Aerosol generation device with illuminated status indicator

Abstract

To provide an aerosol generation device with an illuminated status indicator.SOLUTION: An aerosol generation device 100 includes: a detector module 138 configured to supply to a CPU 130 a signal received from a detector that detects the position of a closure; and a user input device, which is a button or a switch for receiving a user input action. The aerosol generation device further includes: a user input module 142 configured to supply to the CPU a signal received from the user input device; and a status indicator having an LED interface configured to display information to a user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device with an illuminated status indicator. The disclosure is particularly, but not exclusively, applicable to portable aerosol generating devices that may be self-contained, and more particularly to devices that heat tobacco or other suitable material by conduction, convection, and / or radiation, rather than by combustion, to generate an aerosol for inhalation. [Background technology]

[0002] The popularity and use of risk reduction or risk modification devices (also known as vaporizers) has grown rapidly in recent years as an aid to assisting regular smokers who wish to quit smoking traditional tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, and rolling tobacco. A variety of devices and systems are available for heating or agitating an aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol and / or vapor for inhalation, as opposed to burning tobacco as in traditional tobacco products.

[0003] One type of risk reduction or risk modification device is a heated substrate aerosol generator or heat-not-burn device. This type of device generates an aerosol and / or vapor by heating a solid aerosol substrate, typically moist tobacco, to temperatures typically ranging from 150°C to 300°C. By heating rather than burning or combusting the aerosol substrate, an aerosol and / or vapor is released that contains the ingredients desired by the user but without the toxic and carcinogenic by-products of combustion and burning. Furthermore, aerosols or vapors generated by heating an aerosol substrate, such as tobacco, generally do not contain the burnt or bitter tastes associated with burning and scorching, which can be unpleasant to users. That is, the aerosol substrate does not require sugar or other additives typically added to tobacco in traditional tobacco products to make the smoke and / or vapor more palatable to the user.

[0004] Typically, a portion of the aerosol substrate is provided in the aerosol generating device for use during a "smoking" session. Once that portion is used, e.g., useful release of aerosol and / or vapor from that portion is complete, the user's session ends, and a new portion of the aerosol substrate is provided to the aerosol generating device to begin the next session. Portable aerosol generating devices are often carried by users throughout the day and may be used for multiple sessions, subject to limitations on the energy available in the device for generating aerosol and / or vapor, such as battery capacity. Therefore, it is desirable to indicate the device's battery level to the user, thereby enabling the user to keep the device charged. It may also be desirable to indicate other useful information to the user, such as the time remaining in the session, e.g., until the portion of the aerosol substrate is used up, or the heating status of the device, or any other useful information (e.g., correct insertion of the substrate, closure open / close status, error mode, wireless communication mode, etc.).

[0005] Portable aerosol generating devices are highly personal to the user and are used frequently and closely throughout the day, for example, handled closely and held close to the user's face. Therefore, the look and feel of the device are very important, particularly how the user inputs commands such as turning the device on and off, and how the device indicates its status to the user. Therefore, the aesthetic properties of the device's status indicator are important. At the same time, aerosol generating devices are generally compact, meaning it may be desirable to have a small, accurate, and intuitive status indicator, while ensuring that any power consumption of the status indicator is low. These requirements may conflict with each other. It will be understood that

[0006] Chinese Utility Model No. 207978948 describes an electronic cigarette device incorporating a single light-emitting diode (LED). This LED communicates only limited status information to the user. European Patent No. 2727619 similarly describes an electronic vaporizer device with a single LED. Various modes of illumination for the LED are described, including flashing and multiple colors. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] Aspects of the present disclosure are set out in the accompanying claims.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a body having a non-opaque window; an array of light sources disposed inside the body; a light diffuser disposed between the array of light sources and the non-opaque window; Multiple walls extending between the light sources An aerosol generating device is provided, comprising:

[0009] By providing an aerosol generating device with a light diffuser and multiple walls, light directed from an array of light sources through a non-opaque window can be made to appear as a mass of light that smoothly increases in size as the number of adjacent light sources illuminated increases. The walls limit light from individual light sources from leaking along the array, while the diffuser combines light from adjacent or nearby light sources to appear as a continuous or uniform area of ​​light at the window. This allows the array to present a variety of information to a user in an elegant and visually appealing manner.

[0010] Optionally, the plurality of walls comprise a light diffusing material. The light diffuser may comprise the same light diffusing material as the plurality of walls. In one example, the light diffuser and the plurality of walls comprise a single continuous piece.

[0011] Optionally, the light diffusing material is a white translucent material. The light diffusing material can also be a polycarbonate material. In some examples, the light diffusing material is Makrolon® or Lexan®. In one particularly preferred example, the light diffusing material is RTP® 0399X 120952 D S-27484 WHITE.

[0012] Optionally, the light source may be configured to direct light towards a non-opaque window.

[0013] Optionally, the light diffuser may be configured to receive light from the light source and transmit the light towards the non-opaque window portion.

[0014] Optionally, the walls may be configured to receive light emitted from the light sources at an angle and limit leakage of light from each light source along the array.

[0015] Optionally, the array of light sources is a linear array, for example, the array of light sources is arranged in a single (straight) line, and the light sources in the array may be light emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0016] Optionally, each wall of the plurality of walls extends to interrupt a straight line path of light between adjacent light sources in the array.

[0017] Optionally, each light source in the array is illuminated by one or more of a light diffuser and a plurality of walls: It is surrounded on all sides except the side of the light sources facing in a direction away from the shortest direct path from the array of light sources to the non-opaque window.

[0018] Optionally, the light sources are spaced about 2 mm apart.

[0019] Optionally, each wall of the plurality of walls has a length of about 0.5 mm in the direction of the shortest direct path from the array of light sources to the non-opaque window portion.

[0020] Optionally, the light source is positioned substantially directly behind the non-opaque window portion.

[0021] Optionally, a light diffuser may span the array of light sources and the window.

[0022] Optionally, the light diffuser may have a height and width greater than the array of light sources and the window.

[0023] Optionally, at least one surface of the light diffuser has a cladding. Optionally, at least one surface of the light diffuser has a coating. For example, the light diffusing material of the light diffuser can be cladded or coated on at least one surface. The cladding or coating can have a different refractive index than the light diffuser.

[0024] Optionally, at least one surface of the light diffuser is polished. At least one surface of the light diffuser can be smooth or mirrored. For example, the light diffusing material of the light diffuser can be polished, smoothed, or mirrored on at least one surface.

[0025] Optionally, at least one surface of the light diffuser is white or near white. For example, the light diffusing material of the light diffuser can be opaque, nearly opaque, or translucent on at least one surface.

[0026] Optionally, at least one surface of the light diffuser is rough. At least one surface of the light diffuser can be rough or matte. For example, the light diffusing material of the light diffuser can be roughened, rough, or matte on at least one surface.

[0027] In some conditions, a slightly roughened surface may enhance light transmission out of the body and hinder light transmission into the body. Conversely, a smooth surface may hinder light transmission out of the body (i.e., retain light within the body) but enhance light transmission into the body. Therefore, the surface of the light diffuser closest to the light source may be smooth or polished to enhance light transmission from the light source to the light diffuser. The surface facing away from the light source may be roughened to extract light out of the device. Similarly, the surface at the edge of the diffuser element may be polished or smoothed to reduce light leakage out the sides of the light diffuser. The side surfaces may further be provided with cladding to increase internal reflection at the sides and further reduce light leakage out the sides. The cladding generally has a refractive index lower than the refractive index of the material it surrounds.

[0028] Optionally, the aerosol generating device includes an optical element disposed between the light diffuser and the non-opaque window of the body. The optical element may be an optical lens or an optical filter. The optical element may have a transmission band of 400 nm to 700 nm, or some other range within that band. For similar reasons as described above, the surface of the optical element may be roughened, smoothed, or polished. The side surfaces and the surface closest to the light source may be smoothed or polished, while the surface farthest from the light source (the surface closest to the exterior of the device) may be roughened. Additionally, cladding may be applied to the sides (or edges) of the optical element to increase internal reflection at the edges and reduce light leakage at the edges.

[0029] Optionally, the aerosol generating device comprises a power source, which may be an electrical power source, such as a battery or cell.

[0030] Optionally, the aerosol generating device has a closure movable between a closed position and an open position, and preferably the closure is also movable between an open position and an activated position. The array of light sources may be configured to illuminate differently depending on the position of the closure.

[0031] Optionally, the array of light sources is configured to be inoperative when the closure is in the closed position, and operable when the closure is in the open position, or in the actuated position, or in the open and actuated positions.

[0032] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of operating the above-mentioned aerosol generating device, the method including indicating a first status of the aerosol generating device by illuminating a first group of light sources and indicating a second status of the aerosol generating device by illuminating a second group of light sources, the first group being at least partially different from the second group.

[0033] According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for manufacturing the above-described aerosol generating device by selecting the light sources, light diffuser, and wall, and their relative positional relationships, so that when any group of adjacent light sources is turned on, the light visible through the non-opaque window portion appears to be uniformly distributed except around the periphery of the visible light.

[0034] Each of the above aspects may include any one or more of the features mentioned in connection with the other aspects above.

[0035] The use of terms such as "apparatus," "device," "processor," "module," and the like is intended to be general rather than specific. These features of the present disclosure may be implemented using discrete components such as a computer or central processing unit (CPU), but may equally well be implemented using other suitable components or combinations of components. For example, they may be implemented using one or more hardwired circuits, e.g., integrated circuits, and using embedded software.

[0036] It should be noted that, as used herein, the term "comprising" means "consisting at least in part of." Therefore, when interpreting a statement herein that includes the term "comprising," other features or features preceded by that term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" should be interpreted similarly. As used herein, "(s)" following a noun refers to the plural and / or singular of that noun.

[0037] As used herein, the term "aerosol" means a system of particles dispersed in air or gas, such as a mist, fog, or smoke. Accordingly, the term "aerosolize" (or "aerosolize") means to make into an aerosol and / or to disperse as an aerosol. For the avoidance of doubt, aerosol is used consistently to describe a mist or droplets containing atomized, volatilized, or vaporized particles. Aerosol also includes a mist or droplets containing any combination of atomized, volatilized, or vaporized particles. .

[0038] As used herein, the term "non-opaque" means transparent or translucent in the visible spectrum of light, preferably having a transmittance in the visible spectrum of 10% or less, more preferably 5% or less, even more preferably 2% or less, or even 1% or less, e.g., at most about 0.5%. For example, if the wall between light sources is opaque, the opacity is such that light does not travel a substantially direct path between adjacent light sources. The opacity varies depending on both the type and thickness of the material, as well as the brightness of the light sources. In such situations, the goal is to transmit as little light as possible through the wall.

[0039] For clarity, throughout this specification, "height" refers to the dimension perpendicular to the body of the device; for example, the distance between the top and bottom of the body is the height of the body. "Width" refers to the distance measured parallel to the side wall of the body, e.g., from front to back or from side to side (in either case, this is perpendicular to the height dimension). Thus, for example, the elongated window in the body shown in Figures 1A and 1B is much taller than it is wide. "Depth" refers to the distance measured perpendicular to the side wall of the body, toward or away from the interior of the device; thus, for example, the inner casing is positioned further back in the device than the outer casing, and the wall of the light diffuser extends further back than the main body of the diffuser. In both cases, the depth dimension is perpendicular to the height dimension. In addition, the depth dimension is perpendicular to the local definition of the width dimension.

[0040] Preferred embodiments will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0041] [Figure 1A] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams of an aerosol generating device according to a first embodiment, with the closure in a closed position and with the closure in an open position; [Figure 1B] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams of an aerosol generating device according to a first embodiment, with the closure in a closed position and with the closure in an open position; [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device showing some internal components. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of the electronics of the aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an array of light sources, a light diffuser, and a window according to a first preferred embodiment; [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a light diffuser according to a first preferred embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a status indicator according to a first preferred embodiment; [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is an exploded schematic cross-sectional view of the status indicator of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the status indicator taken along line AA in FIG. 6. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an array of light sources, a light diffuser, and a window in accordance with a second preferred embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a light diffuser according to a second preferred embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a status indicator according to a second preferred embodiment; [Figure 12] 12 is an exploded schematic cross-sectional view of the status indicator of FIG. 11. [Figure 13] 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the status indicator taken along line BB in FIG. 11. [Figure 14] 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device with the closure in the closed position and the status indicator off. [Figure 15] 1 is a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating device with a status indicator showing different power supply charge levels. FIG. [Figure 16] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams of an aerosol generating device with a status indicator showing different remaining session times. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0042] 1A, 1B, and 2, an aerosol generating device 100 has a body 102 with an outer casing 105 that houses various components. An opening 110 is provided in the body 102, e.g., in a side wall of the outer casing 105, through which an aerosol substrate (not shown) can be inserted into a heating chamber 114. In this embodiment, the aerosol substrate is provided in a substrate carrier. The substrate carrier is generally elongated, with the aerosol substrate located towards a first end of the substrate carrier. Between the aerosol substrate and the second end of the substrate carrier, the substrate carrier provides a conduit, e.g., in the form of a tube of cardboard or plastic material, and optionally a filter is provided along its length, e.g., at the second end of the substrate carrier. When the aerosol substrate is heated in the heating chamber 114, the aerosol and / or vapor generated from the aerosol substrate is drawn through the conduit and can be inhaled by a user from the second end of the substrate carrier, the second end of the substrate carrier having a length sufficient to protrude from the opening 110 when the aerosol substrate is placed in the heating chamber 114.

[0043] The aerosol generating device 100 may also be described as a personal inhaler device, an e-cigarette (or e-cigarette), a vaporizer, or a vaping device. In the illustrated embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 is a heat not burn (HnB) device. However, the aerosol generating devices 100 contemplated in this disclosure do not burn tobacco as in traditional tobacco products, but more typically heat or agitate aerosolizable material to generate an inhalable aerosol.

[0044] The aerosol substrate and substrate carrier may be referred to as a consumable. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumable may be in the form of a rod containing processed tobacco material, such as a laminated sheet or oriented strip of reconstituted tobacco (RTB) paper impregnated with a liquid aerosol former. The liquid aerosol former in this embodiment includes vegetable glycerin (VG), but may also be a mixture of propylene glycol (PG) and VG. In this embodiment, the consumable uses pure VG without flavoring or nicotine. Instead, volatile flavorings and nicotine from the RTB vaporize simultaneously with the aerosol former and are entrained in the resulting condensed aerosol for inhalation by the user. However, in other embodiments, the consumable has an aerosol former that includes nicotine and / or other flavorings. In such cases, the consumable typically includes another solid porous material to absorb the aerosol former liquid, such as a mousse formed from a gelling agent and a suitable binder, which may or may not include tobacco. In an alternative embodiment, the consumable product is a capsule containing aerosol former stored in a reservoir and has a vaporization chamber whereby liquid from the reservoir is heated by aerosol generating device 100, for example, via a wick, heat transfer element, or dosing element that delivers a small amount of liquid aerosol former to a heated vaporization surface. Preferably, the aerosol former comprises VG or a PG / VG mixture with nicotine and / or flavoring.

[0045] The drawings show that body 102 has a substantially rectangular prism shape with rounded edges, however, this is not required and in other embodiments, body 102 does not have a rectangular prism shape but instead has any shape suitable for mating with the internal components described in the various embodiments described herein.

[0046] The body 102 may be formed of any suitable material, or indeed layers of material. In the illustrated embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 has an inner casing 156 covered by an outer casing 105. The inner casing 156 may be a plastic material and the outer casing 105 may be a metal, or the inner casing 156 may be a metal and the outer casing 105 may be a plastic material, or both the inner casing 156 and the outer casing 105 may be a metal. Both the outer casing 105 and the outer casing 106 may be substantially made of a plastic material. If the material of the outer casing 105 is metal, it may be anodized, powder coated, or treated to make it more scratch resistant and prevent unsightly wear and tear. This helps maintain a "new" and more aesthetically pleasing appearance of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0047] The first end 104 of the aerosol generating device 100, shown at the bottom of FIG. 1A, is conveniently described as the bottom, base, or lower end of the aerosol generating device 100. The second end 106 of the aerosol generating device 100, shown at the top of FIG. 1A, is conveniently described as the top or upper end of the aerosol generating device 100. During use, a user typically orients the aerosol generating device 100 with the first end 104 facing downward and / or distal to the user's mouth and the second end 106 facing upward and / or proximal to the user's mouth. Thus, the opening 110 is located at the second end 106 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0048] The aerosol generating device 100 has a closure 108 for covering the opening 110. The closure 108 can be considered a door for the opening 110. The closure 108 is configured to selectively cover or uncover the opening 110 such that the opening 110 is substantially closed or open depending on the position of the closure 108.

[0049] More specifically, the closure 108 is configured to move between a closed position as shown in FIG. 1A and an open position as shown in FIG. 1B. The closure 108 is configured to move between the closed and open positions over the second end 106 of the body 102, i.e., across the width of the aerosol generating device 100. In the closed position, as shown in FIG. 1A, the opening 110 is at least partially covered or blocked by the closure 108. Preferably, the opening 110 is completely covered by the closure 108. In some embodiments, when the closure 108 is in the closed position, the closure 108 forms a seal over the opening 110 to, for example, prevent dust and moisture from entering the opening 110. In the open position, as shown in FIG. 1B, the opening 110 is not covered or blocked by the closure 108. This means that the closure 108 does not block the opening 110, allowing a user to access the opening 110 and, in particular, insert a substrate carrier into the heating chamber 114.

[0050] In some embodiments, the closure 108 may also have an additional position, such as a third or actuated position. For example, while the closure 108 is in the open position, a user can access the actuated position by depressing the closure 108 toward the body 102. That is, the user manipulates the closure 108 from the open position to the actuated position. The actuated position provides user input to the aerosol generating device 100, which in response is configured to perform an action, such as initiating a process of heating an aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation by the user. In other embodiments, the aerosol generating device 100 is configured to operate in response to alternative forms of user input. For example, in embodiments in which the closure 108 does not have an actuated position, a button or switch may be provided on the side of the body 102, and the user input may be initiated by pressing the button or flipping the switch. Other suitable methods of providing a means for receiving user input are provided in different embodiments.

[0051] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a detector (not shown) configured to detect the movement or position of the closure 108. In one embodiment, the detector is configured to detect the movement of the closure 108 from a closed position to an open position. In an alternative embodiment, the detector is configured to detect the absolute position of the closure 108, for example, in the open position. In a further alternative embodiment, the detector is configured to detect the absolute position of the closure 108 when the closure 108 is in the closed position. The detector is configured to detect both when the closure 108 is in the actuated position and when the closure 108 is in the open position. The detector may be further configured to detect movement of the closure 108 from the open position to the actuated position. To detect the movement or position of the closure, the detector comprises a sensor. The sensor is configured to sense the movement or position of the closure 108. The sensor is preferably a non-contact sensor. In other words, the detector operates as a position sensor of the closure 108.

[0052] The detector is configured to output a signal indicative of the position of the closure 108. The signal may be used similarly to a user input initiated by the closure 108 moving to an actuated position. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may be actuated by the closure 108 moving from a closed position to an open position.

[0053] A non-opaque window 112 is provided on the side of the aerosol generation device 100 through the body 102 of the aerosol generation device 100. The non-opaque window 112 is located on the sidewall of the aerosol generation device 100, centrally across the width of the sidewall, toward the second end 106 of the aerosol generation device 100. The non-opaque window 112 comprises an opening in the body 102 of the aerosol generation device 100. The non-opaque window 112 can be covered or filled with a translucent or transparent material, or without any material. In the illustrated embodiment, the window 112 has an elongated shape. The window 112 can be linear or non-linear. It can also be rectangular, preferably with rounded corners, e.g., having a radius of curvature at the corners. The longer straight, parallel edges extend parallel to the height of the aerosol generation device 100, e.g., in a direction between the first end 104 and the second end 106. The lower edge of the non-opaque window is closer to the first end 104 of the aerosol generation device 100, and the upper edge of the non-opaque window 112 is closer to the second end 106 of the aerosol generation device 100. The upper edge of the window 112 is closer to the second end 106 of the body 102 than the lower edge of the window 112 is to the first end 104 of the body 102. This provides an area closer to the first end 104 of the device 100 where the user can grip the device 100 without the window 112 being obstructed by the user's hand, allowing the user to observe the information displayed through the window 112 while holding the device 100.

[0054] The non-opaque window 112 is configured to allow light emitted from a light source 146 inside the body 102 of the device 100 to be visible to a user through the window 112. By way of example, the light source 146 (e.g., an RGB LED or other suitable light source) may be provided inside the body 102 to indicate the status of the aerosol generating device 100. In this context, status may refer to one or more of: remaining battery charge, heater status (e.g., on, off, error, etc.), device status (e.g., whether ready to take a puff), or other status indicators, such as an error mode, an indicator of the number of puffs consumed or remaining before the power supply is depleted, or an indicator of the total substrate carrier, etc.

[0055] 2 is a cutaway view of the aerosol generating device 100, exposing more of the internal components. As shown, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a heating chamber 114, a light diffuser 118, an optical element 116, a power source 120 (e.g., a battery), and PCBs 122 and 126.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 is electrically powered, i.e., configured to heat the aerosol substrate using electrical power. To this end, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a power source 120, e.g., a battery. The power source 120 is coupled to control circuitry that may be at least partially housed on one or both of the PCBs 122 and 126. The control circuitry is also coupled to at least the heating chamber 114 and the status indicator light source 146. The user-operable closure 108 controls the heating chamber 114 via the control circuitry. The power supply 120 may be configured to couple and decouple to a heater configured to provide heat to the chamber 114 and / or the light source 146 .

[0057] Generally, the window 112 and the light diffuser 118 have corresponding shapes and sizes. Similarly, the light source 146 is configured to have approximately the same shape and span an area of ​​approximately the same size as the window 112. In other words, the light diffuser 118 does not extend significantly beyond the window, and the light source 146 is positioned substantially directly behind the window (closer to the interior of the device 100 than the window 112, or "further back" in the terminology above). This helps ensure that the light source 146 efficiently provides light through the window 112, as a majority of the light emitted by the light source 146 is diffused by the light diffuser 118 and transmitted through the window 112 (rather than being emitted inside the casing 105, 156).

[0058] Additionally, the light source 146 spans an area that is approximately the same size and shape as the window portion 112, and the light diffuser 118 has a shape and size that generally corresponds to (e.g., at least the same size as) the window portion 112, meaning that the emitted light can penetrate substantially the entire window portion 112 (e.g., when the light source 146 corresponding to that portion of the window is emitting light).

[0059] A balance is struck between maximizing the emitted light that passes through the window portion 112 (neither the light diffuser 118 nor the area containing the light source 146 is significantly larger than the window portion 112) and ensuring that the entire window portion 112 can emit light (neither the light diffuser 118 nor the area containing the light source 146 is significantly smaller than the window portion 112).

[0060] As mentioned above, the window 112, the light diffuser 118, and the area in which the light source 146 is located are all generally configured with shapes and sizes that generally correspond to one another. Collectively, these elements form a portion of the status indicator, and it should be understood that in this discussion of the configuration of the status indicator, the shapes and sizes of the configuration of the window 112, the light diffuser 118, and the light source 146 are adapted accordingly. Once the shapes and sizes are determined, configuring the elements that form the status indicator will be straightforward for one skilled in the art.

[0061] Status indicators are generally elongated. For example, they have a length and a width, with the width being much smaller than the length. For example, the length may be 3, 5, 10, 25, or even 50 times the width. In some cases, the length is a straight line (e.g., as in FIGS. 1A and 1B ), while in other cases, the length may be a curve, an arc, a series of arcs, a series of straight lines, a branched structure, a spiral, a closed loop, or a combination thereof. If the length is not constant along the length of the status indicator (e.g., due to curved or angled portions), the width is locally defined as the direction transverse to the length. In some cases, the width may not be constant along the length of the status indicator, e.g., the status indicator may be bulging at wider portions and tapering at narrower portions. In such cases, it is the average width of the status indicator that is much narrower than the length of the status indicator.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 3, the aerosol generating device 100 comprises a central processing unit (CPU) 130, a memory 132, a storage 134, a heating module 136, a detector module 138, a communication interface 140, a user input module 142, and a status indicator module 144, all coupled together by a communication bus 145.

[0063] CPU 130 is a computer processor, e.g., a microprocessor. CPU 130 is configured to execute instructions in the form of computer-executable code, including instructions stored in memory 132 and storage 134. The instructions executed by CPU 130 depend on one or more variables, e.g., battery level and / or signals from other modules. The detector module 138 includes instructions for coordinating the operation of other components of the aerosol generating device 100, such as instructions for controlling the status indicator module 144 in response to a signal from the CPU 130. In one example, when a user activates the device 100 by moving the closure 108 to the activated position, the detector module 138 interrupts the CPU 130, indicating to the CPU 130 that the aerosol generating device 100 has been activated. Additionally or alternatively, the device 100 can be activated by another user input means. In this example, the CPU 130 is configured to enable the heating module 136 to activate the heating chamber 114 to generate an aerosol, thereby allowing a user to inhale the aerosol while the device 100 is activated. In this example, the CPU 130 can provide instructions to the status indicator module 144 such that the status indicator indicates the status of a heater configured to provide heat to the heating chamber 114.

[0064] The memory 132 is implemented as one or more memory units that provide random access memory (RAM) for the aerosol generating device 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the memory 132 is volatile memory, for example, in the form of on-chip RAM integrated with the CPU 130 using a system-on-chip (SoC) architecture. However, in other embodiments, the memory 132 is separate from the CPU 130. The memory 132 is configured to store instructions processed by the CPU 130 in the form of computer-executable code. Typically, only selected elements of the computer-executable code are stored by the memory 132 at any one time, and the selected elements define instructions essential to the operation of the aerosol generating device 100 being executed at a particular time. In other words, the computer-executable code is temporarily stored in the memory 132 while some particular process is being executed by the CPU 130.

[0065] The storage 134 is provided integrally with the aerosol generating device 100 in the form of non-volatile memory. In most embodiments, the storage 134 is embedded on the same chip as the CPU 130 and memory 132 using an SoC architecture, for example, by being implemented as a multiple time programmable (MTP) array. However, in other embodiments, the storage 134 is an internal or external flash memory, for example. The storage 134 stores computer-executable code that defines instructions processed by the CPU 130. The storage 134 stores the computer-executable code permanently or semi-permanently, for example, until it is overwritten. That is, the computer-executable code is stored non-temporarily in the storage 134. Typically, the computer-executable code stored by the storage 134 generally relates to instructions basic to the operation of the CPU 130, the communication interface 140, and the aerosol generating device 100, as well as applications and data associated with such applications that perform higher-level functions of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0066] The detector module 138 is coupled to the detector. The detector module 138 receives a signal from the detector indicative of the position, status, or movement of the closure 108 and provides a signal indicative of the position, status, and / or movement of the closure 108 to the CPU 130. For example, when the closure 108 is in the open position, the detector module 138 interrupts the CPU 130 to indicate to the CPU 130 that the closure 108 is in the open position. In one example, with the closure 108 in the open position, the CPU 130 is configured to enable the status indicator module 144 to operate a status indicator to indicate to a user the remaining battery level of the device 100.

[0067] The communication interface 140 supports short-range wireless communication, particularly Bluetooth® communication. In particular, the communication interface 140 is configured to establish a short-range wireless communication connection with a user's personal computing device. The communication interface, in some embodiments, is coupled to an antenna (not shown) through which wireless communications are transmitted and received via a short-range wireless communication connection, and is configured to communicate with CPU 130 via communication bus 145.

[0068] The user input module 142 is coupled to a user input device. The user input device may be a button, a switch, or any other suitable device for accepting a user input action. In particular, the user input module 142 may be provided when the closure 108 is not configured to have an actuation position and the aerosol generating device 100 is operated by a user via the user input device. The user input module 142 is coupled to the user input device to receive a signal indicative of the state of the user input device and provide a signal indicative of the user input to the CPU 130.

[0069] Status indicator module 144 is configured to provide information to a user regarding the status of device 100. In this embodiment, status indicator module 144 comprises an LED interface. Status indicator module 144 is configured to receive information regarding the status of device 100 from CPU 130 and indicate to CPU 130 the state of a status indicator light source 146 that displays the information to the user.

[0070] The position of the closure 108 and / or the provision of a user input device provides the ability for the closure 108 or user input to trigger or provide multiple functions, thereby improving the user experience and ease of use. In the example where the closure 108 has three positions, the three positions provide the following statuses for the functioning of the aerosol generation device 100: 1) "Off", 2) "Standby" or "Load", and 3) "Activation" or "use" or "aerosolization."

[0071] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other functions may be possible with the aerosol generating device 100. For example, a function may provide temperature control, a supply level indicator, a battery level indicator, or parental lock lock or unlock. It will be appreciated that the status indicator and status indicator module 144 may be configured to indicate the status of any one or all of these functions.

[0072] FIG. 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a first preferred embodiment of a light source 146 and light diffuser 118 of a status indicator. The light source 146 is disposed in an interior region of the body 102. The light sources 146 are configured in an array. In the illustrated embodiment, the light source 146 is configured in a linear array of eight individual light sources 146. Each light source 146 in the array is an LED, preferably an RGB LED. RGB LEDs can be used to display any color of light, including white. In some examples, the RGB LEDs can be used to display different colors to alert a user to different parameters. For example, battery life, time remaining in a heating cycle, battery charging progress, etc., can all be different colors. In other cases, the light source 146 can be an LED or other light source configured to operate in a single color.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the linear array is configured to align with the non-opaque window 112 of the body, such that the linear array is disposed perpendicular to the body 102. In alternative embodiments, the array of light sources 146 may be configured to be aligned at an angle or horizontally to the body 102. The light sources 146 are configured to emit light generally toward the body window 112 when illuminated. It will be appreciated that a bilinear or two-dimensional array of light sources 146 is possible, and that more complex multi-dimensional arrays may also be possible. It will also be appreciated that the array of light sources 146 may be curved rather than linear, for example forming one or more curved segments.

[0074] In a preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the light sources 146 are spaced less than 10 mm apart, preferably less than 5 mm apart, more preferably less than 3 mm apart, and even more preferably less than 2.5 mm apart. In a preferred embodiment, the light sources 146 are evenly spaced with a center-to-center spacing of approximately 2 mm (e.g., 2.15 mm) between each light source 146. As a possible alternative, the light sources 146 can be spaced apart such that the distance between adjacent light sources 146 gradually increases in one direction, for example.

[0075] A light diffuser 118 is also provided in the interior region of the aerosol generating device 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the light diffuser 118 is aligned with the array of light sources 146 and is positioned between the light sources 146 and the window 112. The light diffuser 118 has a body 148 in the shape of a cube or a rectangular prism, with one face of the body 148 facing the window 112 and the other face of the body 148 facing the array of light sources 146. In a first preferred embodiment, the body 148 of the light diffuser 118 covers the area of ​​the window 112 (from the side of the window 112 facing inward of the body 102).

[0076] The width and height of the light diffuser 118 can be varied to change the proportion of the light field from the light source 146 that is incident on the light diffuser 118. A taller and wider light diffuser 118 receives a greater proportion of the light emitted from the light source 146. That is, the greater the extent of the light diffuser 118 transverse to the light path from the light source 146 to the window 112, the more light from the light source 146 can be incident on the light diffuser 118. The body 148 of the light diffuser 118 is less than 50 mm in height, preferably less than 30 mm in height, more preferably less than 20 mm in height, and in a first preferred embodiment is approximately 16 mm in height (specifically 16.6 mm). The body 148 of the light diffuser 118 is less than 10 mm in width, preferably less than 5 mm in width, more preferably less than 3 mm in width, and even more preferably approximately 2.6 mm in width according to the first preferred embodiment.

[0077] The body 148 of the light diffuser 118 is less than 3 mm deep, preferably less than 2 mm deep, more preferably less than 1 mm deep, and even more preferably less than 0.75 mm deep. In a first preferred embodiment, the body 148 of the light diffuser 118 is about 0.5 mm deep (specifically, 0.55 mm). In this regard, the depth may be the extent of the light diffuser 118 along the optical path from the light source 146 to the window 112, specifically the shortest depth along such optical path.

[0078] The parameters of a status indicator (such as dimensions, material type, spacing, and number of light sources 146) are all interrelated in the sense that determining the exact size and shape of one element will affect the size of other elements. Generally, making one element larger will also increase the size of other elements. Theoretically, the overall size of the device can be scaled proportionally within a limited scale factor. A key parameter is the spacing between light sources 146. To achieve a smooth blur between adjacent light sources 146, the spacing cannot be too large; otherwise, noticeable dim seams will appear between adjacent light sources 146. This can be balanced to some extent by using brighter light sources 146 and / or varying the diffusivity of the light diffuser 118. In other cases, a solution may be to keep the center-to-center spacing of light sources 146 at approximately 2 mm and provide more light sources 146 for larger status indicators and fewer light sources 146 for smaller status indicators.

[0079] The status indicator is located on the side of the light diffuser 118 facing the array of light sources 146. , with walls 150 extending between the array of light sources 146 itself. In this first preferred embodiment, the walls 150 are of the same material as the body 148 of the light diffuser 118 and form part of a single structure with the body 148 of the light diffuser 118. In other words, the walls 150 protrude from the body 148 of the light diffuser 118 such that the body 148 and the walls 150 form a single continuous piece. In the first preferred embodiment shown in FIGS. 4-9 , the single continuous piece comprising the body 148 of the light diffuser 118 and the walls 150 is collectively referred to as the light diffuser 118. The walls 150 of the light diffuser 118 extend between the light sources 146 of the array.

[0080] The wall 150 defines a portion of the light diffuser 118 of the first embodiment that extends closer to the plane of the array of light sources 146 than the body 148 of the light diffuser 118. The wall 150 extends further into the aerosol generating device 100, away from the window 112 of the body 102, than the body 148 of the light diffuser 118.

[0081] Thus, the light diffuser 118 is configured to receive light emitted obliquely from the light source 146 at a surface 151 of the wall 150 facing the light source 146. It will be appreciated that the point of incidence of the obliquely emitted light on the light diffuser 118 may be closer to the light source 146 than if the wall 150 were not provided. While the wall 150 completely blocks the light path between adjacent light sources 146 as shown in Figures 4 and 7, it will be appreciated that the wall 150 may extend so as to block only a portion of such light path, or not at all.

[0082] The light diffuser 118 may also include an additional wall 150 above the top light source 146 in the array and another additional wall 150 below the bottom light source 146 in the array. In other words, additional walls 150 may be provided at both ends of the light source array. These additional (or peripheral) walls 150 serve to receive light emitted obliquely from the top and bottom (e.g., end) light sources 146 of the array that would otherwise leak into the peripheral areas above and below (e.g., at each end) of the light diffuser 118. The light diffuser 118 may also include walls 150 extending from the side edges of the sides of the light diffuser 118 facing the walls 150 located between the light sources 146, as shown at the left and right ends of FIG. 5 , extending from the top to the bottom of the light diffuser 118 (e.g., along its length). These may be referred to as side walls.

[0083] The walls 150 of the light diffuser 118 extend from the body 148 of the light diffuser 118 toward the array of light sources 146 a depth of less than 2 mm, preferably less than 1 mm, and more preferably less than 0.75 mm. In this first preferred embodiment, the walls 150 extend a depth of about 0.5 mm from the body 148 of the light diffuser 118. The walls 150 of the light diffuser 118 are less than 2 mm thick, preferably less than 1 mm thick, more preferably less than 0.5 mm thick, and even more preferably about 0.1 mm thick. In this context, the "thickness" of the walls 150 is generally the linear dimension as defined above, but in any case is the dimension of the walls 150 in the direction between adjacent light sources 146.

[0084] The light diffuser 118 is configured to receive light from the light source 146 and transmit the light toward the window 112. Therefore, the light diffuser 118 may be advantageously configured to prevent light from leaking out of one or more surfaces that do not face either the light source 146 or the window 112. For example, the top and bottom surfaces of the light diffuser 118 may be clad with a cladding of a material with a lower refractive index than the light diffuser 118. The exterior side surfaces of the light diffuser 118 may also be clad. The interface between the light diffuser 118 and the cladding is configured to cause total internal reflection for light incident at angles less than a critical angle defined by the refractive index of the material of the light diffuser 118 and the cladding material. This may reduce the amount of light that may leak out of the top and bottom ends and / or sides of the light diffuser 118, thereby reducing energy wasted generating light that is not visible to the user through the window 112. Alternatively or additionally, the surface of the light diffuser 118 may be One or more of the surfaces may be finished opaque or translucent to prevent or reduce light leakage from the surface, and the opaque or translucent surface may diffuse internal reflections of any incident light.

[0085] The light diffuser 118 is configured to diffuse light. The light diffuser 118 can be made from a light-diffusing material. Alternatively, the light diffuser 118 can be made from a non-opaque material whose surface finish promotes the diffusion of transmitted light. Variations in various properties of the light diffuser 118, including but not limited to, material, shape, size, surface finish (polished, matte, coated, treated, roughened), and cladding, affect the degree of light diffusion or scattering. In a first preferred embodiment, the light diffuser 118 includes a roughened surface 154 on the side of the light diffuser 118 facing away from the wall 150. Light emitted from this surface is diffused or scattered as it passes from the light diffuser 118 through the roughened surface 154 toward the window 112. In a first embodiment, the light diffuser 118 is made from a diffusing material. That is, the material of the light diffuser 118 may be configured to scatter light passing therethrough, thereby diffusing the light within its bulk (i.e., within the material), instead of or in addition to having a roughened surface 154. The inner surface 151 of the diffuser, i.e., the surface of the wall 150 onto which light from the light source 146 is incident, may be polished or glossed to facilitate the incidence of light from the light source 146 onto the light diffuser 118. The roughened surface may be roughened to, for example, a VDI value of 21-30.

[0086] In some conditions, a slightly roughened surface may enhance light transmission out of the body but hinder light transmission into the body. Conversely, a smooth surface may hinder light transmission out of the body (i.e., retain light within the body) but enhance light transmission into the body. Therefore, the surface of the light diffuser 118 closest to the light source 146 may be smooth or polished to enhance light transmission from the light source 146 to the light diffuser 118. The surface facing away from the light source 146 may be roughened to extract light out of the device 100. Similarly, the surface at the edge of the light diffuser 118 may be polished or smoothed to reduce light leakage out the sides of the light diffuser 118. The side surfaces may further be provided with cladding to increase internal reflection at the sides and further reduce light leakage out the sides. The cladding generally has a refractive index lower than the refractive index of the material it surrounds.

[0087] For similar reasons as described above, the surfaces of optical element 116 may be roughened, smoothed, or polished. The side surfaces and the surfaces closest to light source 146 may be smoothed or polished, while the surfaces furthest from light source 146 (the surfaces closest to the exterior of the device) may be roughened. Also, cladding (not shown) may be applied to the sides (or edges) of optical element 116 to increase internal reflection at the edges and reduce light leakage at the edges of optical element 116.

[0088] A light diffuser 118 is disposed between the light sources 146, receiving the light and transmitting it toward the intended target. A simple configuration for achieving this effect is the illustrated configuration in which the array of light sources 146, the light diffuser 118, and the non-opaque window 112 are aligned substantially parallel, with the light diffuser 118 between the light sources 146 and the non-opaque window 112. However, in alternative embodiments, light from the light sources 146 can be refracted, reflected, or directed by other optical components (lenses, mirrors, light pipes, optical fibers, etc.) so that the light is received by the light diffuser 118 even when the light diffuser 118 is not substantially aligned with the array of light sources 146. Similarly, light exiting the light diffuser 118 can be refracted, reflected, or directed by optical components to the non-opaque window 112. While the description describes the light diffuser 118 as being disposed between the light sources 146 and the non-opaque window 112, it will be understood that such an arrangement is contemplated.

[0089] A perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the light diffuser 118 is shown in Figure 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the walls 150 of the light diffuser 118 extend between adjacent light sources 146 and are closest to the array of light sources 146. The walls 150 are configured to extend around the periphery of the surface of the body 148 of the light diffuser 118. In a preferred embodiment, the walls 150 extending between the light sources 146 extend across the width of the body 148 of the light diffuser 118, perpendicular to the orientation of the linear array of the light sources 146.

[0090] This preferred configuration of the light diffuser 118 defines a series of cavities or recesses in the light diffusing material on the side facing the light sources 146. The light sources 146 are preferably configured to align with these recesses. In a preferred embodiment, the walls 150 are all the same depth, thereby defining an array of "light boxes" or "cages" in which the light diffuser 118 surrounds the light sources 146 on all sides except for the side of the array of light sources 146 furthest from the body 148 of the light diffuser 118, i.e., the side of the light sources 146 furthest from the window 112. Each of the light boxes has an interior surface 151 that allows it to receive light from the light sources 146, particularly light sources 146 housed within the light box. Preferably, one box or cage is provided in alignment with each light source 146.

[0091] In a preferred embodiment, the light diffuser 118 is a translucent white plastic material with an optical transmittance of 10% to 40%, more preferably 20% to 30%, across the visible spectrum. The light diffuser 118 acts to diffuse or broaden light depending on the light dispersion of the material, the size and structure of the material, and / or the surface finish. The light diffuser 118 is preferably RTP® 0399X 120952 D S-27484 WHITE or a material with equivalent transmissive and / or diffusive properties.

[0092] The light diffuser 118 is configured to receive and diffuse light from the light sources 146 such that the diffused light is visible through the non-opaque window 112 in the body 102. Generally, when illuminated, the array of discrete light sources 146 generates a light field with "hot spots," or areas of high light intensity corresponding to the locations of the illuminated light sources 146 in the array, and "cold spots," or areas of low light intensity corresponding to the spaces between the light sources 146. The light diffuser 118 is configured to diffuse the light emitted by the light sources 146 to reduce the difference in light intensity between the hot spots and cold spots. The diffusion of light results in a smooth visible light signal produced by the discrete set of light sources 146, which is desirable for the aesthetic properties of the status indicator.

[0093] In one example, the status indicator is configured to convey information to the user by varying the size of the band of light observable through the window 112. Therefore, it is desirable for the status indicator to localize the light field of each light source 146, so that as more light sources 146 are illuminated, a larger band of light is observable to the user, and so that no single light source 146 or subset of light sources 146 illuminates the entire window 112. It is desirable to achieve this, as well as to even out hot and cold spots. Providing walls 150 extending between the light sources 146 may provide an advantage by allowing the status indicator to fulfill both of these desires. The light diffuser 118 may absorb light emitted at an angle from the light sources 146 with its protruding walls 150, thereby more effectively localizing the light from each individual light source 146 than would be possible without the walls 150. The light diffuser 118, particularly with the feature of walls 150 extending between the light sources 146, thereby provides a status indicator that can localize the light field of each individual light source 146 in the array while reducing the appearance of hot and cold spots in the visual signal of the status indicator. By varying the distance between the depth and thickness of the walls 150, among other properties, the status indicator can have an appropriate number of light sources 146 to convey information to the user with a desired precision, for example, by allowing control over the number and spacing of LEDs in the array of light sources 146. Additionally, the aesthetic appearance of the illuminated status indicator prevents hot and cold spots between the light sources 146, thus providing a smooth transition to the user. This can be controlled by providing a visual signal that changes the

[0094] 6, 7, and 8, the aerosol generation device 100 has a body 102 that includes an outer casing 105 and an inner casing 156. The aerosol generation device 100 also includes an optical element 116. The body 102 of the aerosol generation device 100 has a window 112 that allows light to pass through.

[0095] The inner casing 156 of the device 100 includes an opening that aligns with the opening in the outer casing 105 to form the window 112 in the body 102. The aligned openings in the inner casing 156 and the outer casing 105 together provide the window 112 inside the device 100.

[0096] The optical element 116 is disposed at the window 112 and is positioned between the light diffuser 118 and the exterior of the body 102. That is, light received by the optical element 116 from the light diffuser 118 is transmitted out through the non-opaque window 112. The optical element 116 may be configured to filter out certain wavelengths of light and / or to focus the light transmitted through the opening in the inner casing 156 so that it exits the device 100 through the window 112.

[0097] The optical element 116 can be a separate part from the light diffuser 118. The optical element 116 can be overmolded onto or into an opening in the inner casing 156. Alternatively, the optical element 116 can be twin-shot melded onto the light diffuser 118, preferably onto the body 148 of the light diffuser 118 opposite the side on which the wall 150 of the light diffuser 118 is located. In another alternative, the optical element 116 can be secured in place by disposing the optical element 116 between the inner casing 156 and the outer casing 105 of the body 102, or by slip-fitting the optical element 116 into an opening in the outer casing 105.

[0098] The optical element 116 is preferably a translucent material having a light transmission in the visible spectrum of greater than 20%, preferably greater than 30%, more preferably greater than 50%, and in a preferred embodiment, a transmission of about 75%. The optical element 116 is preferably a polycarbonate material, such as Makrolon®, RTP®, Lexan®, Covestro®, and most preferably Lexan® GY5959X. STD / Grade FXD171R / CMR#039216, or a material with equivalent transmission characteristics. The optical element 116 may have a polished finish to maximize object transmittance and prevent further light scattering. Preferably, the optical element 116 is colored to be unobtrusive or unobtrusive to the user when the status indicator is not illuminated, i.e., to blend in with the outer casing. It will be appreciated that in different embodiments, the optical element 116 may be a filter, an optical lens, a prism, or a combination thereof.

[0099] In some conditions, a slightly roughened surface may enhance light transmission out of the body but hinder light transmission into the body. Conversely, a smooth surface may hinder light transmission out of the body (i.e., retain light within the body) but enhance light transmission into the body. Therefore, the surface of the light diffuser 118 closest to the light source 146 may be smooth or polished to enhance light transmission from the light source 146 to the light diffuser 118. The surface facing away from the light source 146 may be roughened to extract light out of the device 100. Similarly, the surface at the edge of the light diffuser 118 may be polished or smoothed to reduce light leakage out the sides of the light diffuser 118. The side surfaces may further be provided with cladding to increase internal reflection at the sides and further reduce light leakage out the sides. The cladding generally has a refractive index lower than the refractive index of the material it surrounds.

[0100] For similar reasons as described above, the surfaces of optical element 116 may be roughened, smoothed, or polished. The side surfaces and the surfaces closest to light source 146 may be smoothed or polished, while the surfaces furthest from light source 146 (the surfaces closest to the exterior of the device) may be roughened. Also, cladding (not shown) may be applied to the sides (or edges) of optical element 116 to increase internal reflection at the edges and reduce light leakage at the edges of optical element 116.

[0101] The optical element is less than 30 mm tall, preferably less than 20 mm tall, and more preferably less than 17.5 mm tall. In a first preferred embodiment, the optical element 116 is approximately 15 mm tall. The optical element 116 is less than 4 mm wide, preferably less than 3 mm wide, and more preferably less than 2 mm wide. In a preferred embodiment, the optical element 116 is approximately 1 mm wide. The optical element 116 is less than 5 mm deep, preferably less than 4 mm deep, and more preferably less than 2 mm deep. In a preferred embodiment, the optical element 116 is approximately 1.5 mm deep.

[0102] The opening of the inner casing 156 may be configured to allow the optical element 116 to fit snugly within the opening. The inner casing 156 may also be configured to allow the light diffuser 118 to fit snugly within the opening. Thus, referring to FIG. 7 , the opening of the inner casing 156 may include two differently sized portions with different depths to provide a recess into which both the light diffuser 118 and the optical element 116 can fit snugly. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening has a first portion 158 having a first height, a first width, and a first depth on the side of the inner casing 156 closest to the outer casing 105, and a second portion 160 having a second height, a second width, and a second depth on the side closest to the interior of the aerosol generating device 100. The dimensions of the first portion 158 of the opening substantially match the dimensions of the optical element 116 so that the optical element 116 can fit snugly within. The second height, width, and depth of the opening preferably correspond to the height, width, and depth of the light diffuser 118 so that the light diffuser 118 can fit snugly within the second portion 160 of the opening while contacting the optical element 116 disposed in the first portion 158 of the opening. The walls of the opening that define the depth of the second portion 160 of the opening may extend further into the device 100 than other portions of the inner casing 156 to provide a recess that can accommodate the entire depth of the light diffuser 118. In other words, the inner casing 156 may be thicker around the periphery of the recess in which the light diffuser 118 fits than other areas of the inner casing 156. The optical element 116 is a prism having a cross-section of the same shape and dimensions as the first portion 158 of the opening of the inner casing 156. That is, it is a prism having an elongated rectangular cross-section. In this manner, the optical element 116 or optical filter can fit snugly within the first portion 158 of the opening of the inner casing 156.

[0103] A linear array of light sources 146 is attached to and / or electrically connected to PCB 122 on the side of PCB 122 facing non-opaque window 112. The light sources 146 are evenly spaced apart. The light diffuser 118 may be configured such that walls 150 extend between adjacent light sources 146 and contact the PCB 122 at locations on the PCB 122 between the light sources 146. Thus, the light sources 146 are surrounded by the PCB 122 on a first side furthest from the window 112 and by the light diffuser 118 on all other sides.

[0104] In a first preferred embodiment, the distance from the surface of the PCB 122 on which the light source 146 is mounted to the outside of the body 102 is about 3 mm.

[0105] In this example of a status indicator, a linear array of LEDs is configured to illuminate sequentially and in a stepped manner, thereby allowing the status indicator to provide a smoothly changing band of light visible to the user through the window 112, indicating the status of the device 100. Walls 150 extending between the light sources 146 localize the light emitted from within the user device 100. The present invention provides a smooth, user-visible band of light (i.e., without hot or cold spots) that changes color while still providing a clear, visually appealing way to communicate information to the user.

[0106] 9 to 13, the aerosol generating device 100 according to the second preferred embodiment is identical to the aerosol generating device 100 according to the first embodiment described with reference to Figures 4 to 8, except for the different configuration of the wall 250 between the light diffuser 218 and the light source 146. In Figures 9 to 13, the reference numerals used in describing the first embodiment are used to indicate the same or similar features.

[0107] In a second preferred embodiment, a light diffuser 218 is provided in the interior region of the aerosol generation device 100 and is aligned with the window 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the light diffuser 218 is aligned with the array of light sources 146 and is positioned between the light sources 146 and the window 112. The light diffuser 218 has a cubic or rectangular prism shape, with one side of the light diffuser 218 facing the window 112 and the other side facing the array of light sources 146. Because the light diffuser 218 spans the array of light sources 146 and the window 112, the light diffuser 218 can have a height and width greater than both the window 112 and the array. The width and height of the light diffuser 218 can be varied to change the proportion of the light field of the light sources 146 that is incident on the light diffuser 218. A taller and wider light diffuser 218 will receive a greater proportion of the light emitted from the light sources 146.

[0108] The light diffuser 218 in the second preferred embodiment is preferably less than 5 mm deep, preferably less than 3 mm deep, more preferably less than 2 mm deep, and even more preferably less than 1 mm deep. In the second preferred embodiment, the light diffuser 218 is about 0.8 mm deep. The light diffuser 218 is less than 50 mm high, preferably less than 30 mm high, more preferably less than 20 mm high, and even more preferably about 18.67 mm high. The light diffuser 218 is less than 10 mm wide, preferably less than 7.5 mm wide, more preferably less than 6 mm wide, and even more preferably about 5.5 mm wide.

[0109] A splitter 162 according to the second preferred embodiment is provided separately from the light diffuser 218. The splitter 162 is disposed between the light diffuser 218 and the light sources 146. The splitter 162 includes walls 250 extending between the light sources 146. The splitter 162 also includes walls 250 above the top and bottom light sources 146 and walls 250 extending around the periphery of the array of light sources 146, such that the walls 250 form a single splitter 162 structure, as shown in the perspective view of FIG. 10 . In the illustrated second preferred embodiment, the walls 250 disposed between adjacent light sources 146 extend to block all light paths between the adjacent light sources 146.

[0110] An interior wall 250 of the splitter 162, e.g., an interior wall disposed between adjacent light sources 146, may have a first depth, and a peripheral wall 250 of the splitter 162 extending around the periphery of the array of light sources 146 may have a second depth. In the illustrated embodiment, the first depth is less than the second depth, and the light diffuser 218 contacts the peripheral wall 250 of the splitter 162, e.g., at an edge of the light receiving surface 251.

[0111] In a second preferred embodiment, the first depth (corresponding to the depth of the inner wall of the turnout) is about 2 mm. In a second preferred embodiment, the second depth (corresponding to the depth of the peripheral wall of the turnout) is about 2.5 mm. The turnout 162 is less than 50 mm high, preferably less than 30 mm high, more preferably less than 20 mm high, and even more preferably about 18.67 mm high. The turnout 162 is less than 10 mm wide, preferably less than 7.5 mm wide, more preferably less than 6 mm wide, and even more preferably about 5.5 mm wide.

[0112] In a second preferred embodiment, the distance from the surface of the PCB 122 on which the light source 146 is mounted to the outside of the body 102 is about 4.5 mm.

[0113] As with the first embodiment, the parameters of the status indicator (e.g., dimensions, material type, spacing, and number of light sources 146) are all interrelated in the sense that determining the exact size and shape of one element will affect the size of the other elements. Generally, making one element larger will also increase the size of the other elements. Theoretically, the overall size of the device can be scaled proportionally within a limited scale factor. A key parameter is the spacing between the light sources 146. To achieve a smooth blur between adjacent light sources 146, the spacing cannot be too large; otherwise, noticeable dim seams will appear between adjacent light sources 146. This can be balanced to some extent by using brighter light sources 146 and / or varying the diffusivity of the light diffuser 218. In other cases, a solution may be to keep the center-to-center spacing of the light sources 146 at approximately 2 mm and provide more light sources 146 for larger status indicators and fewer light sources 146 for smaller status indicators.

[0114] In a second preferred embodiment, the splitter 162 has a lower transmittance than the light diffuser 218. Preferably, the splitter 162 is opaque and made from an opaque material. The opaque material may be a black plastic material. The opaque walls 250 extending between the light sources 146 serve to localize the light from the light sources 146, for example, to prevent a single light source 146 from illuminating the entire window portion 112. Hot spots in the light field occur aligned with the light sources 146, and cold spots in the light field occur aligned with the walls 250.

[0115] The light diffuser 218 is configured to diffuse light and may comprise a diffusing material and / or a roughened surface 254 to scatter light transmitted therethrough (e.g., to a VDI value of 21 to 30). The surface of the light diffuser 218 closest to the array of light sources 146 may be polished or polished to facilitate the incidence of light from the light sources 146 onto the light diffuser 218. The light diffuser 218 is configured to provide the advantage of blending together or smoothing out hot and cold spots in the light field of the array of light sources 146. Thus, the light signal observed through the window 112 appears as a smooth band of light, with the contrast between the hot and cold spots substantially or completely reduced.

[0116] It will be appreciated that the second preferred embodiment may provide improved localization of light from each light source 146 relative to the first preferred embodiment. A possible disadvantage compared to the first preferred embodiment is that the status indicators of the second preferred embodiment are deeper and may be difficult to fit inside the body 102.

[0117] 14 shows the closure 108 in the closed position. In this position, the aerosol generating device 100 is configured to be in "off" mode. With the closure 108 in this position, the status indicators are configured to be inoperative. Preferably, this means that the array of light sources 146 is configured to not draw power from the power source 120. By providing an optical element 116 in the window 112 of the body 102, the window 112 can be made to appear less noticeable or invisible to the user when the closure 108 is in the closed position.

[0118] In this embodiment, in the off mode, the aerosol generating device 100 operates in a low or no power mode, in which the detector module 138 and the detector are the only functions active in detecting when the closure 108 has been moved to the open position. As such, the status indicator does not draw power from the power source 120 and is not configured to indicate to a user the status of the aerosol generating device 100. This has the advantage of drawing as little power as possible from the power source 120 when the aerosol generating device 100 is not being used or operated by a user. In other embodiments, the status indicator may draw some power in a low power mode for the purpose of indicating the status of the device 100 to a user.

[0119] Thus, in use, when the closure 108 is in the closed position, the status indicator light source 146 does not emit light and the status indicator is not illuminated.

[0120] 15 shows the closure 108 in the open position. In this configuration, the control electronics of the aerosol generating device 100 can provide power to the light source 146 of the status indicator such that the status indicator is operable with the closure 108 in this open position. In the illustrated embodiment, in the open position, the light source 146 is configured to provide an indication to the user of the power level of the power source 120.

[0121] When the power source 120, e.g., a battery, is fully charged, the status indicator is configured to be fully lit with all light sources 146 switched on to emit light. As the power source 120 decreases in charge, fewer light sources 146 will light up. When the power source 120 is depleted, none of the light sources 146 will emit light. When the charge is low, one or more light sources 146, preferably the light source 146 closest to the first end 104 of the aerosol generating device 100, may be configured to flash or blink to indicate to the user that the power source 120 needs charging.

[0122] In a preferred embodiment, as the battery level increases and additional light sources 146 are switched on, the number of lit light sources 146 increases sequentially as shown by bands of light visible to the user through the window 112 that increase in height from the bottom of the window 112 to the top of the window 112.

[0123] In use, with the closure 108 in the open position, the status indicator light sources 146 emit light according to the battery level. The number of light sources 146 emitting light is proportional to the power remaining in the battery. As the battery depletes from a full charge, the light sources 146 in the linear array 146 sequentially turn off from the top to the bottom of the array. If the last (bottom) light source 146 is the only light source 146 lit, it may flash to indicate to the user that the battery level has dropped below a threshold. The light sources 146 may also be configured to flash or sequentially emit different colored lights as the battery level changes.

[0124] As shown in FIG. 16, in a third position or "activated" arrangement of the closure 108, or in other operating conditions of the device 100, the status indicator may optionally be configured to operate in a second function.

[0125] In this example, with the aerosol generating device 100 activated, the CPU 130 is configured to enable the heating module 136 to generate the aerosol, thereby allowing the user to inhale the aerosol. Additionally, the CPU 130 is configured to operate a status indicator to indicate to the user that a session has begun.

[0126] In the illustrated embodiment, with the closure 108 in the activated position, the status indicator is operable to indicate the time remaining in the user's session, i.e., the time remaining for the user to take "puffs" of aerosol. As the time remaining in the user session decreases, the light sources 146 progressively turn off or stop emitting light, from top to bottom. Alternatively, the status indicator may be configured to indicate the number of puffs remaining, rather than the time remaining.

[0127] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many different combinations of the embodiments described with reference to Figures 1-16 may be used alone without modification and / or may be modified to incorporate features of other embodiments.

[0128] The aerosol-generating device 100 may equally be referred to as a "heated tobacco device," a "heated-not-burn tobacco device," a "device for vaporizing tobacco products," etc., and is to be construed as a device suitable for achieving these effects. The features disclosed herein are equally applicable to devices designed to vaporize any aerosol substrate.

[0129] The described embodiments of the invention are merely examples of how the invention may be practiced. Modifications, variations, and changes to the described embodiments will occur to those with appropriate skill and knowledge. These modifications, variations, and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. a body (102) having a non-opaque window (112); an array of light sources (146) disposed inside said body (102); a light diffuser (118) disposed between the array of light sources (118) and the non-opaque window (112); a plurality of walls (150) extending between said light sources (146); An aerosol generating device (100) comprising:

2. The aerosol generating device (100) of claim 1, wherein the walls (150) comprise a light diffusing material.

3. 3. The aerosol generating device (100) of claim 2, wherein the light diffuser (118) comprises the same light diffusing material as the walls (150).

4. 4. The aerosol generating device (100) of claim 3, wherein the optical diffuser (118) and the plurality of walls (150) comprise a single continuous piece.

5. 5. The aerosol generating device (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the light spreading material is a white translucent material, preferably polycarbonate.

6. The aerosol generating device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the light source (146) is configured to direct light towards the non-opaque window portion (112).

7. An aerosol generating device (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the light diffuser (118) is configured to receive light from the light source (146) and transmit it toward the non-opaque window portion (112).

8. An aerosol generating device (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the wall (150) is configured to receive light emitted obliquely from the light sources (146) and to limit leakage of the light from each light source (146) along the array.

9. The aerosol generating device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the array of light sources (146) is a linear array.

10. The aerosol generating device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the light sources (146) of the array are light emitting diodes.

11. An aerosol generating device (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein each wall (150) of the plurality of walls (150) extends so as to interrupt a straight path of light between adjacent light sources (146) of the array.

12. An aerosol generating device (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein each light source (146) in the array is surrounded on all sides by the light diffuser (118) and one or more of the plurality of walls (150) except for the side of the light source facing in a direction opposite to the shortest direct path from the array of light sources (146) to the non-opaque window portion (112).

13. The aerosol generating device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the light sources (146) are spaced apart by approximately 2 mm.

14. An aerosol generating device (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein each wall (150) of the plurality of walls (150) has a length of approximately 0.5 mm in the direction of the shortest direct path from the array of light sources (146) to the non-opaque window portion (112).

15. The aerosol generating device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the light source (146) is positioned substantially directly behind the non-opaque window (112).

16. 16. The aerosol generating device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the light diffuser (118) spans the array of light sources (146) and the non-opaque window portion (112).

17. An aerosol generating device (100) as described in any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the light diffuser (118) has a height and width greater than the array of light sources (146) and the non-opaque window portion (112).

18. 18. The aerosol generating device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein at least one surface of the light diffuser (118) has a cladding.

19. 20. The aerosol generating device (100) of claim 18, wherein the cladding has a different refractive index than the optical diffuser (118).

20. 20. The aerosol generating device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein at least one surface of the light diffuser (118) has a polished surface (151).

21. The aerosol generating device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein at least one surface of the light diffuser (118) is smooth.

22. 22. The aerosol generating device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein at least one surface of the light diffuser (118) is a mirror surface.

23. 23. The aerosol generating device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 22, wherein at least one surface of the light diffuser (118) is white or near white.

24. The aerosol generating device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein at least one surface of the light diffuser (118) is roughened (154).

25. 25. The aerosol generating device (100) of any one of claims 1 to 24, comprising an optical element (116) disposed between the light diffuser (118) and the non-opaque window portion (112).

26. 26. The aerosol generating device (100) of claim 25, wherein the optical element (116) is a lens.

27. 26. The aerosol generating device (100) of claim 25, wherein the optical element (116) is a light filter.

28. 28. The aerosol generating device (100) according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the optical element (116) has a transmission band between 400 nm and 700 nm.

29. An aerosol generating device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 28, further comprising a power source.

30. An aerosol generating device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a closure (108) movable between a closed position and an open position.

31. 31. The aerosol generating device (100) of claim 30, wherein the closure (108) is also movable between the open position and the actuated position.

32. 32. The aerosol generating device (100) of claim 30 or 31, wherein the array of light sources (146) is configured to illuminate differently depending on the position of the closure (108).

33. An aerosol generating device (100) as described in any one of claims 30 to 32, wherein the arrangement of light sources (146) is configured to be inoperable when the closure is in the closed position and to be operable when the closure is in the open position or the actuated position.

34. An aerosol generating device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the light sources (146) of the array are configured to illuminate sequentially depending on the status of the aerosol generating device (100).

35. indicating a first status of the aerosol generating device by illuminating a first group of the light sources; indicating a second status of the aerosol generating device by illuminating a second group of the light sources, the first group being at least partially different from the second group; A method for operating an aerosol generating device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 34, comprising:

36. selecting the light sources (146), the light diffuser (118), and the wall (150) and their relative positions such that when any group of adjacent light sources (146) is illuminated, the light visible through the non-opaque window (112) appears to be uniformly distributed except for the periphery of the visible light; A method for manufacturing the aerosol generating device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 34, comprising:

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