a second gesture different from the first gesture associated with the detected movement. The method may include detecting movement of the device, determining whether the movement corresponds to the first gesture or the second gesture, and, if the movement corresponds to the first gesture, controlling an indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicative of the progress of the usage session.

[0112] The method may include determining whether the movement corresponds to a first gesture or a second gesture, and if the movement corresponds to the second gesture, controlling an indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions.

[0113] The method may include the further steps of defining a plurality of successive stages between a user session start and a user session stop, and in response to a gesture being the first gesture, controlling the indicator system to output a different output during each of the plurality of successive stages of the usage session.

[0114] The method may include the further steps of recording user interaction parameters during the usage session and determining the duration of each of a plurality of successive stages of the usage session based on the timing information and the values ​​of the user interaction parameters.

[0115] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generation device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generation device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session and includes an indicator system, a motion detection unit configured to detect movement of the device and identify a first gesture associated with the detected movement, and a controller. The aerosol generation device includes a computer-readable medium containing instructions for performing a method of detecting movement of the device, determining whether the movement corresponds to a gesture, and, if the movement corresponds to a gesture, controlling the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicative of the progress of the use session.

[0116] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generation device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generation device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session and includes a power source, an indicator system, a motion detection unit configured to detect movement of the device and identify a gesture associated with the detected movement, and a controller. In response to the gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of use sessions available.

[0117] The aerosol generator may be configured to be used for multiple separate use sessions. For example, the multiple separate use sessions may be between 2 and 20 separate use sessions. The aerosol generator may be configured to provide an integer number of use sessions when the battery is fully charged, the integer being between 2 and 20.

[0118] The number of available usage sessions may be determined in relation to the energy available in the power source.

[0119] In response to a gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller may be configured to receive information indicative of energy available in the power source and control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicative of the number of usage sessions available.

[0120] The power source may be a battery and the energy available in the power source may be the charge available in the battery.

[0121] The motion detection unit may comprise an accelerometer and / or a gyroscope.

[0122] The gestures identified by the motion detection unit may be gestures selected from a list including lifting the device to a vertical position, shaking the device, tapping the device a predetermined number of times, e.g., double-tapping the device, raising the device, pivoting the device, and moving the device in a particular pattern.

[0123] The indicator system may comprise a light emitting indicator, a tactile feedback unit, or an audio feedback unit.

[0124] The user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions may include an audible indication. The user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions may include a tactile indication. The user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions may include a visual indication.

[0125] A use session may extend between a session start and a session stop. The aerosol generating device may be configured such that the use session has a maximum duration determined by a timer. The aerosol generating device may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article including an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device may be configured to detect the presence of the aerosol-generating article. If the aerosol-generating article is removed from the aerosol generating device, the use session ends.

[0126] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for providing user information to an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate during a use session. The aerosol generating device includes a power source, an indicator system, and a motion detection unit configured to detect movement of the device and identify a gesture associated with the detected movement. The method includes detecting movement of the device, determining whether the movement corresponds to a gesture, and, if the movement corresponds to a gesture, controlling the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of available use sessions.

[0127] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generation device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate configured to generate the aerosol during a use session. The aerosol generation device includes a power source, an indicator system, a motion detection unit configured to detect movement of the device and identify a gesture associated with the detected movement, and a controller. The aerosol generation device includes a computer-readable medium containing instructions for performing a method including detecting movement of the device, determining whether the movement corresponds to a gesture, and, if the movement corresponds to a gesture, controlling the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of available use sessions.

[0128] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol that can be inhaled directly into the user's lungs through the user's mouth. In certain embodiments, the aerosol-generating device may heat the aerosol-forming substrate to facilitate the release of the volatile compound. The aerosol-generating device may interact with an aerosol-generating article comprising the aerosol-forming substrate or a cartridge comprising the aerosol-forming substrate. An electrically operated aerosol-generating device may include an atomizer, such as an electric heater, for heating the aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol.

[0129] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. In certain embodiments, an aerosol-generating article may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol upon heating.

[0130] As used herein, the term "use session" refers to a period of operation of an aerosol generating device having a finite duration. A use session may be initiated by a user action. A use session may be terminated after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the initiation of the use session. A use session may be terminated after a monitored parameter reaches a threshold during the use session. Typically, a use session has a duration that allows a user to enjoy a single user experience. For example, in a particular aerosol generating device, a use session may have a duration that allows a user to consume a single disposable aerosol generating article. After the use session ends, further action is required by the user to initiate a subsequent use session.

[0131] As used herein, the term "tactile output unit" refers to an element of an aerosol generating device that can emit a tactile indication to a user of the device. The tactile output unit may include, for example, a vibration motor or a haptic motor, such as an eccentric rotating mass actuator.

[0132] As used herein, the term "light-emitting indicator" refers to an element of an aerosol generating device that is capable of emitting an indication in the form of a light that is visible to a user of the device.

[0133] As used herein, the term "light-emitting unit" refers to an individual component of a light-emitting indicator that can emit light. Each light-emitting unit provides a single display area of ​​the light-emitting indicator. The light-emitting units may be, for example, individual light bulbs or individual LEDs. The light emitted by the light-emitting units is visible to a user of the aerosol generating device. The light-emitting units may be mounted to protrude through the housing of the aerosol generating device. The light-emitting units may be enclosed within the housing of the aerosol generating device so that light emitted from the light-emitting units is visible through a window in the aerosol generating device. The light emitted from the light-emitting units may be transmitted along a waveguide structure so that it is visible to a user of the device.

[0134] As used herein, the term "motion detection unit" refers to an element of an aerosol generating device that can detect the movement and / or orientation of the device. The motion detection unit may comprise, by way of example, an accelerometer and / or a gyroscope.

[0135] As used herein, the term "gesture" refers to a movement of the aerosol generating device made by a user. A gesture may be a movement of the device in a predetermined manner. [Example]

[0136] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, the following provides a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of any other example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0137] Example i. An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, comprising: the aerosol generating device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session; The aerosol generator is An aerosol generating device comprising a controller configured to monitor the progress of a use session and to control an indicator to indicate the progress of the use session. Example ii. An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, comprising: the aerosol generating device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session; The aerosol generator is an indicator system; a motion detection unit configured to detect a movement of the device and identify a gesture associated with the detected movement; a controller; An aerosol generating device, wherein in response to a gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the progress of a usage session or the number of available usage sessions. Example iii. An aerosol generating device as described in example ii, wherein the gesture is a first gesture of a plurality of gestures that can be identified by the motion detection unit. Example 1 An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, comprising: the aerosol generating device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session; The aerosol generator is an indicator system; a motion detection unit configured to detect a motion of the device and identify a first gesture associated with the detected motion; a controller; An aerosol generating device, wherein in response to a first gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the progress of the usage session or the number of available usage sessions. Example 2. the aerosol generating device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session; The aerosol generator is an indicator system; a motion detection unit configured to detect a motion of the device and identify a first gesture associated with the detected motion and a second gesture different from the first gesture associated with the detected motion; a controller; In response to a first gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicative of a progress of the usage session; An aerosol generating device as described in Example 1, wherein in response to a second gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions. Example 3 3. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 2, configured to be used for multiple separate use sessions. Example 4. 4. The aerosol generating device of Example 3, wherein the plurality of separate use sessions is 2 to 20 separate use sessions. Example 5. 5. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the number of available usage sessions is determined with respect to the energy available in the power source. Example 6 An aerosol generating device as described in any of Examples 2 to 5, wherein in response to a second gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control an indicator system that receives information indicating the energy available in the power source and outputs a user-detectable indication indicating the number of usage sessions available. Example 7 7. The aerosol generating device of example 6, wherein the power source is a battery and the energy available in the power source is the charge available in the battery. Example 8 8. The aerosol generating device of example 7, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an integer number of usage sessions when the battery is fully charged, the integer being between 2 and 20. Example 9. 9. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 8, wherein the motion detection unit comprises an accelerometer and / or a gyroscope. Example 10. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the first gesture or the second gesture identified by the motion detection unit is a gesture selected from a list including lifting the device to a vertical position, shaking the device, tapping the device a predetermined number of times, e.g., double-tapping the device, raising the device, rotating the device, and moving the device in a specific pattern. Example 11 11. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the indicator system comprises a light-emitting indicator. Example 12 12. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the indicator system comprises a tactile feedback unit. Example 13 13. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the user-detectable indication indicating the progress of the usage session comprises an audible indication. Example 14. 14. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the user-detectable indication of the progress of the usage session comprises a tactile indication. Example 15. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 14, wherein the user-detectable indication of the progress of the usage session comprises a visual indication. Example 16. 16. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 2 to 15, wherein the user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions comprises an audible indication. Example 17. 17. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 2 to 16, wherein the user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions comprises a tactile indication. Example 18. 18. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 2 to 17, wherein the user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions comprises a visual indication. Example 19. 19. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 18, wherein a usage session extends between a session start and a session stop. Example 20. 20. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 19, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured such that a usage session has a maximum duration determined by a timer. Example 21. 21. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 20, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. Example 22. 22. The aerosol generating device of example 21, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to detect the presence of an aerosol-generating substance. Example 23. 23. An aerosol generating device according to example 21 or 22, wherein a use session ends when the aerosol-generating substance is removed from the aerosol generating device. Example 24. 24. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to monitor a user interaction parameter indicative of use of the aerosol generating device during a use session. Example 25. 25. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 24, configured to terminate a usage session when a user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold. Example 26. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 24 or 25, wherein the user interaction parameter indicates the puffs taken by the user during the use session, or wherein the user interaction parameter indicates the volume of aerosol emitted by the aerosol-forming substrate or delivered to the user during the use session. Example 27. 27. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 26, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a puff counting mechanism for determining the number of puffs taken by the user during a session of use. Example 28. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 27, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to terminate a use session when the number of puffs taken by the user during the use session reaches a predetermined threshold. Example 28A. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 28, configured to monitor parameters indicative of aerosol generation during operation of the aerosol generating device, analyze the monitored parameters to identify a user's puff, defined by the start and end of the puff, analyze the monitored parameters during the user's puff, calculate a puff volume, which is the volume of aerosol generated during the user's puff, and use the puff volume as a user interaction parameter. Example 29. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 28A, wherein a usage session comprises multiple successive stages. Example 30. 30. The aerosol generating device of Example 29, wherein the plurality of consecutive stages is at least three consecutive stages. Example 31. 30. The aerosol generating device of Example 29, wherein the plurality of consecutive stages is at least four consecutive stages. Example 32. 30. The aerosol generating device of Example 29, wherein the plurality of consecutive stages is at least five consecutive stages. Example 33. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 29 to 32, wherein the controller is configured to control the indicator to display a different one of a plurality of different display modes during each of a plurality of consecutive stages. Example 34. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 29 to 33, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured such that any or each of a plurality of consecutive stages has a stage duration defined by a stage start and a stage end. Example 35. An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 29 to 33, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured such that any or each of a plurality of consecutive stages has a maximum stage duration determined by a timer. Example 36. An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 29 to 34, wherein any or each of the plurality of consecutive stages has a stage duration determined by the start of the stage and the end of the stage. Example 37. 37. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 36, wherein any or each of the plurality of consecutive stages has a maximum stage duration determined by a timer. Example 38. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 36 or 37, wherein any or each of the multiple consecutive stages terminates when the monitored period reaches a predetermined threshold for the stage, unless the stage has terminated earlier. Example 39. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 36 to 38, wherein a first stage of the multiple consecutive stages has a first stage duration defined by a start of the first stage and an end of the first stage, and the first stage begins at the start of the session. Example 40. 39. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 39, wherein the first stage includes a heating period during which the heating element increases in temperature from ambient temperature to an operating temperature for generating the aerosol. Example 41. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 40, wherein a first stage of the multiple consecutive stages has a first stage duration defined by a start of the first stage and an end of the first stage, the first stage starting at the end of a pre-stage heating period, and the pre-stage heating period starting at the start of the session. Example 42. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 41, wherein the pre-heating period is a heating period in which the temperature of the heating element increases from ambient temperature to an operating temperature for generating the aerosol. Example 43. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 42, wherein a second stage of the multiple consecutive stages has a second stage duration defined by a start of the second stage and an end of the second stage, and the second stage starts at the end of the first stage. Example 44. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 43, wherein a third stage of the multiple consecutive stages has a third stage duration defined by a start of the third stage and an end of the third stage, and the third stage begins at the end of the second stage. Example 45. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 44, wherein a fourth stage of the multiple consecutive stages has a fourth stage duration defined by a start of the fourth stage and an end of the fourth stage, and the fourth stage begins at the end of the third stage. Example 46. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 45, wherein the use session ends at the end of the fourth stage. Example 47. An aerosol generating device as described in any of Examples 1 to 45, wherein a fifth stage of the plurality of consecutive stages has a fifth stage duration defined by a start of the fifth stage and an end of the fifth stage, and the fifth stage begins at the end of the fourth stage. Example 48. 48. The aerosol generating device of Example 47, wherein the use session ends at the end of the fifth stage. Example 49. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 45 and 47, wherein the plurality of consecutive sixth stages have a sixth stage duration defined by a sixth stage start and a sixth stage end, and the sixth stage begins at the end of the fifth stage. Example 50. 50. The aerosol generating device of Example 49, wherein the use session ends at the end of the sixth stage. Example 51. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 50, wherein the aerosol generating device is equipped with a monitoring device configured to monitor a user interaction parameter indicative of use of the aerosol generating device during a use session. Example 52. 52. An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 1 to 51, wherein the duration of any or each of a plurality of successive stages is controlled with reference to a user interaction parameter. Example 53. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 29 to 52, wherein the duration of any one of a plurality of successive stages, or each of them, is controlled with reference to a user interaction parameter and at least one further parameter. Example 54. 54. The aerosol generating device of Example 53, wherein at least one further parameter is the passage of time determined by a timer. Example 55. An aerosol generating device as described in any of Examples 29 to 54, wherein the user interaction parameter is indicative of the puffs taken by the user during the use session. Example 56. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 29 to 55, wherein the user interaction parameter indicates the power supplied to the heating element during a session of use. Example 57. An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 29 to 56, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a puff counting mechanism for determining the number of puffs taken by the user during a use session, and the duration of any or each of a plurality of successive stages is controlled with reference to the number of puffs taken by the user during the use session. Example 58. An aerosol generating device as described in any of Examples 29 to 56, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured such that a usage session has a maximum usage session duration determined by a timer, and wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to record at least one user interaction parameter during the usage session, and wherein the duration of any one or each of a plurality of consecutive stages has a duration shorter than the maximum stage duration when the value of the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold. Example 59. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 58, wherein a usage session comprises a first stage, a second stage, a third stage, and a fourth stage. Example 60. 60. The aerosol generating device of Example 59, wherein the first stage begins at the start of a use session. Example 61. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 59 or 60, wherein the monitoring period starting at the start of monitoring ends the first stage and the second stage begins after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a first predetermined value after the first predetermined value is reached or if the first predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the first predetermined value. Example 62. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 59 to 61, wherein the second stage ends and the third stage begins after the monitoring time, which starts at the start of monitoring, reaches a predetermined second stage time threshold, or if the second predetermined value reaches a time preceding the predetermined second stage time threshold, the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a second predetermined value. Example 63. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 59 to 62, wherein the third stage ends and the fourth stage begins after the monitoring time starting at the start of monitoring reaches a predetermined third stage time threshold, or if the third predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the predetermined third stage time threshold, after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a third predetermined value. Example 64. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 59 to 63, wherein the fourth stage ends after the monitoring time, which begins at the start of monitoring, reaches a predetermined fourth stage time threshold, or if the fourth predetermined value reaches a time preceding the predetermined fourth stage time threshold, after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a fourth predetermined value. Example 65. 65. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 59 to 64, wherein the monitoring start time is the start of a usage session. Example 66. 66. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 59 to 65, wherein the time threshold for the first stage is a value between 75 seconds and 105 seconds from the start of the usage session. Example 67. the recorded user interaction parameter represents the number of puffs taken by the user during the usage session; 67. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 59 to 66, wherein the first predetermined value is 3 puffs or 4 puffs. Example 68. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 59 to 67, wherein the time threshold for the second stage is a value between 150 seconds and 210 seconds from the start of the usage session. Example 69. the recorded user interaction parameter represents the number of puffs taken by the user during the usage session; 69. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 59 to 68, wherein the second predetermined value is 6 puffs or 7 puffs. Example 70. 69. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 59 to 69, wherein the time threshold for the third stage is a value between 225 seconds and 315 seconds from the start of the usage session. Example 71. the recorded user interaction parameter represents the number of puffs taken by the user during the usage session; 71. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 59 to 70, wherein the third predetermined value is 9 puffs or 10 puffs. Example 72. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 59 to 71, wherein the time threshold for the fourth stage is a value between 300 seconds and 420 seconds from the start of the usage session. Example 73. the recorded user interaction parameter represents the number of puffs taken by the user during the usage session; 75. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of Examples 59 to 74, wherein the first predetermined value is 12 puffs or 13 puffs. Example 74. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 59 to 73, wherein the usage session includes a final stage, which may be a fourth or subsequent stage, and the final stage ends after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a final predetermined value if the monitoring time starting at the session start of the usage session reaches a predetermined final stage time threshold or if the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a final predetermined value before the predetermined final stage time threshold. Example 75. 75. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 74, wherein the final stage has a maximum duration that is shorter than the maximum duration of the preceding stage. Example 76. 76. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 75, wherein the indicator system comprises a light-emitting indicator. Example 77. 77. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 76, wherein the luminescent indicator has at least one luminescent unit and no more than two luminescent units. Example 78. 78. The aerosol generating device of Example 77, wherein the light-emitting unit, or each light-emitting unit, is an LED unit. Example 79. 79. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 77 to 78, wherein the, or each, light-emitting unit is configured to indicate at least three operating states. Example 80. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 79, wherein the at least three operating states are selected from the list including: always on, always off, flashing, and intensity modulation. Example 81. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 77 to 80, wherein the or each light-emitting unit is operable to emit light in a first color and a second color, and the or each light-emitting unit is configured to display multiple operating states. Example 82. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 77 to 81, wherein the luminous indicator has a single luminous unit operable to emit light in a first color and a second color, and the luminous unit is configured to display multiple operating states, thereby allowing the luminous indicator to display in multiple display modes. Example 83. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 82, wherein the multiple operating states are selected from the list including: always off, first color always on, first color flashing, first color with adjustable intensity, second color always on, second color flashing, second color with adjustable intensity, and alternating first color / second color flashing. Example 84. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 77 to 83, wherein the light-emitting unit is configured to display in at least three operating modes, thereby allowing the light-emitting indicator to display in at least three display modes. Example 85. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 77 to 84, wherein the light-emitting unit is configured to display in at least four operating modes, thereby allowing the light-emitting indicator to display in at least four display modes. Example 86. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 77 to 85, wherein the light-emitting unit is configured to display in at least five operating modes, thereby allowing the light-emitting indicator to display in at least five display modes. Example 87. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 76 to 81, wherein the luminous indicator comprises two luminous units, i.e., a first luminous unit and a second luminous unit, each of which is configured to display in a first operating state, a second operating state, and a third operating state, and the controller is configured to independently control the operating states of the first luminous unit and the second luminous unit to any one of the first, second, or third operating states so that the luminous indicator displays in at least four display modes. Example 88. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 87, wherein the luminous indicator is configured to display in at least five display modes. Example 89. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 76 to 88, wherein a usage session includes at least four consecutive stages and the luminous indicator is configured to display a different display mode at or between each of the consecutive stages. Example 90. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 89, wherein during the first stage, the luminous indicator displays in a first display mode resulting from a first luminous unit that displays a first operating state and a second luminous unit that displays the first operating state. Example 91. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 89 or Example 90, wherein during the second stage, the luminous indicator displays in a second display mode resulting from a first luminous unit indicating a first operating state and a second luminous unit indicating a second operating state. Example 92. An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 89 to 91, wherein during the third stage, the luminous indicator displays in a third display mode resulting from a first luminous unit indicating a first operating state and a second luminous unit indicating a third operating state. Example 93. An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 89 to 92, wherein during the fourth stage, the luminous indicator displays in a fourth display mode resulting from a first luminous unit indicating a second operating state and a second luminous unit indicating a second operating state. Example 94. An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 89 to 93, wherein during the fifth stage, the luminous indicator displays in a fifth display mode resulting from a first luminous unit indicating a third operating state and a second luminous unit indicating the third operating state. Example 95. 95. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 94, wherein the indicator system comprises a tactile output unit. Example 96. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 95, wherein a usage session includes multiple consecutive stages and the tactile output unit is configured to emit a different tactile output during each of the multiple consecutive stages. Example 97. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 96, wherein during the first stage, the tactile output unit emits an output selected from a list including single vibration, double vibration, triple vibration, and quadruple vibration. Example 98. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 97, wherein during the second stage, the tactile output unit emits an output selected from a list including single vibration, double vibration, triple vibration, and quadruple vibration, and the tactile output emitted during the second stage is different from the tactile output emitted during the first stage. Example 99. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 98, wherein during the third stage, the tactile output unit emits an output selected from a list including single vibration, double vibration, triple vibration, and quadruple vibration, and the tactile output emitted during the third stage is different from the tactile output emitted during both the first stage and the second stage. Example 100. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 99, wherein during the fourth stage, the tactile output unit emits an output selected from a list including single vibration, double vibration, triple vibration, and quadruple vibration, and the tactile output emitted during the fourth stage is different from the tactile output emitted during any of the first stage, second stage, and third stage. Example 101. 101. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 100, wherein the device is equipped with a heater. Example 102. 102. The aerosol generating device of claim 101, wherein the heater is a conduction heater. Example 103. 102. The aerosol generating device of claim 101, wherein the heater is a resistive heater or an inductive heater. Example 104. An aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 103, configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. Example 105. 105. The aerosol-generating apparatus of example 104, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate. Example 105i. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 101 to 105, wherein power is supplied to the heater to maintain the heater at a predetermined temperature during a session of use. Example 105ii. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 101 to 105i, wherein power is supplied to the heater to raise the temperature of the heating element for generating the aerosol to an operating temperature range, and the heating element remains within the operating temperature range until the end of the usage session. Example 105iii. An aerosol generating device as described in any of Examples 101 to 105ii, wherein power is supplied to the heater during a usage session both when the user is inhaling and when the user is not inhaling. Example 106. An aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol-generating device of any of Examples 1 to 105iii, wherein the aerosol-generating article is configured to be received by the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. Example 107. 1. A method of providing user information to an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate during a session of use, comprising: The aerosol generator is an indicator system; a motion detection unit configured to detect a movement of the device and identify a gesture associated with the detected movement; The method is: Detecting movement of the device; determining whether the movement corresponds to a gesture; If the action corresponds to a gesture, controlling the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the progress of the usage session. Example 108. 1. A method of providing user information to an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate during a session of use, comprising: The aerosol generator is Power supply and an indicator system; a motion detection unit configured to detect a motion of the device and to identify a first gesture associated with the detected motion and a second gesture different from the first gesture associated with the detected motion; The method is: Detecting movement of the device; determining whether the movement corresponds to a first gesture or a second gesture; If the action corresponds to a first gesture, controlling the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the progress of the usage session; If the action corresponds to a second gesture, controlling the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions. Example 109. detecting and identifying a gesture made by a user holding the aerosol generating device; A method for providing user information described in Example 107 or 108 in an aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 1 to 105, comprising: in response to a gesture that is a first gesture, controlling an indicator system to output a user-detectable display indicating the progress of the usage session. Example 110. 110. The method of claim 109, wherein the indicator system is controlled to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions in response to the gesture being the second gesture. Example 111. A method according to any of Examples 107 to 110, comprising the further steps of: defining a plurality of successive stages between a user session start and a user session stop; and controlling the indicator system to output a different output during each of the plurality of successive stages of the usage session in response to a gesture that is the first gesture. Example 112. A method described in any of Examples 107 to 111, comprising the further steps of recording user interaction parameters during a usage session and determining the duration of each of multiple successive stages of the usage session based on the timing information and the values ​​of the user interaction parameters. Example 113. 1. An aerosol generation device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol generation device being configured to generate an aerosol during a session of use, the aerosol generation device comprising: an indicator system; a motion detection unit configured to detect a motion of the device and identify a first gesture associated with the detected motion; a controller; An aerosol generating device comprising a computer-readable medium containing instructions for carrying out the method of any one of Examples 107 to 112. Example 114. 1. An aerosol generation device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol generation device being configured to generate an aerosol during a session of use, the aerosol generation device comprising: Power supply and an indicator system; a motion detection unit configured to detect a movement of the device and identify a gesture associated with the detected movement; a controller; An aerosol generating device, wherein in response to a gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions. Example 115. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 114, configured to be used for multiple individual use sessions. Example 116. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 115, wherein the plurality of separate use sessions is 2 to 20 separate use sessions. Example 117. 117. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 114 to 116, wherein the number of available usage sessions is determined with respect to the energy available in the power source. Example 118. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 114 to 117, wherein in response to a gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to receive information indicating the energy available in the power source and control the indicator system to output a user-detectable display indicating the number of usage sessions available. Example 119. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 118, wherein the power source is a battery and the energy available in the power source is the charge available in the battery. Example 120. 120. The aerosol generating device of Example 119, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to provide an integer number of usage sessions when the battery is fully charged, the integer being between 2 and 20. Example 121. 121. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 114 to 120, wherein the motion detection unit comprises an accelerometer. Example 122. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 114 to 121, wherein the gesture identified by the motion detection unit is a gesture selected from a list including lifting the device to a vertical position, shaking the device, tapping the device a predetermined number of times, e.g., double-tapping the device, raising the device, rotating the device, and moving the device in a specific pattern. Example 123. 123. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 114 to 122, wherein the indicator system comprises a light-emitting indicator. Example 124. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 114 to 123, wherein the indicator system comprises a tactile feedback unit. Example 125. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 114 to 124, wherein the user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions includes an audible indication. Example 126. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 114 to 125, wherein the user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions includes a tactile indication. Example 127. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 114 to 126, wherein the user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions includes a visual indication. Example 128. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 114 to 127, wherein a usage session extends between a session start and a session stop. Example 129. An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 114 to 128, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured so that a usage session has a maximum duration determined by a timer. Example 130. 129. The aerosol-generating device of any one of Examples 114 to 129, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. Example 131. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 130, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to detect the presence of an aerosol-generating article. Example 132. 132. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 130 to 131, wherein the usage session ends when the aerosol generating substance is removed from the aerosol generating device. Example 133. 1. A method of providing user information to an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate during a session of use, comprising: The aerosol generator is Power supply and an indicator system; a motion detection unit configured to detect a movement of the device and identify a gesture associated with the detected movement; The method is: Detecting movement of the device; determining whether the movement corresponds to a gesture; If the action corresponds to a gesture, controlling the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions. Example 134. A method for providing user information according to Example 133 in the aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 114 to 132. Example 135. An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, comprising: the aerosol generating device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session; The aerosol generator is Power supply and an indicator system; a motion detection unit configured to detect a movement of the device and identify a gesture associated with the detected movement; a controller; An aerosol generating device comprising a computer-readable medium containing instructions for carrying out the method described in any one of Examples 133-134.

[0138] Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the figures. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0139] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic top view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional side view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and an aerosol-generating article for use with the device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram providing a schematic view of the various electronic components of the aerosol generating device and their interactions. [Figure 5]FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in providing a user with an indication of the number of remaining usage sessions. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in displaying to a user the progress of a usage session, where progress is determined by time and puff counts. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in displaying to a user the progress of a usage session, where progress is determined by time and aerosol volume generated. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in providing a user with an indication of the progress of a usage session in response to a status query. [Figure 9] 9-11 provide schematic diagrams of exemplary displays that may be provided by a light-emitting indicator to indicate the number of remaining usage sessions. [Figure 10] Same as above. [Figure 11] Same as above. [Figure 12] 12-16 provide schematic diagrams of exemplary indications that may be provided by light-emitting indicators relative to the progress of a usage session. [Figure 13] Same as above. [Figure 14] Same as above. [Figure 15] Same as above. [Figure 16] Same as above. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0140] The aerosol generating device 10 is a handheld aerosol generating device and has an elongated shape defined by a substantially circular, cylindrically shaped housing 20. The aerosol generating device 10 comprises an open cavity 25 located at the proximal end 21 of the housing 20 for receiving an aerosol-generating article 30 comprising an aerosol-forming substrate 31. The aerosol generating device 10 further comprises a battery (not shown) located within the device housing 20, and an electrically operated heater 40 arranged to heat at least the aerosol-forming substrate portion 31 of the aerosol-generating article 30 when the aerosol-generating article 30 is received within the cavity 25.

[0141] The aerosol-generating device is configured to receive a consumable aerosol-generating article 30. The aerosol-generating article 30 is in the form of a cylindrical rod and includes an aerosol-forming substrate 31. The aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate that includes tobacco. The aerosol-generating article 30 further includes a mouthpiece, such as a filter 32, disposed within the cylindrical rod in coaxial alignment with the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article 30 has a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the cavity 25 of the device 10 and a length greater than the depth of the cavity 25, such that when the article 30 is received in the cavity 25 of the device 10, the mouthpiece 32 extends outside the cavity 25 and can be withdrawn by a user in the same manner as a conventional cigarette.

[0142] During use, a user inserts the article 30 into the cavity 25 of the aerosol-generating device 10 and presses the user button 50 to turn on the device 10, activating the heater 40 and initiating a use session. The heater 40 heats the aerosol-forming substrate of the article 30 such that volatile compounds in the aerosol-forming substrate 31 are released and atomized to form an aerosol. The user draws on the mouthpiece of the article 30, inhaling the aerosol generated from the heated aerosol-forming substrate. After activation, the temperature of the heater 40 increases from ambient temperature to a predetermined temperature to heat the aerosol-forming substrate. The control electronics of the device 10 supply power from the battery to the heater, maintaining the heater temperature at a substantially constant level as the user puffs on the aerosol-generating article 30. The heater continues to heat the aerosol-generating article until the end of the use session, at which point the heater is turned off and allowed to cool.

[0143] At the end of a usage session, the item 30 is removed from the device 10 for disposal, and the device 10 may be coupled to an external power source to recharge the battery of the device 10.

[0144] The aerosol generating device 10 further includes a light-emitting indicator 60 having a first light-emitting unit 61 and a second light-emitting unit 62. Light emitted from the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 is visible through the housing 20 of the aerosol generating device 10. Both the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 are light-emitting diode (LED) devices capable of emitting light in four colors: white, green, red, and tan. The LEDs may be visible through the housing 20, or the light emitted from the LEDs may be visible to the eye from outside the housing 20 through a light-transmitting channel (e.g., via a waveguide or similar structure). In addition to each being capable of emitting light in a different color, both the first light-emitting unit and the second light-emitting unit have the ability to be independently controlled to be completely off, completely on, or flashing.

[0145] FIG. 4 provides a schematic diagram of the various electronic components of the aerosol generating device and their interactions.

[0146] A controller 420 located within the housing 20 is connected to a battery 410 , a heater 40 , a timer 430 , an accelerometer 440 , a haptic motor 450 , and a light-emitting indicator 60 .

[0147] The battery 410 provides energy to heat the heater 40 and to operate other electrical components. When fully charged, the battery 410 has enough energy to power two complete usage sessions of the aerosol generating device. The battery 410 is a rechargeable battery and can be connected to an external power source to be recharged.

[0148] The heater 40 converts the energy supplied by the battery into heat to heat the aerosol generator sufficiently to form the aerosol. During operation, the controller controls the supply of energy from the battery to maintain the heater at a substantially constant aerosol-generating temperature.

[0149] A timer 430 provides a timing signal to the controller.

[0150] The accelerometer 440 is configured to detect movement of the device. When movement is detected, a signal is sent to the controller, and the controller determines whether the detected movement matches a predetermined pattern or gesture. Thus, a user can interact with the device by moving in specific patterns and gestures.

[0151] Haptic motor 450 generates a haptic output for a user of the device. The haptic motor is configured to emit a haptic output in response to control signals from controller 420.

[0152] The light emitting indicator 60 generates a visual indication for a user. The light emitting indicator is configured to emit a visual indication in response to a control signal from the controller 420.

[0153] The aerosol generating device 10 of this particular embodiment is configured to accept user queries in the form of specific gestures made by a user with the device 10. In response to the user queries, the device 10 is configured to output signals indicating the number of usage sessions remaining before the device's battery needs to be recharged, and also to output signals during a usage session indicating the progress of the usage session.

[0154] When fully charged, the battery can provide enough energy for at least one complete use session. The battery may provide enough energy for more than one use session (e.g., 20 use sessions). A user may want to know how many use sessions are available before attempting to start a use session.

[0155] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in providing a user with an indication of the number of remaining usage sessions.

[0156] Step 500: When the aerosol generating device is not engaged in a use session, the user picks up the device and moves it in a predetermined gesture.

[0157] Step 510: A movement of the device associated with a predetermined gesture is detected by the accelerometer, which sends a signal to the controller. The predetermined gesture may be, for example, lifting the device and orienting it in a vertical position. Step 520: The signal provided by the accelerometer is analyzed to determine if the detected gesture is indicative of a battery status query.

[0158] Step 530: If the detected signal is determined to be a battery status query, the controller communicates with the battery to determine the battery's charge level.

[0159] Step 540: The controller sends a signal to the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit an indication of the number of usage sessions remaining.

[0160] Step 550: The light indicator 60 emits a visual signal indicating the number of remaining usage sessions.

[0161] 9-11 provide schematic diagrams of exemplary indications that may be provided by the light-emitting indicator 60 to indicate the number of remaining usage sessions. If the controller determines that the battery has sufficient charge for two usage sessions, the light-emitting indicator emits an indication that two usage sessions remain. For example, the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 may both be illuminated with a white light.

[0162] If the controller determines that the battery has sufficient charge for one usage session, the light-emitting indicator 60 emits an indication that one usage session remains. For example, the first light-emitting unit 61 may both be illuminated with white light and the second light-emitting unit 62 may not be illuminated.

[0163] If the controller determines that the battery has insufficient charge for a use session, the light-emitting indicator emits an indication that no use session is available and that recharging is required. For example, the first light-emitting unit 61 may both be illuminated with a yellow light and the second light-emitting unit 62 may not be lit.

[0164] The aerosol-generating article for use with the device has a finite amount of aerosol-forming substrate, and therefore, the use session must have a finite duration to prevent a user from attempting to generate aerosol when the aerosol-forming substrate is depleted. The use session is configured to have a maximum duration determined by the elapsed time from the start of the use session. The use session is also configured to have a duration shorter than the maximum duration if a user interaction parameter recorded during the use session reaches a threshold value before the maximum duration determined by the timer.

[0165] In certain embodiments, the user interaction parameter is the number of puffs taken by the user during a use session, and thus the aerosol generating device is configured such that each use session has a duration of 6 minutes from the start of the use session, or such that the user takes 14 puffs if 14 puffs are taken within 6 minutes from the start of the use session.

[0166] During a use session, a user may wish to have an indication of their progress through the use session. For example, a user may wish to know approximately how many puffs they have left in the use session or approximately how much time is left at that point.

[0167] The controller includes a puff counter for monitoring the number of puffs taken during a use session. The number of puffs taken by a user is determined by monitoring the power supplied to the heater during a use session. When a user puffs, the airflow cools the heater, and therefore a greater amount of energy is supplied by the battery to maintain the heater at its operating temperature. Therefore, by monitoring the power supplied by the heater, the controller can determine the number of puffs taken during a use session.

[0168] To monitor progress, a use session is divided into several successive stages, beginning with a first stage when the use session begins and ending with a final stage when the use session ends, with passage from one stage to the next determined by time and number of puffs as well as the use session. As the use session progresses through the successive stages, the controller commands the light-emitting indicators and tactile motors to emit signals indicative of each successive stage. Thus, the user knows the approximate progress of the use session.

[0169] In particular embodiments, a usage session may be divided into five successive phases for display purposes. Figure 6 illustrates the method steps involved in displaying the progress of a usage session to a user.

[0170] Step 600: The user begins a use session by inserting an aerosol-generating article 30 into the cavity 25 of the device 10 and pressing the user button 50.

[0171] Step 605: A timer is started to record the time that has elapsed during the use session, and a puff counter is started to record the number of puffs taken during the use session.

[0172] Step 610: The first phase of a usage session is considered to have begun when the usage session begins.

[0173] During the first stage, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the first stage. One example of such a signal is a first light-emitting unit 61 and a second light-emitting unit 62 both emitting continuous white light, as illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0174] During the first phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the first phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting four consecutive buzzes.

[0175] Step 615: The first phase ends and the second phase begins after 1.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after the user has taken three puffs since the start of the use session, if three puffs have been taken before 1.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session.

[0176] Step 620: The second phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the first phase ends.

[0177] During the second stage, the controller commands the light-emitting indicators 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the second stage. One example of such a signal is a first light-emitting unit 61 emitting a continuous white light and a second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a flashing white light, as illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0178] During the second phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the second phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting three consecutive buzzes.

[0179] Step 625: The second phase ends and the third phase begins after three minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after the user has taken six puffs since the start of the use session, if six puffs have been taken before three minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session.

[0180] Step 630: The third phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the second phase ends.

[0181] During the third stage, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the third stage. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a continuous white light, as illustrated in FIG. 14 .

[0182] During the third stage, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the third stage. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting two successive buzzes.

[0183] Step 635: The third phase ends, and the fourth phase begins after 4.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after the user has taken 8 puffs since the start of the use session, if 8 puffs have been taken before 4.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session.

[0184] Step 640: The fourth phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the third phase ends.

[0185] During the fourth stage, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the fourth stage. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a flashing white light, as illustrated in FIG. 15 .

[0186] During the fourth stage, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the fourth stage. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting a single buzz sound.

[0187] Step 645: The fourth phase ends, and the fifth phase begins after 5.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after the user has taken 11 puffs since the start of the use session, if 11 puffs have been taken before 5.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session.

[0188] Step 650: The fifth phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the fourth phase ends.

[0189] During the fifth stage, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the fifth stage. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 emitting a flashing yellow light and the second light-emitting unit 62 not lit, as illustrated in FIG.

[0190] Step 655: The fifth stage ends after six minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after the user has taken 14 puffs since the start of the use session, if 14 puffs have been taken before six minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session.

[0191] Step 660: At the end of the fifth stage, the use session ends. The heater shuts down and no more aerosol is generated. The user can now remove the aerosol-generating article from the device and, if necessary, recharge the device.

[0192] In a further specific embodiment, the user interaction parameter calculates the volume of aerosol delivered to the user during a use session. Thus, the aerosol generating device is configured such that each use session has a duration of 6 minutes from the start of the use session or has a delivery of a predetermined maximum volume of aerosol if that predetermined volume of aerosol is delivered to the user within 6 minutes from the start of the use session. The predetermined maximum volume of aerosol may be, for example, 660 ml of aerosol.

[0193] During a use session, a user may wish to have an indication of their progress through the use session. For example, a user may wish to know approximately how much potentially deliverable aerosol they have left in the use session, or approximately how much time is left at that point.

[0194] The controller is configured to detect puffs taken during a use session. A puff start point and a puff end point for each detected puff are determined by monitoring the power supplied to the heater during the use session. When a user puffs, the airflow cools the heater, and therefore a greater amount of energy is supplied by the battery to maintain the heater's temperature at its operating temperature. Therefore, by monitoring the power supplied by the heater, the controller can determine the start point and end point of puffs taken during a use session. By integrating the monitored power between the detected puff start point and the detected puff end point, a calculated value of the aerosol delivered may be obtained. By summing the calculated values ​​of the aerosol delivered during a use session, a cumulative value of the aerosol delivered during a use session may be obtained.

[0195] To monitor progress, a use session is divided into several successive stages, beginning with a first stage beginning when the use session begins and ending with a final stage when the use session ends, with passage from one stage to the next determined by time and the cumulative volume of aerosol delivered. As the use session progresses through the successive stages, the controller commands the light-emitting indicators and tactile motors to emit signals indicative of each successive stage. Thus, the user knows the approximate progress of the use session.

[0196] In particular embodiments, a use session may be divided into five successive stages for display purposes. Figure 7 illustrates the method steps involved in displaying the progress of a use session to a user.

[0197] Step 700: The user begins a use session by inserting an aerosol-generating article 30 into the cavity 25 of the device 10 and pressing the user button 50.

[0198] Step 705: A timer is started to record the time elapsed during the use session, and the controller is started to identify the puffs taken during the use session and calculate the volume of aerosol delivered during each puff.

[0199] Step 710: The first phase of a usage session is considered to have begun when the usage session begins.

[0200] During the first stage, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the first stage. One example of such a signal is a first light-emitting unit 61 and a second light-emitting unit 62 both emitting continuous white light, as illustrated in FIG. 11 .

[0201] During the first phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the first phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting four consecutive buzzes.

[0202] Step 715: The first phase ends, and the second phase begins 1.5 minutes after the start of the use session, or after the first predetermined volume of aerosol has been delivered since the start of the use session, if the first predetermined volume of aerosol was delivered before 1.5 minutes after the start of the use session. The first predetermined volume of aerosol may be, for example, 150 ml.

[0203] Step 720: The second phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the first phase ends.

[0204] During the second stage, the controller commands the light-emitting indicators 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the second stage. One example of such a signal is a first light-emitting unit 61 emitting a continuous white light and a second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a flashing white light, as illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0205] During the second phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the second phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting three consecutive buzzes.

[0206] Step 725: The second phase ends, and the third phase begins after three minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after a second predetermined volume of aerosol has been delivered since the start of the use session, if the second predetermined volume of aerosol was delivered before three minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session. The first predetermined volume of aerosol may be, for example, 300 ml.

[0207] Step 730: The third phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the second phase ends.

[0208] During the third stage, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the third stage. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a continuous white light, as illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0209] During the third stage, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the third stage. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting two successive buzzes.

[0210] Step 735: The third phase ends, and the fourth phase begins after 4.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after the third predetermined volume of aerosol has been delivered since the start of the use session, if the third predetermined volume of aerosol was delivered before 4.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session. The third predetermined volume of aerosol may be, for example, 450 ml.

[0211] Step 740: The fourth phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the third phase ends.

[0212] During the fourth stage, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the fourth stage. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a flashing white light, as illustrated in FIG. 14 .

[0213] During the fourth stage, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the fourth stage. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting a single buzz sound.

[0214] Step 745: The fourth phase ends, and the fifth phase begins after 5.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after a fourth predetermined volume of aerosol has been delivered since the start of the use session, if the fourth predetermined volume of aerosol was delivered before 5.5 minutes had elapsed since the start of the use session. The fourth predetermined volume of aerosol may be, for example, 600 ml.

[0215] Step 750: The fifth phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the fourth phase ends.

[0216] During the fifth stage, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the fifth stage. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 emitting a flashing yellow light and the second light-emitting unit 62 not lit, as illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0217] Step 755: The fifth phase ends after six minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after a fifth predetermined volume of aerosol has been delivered since the start of the use session if the fifth predetermined volume of aerosol was delivered before six minutes had elapsed since the start of the use session. The fifth predetermined volume of aerosol may be, for example, 660 ml.

[0218] Step 760: At the end of the fifth stage, the use session ends. The heater shuts down and no more aerosol is generated. The user can now remove the aerosol-generating article from the device and, if necessary, recharge the device.

[0219] The indication of the different stages may be provided continuously. For example, the indication from the light-emitting indicator may remain on continuously during a use session. Alternatively, the indication of the different stages may be provided only intermittently, for example, only upon transition from one stage to another. As a further alternative, the indication of the different stages may be provided in response to a status query from the user during a use session.

[0220] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in providing a user with an indication of the progress of a usage session in response to a status query.

[0221] Step 800: When the aerosol generating device is engaged in a use session, the user moves the device in a predetermined gesture.

[0222] Step 810: A movement of the device associated with a predetermined gesture is detected by the accelerometer, which sends a signal to the controller. The predetermined gesture may be, for example, a double clear tap on the device.

[0223] Step 820: Analyze the signal provided by the accelerometer to determine if the detected gesture is a gesture indicative of a usage session progress query.

[0224] Step 830: If the detected signal is determined to be a usage session progress query, the controller determines the current stage of the usage session.

[0225] Step 840: The controller sends a signal to the light emitting unit to emit an indication of the progress of the usage session.

[0226] Step 850: The controller sends signals to the haptic motor to emit an indication of the progress of the usage session.

[0227] The device may be configured so that both the visual and tactile indication signals are automatically emitted as indications of progress. Alternatively, the device may be configured so that the visual indication signals are provided continuously during a use session, while the tactile signals are provided only in response to a query from the user. For example, a tactile signal indicating the progress of use may be emitted only after the user initiates a status query by moving the device in a predetermined gesture. As a further alternative, the device may be configured so that signals related to the progress of a use session are not emitted continuously during use, but only in response to a query from the user. For example, a visual and / or tactile signal indicating the progress of use may be emitted only after the user initiates a status query by moving the device in a predetermined gesture.

Claims

1. 1. An aerosol generation device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, said aerosol generation device configured to generate said aerosol during a session of use, said aerosol generation device comprising: an indicator system; a motion detection unit; a controller; the motion detection unit is configured to detect a movement of the device and identify a first gesture and a second gesture different from the first gesture; In response to the first gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicative of a progress of the usage session; An aerosol generating device, wherein in response to the second gesture identified by the motion detection unit, the controller is configured to control the indicator system to output a user-detectable indication indicating the number of available usage sessions.

2. 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, configured to be used for multiple separate use sessions.

3. 3. The aerosol generating device of claim 2, wherein the plurality of separate use sessions is between 2 and 20 separate use sessions.

4. 4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the motion detection unit includes an accelerometer and / or a gyroscope.

5. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first gesture or the second gesture identified by the action detection unit is a gesture selected from a list including lifting the device to a vertical position, shaking the device, tapping the device a predetermined number of times, for example double-tapping the device, raising the device, rotating the device, and moving the device in a specific pattern.

6. 6. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the usage session extends between a session start and a session stop.

7. 7. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured so that the usage session has a maximum duration determined by a timer.

8. 8. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to monitor a user interaction parameter indicative of use of the aerosol generating device during the use session.

9. 9. The aerosol generating device of claim 8, wherein the usage session is configured to be terminated when the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold.

10. 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 8 or 9, wherein the user interaction parameter is indicative of a puff taken by the user during the use session.

11. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the usage session comprises a number of successive stages.

12. 12. The aerosol generating device of claim 11, wherein the controller is configured to control the indicator to display a different one of a plurality of different display modes during each of the plurality of successive stages.

13. 13. The aerosol generating device of claim 11 or 12, wherein any or each of the plurality of successive stages terminates when the monitored period reaches a predetermined threshold for that stage, unless the stage has terminated earlier.

14. 14. An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein any or each of the plurality of successive stages has a stage duration determined by a stage start and a stage end.

15. 15. The aerosol generating device of claim 14, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured such that any or each of the plurality of successive stages has a maximum stage duration determined by a timer, and the aerosol generating device is configured to record at least one user interaction parameter during the usage session, and wherein any or each of the plurality of successive stages has a stage duration shorter than the maximum stage duration when the value of the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold.

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