Internal sterilization of an aerosol generating device

Abstract

An aerosol generating device comprising a housing, a lid, a mouthpiece, and at least one UV diode. The housing defines a capsule receiving cavity. The lid is configured to close the housing. The lid is fixedly connected to the housing by a hinge at a first point and removably connectable to the housing at a second point different from the first point. The mouthpiece is connectable to the lid facing the housing, and air that enters the housing and is aspirated through the capsule receiving cavity exits through the mouthpiece. The at least one UV diode is configured to disinfect the interior of the aerosol generating device when activated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] At least some exemplary embodiments relate to an aerosol generating device, and more particularly, but not limited to, internal sterilization of an aerosol generating device.

Background Art

[0002] Some electronic devices are configured to avoid self-ignition or spontaneous combustion of a plant material by heating the plant material to a temperature sufficient to release components of the plant material while maintaining the temperature below its ignition temperature (i.e., in contrast to the case where the plant material catches fire, like the tip of a lit cigarette). Such devices may be characterized by generating an aerosol of components released by heating, and may also be referred to as non-combustion heating aerosol generating devices, or non-combustion heating devices.

[0003] It has been found that heating a plant material below its ignition temperature may sometimes produce accidental and very low levels of oxidation by-products or other pyrolysis by-products. However, in some embodiments, heating in an aerosol generating device is below the pyrolysis temperature of the plant material, such that no pyrolysis by-products of the plant material are present or an aerosol is produced at very low levels. Thus, in one exemplary embodiment, pyrolysis of the plant material does not occur during heating and resulting aerosol generation. In other examples, accidental pyrolysis may occur, and oxidation by-products or other pyrolysis by-products may be produced at minor levels relative to the main components released by heating the plant material.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] New and useful systems, devices, and methods for aerosol generating devices are described in the appended claims. Exemplary embodiments are also provided so that those skilled in the art can practice and use the content described in the claims.

[0005] For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol generating device can include a housing, a lid, a mouthpiece, and at least one UV diode. The housing can define a capsule receiving cavity, and the lid can be configured to close the housing. The lid is fixed and connected to the housing by a hinge at a first point and removably connectable to the housing at a second point different from the first point. The mouthpiece can be connectable to the lid facing the housing, and air that enters the housing and is drawn through the capsule receiving cavity exits through the mouthpiece. The at least one UV diode can be configured to disinfect the interior of the aerosol generating device when activated.

[0006] In some exemplary embodiments, the lid can include an inner cavity configured to receive the capsule receiving cavity when the lid is connected to the housing at the second point. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode can be within the inner cavity of the lid. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode can be directed towards the housing. The at least one UV diode can be configured to direct UV light towards the housing when activated. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode can be directed towards the mouthpiece. The at least one UV diode can be configured to direct UV light into the mouthpiece when activated.

[0007] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode can further include an electrical contact. The electrical contact can be configured to contact an electrical connection of the housing when the lid is connected to the housing at the second point.

[0008] In some exemplary embodiments, the mouthpiece can include a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The first end of the mouthpiece can be configured to be connected to the lid, and the second end of the mouthpiece can include at least one outlet. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode can include a UV-C light ring diode around the at least one outlet of the mouthpiece. In some exemplary embodiments, the UV-C light ring diode can be configured to direct UV light into the mouthpiece when the UV-C light ring diode is activated.

[0009] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol generating device can further include a controller within the housing. In some exemplary embodiments, the controller can be configured to activate the at least one UV diode when the lid is connected to the housing at the second point and the aerosol generating device is in an unused mode. In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol generating device can be placed in an unused mode when the aerosol generating device is connected to a charging station. The at least one UV diode can be configured to turn off when the aerosol generating device is taken out of the unused mode. In some embodiments, the at least one UV diode can be configured to operate the at least one UV diode for a predetermined time. The predetermined time can be the time required to disinfect the interior of the aerosol generating device.

[0010] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol generating device can further include a communication screen and a power button. The communication screen can be configured to output information regarding the at least one UV diode.

[0011] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode can include a UV-C diode.

[0012] In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode can be configured to emit UV light in a wavelength range of 100 nanometers to 280 nanometers.

[0013] Also described herein is a method of disinfecting the interior of an aerosol generating device. The method can include placing the aerosol generating device in an unused mode, activating at least one UV diode of the aerosol generating device, and operating the at least one UV diode for a predetermined time. In some exemplary embodiments, placing the aerosol generating device in the unused mode can include placing the aerosol generating device on a charging station to recharge the aerosol generating device. In some exemplary embodiments, the predetermined time can be the time required to disinfect the interior of the aerosol generating device. In some exemplary embodiments, the at least one UV diode can be turned off when the aerosol generating device is removed from the unused mode.

[0014] The objects, advantages, and preferred aspects of the claimed subject matter will be best understood by reference to the accompanying drawings in conjunction with the detailed description of the following exemplary embodiments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0015] The various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments in this specification will become more apparent by considering the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the claims. The accompanying drawings should not be considered to be drawn to an exact scale unless explicitly stated otherwise. For clarity purposes, the various dimensions in the drawings may be exaggerated in some cases.

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[0036] Some specific exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein. However, the specific details of the structures and functions disclosed herein are merely representative for the purpose of explaining the exemplary embodiments. However, the exemplary embodiments may be embodied in many alternative forms and should not be construed as limited only to the exemplary embodiments described herein.

[0037] Therefore, the exemplary embodiments are capable of various changes and alternative forms, and the exemplary embodiments are shown by way of example in the drawings and described in detail herein. However, it is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments to the specific forms disclosed, but rather the exemplary embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives within the scope of the exemplary embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the drawings.

[0038] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," "coupled to," or "covering" another element or layer, it can be directly on, directly connected to, directly coupled to, or directly covering the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0039] Terms such as first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to represent various elements, regions, layers, and / or portions, but it should be understood that these elements, regions, layers, and / or portions need not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, region, layer, or portion from another. Thus, the first element, component, region, layer, or portion discussed below could also be referred to as a second element, region, layer, or portion without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0040] Spatially relative terms, such as "beneath", "below", "lower", "above", "upper", etc., may be used herein for ease of description to explain the relationship of one element or feature to another(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, an element described as "beneath" or "below" another element or feature would then be oriented "above" the other element or feature. Thus, the term "beneath" can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be oriented in other directions (rotated 90 degrees or otherwise), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein are to be interpreted accordingly.

[0041] The terms used herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Further, the terms "includes", "including", "comprises", and / or "comprising" specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0042] When the terms "about" or "substantially" are used in connection with a numerical value herein, the associated numerical value is intended to include manufacturing or operational tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical value. Further, when the terms "generally" or "substantially" are used in connection with a geometric shape, precision of the geometric shape is not required, but the shape is intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure. Further, whether or not a numerical value or shape is modified by "about", "generally", or "substantially", it should be understood that these numerical values and shapes include manufacturing or operational tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical value or shape.

[0043] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments belong. Further, the terms should be interpreted to have a meaning that conforms to their meaning in the context of the relevant art, including definitions in commonly used dictionaries, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless clearly defined herein.

[0044] As used herein, "coupled" includes both removably coupled and permanently coupled. For example, when an elastic layer and a support layer are removably coupled to each other, the elastic layer and the support layer can be separated when sufficient force is applied.

[0045] The hardware may be implemented using processing or control circuitry such as one or more processors, one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microcontrollers, one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs), one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), one or more microcomputers, one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), one or more system-on-chips (SoCs), one or more programmable logic units (PLUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or any other one or more devices that can respond to and execute instructions in a defined manner, but is not limited thereto.

[0046] Figures 1 to 11 are diagrams of the aerosol generation device 100 according to some exemplary embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, a perspective view from the top surface of the aerosol generation device 100 is shown. In some embodiments, the body of the aerosol generation device 100 may generally be in the shape of an oval or round pebble. The body of the aerosol generation device 100 may include a housing 102 and a lid 104. The housing 102 may have a first end 106 and a second end 108 opposite the first end 106. The lid may have a first end 110 and a second end 112 opposite the first end 110. The first end 110 of the lid 104 may be fixedly connected to the second end 108 of the housing 102 at a first point 114 and may be removably connectable to the second end 108 of the housing 102 at a second point 116. The first point 114 of the housing 102 may be on the first side 118 side of the aerosol generation device 100. The second point 116 of the housing 102 may be on the second side 120 side of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0047] In some exemplary embodiments, the aerosol generating device 100 may further include a mouthpiece 122. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the mouthpiece 122 may include a first end 124 and a second end 126 opposite the first end 124. The second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 may be connected to the second end 112 of the lid 104. In some embodiments, the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 may be removably connected to the second end 112 of the lid 104. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece 122 may be tapered between the first end 124 and the second end 126. For example, the diameter or average length / width dimension of the first end 124 may be smaller than the diameter or average length / width dimension of the second end 126. Towards the first end 124, the tapered portion may have a slightly inwardly curved portion 128 configured to receive the lips of an adult user and to improve comfort and experience. In some embodiments, the first end 124 may be oval or elliptical in shape and may include one or more outlets 130. For example, the first end 124 may include four outlets 130, whereby four or more different regions or quadrants of an adult user's mouth may be engaged during use of the aerosol generating device 100. In other embodiments, the mouthpiece 122 may have less than four outlets 130 or more than four outlets 130.

[0048] In some exemplary embodiments, the housing 102 may include a user interface panel 132 provided on a second side portion 120 of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the user interface panel 132 may be an elliptical panel extending along the second side portion 120 of the aerosol generating device 100. The user interface panel 132 may include a communication screen 136 and / or a power button 138 in addition to the latch release button 134. For example, in at least some exemplary embodiments, the user interface panel 132 may include a communication screen 136 disposed between the latch release button 134 and the power button 138. As shown, the latch release button 134 may be disposed towards the second end 108 of the aerosol generating device 100, and the power button 138 may be disposed towards the first end 106 of the aerosol generating device 100. The latch release button 134 and the power button 138 may be adult user interaction buttons. The latch release button 134 and the power button 138 may be substantially circular in shape, and the central indentation or dimple is configured to direct the pressure applied by an adult user, but the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. The power button 138 may turn the aerosol generating device 100 on or off. Although only two buttons are shown, it should be understood that more or fewer buttons may be provided depending on the available features and the desired adult user interface.

[0049] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the communication screen 136 may be an integrated thin film transistor ( "TFT") screen. In other exemplary embodiments, the communication screen 136 is an organic light emitting diode ( "OLED") or a light emitting diode ( "LED") screen. The communication screen 136 is configured for adult user involvement and may be substantially oval in shape.

[0050] In some exemplary embodiments, the first end 124 of the mouthpiece 122 may further include at least one UV light diode 140. As shown in FIG. 1, the mouthpiece 122 may include a plurality of UV light diodes 140 provided inside or around the four outlets 130. The plurality of UV light diodes 140 may be UV light ring diodes in some embodiments. More specifically, the plurality of UV light diodes 140 may be UV-C light ring diodes or UV-C flex diodes in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the plurality of UV light diodes 140 may be UV-C diodes. The plurality of UV light diodes 140 may be configured to emit UV light in a wavelength range of 100 nanometers to 280 nanometers. The plurality of UV light diodes 140 may be configured to direct UV light into the mouthpiece 122 when the plurality of UV light diodes 140 are activated. In some embodiments, the communication screen 136 may be configured to output information regarding at least one UV light diode 140.

[0051] In some embodiments, the outside of the housing 102 and / or the lid 104 may be formed from metal (such as aluminum, stainless steel), a beautiful and food-contact suitable plastic (such as polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), copolyester plastic, or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic), or any combination thereof. Similarly, the mouthpiece 122 may be formed from metal (such as aluminum, stainless steel), a beautiful and food-contact suitable plastic (such as polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), copolyester plastic, or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic), and / or a plant-derived material (such as wood, bamboo). One or more inner surfaces, or the housing 102, and / or the lid 104 may be formed from, or coated with, a high-temperature plastic (such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), etc.).

[0052] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a perspective view from the bottom of the aerosol generating device 100 and a view of the aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 1 looking up from below are shown. In some embodiments, the housing 102 may further include a charging connector or port 202. For example, the port 202 may be defined / arranged at the first end 106 of the housing 102. The port 202 may be configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB cable) to charge the power source inside the aerosol generating device 100. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the port 202 may be an assembly that defines a cavity 204 and has a protrusion 206 inside the cavity 204. In one exemplary embodiment, the protrusion 206 does not extend beyond the edge of the cavity 204. Additionally, the port 202 may also be configured to transmit and / or receive data (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB cable) between another aerosol generating device (e.g., a non-combustion, heated (HNB) aerosol generating device) and / or other electronic devices (e.g., a phone, tablet, computer, etc.). In at least one embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 may alternatively or additionally be configured to wirelessly communicate (e.g., via Bluetooth) with such other aerosol generating devices and / or electronic devices.

[0053] In at least some exemplary embodiments, a protective grid 208 is provided around the port 202. The protective grid 208 may be configured to help suppress or prevent the intrusion of debris and / or the unintentional blocking of the incoming air flow. For example, the protective grid 208 may define a plurality of pores 210 along its length or course. As shown, the protective grid 208 may be in an annular shape surrounding the port 202. In this regard, the plurality of pores 210 may also be arranged around the port 202 (e.g., in a continuous arrangement). Each of the plurality of pores 210 may be, but is not limited to, an elliptical or circular shape. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the protective grid 208 may include an approved food contact material. For example, the protective grid 208 may include plastic, metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum), or a combination thereof. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the surface of the protective grid 208 may be coated, for example, with a thin layer of plastic and / or anodized.

[0054] The plurality of pores 210 within the protective grid 208 may function as an inlet for air drawn into the aerosol generating device 100. During operation of the aerosol generating device 100, ambient air entering through the plurality of pores 210 within the protective grid 208 around the port 202 converges at a point to form a combined flow, which then moves through the aerosol generating device 100. More specifically, air may be drawn through the plurality of pores 210 within the protective grid 208 around the port 202, pass through the aerosol generating device 100, and exit from the mouthpiece 122.

[0055] Figure 4 shows a top view of the aerosol generation device 100 of FIGS. 1-3. The UV light diodes 140 may be arranged around the four outlets 130 of the mouthpiece 122. The UV light diodes 140 may be connected to the mouthpiece 122 by an adhesive, welding, or some other method or means for securing the UV light diodes 140 in place on the mouthpiece 122. In some embodiments, the UV light diodes 140 may be connected via wires 402. The wires 402 may provide communication between each of the UV light diodes 140 and the housing 102 of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0056] FIGS. 5 and 6 show perspective views from different top surfaces of the aerosol generation device 100 with the lid 104 in the open configuration. The lid 104 may be fixedly connected to the housing 102 at a first point 114 by a hinge 502 or some other similar connector, whereby the lid 104 can move (e.g., swing and rotate) from the open position to the closed position. In some embodiments, the hinge 502 may be a torsion spring. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the housing 102 may include a recess 504 at the first point 114. The recess 504 may be configured to facilitate and smoothly move the lid 104 from the open position to the closed position (and vice versa) by receiving a portion of the lid 104. The recess 504 may have a structure that matches the associated portion of the lid 104. For example, as shown, the recess 504 may include a substantially curved portion 506 having a substantially concave shape that matches the curvature of the lid 104, which is generally convex.

[0057] The lid 104 may be removably connectable to the housing 102 at a second point 116 by a latch 508 or other similar connector, whereby the lid 104 can be fixed or installed in a closed position and made easily removable so as to be movable from the closed position to an open position. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the latch 508 may be connected to a latch release mechanism provided within the housing. The latch release mechanism may be configured to move the latch 508 from a first position or closed position to a second position or open position.

[0058] When the lid 104 is in the open position as shown in FIG. 5, the capsule receiving cavity 510 of the housing 102 is exposed. A capsule connector 512 may define the capsule receiving cavity 510 of the housing 102. In some embodiments, the capsule connector 512 may be mounted or fixed to a printed circuit board (PCB) within the housing 102.

[0059] In some embodiments, the housing 102 may further include at least one communication point 514. The at least one communication point 514 may be an electrical contact point or a communication point, and the electrical contact point or communication point may be configured to interact with at least one UV light diode 140 when the lid 104 is in the closed position. The at least one communication point, electrical contact point, or communication point is an electrical contact, and these terms are used interchangeably throughout this specification. In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one communication points 514 may be a sensor, and the sensor may be configured to sense when the lid 104 is in the closed position. In some embodiments, at least one UV light diode 140 may be activated when it is sensed by at least one communication point 514 that the lid 104 is in the closed position. As shown in FIG. 5, the at least one communication point 514 may be more than one communication point, such as three communication points. For example, in an embodiment where the at least one communication point 514 is three communication points, one of the communication points may be a positive power supply electrode, and the positive power supply electrode may be configured to provide power between the housing 102 and the lid 104. Another of the communication points may be a negative power supply electrode, and the negative power supply electrode may be configured to cooperate with the positive power supply electrode to provide power between the housing 102 and the lid 104. The last of the communication points may be a logic current line, and the logic current line may be configured to facilitate communication between the housing 102 and the lid 104.

[0060] In some embodiments, the logic current line may be a closure switch, and the closure switch may prevent at least one UV light diode 140 from being activated when the lid 104 is in the open position relative to the housing 102. The logic current line may further control the current output from the housing 104 to at least one UV light diode 140. The logic current line may be configured to control the operation of at least one UV light diode 140. For example, the logic current line may be configured to operate at least one UV light diode at different amounts and / or different wavelengths based on communication from the printed circuit board of the housing 104. In some embodiments, the logic current line may further be configured to facilitate communication of the overall performance of at least one UV light diode 140 between at least one UV light diode 140 and the printed circuit board of the housing 104. For example, the printed circuit board may be configured to send a maximum amount of current to at least one UV light diode 140 via the logic current line. Based on the current received via one of the logic current line or other communication points 514, the printed circuit board may be configured to determine the overall performance of at least one UV light diode 140. If at least one UV light diode 140 is not operating as expected, a message may be output from the aerosol generating device 100, thereby notifying the user of the overall performance of at least one UV light diode. In some embodiments, the printed circuit board may include a logic chip, and the logic chip may enable the printed circuit board to communicate with at least one UV light diode 140 via the logic current line.

[0061] The lid 104 may include an inner cavity 516, which may be adapted to receive the housing 102 when the lid is in the closed position. In some embodiments, the inner cavity 516 of the lid 104 may include a collision member, or an engagement member, or a surface 520 configured to engage the capsule when the lid 104 is pivoted for transition to the closed position. The surface 520 of the lid 104 may include a recess, and the recess may correspond to the size and shape of the capsule and / or the elastic material to improve the interface with the capsule and provide a desired seal. In some embodiments, the lid 104 may further include an opening 522, which may be adapted to receive the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122. The mouthpiece 122 may include at least one extension 524, and the extension 524 may be received by the opening 522 of the lid 104 to fix the mouthpiece 122 to the lid 104. In some embodiments, the lid 104 may further include a protrusion, which may be configured to connect with the recess 526 of the housing 102. The protrusion may be adapted to fit within the recess 526 when the lid 104 is connected to the housing 102 in the closed position.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 7, a top view of the aerosol generating device 100 with the lid 104 in the open configuration is shown. The capsule receiving cavity 510 may have a base 702, and the base 702 may be inside the housing 102. In some embodiments, the base 702 may include a first contact point 704 and a second contact point 706. The first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706 may be configured to connect to the contact points of the capsule receivable by the capsule receiving cavity 510.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 8, a perspective view from the top surface of the aerosol generating device 100 is shown. The capsule 802 may be received by the capsule receiving cavity 510. In some embodiments, although not depicted here, a gasket may be provided around the capsule 802 to assist in fixing the capsule 802 in place within the housing 102. The capsule 802 may include a housing 804 configured to contain an aerosol-forming substrate and a heater. In some embodiments, the housing 804 may be in the form of a cover such as a shell or a box sleeve. In some embodiments, the housing 804 may include a first end cap 806 and a second end cap. The second end cap may be on the opposite side of the first end cap 806 and is configured to be disposed inside the housing 102 when the capsule 802 is received in the capsule receiving cavity 510.

[0064] The first end cap 806 may include a first opening 808. In some embodiments, the first opening 808 may be a series of openings disposed through the first end cap 806. Similarly, the second end cap may include a second opening, which in some embodiments may be a series of openings. In some embodiments, the first end cap 806 and / or the second end cap may be transparent to serve as a window configured to expose the contents / components of the capsule 802 (e.g., the aerosol-forming substrate and / or the heater).

[0065] When the capsule 802 is inserted into the capsule receiving cavity 510, the weight of the capsule 802 itself may not be sufficient to compress the first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706. As a result, the capsule 802 may simply rest on the exposed pins of the first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706, and the electrical contacts of the first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706 may not be compressed at all (or not significantly compressed). Further, the weight of the lid 104 itself may not compress the electrical contacts of the first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706 to any significant extent when pivoted for transition to the closed position, and instead may simply rest on the capsule 802 in an intermediate, partially open / closed position. In such an example, an intentional action (e.g., a downward force) to close the lid 104 causes the surface 520 of the lid 104 to be pushed down onto the capsule 802 to provide a desired seal and also compress the capsule 802 to fully engage the electrical contacts of the first contact point 704 and the second contact point 706. Further, fully closing the lid 104 may result in engagement with the latch 508, and the latch 508 may maintain the closed position and the desired mechanical / electrical engagement including the capsule 802 until it is released (e.g., via the latch release button 134). The force requirements for closing the lid 104 may help improve the device, thermal efficiency, and battery life by ensuring and / or improving the air / aerosol seal, providing a more robust electrical connection, and suppressing or eliminating early power consumption and / or parasitic heating of the capsule 802.

[0066] Referring to FIG. 9, a side view of the aerosol generating device 100 in a configuration where the lid 104 is open is shown. At least one UV light diode 140 may be visible through one or more outlets 130 of the mouthpiece. In some embodiments, the at least one UV light diode 140 may be a first UV light diode. A second UV light diode 902 may be provided inside the inner cavity 516 of the lid 104. Similar to the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902 may be a UV-C diode. In some embodiments, the second UV light diode 902 may be configured to emit UV light in a wavelength range from 100 nanometers to 280 nanometers. The second UV light diode 902 may be configured to supply UV light towards the inside of the housing 102, such as the capsule receiving cavity 510 and any gasket surrounding the capsule receiving cavity 510, when the lid 104 is in the closed position. More specifically, the second UV light diode 902 may be configured to disinfect the inside of the housing 102 when the lid 104 is connected to the housing 102 in the closed position and when the second UV light diode 902 is activated.

[0067] At least one contact point 904 may be provided inside the inner cavity 516 of the lid 104. The at least one contact point 904 may be configured to connect to at least one communication point 514 of the housing 102. In some embodiments, the at least one contact point 904 may be a copper disk contact point, and the at least one communication point 514 may be a copper spring-mounted contact. In other embodiments, the at least one contact point 904 may be a copper spring-mounted contact, and the at least one communication point 514 may be a copper disk contact point. In any of the above-described configurations, the copper disk contact point may be connected to the copper spring-mounted contact to communicatively connect the lid 104 and the housing 102. The at least one contact point 904 and the at least one communication point 514 may provide communication between the lid 104 and the housing 102. In some embodiments, the at least one contact point 904 may be more than one contact point, such as three contact points. In an embodiment having three contact points, each of the three contact points may be aligned with one of the at least one communication point 514. For example, two of the three contact points may be connected to the positive power electrode and the negative power electrode to provide power between the housing 102 and the lid 104. The last contact point may be connected to the logic current line to facilitate communication between the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 and the electronic components of the housing 102, such as a printed circuit board. In some embodiments, the at least one contact point 904 may be connected to one or both of the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902.

[0068] The protrusion 906 may be provided closest to the second UV light diode 902, similar to the protrusion described above with reference to FIG. 5. The protrusion 906 may be received by the recess 526 when the lid 104 is connected to the housing 102 in the closed position.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 10, a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device 100 is shown, with the lid 104 open and the capsule 802 received by the housing 102. In some exemplary embodiments, the housing 102 encloses or houses not only the unlatching mechanism 1002 but also processing or control circuitry such as a power source 1004 and a controller 1006. The unlatching mechanism 1002 may communicate with an unlatch button 134. The unlatch button 134 is configured to operate the unlatching mechanism 1002, that is, to move the latch 508 from a first position, or a closed position, or a fixed position, to a second position or a pressure application position, and to move the latch 508 from an open position to a fixed position or a closed position / return it. As described above with reference to FIG. 1, the unlatch button 134 may be an adult user interaction button provided on the second side portion 120 of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, when the unlatch button 134 is pressed by an adult user, the unlatching mechanism 1002 may move from a first position, or a closed position, or a fixed position, to a second position or a pressure application position, thereby moving the latch 508 from a fixed position or a closed position to an open position. The unlatch button 134 may be substantially circular in shape, and the central indentation or dimple is configured to direct the pressure applied by the adult user, but the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. One or more sensors (not shown) configured to detect the opening and closing of the lid 104 may be embedded within or otherwise disposed within one or more of the housing 102 and / or its internal elements (e.g., the latch 508, the unlatching mechanism 1002, the unlatch button 134).

[0070] The controller 1006 may be hardware including a logic circuit, a combination of hardware / software such as a processor that executes software, or a combination thereof. For example, the controller 1006 may include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a system on chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc. The controller 1006 may be configured to activate at least one UV light diode 140 and a second UV light diode 902 when the lid 104 is connected to the housing 102 in the closed position. In some embodiments, the controller 1006 may be configured to adjust the wavelength of the light supplied by at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 according to the desired sterilization. The supply of current from the power source 1004 may be made according to manual operation (e.g., button activation) or automatic operation (e.g., puff activation). The power source 1004 may include one or more batteries (e.g., a rechargeable dual battery configuration, a lithium ion battery, and / or a fuel cell). In at least some exemplary embodiments, the controller 1006 may further include a haptic motor, and the haptic motor may be provided on the side of the power source 1004.

[0071] In some embodiments, there may be at least one wire, such as a first wire 1010, and the first wire 1010 may connect at least one UV light diode 140 of the mouthpiece 122 to the lid 104. In some embodiments, there may be contact points on the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122, whereby at least one UV light diode 140 may be connected to the lid 104. The contact points on the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 may be connected to at least one contact point 904 of the lid 104 to provide communication between the mouthpiece 122 and the lid 104. In some embodiments, a second UV light diode 902 may also be connected to a contact point on the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122. In other embodiments, there may be a second wire 1012 that connects the second UV light diode 902 to at least one contact point 904. There may be a third wire 1014 that connects at least one communication point 514 of the housing to the controller 1006. In some embodiments, the first wire 1010, the second wire 1012, and the third wire 1014 may all be flat wires having a minimum outer profile and may be respectively disposed inside the mouthpiece 122, the lid 104, and the housing 102. The first wire 1010, the second wire 1012, and the third wire 1014 may all be configured to provide communication between at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902, and the controller 1006. In some embodiments, at least one UV light diode 140 and the UV light diode 902 may have a voltage of about 6.5 volts to about 7.2 volts with a current of about 5 milliamperes to about 30 milliamperes. Each of the first wire 1010, the second wire 1012, and the third wire 1014 may have a wire gauge of about 37 American Wire Gauge (AWG) to about 38 AWG to operate the UV diode 138 as intended.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 11, a partial perspective view of the aerosol generating device 100 is shown. A portion of the housing 102 is removed to show various internal components of the aerosol generating device 100. In some embodiments, the housing 102 encloses or houses the air hose 1102. The air hose 1102 may extend between the capsule receiving cavity 510 and the plurality of pores 210 and / or physically connect the capsule receiving cavity 510 to the plurality of pores 210. Further, an air channel assembly 1104 may be provided as an intermediary between the air hose 1102 and the plurality of pores 210. In such an example, the air channel assembly 1104 may be configured to direct the incoming air flow (i.e., that which is drawn through the plurality of pores 210) in the direction of the air hose 1102. In some embodiments, the air channel assembly 1104 may include an air flow restrictor configured to provide optional control over the air flow through the aerosol generating device 100. In some embodiments, one or more flow sensors 1106 may be provided inside or along the air channel assembly 1104 and / or along the air hose 1102. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the one or more flow sensors 1106 include a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) flow sensor, or a pressure sensor, or another type of sensor configured to measure air flow, such as a hot wire anemometer. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the one or more flow sensors 1106 may include a pressure sensor, such as a capacitance pressure sensor configured to measure the negative pressure during a suction event. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the air channel assembly 1104 may omit the one or more flow sensors 1106.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 12 - 16, the mouthpiece 122 is shown from several different angles. FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the mouthpiece 122 from the upper right front, FIG. 13 is a front view of the mouthpiece 122, FIG. 14 is a first side view of the mouthpiece 122, FIG. 15 is a bottom view of the mouthpiece 122, and FIG. 16 is a top view of the mouthpiece 122. The second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 may include a shelf portion 1202, one or more raised portions 1204, and one or more connection structures 1206, and the connection structures 1206 may be configured to position or align the mouthpiece 122 relative to the lid 104. The one or more connection structures 1206 may be bubble couplers or protrusion couplers. For example, as shown, the mouthpiece 122 may include four bubble couplers or protrusion couplers, arranged in pairs along each major length of the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122.

[0074] In some embodiments, the mouthpiece 122 may further include a contact point 1208, and the contact point 1208 may be provided at the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122. The contact point 1208 may be similar to the contact points on the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 as described above with reference to FIG. 10.

[0075] In some embodiments, at least one UV light diode 140 may be directed in the direction of the interior of the mouthpiece 122 from one or more outlets 130. The at least one UV light diode may be configured to sterilize the interior of the mouthpiece 122 when the mouthpiece 122 is connected to the lid 104 and when the at least one UV light diode 140 is actuated by the controller 1006.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 17, an aerosol generating device 100 is shown connected to a charging station 1702, and at least one UV light diode 140 and a second UV light diode 902 are operating. When the aerosol generating device 100 is used by an adult user, the adult user may place his or her mouth at the first end 124 of the mouthpiece 122 and inhale or suck air through the mouthpiece 122. As a result of using the aerosol generating device 100, air and saliva exhaled by the adult user may be drawn into the interior of the mouthpiece 122, the lid 104, and the housing 102. When at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 are operating, bacteria, mold, viruses, or other potentially harmful contaminants may be sterilized by the UV light emitted by at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 17, a first wire 1010 may connect at least one UV light diode 140 to a contact point 1208. A fourth wire 1704 may connect the contact point 1208 to at least one contact point 904. The fourth wire 1704 may be substantially similar to the first wire 1010, the second wire 1012, and / or the third wire 1014 described above. A second wire 1012 may connect the second UV light diode 902 to at least one contact point 904. When the lid 104 is closed, at least one contact point 904 may be connected to at least one communication point 514 of the housing 102. When at least one contact point 904 is connected to at least one communication point 514, the controller 1006 may be connected to or communicate with at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902.

[0078] In some embodiments, the first end 106 of the aerosol generating device 100 may be configured to connect to a charging station 1702. For example, the port 202 may be received by a charging station 1702 in some embodiments. When the aerosol generating device 100 is connected to the charging station 1702, the aerosol generating device 100 may be in an unused mode. In the unused mode, the controller 1006 may activate at least one UV light diode 140 and a second UV light diode 902.

[0079] When at least one UV light diode 140 is activated by a processing or control circuit such as the controller 1006, the at least one UV light diode 140 may emit UV light 1706 inside the mouthpiece 122. If the at least one UV light diode 140 is a UV light ring diode, the UV light 1706 may be emitted from a plurality of UV light diodes, and the entire interior of the mouthpiece 122 will be sterilized by the UV light 1706. In some embodiments, the UV light 1706 may exit from the second end 126 of the mouthpiece and enter the lid 104 and the housing 102 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0080] When the second UV light diode 902 is actuated by a processing or control circuit such as the controller 1006, the second UV light diode 902 may emit UV light 1708 inside the lid 104 from the second end 112 of the lid 104 toward the first end 110 of the lid 104. The UV light 1708 may be directed toward the housing 102, whereby the capsule 802 and the capsule receiving cavity 510 may be sterilized by the UV light 1708. In some embodiments, the capsule 802 may not be disposed within the capsule receiving cavity 510 when the aerosol generating device 100 is connected to the charging station 1702. When the capsule 802 is not within the capsule receiving cavity 510, the UV light 1708 may be emitted from the second UV light diode 902, may reach the interior of the capsule receiving cavity 510, and may subsequently enter the interior of the housing 102. The UV light 1708 may sterilize the interior of the lid 104 and the housing 102, which may be contacted by the exhaled air or saliva of an adult user when the adult user is using the aerosol generating device 100.

[0081] In some embodiments, the controller 1006 may be configured to operate at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902 for a predetermined time configured to sterilize the interior of the aerosol generating device 100. If the lid 104 is removed from the housing 102 while at least one of the UV light diodes 140 or the second UV light diode 902 is operating, at least one of the UV light diodes 140 and the second UV light diode 902 may turn off. Similarly, if the aerosol generating device 100 is removed from the charging station 1702 while at least one of the UV light diodes 140 or the second UV light diode 902 is operating, at least one of the UV light diodes 140 and the second UV light diode 902 may turn off.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 18, another embodiment of the aerosol generating device 100 is shown. In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a third UV light diode 1802. The third UV light diode 1802 may be configured to direct UV light from the second end 112 of the lid 104 into the interior of the mouthpiece 122. In some embodiments, a fifth wire 1804 may be configured to connect the third UV light diode 1802 to at least one contact point 904 of the lid 104. The fifth wire 1804 may be substantially similar to the first wire 1010, the second wire 1012, and / or the third wire 1014 described above. Similar to the at least one UV light diode 140 and the second UV light diode 902, the third UV light diode 1802 may be a UV-C diode. In some embodiments, the third UV light diode 1802 may be configured to emit UV light in a wavelength range from 100 nanometers to 280 nanometers.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 19, the aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 18 is shown connected to a charging station 1702, with the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902, and the third UV light diode 1802 operating. Since FIG. 19 may be substantially similar to FIG. 17, the first end 106 of the aerosol generating device 100 may be configured to connect to the charging station 1702. When the aerosol generating device 100 is connected to the charging station 1702, the aerosol generating device 100 may be in an unused mode. In the unused mode, the controller 1006 may operate the at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902, and the third UV light diode 1802.

[0084] When at least one UV light diode 140 is activated, at least one UV light diode 140 may emit UV light 1706 inside the mouthpiece 122. If at least one UV light diode 140 is a UV light ring diode, the UV light 1706 may be emitted from a plurality of UV light diodes, and the entire interior of the mouthpiece 122 will be sterilized by the UV light 1706. In some embodiments, the UV light 1706 may exit the second end 126 of the mouthpiece and enter the lid 104 and the housing 102 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0085] When the second UV light diode 902 is activated, the second UV light diode 902 may emit UV light 1708 inside the lid 104 in the direction from the second end 112 of the lid 104 to the first end 110 of the lid 104. The UV light 1708 may be directed towards the housing 102, whereby the capsule 802 and the capsule receiving cavity 510 may be sterilized by the UV light 708. In some embodiments, when the aerosol generating device 100 is connected to the charging station 1702, the capsule 802 may not be disposed within the capsule receiving cavity 510. If the capsule 802 is not within the capsule receiving cavity 510, the UV light 1708 may be emitted from the second UV light diode 902 and may reach the interior of the capsule receiving cavity 510 and subsequently enter the interior of the housing 102. The UV light 1708 may sterilize the interior of the lid 104 and the housing 102, which may come into contact with the exhaled air or saliva of an adult user when the adult user is using the aerosol generating device 100.

[0086] When the third UV light diode 1802 is activated, the third UV light diode 1802 may emit UV light 1902 from the second end 112 of the lid 104 in the direction of the mouthpiece 122. The third UV light diode 1802 may be configured to sterilize the second end 112 of the lid and the second end 126 of the mouthpiece 122 that are closest to the position where the mouthpiece 122 and the lid 104 are connected together. In some embodiments, the UV light 1902 may enter the interior of the mouthpiece 122 and cooperate with the UV light 1706 to sterilize the interior of the mouthpiece 122.

[0087] In some embodiments, the controller 1006 may be configured to operate at least one UV light diode 140, the second UV light diode 902, and the third UV light diode 1802 for a predetermined time configured to sterilize the interior of the aerosol generating device 100. If the lid 104 is removed from the housing 102 while at least one of the UV light diodes 140, the second UV light diode 902, or the third UV light diode 1802 is operating, at least one of the UV light diodes 140, the second UV light diode 902, and the third UV light diode 1802 may turn off. Similarly, if the aerosol generating device 100 is removed from the charging station 1702 while at least one of the UV light diodes 140, the second UV light diode 902, or the third UV light diode 1802 is operating, at least one of the UV light diodes 140, the second UV light diode 902, and the third UV light diode 1802 may turn off.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 20, a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. In one example, the aerosol generating device may be the aerosol generating device 100.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 20, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, the control subsystem 2000 may include a controller 2005, a power supply unit 2010, an actuator control unit 2015, a capsule electrical / data interface 2020, a device sensor 2025, an input / output (I / O) interface 2030, an aerosol indicator 2035, at least one antenna 2040, at least one UV diode 2045, and / or a storage medium 2050, etc., but the exemplary embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, the control subsystem 2000 may include additional elements. However, for the sake of brevity, the additional elements are not described. In other exemplary embodiments, the capsule electrical / data interface 2020 may be, for example, only an electrical interface. In some embodiments, the capsule electrical / data interface 2020 may include a heater of the capsule.

[0090] The controller 2005 may be hardware including a logic circuit, a hardware / software combination such as a processor that executes software, or a combination thereof. For example, the controller 2005 may include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a system on chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.

[0091] In the event that the controller 2005 is a processor that executes software or includes such a processor, the controller 2005 is configured as a dedicated machine (e.g., a processing device) for executing the functions of the controller 2005 by executing software stored in a memory accessible by the controller 2005 (e.g., the storage medium 2050 or another storage device). The software may be embodied as program code including instructions for performing any or all of the operations described herein as being executed by the controller 2005 to execute and / or control.

[0092] As disclosed herein, the terms "storage medium", "computer-readable storage medium", or "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" may refer to one or more devices for storing data, and include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or other tangible machine-readable media for storing information. The term "computer-readable medium" may also include, but is not limited to, portable or fixed storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media that can store, contain, or carry instructions and / or data.

[0093] The controller 2005 communicates with, among other things, a power supply unit 2010, an actuator control unit 2015, a capsule electrical / data interface 2020, a device sensor 2025, an input / output (I / O) interface 2030, an aerosol indicator 2035, at least one UV diode 2045, an on-product control unit 2055, and / or at least one antenna 2040. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the on-product control unit 2055 can include any one or more devices that can be manually operated by an adult operator to indicate a selection of a value. Implementation examples include, but are not limited to, one or more buttons, dials, capacitance sensors, and sliders.

[0094] The controller 2005 (or the storage medium 2050) stores key material for encryption and its own algorithm software. For example, the encryption algorithm relies on the use of random numbers. The security of these algorithms depends on how truly random these numbers are. These numbers are typically generated in advance and coded within a processor or a memory device. Exemplary embodiments may increase the randomness of the numbers used for encryption by using aerosol inhalation parameters, such as the duration of an instance of aerosol inhalation, the interval between instances of aerosol inhalation, or a combination thereof, to generate numbers that are more random than pre-generated random numbers and more diverse individually. All communications between the controller 2005 and the capsule 802 may be encrypted.

[0095] The controller 2005 is configured to operate a real-time operating system (RTOS) to control the control subsystem 2000, and to read and / or sense updated information from tags, chips, and / or labels (such as security tags, security chips, etc.) included in the capsule 802 via communication with NVM or CC-NVM and / or when the control subsystem 2000 is connected to other devices (such as smartphones) via the I / O interface 2030 and / or at least one antenna 2040, and thus may be updated. For example, the updated information may include heater parameter information and / or heater profile information adapted to and / or instructed for the aerosol-forming substrate included in the installed capsule 802, capsule authentication update information with information regarding the capsule authentication method (such as security settings regarding the capsule, update of the security key used during authentication, etc.), parameter information regarding the corresponding capsule such as programming updates, etc. Further, the I / O interface 2030 and at least one antenna 2040 enable the control subsystem 2000 to be connected to various external devices such as smartphones, tablets, and PCs. For example, the I / O interface 2030 may include a USB-C connector, a micro USB connector, etc. The USB-C connector (such as port 202) may be used by the control subsystem 2000 to charge the power supply unit 2010 (which may correspond to the power source 1004), and may also be used to transmit and / or receive data such as aerosol profiles, heater profiles, device performance log data (such as controller performance data, memory performance data, battery performance data, heater performance data, etc.), firmware updates, software updates, etc. between the control subsystem 2000 and at least one external device, although the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0096] The controller 2005 may include on-board RAM and flash memory to store and execute code including analysis, diagnosis, and software updates. Alternatively, the storage medium 2050 may store the code. Further, in another exemplary embodiment, the storage medium 2050 may be the on-board controller 2005.

[0097] The controller 2005 may further include on-board clock, reset, and power management modules to reduce the area covered by the PCB within the device body housing.

[0098] The device sensor 2025 may include a number of sensor transducers that provide measurement information to the controller 2005. The device sensor 2025 may include a power supply temperature sensor, an external capsule temperature sensor, a current sensor for the heater, a power supply current sensor, an air flow sensor for monitoring movement and direction, and an accelerometer. The power supply temperature sensor and the external capsule temperature sensor may be thermistors or thermocouples, and the current sensor for the heater and the power supply current sensor may be resistance-based sensors, or another type of sensor configured to measure current. The air flow sensor (e.g., the flow sensor 1106) may be a pressure sensor (e.g., a capacitive pressure sensor, etc.) configured to detect positive or negative air pressure (e.g., suction or puff), a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor, and / or another type of sensor configured to measure air flow such as a hot wire anemometer. Further, instead of or in addition to using the flow sensor included in the device sensor 2025 of the control subsystem 2000 of the device body housing, the air flow may be measured using a hot wire anemometer located within the capsule 802. According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the device sensor 2025 may further include a capsule detection sensor for detecting the presence of the capsule 802 within the aerosol generating device 100, and / or a lid detection sensor for detecting that the lid 104 of the aerosol generating device 100 is closed, but the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0099] Data generated from one or more of the device sensors 2025 may be detected based on binary signals (e.g., on / off signals) using a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) circuit or the like, and / or sampled at a sample rate suitable for the parameters being measured using, for example, a discrete multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC).

[0100] Further, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, the device sensor may further include tag sensors such as barcode sensors, secure element (SE) readers, optical readers, physical parameter readers, etc. The tag sensor and / or tag antenna (e.g., RFID antenna, NFC antenna, etc.) may be installed on and / or attached to the outer portion of the capsule 802 and used individually or in combination to detect information stored in an attached tag (e.g., RFID tag, NFC tag, barcode tag, SE, etc.), and / or used to detect and / or sense physical parameters of the capsule 802 such as the resistance value of the heater included within the capsule 802. The tag sensor and / or tag antenna may be disposed in physical proximity to the appropriately inserted capsule 802, and information such as electronic identification information, authentication information, hardware parameter information, aerosol-forming substrate information (e.g., expiration date information, manufacturing date information, etc. of the aerosol-forming substrate), profile information, etc. is stored in the tag.

[0101] The controller 2005 may adapt the heater profile and other profiles for the aerosol-forming substrate based on measurement information received from the controller 2005. For convenience, these are collectively referred to as the aerosol profile. The heater profile identifies the power profile supplied to the heater during the few seconds when aerosol inhalation occurs (e.g., to provide an "oven mode" where a desired temperature is maintained within the capsule for a desired period of time) for applying continuous heating to the capsule, and / or the power profile supplied to the heater between instances of aerosol inhalation. For example, the heater profile can supply maximum power to the heater when an instance of aerosol inhalation is initiated, but can then immediately reduce the power to half or a quarter after about 1 second. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the modulation of the power supplied to the heater may be implemented using pulse width modulation, but is not limited thereto.

[0102] Furthermore, the heater profile can also be modulated based on detected inhalation and / or application of negative pressure to the aerosol-generating device 100. By using a flow sensor, the intensity of aerosol inhalation can be measured and this intensity can be used as feedback to the controller 2005 to adjust the power supplied to the heater of the capsule 802, also referred to as heating or energy supply.

[0103] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, when the controller 2005 recognizes the currently installed capsule 802 (e.g., via a unique identifier included in the SKU, tag (e.g., RFID tag, NFC tag, etc.)), the controller 2005 collates the relevant heating profile designed for that particular capsule. The controller 2005 and the storage medium 2050 store data and algorithms that enable the generation of heating profiles for all SKUs, all types of capsules, all types of aerosol-forming substrates, etc. In another exemplary embodiment, the controller 2005 may read the heating profile from the capsule. Further, an adult operator may also use the on-product control unit 2055 to adjust the heating profile to their preference using an external device wirelessly paired with the aerosol-generating device 100 and / or connected to the aerosol-generating device 100 via the I / O interface 2030. In other exemplary embodiments, the controller 2005 may use the heating profile stored in the memory that was applied to the previously installed capsule, assuming that the current capsule is of the same type as the previously installed capsule, for the currently installed capsule, etc.

[0104] The controller 2005 may transmit and receive data to and from the power supply unit 2010. The power supply unit 2010 includes a power source 2010b (which may correspond to the power source 1004, for example) and a power controller 2010a for managing the power output by the power source 2010b.

[0105] The power supply 2010b may be a lithium-ion battery, or one of its variants, for example, a lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power supply 2010b may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a lithium manganese battery, a lithium cobalt battery, or a fuel cell. Alternatively, the power supply 2010b may be rechargeable and may include a circuit that enables charging of the battery by an external charging device. In such a case, the circuit, when charged, provides power for a desired (or predetermined) number of instances of aerosol inhalation, after which the circuit needs to be reconnected to the external charging device.

[0106] The power controller 2010a provides commands to the power supply 2010b based on instructions from the controller 2005. For example, when a capsule is detected and an adult operator activates the control subsystem 2000 (e.g., by activating a switch such as a toggle button, a capacitance sensor, an IR sensor, etc.), the power supply 2010 may receive a command from the controller 2005 to provide power to the capsule (through the capsule electrical / data interface 2020). Further, according to some exemplary embodiments, the controller 2005 may send a command to the power supply 2010 based on proper authentication of the capsule, but the exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0107] In addition to supplying power to the capsule, the power supply 2010 also supplies power to the controller 2005. Further, the power controller 2010a may provide feedback indicating the performance of the power supply 2010b to the controller 2005.

[0108] The controller 2005 transmits and receives data with at least one antenna 2040. The at least one antenna 2040 may include an NFC modem and a Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) modem, and / or other modems for other wireless technologies (e.g., WiFi, etc.). In one exemplary embodiment, the communication stack is within the modem, but the modem is controlled by the controller 2005. The Bluetooth LE modem is used for data communication and control communication with an application on an external device (e.g., a smartphone, etc.). The NFC / Bluetooth LE / WiFi modem may be used to pair the aerosol generating device 100 for the application and transmission of diagnostic information, data, profile information, capsule information, hardware parameter information, firmware updates, etc. Further, the Bluetooth LE / WiFi modem may be used to provide location information (for an adult operator to find the aerosol generating device) or authentication at the time of purchase, etc.

[0109] In some embodiments, the controller 2005 may adjust the wavelength of the light emitted by at least one UV diode 2045 based on the data received from at least one antenna 2040. For example, if a first wavelength is emitted by at least one UV diode 2045 and it is determined that the interior of the aerosol generating device is better sterilized by a second wavelength than the first wavelength, the at least one antenna 2040 may be used to receive this update and communicate the update to the controller 2005.

[0110] As described above, the control subsystem 2000 may generate and adjust various profiles for aerosol generation. The controller 2005 uses the power supply unit 2010 and the actuator control unit 2015 to adjust the profile for an adult operator.

[0111] The actuator control unit 2015 includes a passive actuator and an active actuator to adjust a desired aerosol profile. For example, the housing 102 may include an actuator within an air inlet passage and / or an air inlet channel of the device body housing, such as inside an air flow subsystem (e.g., air channel assembly 1104, air hose 1102, etc.) of the aerosol generating device 100. The actuator control unit 2015 may use the actuator to control the air flow within the air inlet channel based on a command from the controller 2005 related to the desired aerosol profile.

[0112] Furthermore, the actuator control unit 2015 is used to supply energy to the heater in cooperation with the power supply unit 2010. More specifically, the actuator control unit 2015 is configured to generate a drive waveform related to the desired aerosol profile. As described above, each of the possible profiles is associated with a drive waveform. When receiving a command indicating the desired aerosol profile from the controller 2005, the actuator control unit 2015 may generate a related modulation waveform for the power supply unit 2010.

[0113] The controller 2005 provides information to the aerosol indicator 2035 to indicate to an adult operator the situation and the operations being performed. The aerosol indicator 2035 may include a power indicator displayed on a display panel (e.g., communication screen 136) and a separate indicator light (e.g., an LED indicator light, etc.) that may be activated when the controller 2005 senses that a button has been pressed by the adult operator. The aerosol indicator 2035 may also include a haptic feedback motor, a speaker, an indicator regarding the current state of an aerosol parameter (e.g., the volume of the generated aerosol) controlled by the adult operator, and other feedback mechanisms.

[0114] Also described herein is a method for disinfecting the interior of the aerosol generating device 100. The method can include placing the aerosol generating device 100 in an unused mode and activating at least one UV diode, such as at least one UV light diode 140. Operating the second UV light diode 902 and / or the third UV light diode 1802 of the aerosol generating device 100, and at least one UV diode for a predetermined period of time. In some exemplary embodiments, placing the aerosol generating device 100 in an unused mode can include placing the aerosol generating device 100 on a charging station to recharge the aerosol generating device 100. In some exemplary embodiments, the predetermined period of time can be the time required to disinfect the interior of the aerosol generating device 100. In some exemplary embodiments, at least one UV diode can be turned off when the aerosol generating device 100 is removed from the unused mode.

[0115] The systems, devices, and methods described herein can provide important advantages. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 can enable internal sterilization of the aerosol generating device 100 when the aerosol generating device 100 is in an unused mode. Internal sterilization of the aerosol generating device 100 can help eliminate interaction of adult users with bacteria, mold, fungi, viruses, or other harmful contaminants that may have been introduced into the aerosol generating device 100 as a result of using the aerosol generating device 100. Internal sterilization of the aerosol generating device 100 can improve the overall satisfaction of adult users with the aerosol generating device 100 because the interior of the aerosol generating device 100 can be regularly sterilized without the need for adult user operation, by enabling the interior of the aerosol generating device 100 to be kept cleaner.

[0116] The appended claims set forth novel and inventive aspects of the above-described subject matter, but the claims may also encompass additional subject matter that is not particularly recited in detail. For example, certain features, elements, or aspects may be omitted from the claims if they are not necessary to distinguish the novel and inventive features from what is known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Features, elements, and aspects described in the context of some embodiments may also be omitted, combined, or replaced by alternative features that serve the same, equivalent, or similar purpose without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating device, comprising: a housing defining a capsule receiving cavity; a lid configured to close the housing, fixed and connected to the housing by a hinge at a first point, and removably connectable to the housing at a second point different from the first point; a mouthpiece connectable to the lid facing the housing, through which air entering the housing and being suctioned through the capsule receiving cavity exits the mouthpiece; at least one UV diode configured to disinfect the interior of the aerosol generating device when activated; An aerosol generating device comprising the above.

2. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the lid includes an inner cavity configured to receive the capsule receiving cavity when the lid is connected to the housing at the second point.

3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein the at least one UV diode is within the inner cavity of the lid.

4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein the at least one UV diode is directed towards the housing and is configured to direct UV light towards the housing when the at least one UV diode is activated.

5. The aerosol generating device according to claim 3, wherein the at least one UV diode is directed towards the mouthpiece and is configured to direct UV light into the mouthpiece when the at least one UV diode is activated.

6. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one UV diode further includes an electrical contact configured to contact the electrical connection of the housing when the lid is connected to the housing at the second point.

7. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece includes a first end configured to be connected to the lid and a second end opposite to the first end.

8. The aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein the second end of the mouthpiece includes at least one outlet.

9. The aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein the at least one UV diode includes a UV-C light ring diode around the at least one outlet of the mouthpiece.

10. The aerosol generating device according to claim 9, wherein the UV-C light ring diode is configured to direct UV light into the mouthpiece when the UV-C light ring diode is activated.

11. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a controller within the housing.

12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 11, wherein the controller is configured to activate the at least one UV diode when the lid is connected to the housing at the second point and the aerosol generating device is in an unused mode.

13. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein the aerosol generating device enters an unused mode when the aerosol generating device is connected to a charging station.

14. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein the at least one UV diode is configured to turn off when the aerosol generating device is taken out of the unused mode.

15. The aerosol generating device according to claim 12, wherein the controller is configured to operate the at least one UV diode for a predetermined time.

16. The aerosol generating device according to claim 15, wherein the predetermined time is the time required to disinfect the interior of the aerosol generating device.

17. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the housing further includes a communication screen and a power button.

18. The aerosol generating device according to claim 17, wherein the communication screen is configured to output information regarding the at least one UV diode.

19. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one UV diode includes a UV-C diode.

20. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one UV diode is configured to emit UV light in a wavelength range of 100 nanometers to 280 nanometers.

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