Aerosol generating device

Abstract

The aerosol generating device (10) comprises a heating assembly (12). The heating assembly (12) includes a heating section (14) configured to receive an aerosol-generating article (16). The aerosol generating device (10) further comprises a detection mechanism (18). The detection mechanism (18) is configured to detect a user command based on a movement of the aerosol-generating article (16) in the heating section (14) by a user. Each of a set (19) of a plurality of different predefined movements of the aerosol-generating article (16) in the heating section (14) by a user corresponds to a different assigned user command detectable by the detection mechanism (18). The aerosol generating device (10) further comprises a controller (20) configured to control operation of the aerosol generating device (10) based on the user command detected by the detection mechanism (18).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to aerosol generating devices, and more particularly to aerosol generating devices for heating an aerosol-generating substrate to produce an aerosol that is inhaled by a user. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the popularity and use of reduced or modified risk devices (also known as vaporizers) has grown rapidly as an alternative to the use of traditional tobacco products. A variety of devices and systems are available that heat or warm, rather than combust, an aerosol-generating substrate to produce an aerosol that is inhaled by the user.

[0003] Commonly available risk reduction or risk modification devices are aerosol-generating devices, i.e. so-called heat-not-burn devices. This type of device generates an aerosol or vapour by heating an aerosol-generating substrate contained in an aerosol-generating article, e.g. a heated tobacco stick, in a heating compartment, typically to a temperature in the range of 150° C. to 300° C. Heating the aerosol-generating substrate to a temperature in this range, without combustion or warming, generates vapour which typically cools and condenses to form the aerosol which is inhaled by the user of the device.

[0004] Typically, an aerosol generating device includes user inputs, e.g. in the form of buttons, for various user commands, such as turning on the heater. To provide the user with better control of the device, it is desirable to have access to more user commands, such as increasing the temperature or displaying the battery status. Generally, to access more user commands, additional buttons or pressing one or more existing buttons in a different way (such as a long press or a different button combination) are required. Such configurations are generally more complicated and therefore less user-friendly. Summary of the Invention

[0005] Therefore, there is a need to provide an aerosol generating device that alleviates the above-mentioned disadvantages.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device comprising: a heating assembly including a heating compartment positioned to receive an aerosol-generating article; a detection mechanism configured to detect a user command based on a movement of the aerosol-generating article within the heating zone by a user, wherein each of a set of a plurality of different predefined movements of the aerosol-generating article within the heating zone by the user corresponds to a different assigned user command detectable by the detection mechanism; a controller configured to control operation of the aerosol generating device based on a user command detected by the detection mechanism; An aerosol generating device is provided, comprising:

[0007] In the examples of the present disclosure, the manipulation of the aerosol-generating article in the heating compartment by the user provides easy access to a potentially very large number of different user commands. This provides the user with more control of the device using only a single user input, namely the manipulation of the aerosol-generating article in the heating compartment. Such a configuration eliminates the need to provide additional buttons or pressing one or more existing buttons in different ways to provide additional user commands. The device is therefore less complicated and easier for the user to use.

[0008] The set of different predefined movements may include a user rotating the aerosol-generating article within the heating section, with clockwise and counterclockwise rotations corresponding to different assigned user commands. The set of different predefined movements may include a user tilting the aerosol-generating article within the heating section, with different tilting directions corresponding to different assigned user commands. A potentially large number of different user commands are thus easily accessed by simple user actions.

[0009] Possibly, the detection mechanism includes a plurality of inputs configured to activate an input corresponding to a user command assigned to each of a set of a plurality of different predefined movements, this configuration ensuring that each predefined movement corresponds to a user command assigned to that movement by a particular input.

[0010] Possibly, the detection mechanism includes at least one movable member, the detection mechanism being configured such that the at least one movable member is displaceable by a predefined movement of the aerosol-generating article in the heating zone by a user to activate an input corresponding to a user command assigned to the predefined movement. This configuration provides a robust mechanism for activating an input based on a predefined movement of the aerosol-generating article in the heating zone by a user.

[0011] Possibly, the detection mechanism is configured such that a user tilts the aerosol-generating article within the heating zone to displace the movable member and activate an input corresponding to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol-generating article within the heating zone, This configuration provides a robust mechanism for activating an input based on a user tilting the aerosol-generating article within the heating zone.

[0012] Possibly, the detection mechanism is configured to displace the movable member by a user tilting the aerosol-generating article in one of a set of different directions within the heating zone to activate an input corresponding to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol-generating article in that direction. This configuration provides a robust mechanism for activating different inputs based on the user tilting the aerosol-generating article in different directions within the heating zone.

[0013] Possibly, the detection mechanism is configured such that rotation of the aerosol-generating article within the heated zone by the user displaces a moveable member including a magnet to change the orientation of the magnet relative to the Hall sensor and activates an input in the form of a Hall sensor output signal resulting from the change in orientation, the input corresponding to a user command assigned to rotation of the aerosol-generating article within the heated zone by the user. This arrangement provides a robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated the aerosol-generating article within the heated zone based on an easily detectable Hall sensor output signal.

[0014] Possibly, the detection mechanism is configured such that rotation of the aerosol-generating article within the heating section by a user displaces a moveable member including a magnet to change an orientation of the magnet relative to the Hall sensor; A first input is activated by a clockwise rotation in the form of a first Hall sensor output signal resulting from a change in orientation, the first input corresponding to a user command assigned to a clockwise rotation; A second input is activated by counterclockwise rotation in the form of a second Hall sensor output signal resulting from a change in orientation, the second input corresponding to a user command assigned to counterclockwise rotation, the first and second Hall sensor output signals being different. This configuration provides a robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated an aerosol-generating article clockwise or counterclockwise within the heating section based on an easily detectable and identifiable Hall sensor output signal.

[0015] The magnet may include a diametrically magnetized annular magnet having a north or south pole. The north pole may be defined by one curved side and the south pole may be defined by the opposite curved side.

[0016] Possibly, the detection mechanism is configured such that rotation of the aerosol-generating article within the heated zone by a user displaces a movable member including a plurality of apertures such that one or more of the apertures move into and out of alignment with light emitters and light receivers disposed on either side of the movable member to activate an input in the form of a light intensity signature corresponding to a user command assigned to rotation of the aerosol-generating article within the heated zone by the user. This configuration provides another robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated an aerosol-generating article within the heated zone based on an easily detectable light intensity signature.

[0017] Possibly, the detection mechanism is configured such that rotation of the aerosol-generating article within the heating section by a user displaces a movable member including a plurality of triangular shaped apertures such that one or more of the triangular shaped apertures move into and out of alignment with light emitters and light receivers disposed on either side of the movable member to define a light intensity signature; a first input in the form of a first light intensity signature activated by a clockwise rotation, the first input corresponding to a user command assigned to the clockwise rotation; A second input is activated by counterclockwise rotation in the form of a second light intensity signature, the second input corresponding to a user command assigned to counterclockwise rotation, and the first and second light intensity signatures are different. This configuration provides another robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated an aerosol-generating article clockwise or counterclockwise within the heating section based on an easily detectable and identifiable light intensity signature.

[0018] Possibly, the detection mechanism includes at least one image sensor configured to detect changes between successive images of the aerosol-generating article as the user rotates the aerosol-generating article within the heating zone and activate an input in the form of a successive image signature corresponding to a user command assigned to the user rotating the aerosol-generating article within the heating zone. This configuration provides another robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated the aerosol-generating article within the heating zone based on an easily detectable successive image signature.

[0019] Possibly, the detection mechanism includes at least one image sensor, the detection mechanism being configured such that the at least one image sensor detects changes between successive images of the aerosol-generating article as the user rotates the aerosol-generating article within the heating zone; a first input in the form of a first sequential image signature activated by a clockwise rotation, the first input corresponding to a user command assigned to the clockwise rotation; A second input is activated by counterclockwise rotation in the form of a second sequential image signature, the second input corresponding to a user command assigned to counterclockwise rotation, and the first and second sequential image signatures are different. This configuration provides another robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated an aerosol-generating article clockwise or counterclockwise within the heating zone based on an easily detectable and identifiable sequential image signature.

[0020] The detection mechanism may include an LED for illuminating the aerosol-generating article to facilitate detection of successive images. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2a]FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1, showing clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the aerosol generating article. [Figure 2b] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1, showing an exemplary tilt orientation of the aerosol generating article. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a schematic plan view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 3 in detail. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of a strain gauge. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a third example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is a schematic plan view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 7. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a push button. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fourth example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 12a] FIG. 12 is a schematic cross-sectional detail view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 11, including an aerosol generating article. [Figure 12b] 12 is another schematic cross-sectional detail view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 11 , illustrating clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the aerosol generating article. [Figure 13] 1 is a schematic perspective view of a ring magnet. [Figure 14] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a fifth example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 15a] FIG. 15 is a schematic cross-sectional detail view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 14, including an aerosol generating article. [Figure 15b] FIG. 15 is another schematic cross-sectional detail view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 14, illustrating clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the aerosol generating article. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an emitter / receiver configuration. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a schematic detail of a triangular aperture and light source. [Figure 18a] 1 is a graphical representation of a first light intensity signature. [Figure 18b] 1 is a graphical representation of a second light intensity signature. [Figure 19] FIG. 11 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a sixth example of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 20a] FIG. 20 is a schematic cross-sectional detail view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 19, including an aerosol generating article. [Figure 20b] FIG. 20 is another schematic cross-sectional detail view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 19, showing clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the aerosol generating article. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an image sensor configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0023] 1, there is shown a schematic representation of a first example of an aerosol generating device 10 according to the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device 10 is configured for use with an aerosol generating article 16, such that the aerosol generating device 10 and the aerosol generating article 16 together form an aerosol generating system.

[0024] The aerosol-generating device 10 may equally be referred to as a "heated tobacco device," a "heated non-combustion tobacco device," a "device for vaporizing a tobacco product," etc., and is to be construed as any device suitable for achieving these effects. The features disclosed herein are equally applicable to devices designed to vaporize any aerosol-generating substrate.

[0025] The aerosol generating device 10 is a handheld, portable device, meaning that a user can hold and support the device in one hand without assistance. The aerosol generating device 10 has a first (or proximal) end 48 and a second (or distal) end 50, and includes a device housing 52.

[0026] The aerosol generating device 10 includes a controller 20. The aerosol generating device 10 may include a user interface for controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device 10 via the controller 20.

[0027] The controller 20 is configured to detect the initiation of use of the aerosol generating device 10, for example, in response to a user input, such as pressing a button to activate the aerosol generating device 10, or in response to detection of airflow through the aerosol generating device 10, or in response to a user command, as described in more detail below. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, airflow through the aerosol generating device 10 indicates that the user is inhaling or "puffing". The aerosol generating device 10 may include a puff detector, such as, for example, an airflow sensor (not shown), to detect airflow through the aerosol generating device 10.

[0028] The controller 20 includes electronic circuitry. The aerosol generating device 10 includes a power source 54, such as a battery. The power source 54 and electronic circuitry may be configured to operate at high frequencies in the case of the inductively heated steam generating device 10. For example, the power source 54 and electronic circuitry may be configured to operate at frequencies of about 80 kHz to 500 kHz, optionally about 150 kHz to 250 kHz, optionally about 200 kHz. The power source 54 and electronic circuitry may also be configured to operate at higher frequencies, such as in the MHz range, if desired.

[0029] The aerosol generating device 10 comprises a heating assembly 12. The heating assembly 12 further comprises a heating section 14. The heating section 14 is configured to receive an aerosol-generating article 16. In some examples, the heating section 14 has a generally cylindrical cross-section. The heating section 14 defines a cavity.

[0030] The heating section 14 has a first end 56 and a second end 58. The heating section 14 includes an opening 60 at the first end 56 for receiving the aerosol-generating article 16. In the illustrated example, the heating section 14 includes a generally cylindrical sidewall 62, i.e., a sidewall 62 having a generally circular cross-section.

[0031] The aerosol-generating article 16 comprises an aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating substrate can be any type of solid or semi-solid material. Exemplary types of aerosol-generating solids include powders, granules, pellets, shreds, strands, particles, gels, strips, loose-leaf, cut-leaf, cut-filler, porous materials, foamed materials, or sheets. The aerosol-generating substrate may comprise a plant-derived material, and in particular tobacco. The plant-based aerosol-generating material may conveniently comprise reconstituted tobacco.

[0032] The aerosol-generating substrate may include an aerosol-forming agent. Examples of aerosol-forming agents include polyhydric alcohols, such as glycerin or propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof. Typically, the aerosol-generating substrate may include an aerosol-forming agent content of about 5% to about 50% on a dry weight basis. In some examples, the aerosol-generating substrate 16 may include an aerosol-forming agent content of about 10% to about 20% on a dry weight basis, and in some cases about 15% on a dry weight basis.

[0033] The aerosol-generating substrate may, upon heating, release volatile compounds, which may include flavor compounds, such as nicotine or tobacco flavorings.

[0034] The shape of the aerosol-generating article 16 corresponds to the shape of the heating section 14. The aerosol-generating article 16 may be generally cylindrical or rod-shaped. The aerosol-generating article 16 may be substantially stick-shaped and generally similar to a cigarette having a tubular region with an aerosol-generating substrate arranged in a suitable configuration. The aerosol-generating article 16 may be a disposable and replaceable article, for example containing tobacco as the aerosol-generating substrate. The aerosol-generating article 16 may be a heated tobacco stick. The aerosol-generating article 16 is a consumable item.

[0035] The aerosol-generating article 16 has a first end 64 (or mouth end) and a second end 66, with a filter 68 at the first end 64. The filter 68 functions as a mouthpiece and may comprise, for example, a breathable plug comprising cellulose acetate fibers.

[0036] The aerosol-generating substrate and filter 68 may be surrounded by a paper wrapper and thus embodied as an aerosol-generating article 16. Some designs may also include one or more vapor collection areas, cooling areas, and other structures.

[0037] To use the aerosol generating device 10, a user inserts the aerosol-generating article 16 into the heating section 14 through the opening 60 such that the second end 66 of the aerosol-generating article 16 is positioned at the second end 58 of the heating section 14 and the filter 68 at the first end 64 of the aerosol-generating article 16 protrudes from the first end 56 of the heating section 14 so that the aerosol-generating article 16 can be held between the user's lips.

[0038] The heating assembly 12 includes a heater (not shown) positioned to heat an aerosol-generating substrate of an aerosol-generating article 16 received in the heating section 14 .

[0039] The heating assembly 12 may be an induction heating assembly (not shown) that further comprises an induction coil (not shown) that is configured to be energized to generate an alternating electromagnetic field for inductively heating an inductively heatable susceptor (not shown), i.e., a heater.

[0040] The inductively heatable susceptor may be disposed about the periphery of the heating section 14. Alternatively, the inductively heatable susceptor may be disposed to protrude from the second end 58 (e.g., a heating blade or pin, etc.) into the heating section 14 for piercing the aerosol-generating substrate when the aerosol-generating article 16 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 10. In other examples, the inductively heatable susceptor is instead provided within the aerosol-generating substrate during manufacture of the aerosol-generating article 16. In such examples, the aerosol-generating article 16 includes the inductively heatable susceptor.

[0041] The induction coil may be energized by a power supply 54 and controller 20. The induction coil may comprise Litz wire or Litz cable, although it will be appreciated that other materials may be used.

[0042] The induction coil may extend around the heating section 14. Thus, the induction coil may be annular. The induction coil may be substantially helical in shape. In some examples, the circular cross-section of a helical induction coil may facilitate insertion of the aerosol-generating article 16, and optionally one or more inductively heatable susceptors, into the heating section 14 to ensure uniform heating of the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0043] The inductively heatable susceptor comprises an electrically conductive material. The inductively heatable susceptor may comprise, but is not limited to, one or more of graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, niobium, aluminum, iron, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium, mild steel, stainless steel, low carbon steel, and alloys thereof, such as nickel chromium or nickel copper, and composites of metallic materials. In some examples, the inductively heatable susceptor comprises a metal selected from the group consisting of mild steel, stainless steel, and low carbon stainless steel.

[0044] In use, application of an electromagnetic field in the vicinity of the inductively heatable susceptor causes the inductively heatable susceptor to generate heat due to eddy currents and magnetic hysteresis losses resulting in the conversion of energy from electromagnetic to thermal.

[0045] The induction coil may be arranged, in use, to operate with a varying electromagnetic field having a magnetic flux density at its highest point of between about 20mT and about 2.0T.

[0046] An alternative approach is to utilize a resistive heating assembly (not shown). In such a case, the heater comprises a resistive heater (not shown). The resistive heater may surround the aerosol-generating substrate and transfer heat to an outer surface of the aerosol-generating substrate, for example the resistive heater may be disposed around the heating section 14. Alternatively, the resistive heater may be disposed to protrude from a second end 58 (e.g. a heated blade or pin, etc.) into the heating section 14 to pierce the aerosol-generating substrate when the aerosol-generating article 16 is inserted into the aerosol-generating device 10. In use, current from the power source 54 is supplied directly to the resistive heater to generate heat.

[0047] During use, heat from the heater (i.e., an inductively heatable susceptor or a resistive heater) is transferred, for example by conduction, radiation, and convection, to the aerosol-generating substrate of the aerosol-generating article 16 disposed in the heating section 14 to heat the aerosol-generating substrate (without burning the aerosol-generating substrate), thereby generating vapor, which cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by a user of the aerosol-generating device 10, such as through a filter 68. Evaporation of the aerosol-generating substrate is aided by the addition of air from the surrounding environment, for example through an air inlet (not shown).

[0048] Generally speaking, a vapor is a substance that is in the gas phase below its critical temperature, meaning that it can be condensed into a liquid by increasing the pressure without decreasing the temperature. An aerosol, on the other hand, is a suspension of fine solid particles or liquid droplets in air or another gas. However, it should be noted that the terms "aerosol" and "vapor" may be used interchangeably herein, particularly with respect to the form of inhalable medium that is generated for inhalation by a user.

[0049] The aerosol generating device 10 further comprises a detection mechanism 18. The detection mechanism 18 is configured to detect a user command based on a movement of the aerosol-generating article 16 by a user within the heating section 14. Thus, the detection mechanism 18 is configured to detect a user command based on manipulation of the aerosol-generating article 16 by a user within the heating section 14.

[0050] Each of a set 19 of a plurality of different predefined movements of the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14 by the user corresponds to a different assigned user command detectable by the detection mechanism 18 .

[0051] The controller 20 is configured to control the operation of the aerosol generating device 10 based on user commands detected by the detection mechanism 18.

[0052] The user commands include at least turning on the heater of the heating assembly 12 to initiate a heating process, increasing the temperature of the heating section 14, decreasing the temperature of the heating section 14, and indicating the status of the battery 54. As alluded to above, the controller 20 may also be configured to detect the start of use of the aerosol generating device 10 in response to a user command.

[0053] In the examples of the present disclosure, a potentially large number of different user commands can be easily accessed by the user's manipulation of the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14. This provides the user with more control over the device 10 using only a single user input, namely the manipulation of the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14. Such a configuration eliminates the need to provide additional buttons or pressing one or more existing buttons in different ways to provide additional user commands. The device 10 is therefore less complicated and easier for the user to use.

[0054] As illustrated in Fig. 2a, in some examples, the set of different predefined movements 19 includes a user rotating the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14. A user rotating the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14 means that the user rotates or moves the aerosol-generating article 16 to a certain extent about the longitudinal axis of the heating section 14. Clockwise and counterclockwise rotations correspond to different assigned user commands. Thus, the detection mechanism 18 is configured to provide different user commands upon clockwise and counterclockwise rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16.

[0055] 2b, in some examples, the set of different predefined movements 19 includes a user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14. Different tilt directions correspond to different assigned user commands.

[0056] In some examples, the set of different predefined movements 19 may include a user rotating the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14 (as illustrated in FIG. 2a) and a user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14 (as illustrated in FIG. 2b). In such examples, a clockwise rotation, a counterclockwise rotation, and a different tilt direction each correspond to a different assigned user command.

[0057] A potentially large number of different user commands are therefore easily accessed by simple user actions.

[0058] In the illustrated example, the detection mechanism 18 includes a plurality of inputs 22. The inputs 22 are configured such that each of a plurality of different predefined sets of movements 19 activates an input 22 corresponding to a user command assigned to that movement 19. This configuration ensures that a unique input 22 corresponds to each predefined movement with a user command assigned to that movement.

[0059] 3-6, a second example of an aerosol generating device 100 according to the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol generating device 100 is similar to the aerosol generating device 10 described above, and corresponding elements are indicated using the same reference numbers.

[0060] The detection mechanism 18 of the aerosol generating device 100 is configured to activate an input 22 upon a user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14. The input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14.

[0061] In the illustrated example, the detection mechanism 18 is configured such that when a user tilts the aerosol-generating article 16 in one of a set of different directions within the heating section 14, the detection mechanism 18 activates an input 22 that corresponds to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in that direction. Thus, a user activates different inputs 22 by tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in different directions within the heating section 14. Each activated input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in a particular direction. This configuration provides a robust mechanism for activating different inputs 22 based on a user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in different directions within the heating section 14.

[0062] 5 and 6, in the illustrated example, the one or more inputs 22 include strain gauges 25. Specifically, the inputs 22 in the form of strain gauges 25 are disposed on the outer surface 27 of the heating section 14, on opposing sides (labeled 1 and 2), towards the top of the heating section 14. Only a single strain gauge 25 is actually visible in FIG. 5. In use, when the aerosol-generating article 16 is tilted in a certain direction to contact the inner surface 29 of one of the opposing sides (either 1 or 2), the strain gauge 25 located on the corresponding outer surface 27 senses the force, thus activating the input 22. The activated input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in that direction within the heating section 14.

[0063] 7-10, a third example of an aerosol generating device 110 according to the present disclosure is shown. The aerosol generating device 110 is similar to the aerosol generating devices 10, 100 described above, and corresponding elements are indicated using the same reference numbers.

[0064] The detection mechanism 18 of the aerosol generating device 110 includes at least one movable member 24. In the illustrated example, the at least one movable member 24 is in communication with the heating section 14. The at least one movable member 24 may be disposed, or at least partially disposed, within the heating section 14.

[0065] The detection mechanism 18 of the aerosol generating device 110 is configured to displace the movable member 24 and activate the input 22 upon a user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14. The input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14. This configuration provides another robust mechanism for activating the input 22 based on a user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14.

[0066] In the illustrated example, the detection mechanism 18 is configured such that a user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in one of a set of different directions within the heating section 14 displaces the movable member 24 to activate an input 22 corresponding to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in that direction. Thus, different inputs 22 are activated as the user tilts the aerosol-generating article 16 in different directions within the heating section 14. Each activated input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in a particular direction. This configuration provides another robust mechanism for activating different inputs 22 based on a user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in different directions within the heating section 14.

[0067] 9 and 10, in the illustrated embodiment, one or more inputs 22 are disposed behind each moveable member 24. The inputs 22 include push buttons 23 or tactile switches.

[0068] 9 and 10, in the illustrated example, two inputs 22 (labelled A and B) in the form of push buttons 23 are disposed behind respective movable members 24 (labelled 1 and 2) on opposite sides of the heating section 14. The movable members 24 form the top of the heating section 14. In use, when the aerosol-generating article 16 is tilted in a direction to displace one of the two movable members 24 (either 1 or 2), the button 23 located behind that movable member 24 (either A or B) is pressed, thus activating the input 22. The activated input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in that direction within the heating section 14.

[0069] 11-13, there is shown a fourth example of an aerosol generating device 120 according to the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device 120 is similar to the aerosol generating devices 10, 100, 110 described above, and corresponding elements are indicated using the same reference numerals.

[0070] As best shown in Fig. 12b, the detection mechanism 18 of the aerosol generating device 120 is configured such that rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16 by a user within the heating section 14 results in displacement of a movable member 24. In the illustrated example, the movable member 24 includes a magnet 26, as shown in Fig. 13. The displacement of the movable member 24 changes the orientation of the magnet 26 relative to a Hall sensor 28 (labeled A), activating an input 22 corresponding to a user command assigned to rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16 by the user within the heating section 14. The input 22 is in the form of a Hall sensor output signal resulting from the change in orientation of the magnet 26 relative to the Hall sensor 28.

[0071] This configuration provides a robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14 based on an easily detectable Hall sensor output signal.

[0072] In the illustrated example, the first input 22 is activated by a clockwise rotation in the form of a first Hall sensor output signal caused by a change in the orientation of the magnet 26 relative to the Hall sensor 28. The first input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to a clockwise rotation. The second input 22 is activated by a counterclockwise rotation in the form of a second Hall sensor output signal caused by a change in the orientation of the magnet 26 relative to the Hall sensor 28. The second input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to a counterclockwise rotation. The first and second Hall sensor output signals are different in order to be able to distinguish them.

[0073] In the illustrated example, the magnet 26 includes a diametrically magnetized annular magnet 30 having a north pole 32 and a south pole 34. The north pole 32 is defined by one curved side of the annular magnet 30. The south pole 34 is defined by the opposite curved side of the annular magnet 30. In such example, the movable member 24 is a diametrically magnetized annular magnet 30 having a north pole 32 and a south pole 34.

[0074] In the illustrated example, a diametrically magnetized annular magnet 30 is disposed towards the top of the heating section 14. Rotating the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14 also causes the annular magnet 30 to pivot, i.e. rotate. The Hall sensor 28 thus detects the rotation of the annular magnet 30. The direction of rotation of the annular magnet 30, and thus of the aerosol-generating article 16, is determined based on the induced current in the Hall sensor 28. Thus, two different user commands can function depending on the direction of rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16.

[0075] This configuration provides a robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated the aerosol-generating article 16 clockwise or counterclockwise within the heating section 14 based on an easily detectable and identifiable Hall sensor output signal.

[0076] 14-18, there is shown a fifth example of an aerosol generating device 130 according to the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device 130 is similar to the aerosol generating devices 10, 100, 110, 120 described above, and corresponding elements are indicated using the same reference numerals.

[0077] The detection mechanism 18 of the aerosol-generating device 130 is also configured such that rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14 by a user displaces the movable member 24. The movable member 24 includes a plurality of apertures 38. Specifically, the movable member 24 is a disk 45 through which the apertures 38 extend. Displacing the movable member 24 moves one or more of the apertures 38 into and out of alignment with light emitters 40 and light receivers 42 disposed on one side of the movable member 24 to activate an input corresponding to a user command assigned to rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14 by a user. The input is in the form of a light intensity signature.

[0078] This configuration provides another robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated an aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14 based on an easily detectable light intensity signature.

[0079] The movable member 24 may include a triangular shaped aperture 44, as best shown in Figure 17. In such an example, the first input 22 is activated by clockwise rotation in the form of a first light intensity signature, which is graphically represented in Figure 18a. The first input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to clockwise rotation.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 18a, reading the graph from left to right, a first light intensity signature is characterized by a gradual increase in light intensity from a baseline to a maximum value as each triangular opening 44 moves into alignment with the light emitter 40 and the light receiver 42 as the movable member 24 is moved by the user's rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16 clockwise within the heating section 14. In effect, a dim light appears first and then brightens to a maximum value. The light intensity drops sharply to the baseline value as each triangular opening 44 moves out of alignment with the light emitter 40 and the light receiver 42. The observed light intensity signature results from each triangular opening 44 moving into alignment initially with the pointed ends of the light emitter 40 and the light receiver 42.

[0081] A second input 22 is activated by counterclockwise rotation in the form of a second light intensity signature, which is graphically represented in Figure 18b. The second input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to rotate counterclockwise.

[0082] 18b, reading the graph from right to left, a second light intensity signature is characterized by an abrupt increase in light intensity from a baseline value to a maximum value as each triangular opening 44 moves into alignment with the light emitter 40 and light receiver 42 as the movable member 24 is moved by the user's rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16 counterclockwise within the heating section 14. Indeed, a bright light first appears at the highest light intensity value and then dims back to the baseline value as each triangular opening 44 moves out of alignment with the light emitter 40 and light receiver 42. The observed light intensity signature results from each triangular opening 44 first moving into alignment with the flat ends of the light emitter 40 and light receiver 42.

[0083] Thus, the triangular openings 44 are positioned such that a clockwise rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16 moves each triangular opening 44 initially into alignment with the pointed ends of the light emitter 40 and light receiver 42. Additionally, the triangular openings 44 are positioned such that a counterclockwise rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16 moves each triangular opening 44 initially into alignment with the flat ends of the light emitter 40 and light receiver 42.

[0084] In this manner, the first and second light intensity signatures are different, allowing them to be easily distinguished.

[0085] As best seen in Figures 15a and 15b, in the illustrated example the disk 45 is disposed towards the top of the heating section 14. Rotating the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14 also causes the disk 45 to pivot, i.e. rotate. The direction of rotation of the disk 45, and therefore the direction of rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16, is determined based on the detected light intensity signature, i.e. whether the first or second light intensity signature is detected. Thus, two different user commands can be functional depending on the direction of rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16.

[0086] This configuration provides another robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated the aerosol-generating article 16 clockwise or counterclockwise within the heating section 14 based on an easily detectable and identifiable light intensity signature.

[0087] 19-21, there is shown a sixth example of an aerosol generating device 140 according to the present disclosure. The aerosol generating device 140 is similar to the aerosol generating devices 10, 100, 110, 120, 130 described above, and corresponding elements are indicated using the same reference numerals.

[0088] The detection mechanism 18 of the aerosol-generating device 140 includes at least one image sensor 46, as illustrated, for example, in Figure 21. The detection mechanism 18 is configured such that, when a user rotates the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating zone 14, the at least one image sensor 46 detects a change between successive images of the aerosol-generating article 16 and activates an input 22 in the form of a successive image signature. The input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to the rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating zone 14 by the user.

[0089] This configuration provides another robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated an aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14 based on an easily detectable continuous image signature.

[0090] As best seen in Fig. 20b, in the illustrated example, a first input 22, in the form of a first continuous image signature, is activated by a clockwise rotation. The first input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to a clockwise rotation. A second input, in the form of a second continuous image signature, is activated by a counterclockwise rotation. The second input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to a counterclockwise rotation. The differences between the first and second continuous image signatures allow them to be distinguished.

[0091] This configuration provides another robust mechanism for determining whether a user has rotated an aerosol-generating article 16 clockwise or counterclockwise within the heating section 14 based on a sequential image signature that is easily detectable and identifiable.

[0092] In some examples, the detection mechanism 18 includes an LED for illuminating the aerosol-generating article 16 to facilitate detection of successive images.

[0093] In the illustrated example, the at least one image sensor 46 is disposed behind a glass window that forms part of the top of the heating section 14. Thus, movement of the aerosol-generating article 16 is detected through motion tracking (detecting changes between successive images).

[0094] In some examples, the detection mechanism 18 is configured to activate a number of different inputs 22, each corresponding to a user command assigned to a user tilting or rotating the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14, by the user tilting or rotating the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating section 14. For example, the detection mechanism 18 may include the configuration of the second or third exemplary aerosol generating device 100, 110 in combination with any of the configurations of the fourth, fifth or sixth exemplary aerosol generating device 120, 130, 140.

[0095] In such an example, different inputs 22 may be activated by a user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in different directions within the heating zone 14. Each activated input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to a user tilting the aerosol-generating article 16 in a particular direction within the heating zone 14. Further, in such an example, different inputs 22 may be activated by rotating the aerosol-generating article 16 clockwise and counterclockwise within the heating zone 14. Each activated input 22 corresponds to a user command assigned to a clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the aerosol-generating article 16 within the heating zone 14, respectively.

[0096] In some examples, rotation and / or tilting of the aerosol-generating article 16 by a user through different degrees within the heating section 14 may correspond to different user commands. For example, rotations of 45, 90, 180, and 360 degrees may correspond to different user commands.

[0097] The figures also illustrate methods of manufacturing aerosol generating devices 10, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140 according to examples of the present disclosure. The figures also illustrate methods of providing aerosol generating systems according to examples of the present disclosure.

[0098] Although exemplary embodiments have been described in the preceding paragraphs, it should be understood that various modifications can be made to those embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Thus, the breadth and scope of the claims should not be limited to the above-described exemplary embodiments.

[0099] Any combination of the above-described features in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the present disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context.

[0100] Unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, throughout this specification and the claims, the words "comprise", "comprising", and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense, i.e., "including but not limited to", rather than in an exclusive or exhaustive sense.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device (10), comprising: a heating assembly (12) including a heating compartment (14) positioned to receive an aerosol-generating article (16); a detection mechanism (18) configured to detect a user command based on a movement of the aerosol-generating article (16) within the heating section (14) by a user, wherein a set (19) of a plurality of different predefined movements of the aerosol-generating article (16) within the heating section (14) by a user each corresponds to a different assigned user command detectable by the detection mechanism (18); a controller (20) configured to control operation of the aerosol generating device (10) based on a user command detected by the detection mechanism (18); An aerosol generating device comprising:

2. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the set of different predefined movements (19) includes a user rotating the aerosol generating article (16) within the heating section (14), with clockwise and counterclockwise rotations corresponding to different assigned user commands.

3. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the set of different predefined movements (19) includes a user tilting the aerosol generating article (16) within the heating section (14), and different tilting directions correspond to different assigned user commands.

4. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the detection mechanism (18) includes a plurality of inputs (22), the inputs (22) being arranged so that each of the different sets of predefined movements (19) activates an input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to that movement (19).

5. 5. The aerosol generating device of claim 4, wherein the detection mechanism (18) includes at least one movable member (24), and the detection mechanism is configured such that the at least one movable member (24) is displaceable by a defined movement (19) of the aerosol generating article (16) within the heating section (14) by a user so as to activate an input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to the defined movement (19).

6. 5. The aerosol generating device of claim 4, wherein the detection mechanism (18) is configured to activate an input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol generating article (16) within the heating section (14) by displacing the movable member (24) by tilting the aerosol generating article (16) within the heating section (14).

7. 5. The aerosol generating device of claim 4, wherein the detection mechanism (18) is configured to displace the movable member (24) by a user tilting the aerosol generating article (16) in any one of a set of different directions within the heating section (14), thereby activating an input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to the user tilting the aerosol generating article (16) in the direction.

8. 5. The aerosol generating device of claim 4, wherein the detection mechanism (18) is configured such that a user rotates the aerosol generating article (16) within the heating section (14), thereby displacing a movable member (24) including a magnet (26) to change the orientation of the magnet (26) relative to a Hall sensor (28), and activating an input (22) in the form of a Hall sensor output signal resulting from the change in orientation, the input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to the user's rotation of the aerosol generating article (16) within the heating section (14).

9. the detection mechanism (18) is configured such that a user rotates the aerosol-generating article (16) within the heating compartment (14), thereby displacing a movable member (24) including a magnet (26) and changing the orientation of the magnet (26) relative to a Hall sensor (28); a first input (22) activated by clockwise rotation in the form of a first Hall sensor output signal caused by said change in orientation, said first input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to clockwise rotation; a second input (22) activated by counterclockwise rotation in the form of a second Hall sensor output signal caused by said change in orientation, said second input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to counterclockwise rotation, said first and second Hall sensor output signals being different; The aerosol generating device according to claim 4.

10. 9. The aerosol generating device of claim 8, wherein the magnet (26) comprises a diametrically magnetized annular magnet (30) having a north pole (32) and a south pole (34), the north pole (32) being defined by one curved side and the south pole (34) being defined by the opposite curved side.

11. The detection mechanism (18) is configured such that rotation of the aerosol-generating article (16) within the heating section (14) by a user displaces a movable member (24) including a plurality of apertures (38) such that one or more of the apertures (38) move into and out of alignment with light emitters (40) and light receivers (42) disposed on either side of the movable member (24) to activate an input in the form of a light intensity signature, the input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to rotation of the aerosol-generating article (16) within the heating section (14) by the user. The aerosol generating device according to claim 4.

12. the detection mechanism (18) is configured such that rotation of the aerosol-generating article (16) within the heating section (14) by a user displaces a movable member (24) including a plurality of triangular-shaped openings (44), thereby moving one or more of the triangular-shaped openings (44) into and out of alignment with light emitters (40) and light receivers (42) disposed on either side of the movable member (24) to define a light intensity signature; a first input (22) in the form of a first light intensity signature activated by clockwise rotation, said first input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to clockwise rotation; a second input (22) activated by counterclockwise rotation in the form of a second light intensity signature, said second input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to counterclockwise rotation, said first and second light intensity signatures being different; The aerosol generating device according to claim 4.

13. 5. The aerosol generating device of claim 4, wherein the detection mechanism (18) includes at least one image sensor (46), and the detection mechanism (18) is configured such that the at least one image sensor (46) detects changes between successive images of the aerosol generating article (16) as the user rotates the aerosol generating article (16) within the heating section (14) and activates an input (22) in the form of successive image signatures, the input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to the user's rotation of the aerosol generating article (16) within the heating section (14).

14. the detection mechanism (18) includes at least one image sensor (46), and the detection mechanism (18) is configured such that the at least one image sensor (46) detects changes between successive images of the aerosol-generating article (16) as a user rotates the aerosol-generating article (16) within the heating compartment (14); a first input (22) activated by a clockwise rotation in the form of a first sequential image signature, said first input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to a clockwise rotation; a second input activated by a counterclockwise rotation in the form of a second sequential image signature, said second input (22) corresponding to a user command assigned to a counterclockwise rotation, said first and second sequential image signatures being different; The aerosol generating device according to claim 4.

15. 15. An aerosol generating device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the detection mechanism (18) comprises an LED that illuminates the aerosol-generating article (16) to facilitate detection of successive images.

Images