An aerosol generator having two interface buttons

Abstract

An aerosol generating device, comprising a housing, a cavity within the housing for receiving an aerosol generating article, a heating device for heating the aerosol generating article within the cavity, a power source for supplying power to the heating device, a control circuit for controlling the power supply from the power source to the heating device, a first button located on the housing and connected to the control circuit, and a second button located on the housing and connected to the control circuit, wherein the first button has a size and / or shape different from that of the second button, the first button is configured to activate a first function of the device, the second button is configured to activate a second function of the device, and the first function is different from the second function.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device comprising a housing and a first button and a second button located on the housing. The first button has a different size or shape from the second button and can be used to activate different functions of the aerosol generating device.

Background Art

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

[0003] It may also be desirable to provide different operating modes for the aerosol generating device. For example, it may be desirable to provide different heating profiles so that the user can select to generate different amounts of aerosol at different times. In particular, the device may have a normal mode in which an aerosol is generated and a boost mode in which the aerosol is generated at a faster rate or in a larger volume by increasing the temperature of the heater or by activating more parts of the heater simultaneously.

[0004] In particular, it is desirable to provide an aerosol generating device that allows the user to easily and intuitively switch between different functions during use of the device for generating an aerosol.

[0005] According to the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device, a housing, a cavity within the housing for receiving an aerosol generating article, a heating device for heating the aerosol generating article when the aerosol generating article is received within the device cavity, a first button located on the housing, a second button located on the housing, is provided.

[0006] The first button may have a different size and / or shape than the second button. The first button may be configured to activate a first function of the device. The second button may be configured to activate a second function of the device, and the first function is different from the second function.

[0007] The aerosol generating device may comprise a power source arranged to supply power to the heating device. The power source may comprise a battery. The power source may comprise a plurality of batteries. One or more of the batteries may comprise a rechargeable battery such as a lithium ion battery.

[0008] The aerosol generating device may comprise a control circuit configured to control the supply of power from the power source to the heating device. The control circuit may comprise a microcontroller. The first button may be connected to the microcontroller. The second button may be connected to the microcontroller.

[0009] By providing buttons of different sizes and / or shapes, intuitive control by the user is enabled. For example, the larger button may be used to turn the device on and off and to activate the default heating mode. The smaller button may be used for additional functions such as boosting aerosol generation. Alternatively, the smaller button may be used to turn the device on and off and to activate the default heating mode, and the larger button may be used for additional functions such as boosting aerosol generation.

[0010] The control circuit may be configured to supply power to the heating assembly. In a first mode, the control circuit may be configured to supply power to the heating assembly to achieve a first heating profile. In a second mode, the control circuit may be configured to supply power to the heating assembly to achieve a second heating profile. The first heating profile may be different from the second heating profile. As used herein, the term "heating profile" refers to a change in the temperature of the heating assembly, or a portion of the heating assembly, or a change in the power supplied to the heating assembly, over a single-use session of the aerosol generating device, or a period corresponding to a single-use session.

[0011] The control circuit may be configured to switch between different modes in response to actuation of a first or second button by the user. The control circuit may be configured to turn on the device in response to actuation of a first or second button by the user. The control circuit may be configured to turn off the device in response to actuation of a first or second button by the user. Pressing the first button or the second button for at least a predetermined time may be required to turn the device on or off.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first function is a first operating mode in which the aerosol-generating article is heated to generate an aerosol. The second function may be a second operating mode in which the aerosol-generating article is heated to generate an aerosol at a higher rate than in the first mode. The first operating mode may correspond to a "normal" operating mode, and the second operating mode may correspond to a "boost" operating mode. The control circuit may supply more power to the heating device in the second mode than in the first mode. In one example, the first button is larger than the second button. Thereby, the larger button can be used to start the normal operation of the device, and the smaller button can be used to change to the boost mode when the user desires. By providing a larger button for activating what is likely to be the normal operating mode and a smaller button for transitioning to what is likely to be the less common operating mode, an intuitive and easy-to-operate control is provided to the user.

[0013] The first button may be configured to activate one or more functions of the device. The specific function activated by the actuation of the first button may depend on the number of times the first button is actuated or the duration of the actuation of the first button. The second button may be configured to activate two or more functions of the device. The specific function activated by the actuation of the second button may depend on the number of times the second button is actuated or the duration of the actuation of the second button.

[0014] The microcontroller may be configured to activate a first function in response to detecting the activation of a first button over a predetermined length of time. The microcontroller may be configured to activate a second function in response to detecting the activation of a second button over a predetermined length of time. The second button may be a dedicated "boost mode" button. Actuation of the second button may cause the microcontroller to transition from a first operating mode to a second operating mode. Actuation of the second button may cause the microcontroller to transition from the second operating mode to the first operating mode. This provides a simple and intuitive way to enter and exit the boost operating mode.

[0015] Alternatively, this may be a first button that is a "boost mode button". Actuation of the first button may cause the microcontroller to transition from a first operating mode to a second operating mode. Actuation of the first button may cause the microcontroller to transition from the second operating mode to the first operating mode.

[0016] The device may have a preheating mode in which the heating assembly is heated to a predetermined temperature below the temperature at which significant aerosol is generated from the aerosol-generating article. The microcontroller may be configured to transition from the preheating mode to a heating mode in which aerosol is generated in response to actuation of the first button or the second button.

[0017] The microcontroller may have a low-power mode and one or more operating modes that use more power than the low-power mode. The microcontroller may be configured to transition from the low-power mode to an operating mode in response to detecting the activation of at least one of the first button and / or the second button. The microcontroller may have an initial operating mode different from a preheating mode or a heating mode. The microcontroller may be configured to transition from the initial operating mode to a preheating mode or a heating mode in response to the actuation or multiple activations of the first button and / or the second button. The microcontroller may not directly transition from the low-power mode to the preheating mode or the heating mode.

[0018] In one embodiment, the microcontroller may be configured to transition from the low-power mode to an initial operating mode in response to a first actuation of the first button. Next, the device may transition from the initial operating mode to a first heating mode in response to a second actuation of the first button. When in the first heating mode, the device may transition to a second heating mode, which may be a power mode higher than the first heating mode, in response to a first actuation of the second button. The device may transition from the second heating mode to the first heating mode in response to a second actuation of the second button or in response to a further actuation of the first button.

[0019] The microcontroller may transition from any operating mode or heating mode to the low-power mode in response to continuous actuation of the first button over a first predetermined period. The microcontroller may transition from any operating mode or heating mode to the low-power mode in response to continuous actuation of the second button over a first predetermined period.

[0020] After a predetermined operation period in the first heating mode and / or the second heating mode, the microcontroller may automatically switch from the first heating mode and / or the second heating mode to the initial operation mode. This can prevent or reduce the heating of the aerosol generating article longer than desired. For example, the aerosol generating article may be designed to be heated for up to 6 minutes in the first heating mode or 5 minutes in the second heating mode, after which the probability of generating undesirable aerosol components if heating continues increases. The microcontroller may automatically interrupt the heating of the aerosol generating article in the cavity of the device after a predetermined time. The control circuit may include one or more sensors for sensing the removal or replacement of the aerosol generating article.

[0021] The microcontroller may have a configuration mode in which the operating parameters of the device may be set through an interface on a connected device such as a smartphone running a dedicated app. The microcontroller may switch from the initial operation mode to the configuration mode in response to the actuation of the first button or the second button for a predetermined time or a predetermined number of times. The microcontroller may switch from the initial operation mode to the configuration mode in response to the simultaneous actuation of the first and second buttons for a predetermined period.

[0022] The aerosol generating device may include a display. The display may be connected to the control circuit. The display may include a plurality of light sources such as LEDs.

[0023] The display may indicate the operating state of the aerosol generating device. For example, the display may indicate the current operating mode of the device. The light sources may blink or emit light of different colors to provide information to the user.

[0024] The display may indicate the state of one or more components of the aerosol generating device. For example, the display may indicate the charge state of the battery. The display may indicate the completion of the preheating process. The display may indicate the overheated state of the heating device.

[0025] The display may include an annular outer illumination ring and one or more inner illumination elements within the outer illumination ring. The outer illumination ring may be illuminated independently of the one or more inner illumination elements and thus may convey different information. The outer illumination ring may include a plurality of light sources. The plurality of light sources may be illuminated independently.

[0026] The housing may include a partially opaque or diffusive cover layer over at least a portion of the display. The partially opaque or diffusive cover layer may cover the one or more inner illumination elements.

[0027] The device may also include a haptic feedback element that provides haptic feedback during some operating modes or during a transition from one operating mode to another.

[0028] The housing may have a size and shape that enables easy grasping by a user's single hand.

[0029] The housing may have a plurality of faces. The first button and the second button may be provided adjacent to each other on the same face of the housing.

[0030] The housing may generally be cubic. The housing may have a length, a width, and a thickness. The length may be in the major axis direction, the width may be in a first transverse direction orthogonal to the major axis direction, and the thickness may be in a second transverse direction orthogonal to the major axis direction and the first transverse direction. The housing may have a length greater than its width and thickness. The housing may have a width greater than its thickness.

[0031] The housing may have a first end face and a second end face that extend in a cross section orthogonal to the major axis direction.

[0032] The housing may have an opening in a first end face that provides access to the cavity. During use, the aerosol-generating article may be inserted into the cavity through the opening.

[0033] Part or all of the display may be provided on the first end face.

[0034] The housing may comprise a gripping surface that extends in the longitudinal direction between the end faces. The first button and the second button may be provided on the gripping surface. During use, the user's hand may grip the gripping surface without contacting the first end face.

[0035] The first button and the second button may be provided on a surface of the housing that is orthogonal to the end face. The first button and the second button may be aligned with each other in the longitudinal direction. The first button and the second button may be provided on the gripping surface closer to the first end face than the second end face. The second button may be provided closer to the first end face than the first button. This may enable the user's index finger, or index finger and middle finger, to easily operate both the first button and the second button when gripping the device with the first end face facing towards the user's mouth.

[0036] The gripping surface may comprise two opposing planes that are orthogonal to a second transverse direction. The two opposing planes are separated by the thickness of the housing. The two opposing planes may be joined by a surface that is curved in a first transverse direction on opposing side faces of the housing. This provides a comfortable surface for gripping with the palm and fingers of one hand. The first and second buttons may be provided on one of the curved surfaces. This may position the buttons in a natural position relative to one or more of the user's fingertips when gripping the device. The user's fingers may comfortably wrap around the curved surface and operate the first and second buttons.

[0037] The first and second buttons may be provided on the curved surface that is furthest from the opening.

[0038] The housing may include additional switches, buttons, or interface elements on the surface closest to the opening. This can provide additional switches, buttons, or interface elements in the natural position of the user's thumb when gripping the device. The additional switches, buttons, or interface elements may be used to operate a shutter for the opening. The additional interface elements may be a rotatable knob or dial.

[0039] The device may include an end face button or switch on a first end face. The end face button or switch may be provided within the display. The end face button or switch may be used to activate additional functions of the aerosol generating device.

[0040] The housing may include a first housing portion and a second housing portion. The first housing portion and the second housing portion may be separable. The first housing portion may accommodate at least a part of the power supply. The first housing portion may include a display. The first housing portion may include a first button and a second button. The second housing portion may accommodate a cavity and a heating device. The second housing portion may generally be cylindrical. The first housing portion may include a channel complementary to the shape of the second housing portion.

[0041] The provision of separable first and second housing portions may allow for a modular design where different heating devices can be used with the same control circuit and power supply.

[0042] The length of the housing may be 60 mm to 100 mm, preferably 70 mm to 80 mm, more preferably 71 mm to 74 mm.

[0043] The width of the housing may be 25 mm to 50 mm, preferably 30 mm to 40 mm, more preferably about 35 mm.

[0044] The thickness of the housing may be 13 mm to 25 mm, preferably 16 mm to 22 mm, more preferably 18 mm to 20 mm.

[0045] The heating device may be an induction heating device. The heating device may include one or more induction coils and one or more induction heating susceptor elements. The one or more induction coils may be connected to a control circuit. The one or more susceptor elements may be provided as part of the inner surface of the cavity or in proximity to the inner surface of the cavity so as to efficiently transfer heat to the aerosol generating article.

[0046] The one or more induction coils may be provided outside the cavity. The one or more induction coils may be helical coils. The one or more induction coils may have a magnetic axis parallel to the long axis direction. In one embodiment, the one or more induction coils consist of two induction coils with a gap in the long axis direction. The first coil and the second coil may be substantially identical or different from each other. For example, they may have different numbers of coil turns. In another embodiment, the one or more induction coils consist of a single induction coil. The single induction coil may have a variable pitch between successive turns of the coil. The one or more induction coils may be formed of copper.

[0047] The one or more susceptor elements may include a tubular susceptor element surrounding at least a portion of the cavity. The one or more susceptors may include an iron pipe. The iron pipe may have a coating formed of, for example, nickel and / or phosphorus.

[0048] The heating device may include one or more temperature sensors connected to a control circuit. The control circuit may be configured to control the power supply to the heating device based at least in part on signals from the one or more temperature sensors.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, the power source comprises a battery. For example, the power source may be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery such as lithium cobalt (LCO), lithium iron phosphate (LFP), lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC), lithium nickel cobalt aluminum (NCA), or a lithium polymer battery (LiPo). As another method, the power source may be another form of charge storage device such as a capacitor. Preferably, the power source is rechargeable. The power source may have a capacity that allows sufficient energy storage for multiple uses of the aerosol generating device.

[0050] If there are separable housing parts, a battery may be provided for each of the housing parts.

[0051] As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" is used to describe a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol. The aerosol generating device is preferably a smoking device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article to generate an aerosol that can be directly inhaled through a user's mouth into the user's lungs. The aerosol-generating article is preferably a smoking article that generates an aerosol that can be directly inhaled through a user's mouth into the user's lungs. More preferably, the aerosol-generating article is a smoking article that generates a nicotine-containing aerosol that can be directly inhaled through a user's mouth into the user's lungs.

[0052] The aerosol generating device is preferably a "heat-not-burn" device. The control circuit is configured to control the power supply to the heating device such that the aerosol-forming substrate in the aerosol-generating article is heated to a temperature at which volatile compounds are released but combustion of the aerosol-forming substrate does not occur.

[0053] According to the present disclosure, there is also provided an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating device described herein and an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0054] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate that, when heated, releases a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. As used herein, the term "aerosol-forming substrate" means a substrate consisting of, or containing, an aerosol-forming material having the ability to release a volatile compound upon heating to generate an aerosol.

[0055] The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a tobacco plug. The tobacco plug may comprise one or more of powders, granules, pellets, fragments, spaghetti, shreds, or sheets containing one or more of tobacco leaves, fragments of tobacco stems, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco, and expanded tobacco. Optionally, the tobacco plug may contain additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds that are released upon heating of the tobacco plug. Optionally, the tobacco plug may also contain capsules, for example, containing additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds. Such capsules may melt during heating of the tobacco plug. Alternatively, or in addition, such capsules may be crushed before, during, or after heating of the tobacco plug.

[0056] The aerosol-generating article may comprise a mouthpiece positioned downstream of the tobacco plug. The mouthpiece may be disposed at the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The mouthpiece may comprise a cellulose acetate filter plug.

[0057] The aerosol-generating article may be cylindrical. The aerosol-generating article may have a length of 70 mm to 80 mm, preferably approximately 75 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a diameter of 5 mm to 8 mm, preferably about 6.7 mm. The aerosol-generating article may have a weight of 580 mg to 620 mg. The aerosol-generating article may have a draw resistance (RTD) of 30 to 40 mmWG.

[0058] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more of the features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0059] Example 1. An aerosol generating device comprising: a housing, a cavity within the housing for receiving an aerosol generating article, a heating device for heating the aerosol generating article when the aerosol generating article is received within the device cavity, a first button located on the housing, a second button located on the housing.

[0060] Example 2. The aerosol generating device according to Example 1, wherein the first button has a size and / or shape different from that of the second button.

[0061] Example 3. The aerosol generating device according to Example 1 or Example 2, wherein the first button is configured to activate a first function of the device.

[0062] Example 4. The aerosol generating device according to Example 3, wherein the second button is configured to activate a second function of the device, and the first function is different from the second function.

[0063] Example 5. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 4, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a power source for providing power to the heating device.

[0064] Example 6. The aerosol generating device according to Example 5, wherein the power source comprises one or more batteries.

[0065] Example 7. The aerosol generating device according to Example 5 or Example 6, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a control circuit for controlling the power supply from the power source to the heating device.

[0066] Example 8. The aerosol generator according to Example 7, wherein the control circuit includes a microcontroller, the first button is connected to the microcontroller, and the second button is connected to the microcontroller.

[0067] Example 9. The aerosol generator according to Example 7 or Example 8, wherein the control circuit is configured to supply power to the heating assembly in different modes.

[0068] Example 10. In the first mode, the control circuit is configured to supply power to the heating assembly to achieve a first heating profile, and in the second mode, the control circuit is configured to supply power to the heating assembly to achieve a second heating profile, and the first heating profile is different from the second heating profile. The aerosol generator according to Example 9.

[0069] Example 11. The aerosol generator according to Example 9 or Example 10, wherein the control circuit can be configured to switch between different modes in response to the actuation of the first or second button by the user.

[0070] Example 12. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 7 to 11, wherein the control circuit is configured to turn on the device in response to the actuation of the first or second button by the user.

[0071] Example 13. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 7 to 12, wherein the control circuit is configured to turn off the device in response to the actuation of the first or second button by the user.

[0072] Example 14. The aerosol generator according to Example 12 or Example 13, wherein pressing the first or second button for at least a predetermined time is required to turn the device on or off.

[0073] Example 15. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 3 to 14, wherein the first function is a first operation mode in which the aerosol generating article is heated to generate an aerosol.

[0074] Example 16. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 4 to 15, wherein the second function is a second operation mode in which the aerosol generating article is heated to generate an aerosol at a speed faster than the first mode.

[0075] Example 17. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 16, wherein the first button is larger than the second button.

[0076] Example 18. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 17, wherein the first button is configured to activate two or more functions of the device.

[0077] Example 19. The aerosol generating device according to Example 18, wherein the specific function activated by the operation of the first button depends on the number of times the first button is operated or the duration of the operation of the first button.

[0078] Example 20. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 19, wherein the second button is configured to activate two or more functions of the device.

[0079] Example 21. The aerosol generating device according to Example 20, wherein the specific function activated by the operation of the second button depends on the number of times the second button is operated or the duration of the operation of the second button.

[0080] Example 22. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 8 to 21, wherein the microcontroller is configured to activate the first function in response to detecting the activation of the first button over a predetermined length of time.

[0081] Example 23. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 8 to 22, wherein the microcontroller is configured to activate a second function in response to detecting activation of a second button over a predetermined length of time.

[0082] Example 24. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 23, wherein the second button may be a dedicated boost mode button.

[0083] Example 25. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 8 to 24, wherein activation of the second button causes the microcontroller to shift from a first operating mode to a second operating mode.

[0084] Example 26. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 8 to 25, wherein activation of the second button causes the microcontroller to shift from a second operating mode to a first operating mode.

[0085] Example 27. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 26, having a preheating mode in which a heating assembly is heated to a predetermined temperature below a temperature at which significant aerosol is generated from the aerosol generating article.

[0086] Example 28. An aerosol generating device according to Example 27, wherein the microcontroller is configured to shift from a preheating mode to a heating mode in which aerosol is generated in response to activation of the first or second button.

[0087] Example 29. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 8 to 29, wherein the microcontroller has a low power mode and an operating mode that uses more power than the low power mode.

[0088] Example 30. An aerosol generating device according to Example 29, wherein the microcontroller is configured to shift from a low power mode to an operating mode in response to detecting activation of at least one of the first button and the second button.

[0089] Example 31. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 8 to 30, wherein the microcontroller has an initial operation mode different from the preheating mode or the heating mode, and the microcontroller is configured to shift from the initial operation mode to the preheating mode or the heating mode in response to the operation or a plurality of activations of the first button and / or the second button.

[0090] Example 32. The aerosol generating device according to Example 31, wherein the microcontroller is configured to shift from the low power mode to the initial operation mode in response to detecting a first operation of the first button.

[0091] Example 33. The aerosol generating device according to Example 32, wherein the device shifts from the initial operation mode to a first heating mode in response to a second operation of the first button.

[0092] Example 34. The aerosol generating device according to Example 25, wherein when in the first heating mode, the device shifts to a second heating mode, which is a higher power mode than the first heating mode, in response to a first operation of the second button.

[0093] Example 35. The aerosol generating device according to Example 34, wherein the device shifts from the second heating mode to the first heating mode in response to a second operation of the second button or in response to a further operation of the first button.

[0094] Example 36. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 8 to 35, wherein the microcontroller automatically shifts from the first heating mode and / or the second heating mode to the initial operation mode after a predetermined operation period in the first heating mode and / or the second heating mode.

[0095] Example 37. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 8 to 36, wherein the microcontroller automatically stops heating the aerosol generating article in the cavity of the device after a predetermined time.

[0096] Example 38. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 7 to 37, wherein the control circuit includes one or more sensors for sensing the removal or replacement of an aerosol generating article.

[0097] Example 39. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 8 to 38, wherein the microcontroller has a configuration mode in which the operating parameters of the device can be set through an interface on a connected device such as a smartphone running a dedicated application.

[0098] Example 40. An aerosol generating device according to Example 39, wherein the microcontroller switches from the initial operation mode to the configuration mode in response to the actuation of the first button or the second button for a predetermined time or a predetermined number of times.

[0099] Example 41. An aerosol generating device according to Example 39 or Example 40, wherein the microcontroller switches from the initial operation mode to the configuration mode in response to the simultaneous actuation of the first and second buttons for a predetermined period.

[0100] Example 42. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 41, wherein the aerosol generating device includes a display.

[0101] Example 43. An aerosol generating device according to Example 42, wherein the display includes a plurality of light sources such as LEDs.

[0102] Example 44. An aerosol generating device according to Example 42 or Example 43, wherein the display indicates the operating state of the aerosol generating device.

[0103] Example 45. An aerosol generating device according to Example 42, Example 43, or Example 44, wherein the display indicates the state of one or more components of the aerosol generating device.

[0104] Example 46. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 42 to 45, wherein the display indicates the completion of the preheating process.

[0105] Example 47. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 42 to 46, wherein the display includes an annular outer lighting ring and one or more inner lighting elements within the outer lighting ring.

[0106] Example 48. The aerosol generating device according to Example 47, wherein the outer lighting ring may be illuminated independently of the one or more inner lighting elements and thus may transmit different information.

[0107] Example 49. The aerosol generating device according to Example 47 or Example 48, wherein the outer lighting ring includes a plurality of light sources and the plurality of light sources can be illuminated independently.

[0108] Example 50. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 42 to 49, wherein the housing includes a partially opaque or diffusive cover layer over at least a portion of the display.

[0109] Example 51. The aerosol generating device according to Example 50, wherein the partially opaque or partially opaque diffusive cover layer covers the one or more inner lighting elements.

[0110] Example 52. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 51, further comprising a tactile feedback element that provides tactile feedback during one or more operating modes or during a transition from one operating mode to another.

[0111] Example 53. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 52, wherein the housing has a size and shape that allows it to be easily grasped by one hand of the user.

[0112] Example 54. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 53, wherein the housing has a plurality of faces and a first button and a second button are provided on the same face of the housing.

[0113] Example 55. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 54, wherein the housing is generally cubic.

[0114] Example 56. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 55, wherein the housing has a length, a width, and a thickness, the length is in the major axis direction, the width is in a first transverse direction orthogonal to the major axis direction, the thickness is in a second transverse direction orthogonal to the major axis direction and the first transverse direction, and the housing has a length greater than its width and thickness, and a width greater than its thickness.

[0115] Example 57. An aerosol generator according to Example 56, wherein the housing has first and second end faces extending in a cross section orthogonal to the major axis direction, the housing has an opening in the first end face providing access to the cavity, and the aerosol generating article can be inserted into the cavity through the opening.

[0116] Example 58. An aerosol generator according to Example 57, wherein part or all of the display is provided on the first end face.

[0117] Example 59. An aerosol generator according to Example 57 or Example 58, wherein the housing has a gripping surface extending in the major axis direction between the end faces, and the first button and the second button are provided on the gripping surface.

[0118] Example 60. An aerosol generator according to Example 57, Example 58, or Example 59, wherein the first button and the second button are provided on a surface of the housing orthogonal to the end faces.

[0119] Example 61. An aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 56 to 60, wherein the first button and the second button are aligned with each other in the major axis direction.

[0120] Example 62. An aerosol generator according to Example 59, Example 60, or Example 61, wherein the first button and the second button are provided on the gripping surface closer to the first end face than the second end face.

[0121] Example 63. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 57 to 62, wherein a second button is provided closer to the first end face than the first button.

[0122] Example 64. An aerosol generating device comprising an aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 59 to 63. The gripping surface includes two opposing planes orthogonal to the second transverse direction, the two opposing planes being separated by the thickness of the housing, and the two opposing planes being joined by a surface curved on the opposing side surfaces of the housing in the first transverse direction.

[0123] Example 65. An aerosol generating device according to Example 64, wherein the first and second buttons are provided on one of the curved surfaces.

[0124] Example 66. An aerosol generating device according to Example 65, wherein the first and second buttons are provided on the curved surface farthest from the opening.

[0125] Example 67. A housing for an aerosol generating device according to Example 64, Example 65, or Example 66.

[0126] Example 68. An aerosol generating device according to Example 67, wherein a further switch, button, or interface element can be used to operate the shutter for the opening.

[0127] Example 69. An aerosol generating device according to Example 67 or Example 68, wherein the further interface element may be a rotatable knob or dial.

[0128] Example 70. An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 57 to 69, wherein the device comprises an end face button or switch on the first end face.

[0129] Example 71. An aerosol generating device according to Example 70, wherein the end face button or switch is provided within the display.

[0130] Example 72. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 71, wherein the housing includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion, and the first housing portion and the second housing portion are separable.

[0131] Example 73. The aerosol generator according to Example 72, wherein the first housing portion contains a power source, a display, and at least a part of the first and second buttons.

[0132] Example 74. The aerosol generator according to Example 72 or 73, wherein the second housing portion includes a cavity and a heating device.

[0133] Example 75. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 72 to 74, wherein the first housing portion includes a channel complementary to the shape of the second housing portion.

[0134] Example 76. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 75, wherein the length of the housing is 60 mm to 100 mm, preferably 70 mm to 80 mm, more preferably 71 mm to 74 mm.

[0135] Example 77. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 76, wherein the width of the housing is 25 mm to 50 mm, preferably 30 mm to 40 mm, more preferably about 35 mm.

[0136] Example 78. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 77, wherein the thickness of the housing is 13 mm to 25 mm, preferably 16 mm to 22 mm, more preferably 18 mm to 20 mm.

[0137] Example 79. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 1 to 78, wherein the heating device is an induction heating device.

[0138] Example 80. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 79, wherein the heating device includes one or more induction coils and one or more induction heating susceptor elements.

[0139] Example 81. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 80, wherein one or more susceptor elements are provided as part of the inner surface of the cavity or in the vicinity of the inner surface of the cavity.

[0140] Example 82. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 80 or 81, wherein one or more induction coils are provided around the cavity.

[0141] Example 83. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 80, 81, or 82, wherein one or more induction coils are helical coils.

[0142] Example 84. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 80 to 83, wherein one or more induction coils may have a magnetic axis parallel to the major axis direction.

[0143] Example 85. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 80 to 84, wherein one or more induction coils consist of two induction coils spaced apart in the major axis direction.

[0144] Example 86. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 80 to 84, wherein one or more induction coils consist of a single induction coil, and the single induction coil preferably has a variable pitch between successive turns of the coil.

[0145] Example 87. The aerosol generator according to any one of Examples 80 to 86, wherein one or more susceptor elements include a tubular susceptor element surrounding at least a part of the cavity.

[0146] Example 88. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 87 may include one or more temperature sensors connected to a control circuit, and the control circuit may be configured to control the power supply to the heating device based at least in part on signals from the one or more temperature sensors.

[0147] Example 89. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 5 to 88, wherein the power source is a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, or a lithium-based battery, such as lithium cobalt (LCO), lithium iron phosphate (LFP), lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC), lithium nickel cobalt aluminum (NCA), or a lithium polymer battery (LiPo).

[0148] Example 90. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 5 to 88, wherein the power source is a charge storage device such as a capacitor.

[0149] Example 91. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 5 to 90, wherein the power source is rechargeable.

[0150] Example 92. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 5 to 91, wherein the power source has a capacity that allows for sufficient energy storage for multiple uses of the aerosol generating device.

[0151] Example 93. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1 to 92, wherein the aerosol generating article is a smoking article that generates a nicotine-containing aerosol that can be directly inhaled into the user's lungs through the user's mouth.

[0152] Example 94. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 5 to 93, wherein the control circuit is configured to control the power supply to the heating device such that the aerosol-forming substrate in the aerosol generating article is heated to a temperature at which volatile compounds are released but combustion of the aerosol-forming substrate does not occur.

[0153] Example 95. An aerosol generation system comprising the aerosol generator described in any one of Examples 1 to 94 and an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol forming substrate.

[0154] Example 96. The aerosol generation system according to Example 95, wherein the aerosol forming substrate comprises a tobacco plug.

[0155] Example 97. The aerosol generation system according to Example 96, wherein the tobacco plug comprises one or more of powders, granules, pellets, flakes, spaghetti, strips or sheets comprising one or more of tobacco leaves, fragments of tobacco ribs, reconstituted tobacco, homogenized tobacco, extruded tobacco and expanded tobacco.

[0156] Example 98. The aerosol generation system according to Example 96 or Example 97, wherein the tobacco plug comprises additional tobacco or non-tobacco volatile flavor compounds released upon heating of the tobacco plug.

[0157] Example 99. The aerosol generation system according to Example 95, Example 96, Example 97, or Example 98, wherein the aerosol generating article comprises a mouthpiece positioned downstream of the tobacco plug.

[0158] Example 100. The aerosol generation system according to Example 99, wherein the mouthpiece is located at the downstream end of the aerosol generating article.

[0159] Example 101. The aerosol generation system according to Example 99 or 100, wherein the mouthpiece comprises a cellulose acetate filter plug.

[0160] Example 102. The aerosol generation system according to any one of Examples 95 to 101, wherein the aerosol generating article is cylindrical and has a length of 70 mm to 80 mm, preferably approximately 75 mm.

[0161] Example 103. The aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 95 to 102, wherein the aerosol generating article is cylindrical and has a diameter of 5 mm to 8 mm, preferably approximately 6.7 mm.

[0162] Example 104. The aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 95 to 103, wherein the aerosol generating article has a mass of 580 milligrams to 620 milligrams.

[0163] Example 105. The aerosol generating system according to any one of Examples 95 to 104, wherein the aerosol generating article has a draw resistance (RTD) of 30 to 40 mm WG.

[0164] Here, although only by way of illustration, the present invention will be further described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0165]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0166] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an aerosol generating device 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The aerosol generating device 10 includes a housing 12 having a first housing portion 16 and a second housing portion 14. The second housing portion 14 is configured for removable attachment to the first housing portion 16. A first electrical contact 62 is positioned on the first housing portion 16, and a second electrical contact 52 is positioned on the second housing portion 14. The first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62 are arranged to contact each other when the second housing portion 14 is attached to the first housing portion 16. The first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62 may each comprise a plurality of electrical contacts such as a positive power connection, a negative power connection, and one or more data connections.

[0167] The aerosol generating device 10 also includes a control circuit 19 and a first power source 20 positioned within the second housing portion 16. The first power source 20 is a power source comprising a rechargeable battery. A charging electrical contact in the form of a USB-C connector may be included at an end of the first housing portion 16 and configured to receive power supply from an external device. The control circuit 19 is configured to control the supply of power received from an external device to recharge the first power source 20.

[0168] The second housing portion 14 defines a chamber 28 in the form of a cavity for receiving the aerosol generating article 80 and an opening 36 positioned at an end of the cavity. The opening 36 is positioned at a first end of the second housing portion 14. When the aerosol generating article 80 is received within the cavity, the aerosol generating article 80 and the aerosol generating device 10 together form an aerosol generating system.

[0169] The aerosol generating device 10 further includes electric heating devices 22, 23. In this embodiment, the controller 18 is disposed within the second housing portion 14. The electric heating device comprises an inductor coil wound around a cavity and a tubular susceptor element 23 that is within the inductor coil 22 and surrounds the cavity. The controller 18 is configured to control the supply of power from the first power source 20 to the induction coil 22 via the first electrical contact 52 and the second electrical contact 62 when the first housing portion 16 is attached to the second housing portion 14. During use, the power supplied to the induction coil 22 generates a varying magnetic field that inductively heats the susceptor 23 within the aerosol generating article 80 received within the cavity to generate an aerosol.

[0170] The controller 18 may comprise an additional power source, such as a battery or a supercapacitor, such that the second housing portion may be separated from the second housing portion and used separately.

[0171] Two buttons 24, 26 are provided on the first housing portion 16. The buttons 24, 26 are each connected to the control circuit 19. The first and second buttons are used to select the operating mode of the device. A display 30 is provided on the first end face of the device. The display provides an indication of the status and operating mode of the device.

[0172] Figure 2 is a partial perspective view of the device of Figure 1, showing the exterior of the device. Figure 3 shows the device in the user's hand with the aerosol generating article inserted, showing how it is gripped during use.

[0173] The device generally has a cubic shape but has a curved gripping surface that contacts the user's palm and fingers. The device fits comfortably in one hand. The device has a length, width, and thickness, with the length being greater than the width and the width being greater than the thickness. The device has two end faces at the upper and lower ends. The cavity 36 is accessible from the first end face, and the aerosol-generating article 80 is inserted into the cavity from the first end face. The display 30 is also positioned on the first end face. The display comprises an outer display ring 32 and an inner display 34 positioned within the outer display ring. The outer display ring and the inner display 34 each comprise a plurality of LEDs that can be independently illuminated by the control circuit 19 as described to indicate the device state or operating mode. The LEDs may blink or flash to indicate different states.

[0174] Between the two end faces is the gripping surface of the housing. The gripping surface comprises two substantially flat planes that extend in the length and width directions of the device and two curved surfaces that connect the planes and extend in the length and thickness directions of the device.

[0175] The first and second buttons 24, 26 are adjacent to the display 30 and are provided on the surface that is furthest from the cavity 36 (e.g., in the width direction of the device). The first button 24 is larger than the second button 26. The buttons are aligned with each other in the length direction. In this position, the buttons can be easily actuated by the user's fingers as shown in FIG. 3. Both buttons may be actuated by the user's index finger, or the user may choose to actuate the first button with their middle finger and the second button with their index finger.

[0176] During operation, the first and second buttons are used to transition between the operating modes of the device. FIG. 4 is a diagram of an example of the operating modes and the transitions between them.

[0177] The device starts in standby mode or low power mode 100. To start the device, the user presses the first button 24 or the second button 26. Pressing this button is indicated by number 1 in Figure 4. The button sends a shutdown signal to the microcontroller to activate it. Next, the device enters a ready mode 200 where the user can select other modes. The ready mode can be indicated by the initial illumination of the display (e.g., by illuminating the outer ring 32 of the display and / or the inner display). The degree to which the ring lights up can indicate the battery charge status.

[0178] If the button is not pressed within a predetermined period, the device returns to standby mode 100. The transition resulting from the timeout is indicated by T in Figure 4. Thereafter, the display is turned off.

[0179] To generate an aerosol using the device, an aerosol-generating article is inserted into the device. The device needs to first enter a preheating mode 300 and raise the article to the preheating temperature before the user smokes the device. To enter the preheating mode, the user activates the first button 24 or the second button 26. Then, the preheating mode is entered. The outer display 32 may be gradually illuminated around its perimeter to indicate the progress of preheating. When the preheating is complete, the outer ring display 34 may be fully illuminated around its perimeter, as a result, the user can know that the device has entered the heating mode 310 where it can be used. The device may also provide a vibration to indicate that it is ready for use. Next, the user can smoke the aerosol-generating article and draw out the aerosol from the article.

[0180] To stop the preheating mode, the user may press and hold the first button 24 or the second button. This is indicated by 1’ in Figure 4. If the first button is held for a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) or more, the device returns to the ready mode. The outer display may be switched off, for example, when the timeout (T) has elapsed.

[0181] The heating mode automatically ends after a predetermined time (e.g., 5 minutes, indicated by T1), and the device returns to the ready mode. If the user wishes to abort the heating mode prematurely, the first button 24 or the second button 26 can be pressed and held for longer than a predetermined length (e.g., 2 seconds). Then, the device returns to the ready mode.

[0182] The user may enter the boost mode from the heating mode by pressing the second button 26. The boost mode provides more power to the heating device and thus boosts aerosol generation. The inner display may emit red light to indicate that the boost mode is in progress. The device may also vibrate. To end the boost mode, the user can press the second button again. Then, the device returns to the normal heating mode.

[0183] The boost mode automatically ends after 4 minutes (indicated by T2), and the device returns to the ready mode. If the user wishes to abort the boost mode prematurely, the first button 24 or the second button 26 can be pressed and held for longer than a predetermined length (e.g., 2 seconds). Then, the device returns to the ready mode.

[0184] The device also has a configuration mode in which the device settings can be changed, and the user can access device information on a connected device such as a smartphone. To enter the configuration mode, the user can press and hold both the first and second buttons together. Then, the inner display and the outer display may blink to indicate that the configuration mode has been entered. The device ends the configuration mode based on a timeout T3. If no device connection is made within a predetermined time, or if the connected device is disconnected, the aerosol generator returns to the ready mode.

[0185] Figure 5 is a diagram of another example of operating modes and transitions between those modes. This example is similar to that described with reference to Figure 4. However, in this example, the second button 26 is used to initiate the boost mode at the start of the heating cycle, rather than after the heating cycle has started.

[0186] In this example, either the first button 24 or the second button 26 (as in Figure 4) is used to transition from the standby mode 100 to the ready mode 200. When in the ready mode, the user presses the second button 26 for a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) to initiate the boost preheat 305 and then enters the boost mode 320. If the user presses either the first button 24 or the second button 26 for a predetermined time (e.g., 2 seconds) at any point during the preheat or boost mode, the heating stops and the device transitions to the ready mode 200. When in the ready mode 200, if no button is pressed during the timeout period (T), the device transitions to the standby mode 100.

[0187] In this example, after the user presses the second button 26 to initiate the boost preheat, the boost mode is entered after the temperature reaches a predetermined threshold and / or after a predetermined preheat time. Next, the boost mode is activated for a predetermined time, after which the heating stops and the device transitions to the ready mode. Additionally, when the device is in the heating mode 310, the second button 26 can be pressed to enter the boost mode 320. In the example of Figure 5, the boost preheat mode 305 can take longer than the normal preheat mode 300.

[0188] The transitions illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5 are merely examples of the operation of the aerosol generating device described in the present disclosure. The control circuit may be configured to respond in different manners to the actuation of the button and may also provide different visual or tactile indications to the user. For example, in order to transition between any two modes, it may be necessary to actuate the button for a predetermined period. If the button is not actuated for a sufficient length of time, the transition is not made. As another method, or additionally, the button may need to be actuated multiple times within a predetermined period to effect a transition between two operating modes.

Claims

1. Aerosol generator, Housing and A cavity within the housing for receiving the aerosol-generating article, A heating device for heating an aerosol-generating article when it is received into the cavity of the device, A power supply for supplying power to the aforementioned heating device, A control circuit that controls the power supply from the power source to the heating device, A first button located on the housing and connected to the control circuit, A second button located on the housing and connected to the control circuit, Equipped with, The first button has a different size and / or shape from the second button, The first button is configured to activate the first function of the device, The second button is configured to activate a second function of the device, and the first function is different from the second function. The control circuit comprises a microcontroller having a low-power mode and an operating mode that uses more power than the low-power mode. The microcontroller is configured to transition from the low-power mode to the operating mode in response to the activation of at least one of the first button and the second button. Aerosol generator.

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first function is a first operating mode in which the aerosol generating article is heated to generate an aerosol.

3. The aerosol generator according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second function is a second operating mode, the aerosol generating article is heated to generate an aerosol at a different rate or in a different manner than the first mode.

4. The aerosol generator according to claim 3, wherein in the second operating mode, the aerosol is generated at a faster rate or in a larger volume than in the first operating mode.

5. The aerosol generator according to claim 3, wherein the operation of the second button causes the control circuit to switch from the first operating mode to the second operating mode.

6. The aerosol generator according to claim 3, wherein the operation of the second button causes the control circuit to switch from the second operating mode to the first operating mode.

7. The aerosol generator according to claim 1, wherein the housing has a plurality of surfaces, and the first button and the second button are provided on the same surface of the housing.

8. The housing has a length, a width, and a thickness, wherein the length is in the longitudinal direction, the width is in a first transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, and the thickness is in a second transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and the first transverse direction. The housing has a length greater than its width and thickness, and a width greater than its thickness. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the housing has first and second end faces extending in a cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and a gripping surface extending in the longitudinal axis between the end faces, and the first button and the second button are provided on the gripping surface.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the first button and the second button are aligned with each other in the direction of the long axis.

10. The aerosol generator according to claim 8, wherein the first button and the second button are provided on the gripping surface which is closer to the first end face than the second end face, and the second button is provided which is closer to the first end face than the first button.

11. The aerosol generator according to claim 8, wherein the housing has an opening in a first end face, the opening providing access to the recess.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising a display on the first end face.

13. An aerosol generating system comprising an aerosol generating device according to claim 1 and an aerosol generating article containing an aerosol forming substrate, wherein the aerosol forming substrate contains a plug of tobacco or tobacco material.

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