aerosol generator

Abstract

An aerosol generating device is proposed, comprising a control circuit and an energy storage unit configured to supply electrical energy to the control circuit to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine a storage state including an operating state of the energy storage unit indicating an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit, evaluate the determined storage state with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device, and enable or disable the at least one device function based on the evaluation.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of aerosol generating devices and systems for generating aerosols. In particular, the present disclosure relates to electronic aerosol generating devices and systems configured to generate aerosols based on heating at least a portion or a portion of an aerosol-generating article or substrate. The present disclosure further relates to the use of one or more aerosol generating devices or systems, methods of operating an aerosol generating device or system, corresponding computer programs, and corresponding computer-readable media storing one or more of these computer programs. [Background technology]

[0002] Aerosol-generating devices are typically designed as handheld devices that a user can use to consume or experience the aerosol generated by heating an aerosol-generating substrate or article, for example, in one or more use sessions. Of course, aerosol-generating devices can generate aerosol by other means, such as by vibration, by spraying, or by other means.

[0003] Exemplary aerosol-generating substrates may comprise solid substrate materials, such as tobacco or tobacco cast leaf (TCL) materials. Substrate materials, for example, can often be assembled with other elements or components to form a substantially rod-shaped aerosol-generating article. Such rods or aerosol-generating articles may be configured in a shape and size to be at least partially inserted into an aerosol-generating device, and may include, for example, a heating element for heating the aerosol-generating article and / or the aerosol-generating substrate. Alternatively, or additionally, the aerosol-generating substrate may comprise one or more liquids and / or solids that may be supplied to the aerosol-generating device, for example, in the form of a cartridge or container. Exemplary aerosol-generating articles may include a cartridge or container that contains or is fillable with a liquid and / or solid substrate, which may vaporize during aerosol consumption by a user upon heating of the substrate. Typically, such cartridges may be coupled, attached, and / or at least partially inserted into the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively, the cartridge may be fixedly attached to the aerosol-generating device and refilled by inserting liquid and / or solid substrate materials into the cartridge.

[0004] To generate an aerosol during use or consumption, a user typically activates a user interface of the aerosol-generating device, thereby triggering the supply of electrical energy to one or more aerosol-generating means or aerosol generators, such as one or more heating elements or heat sources, to heat, for example, at least a portion of an aerosol-generating substrate or article. At least a portion of the aerosol-generating means or aerosol generator, e.g., at least a portion of the heating elements, may be disposed within the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively, or additionally, at least a portion of the aerosol-generating means or aerosol generator, e.g., at least a portion of the heating elements, may be disposed within the aerosol-generating article.

[0005] Exemplary heating elements may be based on one or more of resistive heating, inductive heating, and microwave heating using electrical energy supplied via, drawn from, or stored in an energy storage unit of the aerosol generating device. Exemplary energy storage units may comprise one or more batteries, one or more capacitors, one or more supercapacitors, one or more accumulators, or other types of energy storage units.

[0006] Alternatively, or in addition, the aerosol-generating device may be configured to supply electrical energy to one or more other aerosol-generating means, aerosol engines, or aerosol generators to generate the aerosol. For example, the aerosol-generating device and / or aerosol-generating article may comprise one or more vibrating elements, one or more vibrating meshes, one or more atomizing devices, or other means for generating an aerosol.

[0007] Generally, the amount of electrical energy provided by the energy storage unit and available or usable by a user of the aerosol generating device to operate the aerosol generating device, for example to perform one or more device functions of the aerosol generating device, may be limited, thereby potentially limiting the functionality or usefulness of the aerosol generating device to generate aerosol.

[0008] Furthermore, limited capacity of the energy storage and / or frequent use of the device to generate aerosols over one or more use sessions may result in frequent charging and discharging of the energy storage. Such frequent charging and discharging of the energy storage may adversely affect the quality of the energy storage, and its ability to store electrical energy may decrease over time. After a certain life or service life of the energy storage, the aerosol generating device, or at least the energy storage, may be replaceable.

[0009] It would therefore be desirable to provide an improved aerosol generating device or system, for example one that overcomes, or at least mitigates, one or more of the aforementioned disadvantages. Summary of the Invention

[0010] This is achieved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Optional features are provided by the dependent claims and the description.

[0011] Aspects of the present disclosure relate to one or more aerosol-generating devices and one or more aerosol-generating systems configured to generate an aerosol from at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article or substrate, for example, based on supplying electrical energy to one or more aerosol generators. The present disclosure further relates to uses of such one or more aerosol-generating devices and / or systems, methods of operating such one or more aerosol-generating devices and / or systems, corresponding computer programs, and corresponding non-transitory computer-readable media storing one or more of such computer programs. Any disclosure presented herein above and below with reference to one aspect of the present disclosure applies equally to all other aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol is provided. The aerosol generating device includes a control circuit and an energy storage unit configured to supply electrical energy to the control circuit for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article. The control circuit may be operably coupled to the energy storage unit. The control circuit is configured to determine a storage state of the energy storage unit, the storage state indicating at least one of an amount of electrical energy currently stored and an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit. The control circuit is further configured to evaluate, e.g., process and / or analyze, the determined storage state with respect to at least one threshold value associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device. The control circuit is further configured to enable or disable at least one device function of the aerosol generating device based on the evaluation. Among these, the at least one device function associated with the at least one threshold value may be enabled or disabled. Alternatively, or additionally, at least one further device function, which may be different from the at least one device function associated with the at least one threshold value, may be enabled or disabled.

[0013] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol. The aerosol generating device includes a control circuit and an energy storage unit configured to supply electrical energy to the control circuit for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article. The control circuit may be operably coupled to the energy storage unit. The control circuit is configured to determine a storage state of the energy storage unit, the storage state indicating at least one of an amount of electrical energy currently stored and an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit. The control circuit is further configured to evaluate the determined storage state with respect to at least one threshold value, the at least one threshold value correlating with a threshold energy required to perform a primary heating function of the aerosol generating device and to perform at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device different from the primary heating function, to heat the aerosol-generating article at or above a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol in at least one use session. The control circuit is further configured to enable or disable at least one of the primary heating function and the at least one auxiliary device function based on the evaluation.

[0014] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol. The aerosol generating device includes a control circuit and an energy storage unit configured to supply electrical energy to the control circuit for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article. The control circuit may be operably coupled to the energy storage unit. The control circuit is configured to determine a storage state, including an operating state of the energy storage unit, indicating an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit, and evaluate the determined storage state with respect to at least one threshold value associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device. The control circuit is further configured to enable or disable at least one device function of the aerosol generating device based on the evaluation. In this regard, the at least one device function associated with the at least one threshold value may be enabled or disabled. Alternatively, or additionally, at least one further device function, which may be different from the at least one device function associated with the at least one threshold value, may be enabled or disabled.

[0015] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol. The aerosol generating device includes a control circuit and an energy storage unit configured to supply electrical energy to the control circuit for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article. The control circuit may be operably coupled to the energy storage unit. The control circuit is configured to determine a storage state of the energy storage unit, the storage state indicating at least one of an amount of electrical energy currently stored and an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit. The control circuit is further configured to evaluate the determined storage state with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device, the at least one threshold being adjustable. The control circuit is further configured to enable or disable the at least one device function based on the evaluation. In that case, the at least one device function associated with the at least one threshold may be enabled or disabled. Alternatively, or additionally, at least one further device function, which may be different from the at least one device function associated with the at least one threshold, may be enabled or disabled.

[0016] It should be noted that any feature, function, or element of an aerosol generating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure can be combined with any feature, function, or element of an aerosol generating device according to another aspect of the present disclosure. This means that aerosol generating devices according to various aspects of the present disclosure can be combined with each other. Furthermore, any disclosure presented herein with reference to an aerosol generating device according to an aspect or aspect of the present disclosure applies equally to any one or more aerosol generating devices according to any one or more further aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] In one example, the energy storage and / or control circuitry may be configured to supply electrical energy to at least one aerosol generating means or at least one aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article connectable to the aerosol-generating device. Exemplary aerosol generators or means may comprise one or more heating elements, one or more heat sources, one or more vibrating elements, one or more vibrating meshes, and one or more atomizing devices.

[0018] For example, the energy storage unit and / or control circuit may be configured to supply electrical energy to at least one heating element, for example, based on heating at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article, to generate aerosol from the aerosol-generating article, which is connectable to the aerosol generating device.

[0019] As used herein, enabling a device function may refer to or include enabling a device function, e.g., allowing a user of the aerosol generating device to perform the device function. Alternatively, or additionally, enabling a device function may include activating the device function, e.g., based on one or more user inputs or so that it can be performed automatically. For example, enabling or enabling a device function may include configuring the aerosol generating device so that the device function is executable or can be performed, e.g., by a user. Alternatively, or additionally, enabling a device function may include making the device function available or available to a user of the aerosol generating device. In a non-limiting example, a flag or marker indicating that the device function is permitted may be set by the control circuitry based on an evaluation of the storage condition against at least one threshold value to enable the device function.

[0020] As used herein, disabling a device function may refer to or include preventing a device function, e.g., preventing a user from performing a device function. Alternatively, or additionally, disabling a device function may include stopping a device function, e.g., based on one or more user inputs or so that it cannot be performed automatically. Alternatively, or additionally, disabling a device function may include making the device function unavailable or unavailable to a user of the aerosol generating device. For example, disabling or preventing a device function may include configuring the aerosol generating device such that the device function and / or its performance is inhibited. In a non-limiting example, a flag or marker indicating that the device function is to be prevented may be set by the control circuitry based on an evaluation of the storage condition against at least one threshold value to disable the device function.

[0021] Thus, enabling or disabling a device function may involve altering, modifying, or changing the configuration of the aerosol generation device so that the device function is available or unavailable to the aerosol generation device, e.g., available or unavailable to a user of the aerosol generation device. Alternatively, or additionally, enabling or disabling a device function may involve adapting a repertoire or set of device functions available to the aerosol generation device. For example, enabling a device function may involve expanding the repertoire or set of device functions available to the aerosol generation device with the device function. Alternatively, or additionally, disabling a device function may involve reducing the repertoire or set of device functions available to the aerosol generation device with the device function. Alternatively, or additionally, disabling a device function may involve removing the device function from the repertoire or set of device functions available to the aerosol generation device.

[0022] Evaluating the storage state of the energy storage relative to at least one threshold and enabling or disabling at least one device function based thereon allows for energy management and efficient operation of the aerosol generating device. In particular, device operation can be optimized based on adapting the repertoire or set of device functions available in the aerosol generating device by evaluating the storage state. In other words, device functionality can be adapted according to the assessed storage state, which allows for optimizing or maximizing the overall device functionality relative to the available energy. This can also increase the functional versatility and flexibility of the device.

[0023] The aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure may refer to an electronic aerosol-generating device configured to generate an aerosol that can be inhaled by a user of the aerosol-generating device within the aerosol-generating article during or between one or more use sessions, particularly based on heating at least a portion of a heating element, at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article, and / or at least a portion of an aerosol-generating substrate contained within the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device of the present disclosure may also be referred to as a non-heated combustion device.

[0024] Exemplary aerosol-generating articles or substrates that can be used with the aerosol-generating devices of the present disclosure can be formed into a stick shape and at least partially inserted into the aerosol-generating device. Other exemplary aerosol-generating articles can include a container or cartridge that can be fixedly attached to or removably connected to the aerosol-generating device. Aerosol-generating substrates, which are typically liquid, solid, or a mixture of solid and liquid, can be contained within or inserted into such aerosol-generating articles and heated to generate an aerosol. All forms and designs of aerosol-generating articles, as well as other forms and designs, can be used with the aerosol-generating devices and systems of the present disclosure.

[0025] Generally, the control circuitry, also referred to herein as device control circuitry, may be configured to control one or more device functions of the aerosol generating device. In particular, the device control circuitry may include one or more processors for data or signal processing. The device control circuitry may be configured to operatively control the aerosol generating device, its energy storage unit, and / or one or more additional components of the aerosol generating device. Controlling operation may involve controlling the operation of the aerosol generating device and / or one or more of its components. In some cases, controlling operation of one or more device functions and / or the energy storage unit may include generating and / or providing one or more control signals to one or more components of the aerosol generating device, such as, for example, the energy storage unit.

[0026] As used herein, an energy storage unit of an aerosol generating device may store or be configured to store electrical energy that can be supplied to at least one heating element to generate an aerosol. In some cases, the energy storage unit may be rechargeable, for example, by connecting the aerosol generating device to a power source or companion device of the aerosol generating system, also referred to herein as a receiving device. For example, the energy storage unit may be recharged by connecting the aerosol generating device to a companion device or power source via a cable or inductive coupling.

[0027] It should be noted that an aerosol generating device may comprise multiple energy stores, and therefore any reference herein above and below to one energy store includes multiple energy stores.

[0028] In one embodiment, the energy storage unit may comprise one or more batteries, accumulators, capacitors, or other types of energy storage units for storing electrical energy, such as an energy storage unit configured to store potential energy associated with changes in the internal chemical elements or molecular configuration of the energy storage unit. Also, combinations of any of the foregoing types of energy storage units may be implemented in the aerosol generating devices of the present disclosure.

[0029] The at least one heating element may refer to or denote any one or more of an induction heating element, a resistance heating element, and a microwave heating element. In other words, the heating element may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating article based on one or more of induction heating, microwave heating, and resistance heating.

[0030] In one example, the heating element may be an induction heating element, comprising, for example, an induction coil configured to inductively heat a susceptor or susceptor material disposed within the aerosol-generating article or substrate. Alternatively, or additionally, the heating element may comprise one or more heating blades or resistive heating elements that may be at least partially inserted within the aerosol-generating article or substrate and may provide electrical energy for aerosol generation. Alternatively, or additionally, the heating element may comprise a microwave generator configured to heat the aerosol-generating article based on microwave heating. Other configurations, such as a loop gap resonator, may additionally or alternatively be used.

[0031] At least a portion or all of the at least one heating element may be disposed within the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively, or additionally, at least a portion or all of the heating element may be disposed within the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a heating arrangement or heating circuit including at least one heating element. For example, a heating element, circuit, or part of a heating arrangement may be disposed within the aerosol-generating device, and a further portion of the heating element, circuit, or arrangement may be disposed within the aerosol-generating article. Furthermore, it should be noted that an aerosol-generating device and / or an aerosol-generating article may comprise multiple heating elements. Thus, any reference herein above and below to one heating element may include multiple heating elements.

[0032] In one example, the aerosol generating device may include one or more user interfaces that are actuable, controllable, or operable by a user to activate or operate the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol. Exemplary user interfaces may include buttons, switches, touch displays, acoustic interfaces, gesture control interfaces, haptic interfaces, tactile interfaces, or combinations thereof.

[0033] The control circuitry may be operable to receive and / or process one or more user inputs from the user interface and to operate or power the heating elements, heating circuits or arrangements each comprising a heating element, to generate aerosol in accordance with the one or more user inputs. For example, in response to operation of the user interface, electrical energy may be supplied to at least one heating element to heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article and generate aerosol.

[0034] As described above, an aerosol generating device may have a repertoire or set of device functions that can be implemented or performed by the aerosol generating device, for example, based on user input and / or automatically. One or more of these device functions may be available to and / or may be implemented or performed by a user. For example, a user may operate the aerosol generating device and / or one or more user interfaces of the aerosol generating device to perform one or more device functions.

[0035] As used herein, device function may refer to any operation or function of an aerosol generating device, including control of the operation of the aerosol generating device and / or one or more components of the aerosol generating device by a control circuit, such as controlling the operation of one or more of at least one heating element, an energy storage unit, and one or more user interfaces of the aerosol generating device.

[0036] In one example, the one or more device functions may include a primary heating function of the aerosol-generating device, also referred to herein as a primary device function. The primary heating function may refer to the operation of the aerosol-generating device to heat at least a portion of at least one heating element, at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article, and / or the substrate to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature of the heating element, the aerosol-generating article, and / or the aerosol-generating substrate in order to generate an aerosol. As used herein, a predetermined heating temperature may refer to or indicate a temperature, level of temperature, or temperature range above room temperature sufficient to generate and / or release an aerosol from the aerosol-generating article or substrate, the released aerosol being inhalable by a user.

[0037] Depending on the type and composition of the particular aerosol-generating article or substrate used with the device, the predetermined heating temperature may range between 250° C. and 450° C., specifically between 270° C. and 430° C., and more specifically between 315° C. and 355° C. These temperatures may be suitable operating or heating temperatures sufficient to allow volatile compounds to be released from the aerosol-generating substrate.

[0038] The primary heating function of the aerosol-generating device may be performed or implemented during or between use sessions. As used herein, a use session may refer to a period of time during which a user may use the aerosol-generating device to generate, consume, experience, or inhale aerosol. Within that, a use session may be finite. In other words, a use session may have a beginning, an end, and a duration. The duration of a use session, as measured by time, may be affected by use during the use session. The duration of a use session may have a maximum duration determined by the longest time since the start of the use session. If one or more monitored parameters reach a predetermined threshold before the longest time since the start of the use session, the duration of the use session may be shorter than the maximum time. As an example, the one or more monitored parameters may include one or more of i) the cumulative number of puffs in a series of puffs taken by the user since the start of the use session, and ii) the cumulative volume of aerosol emitted from the aerosol-forming substrate since the start of the use session.

[0039] It should be noted that operation of an aerosol generating device in a use session to generate an aerosol may be used synonymously with operating the aerosol generating device in a primary device function, operating the device to perform a primary heating function, performing or executing a primary device heating function, and / or heating one or more of the heating element, aerosol-generating article, and aerosol-generating substrate to a temperature above a predetermined heating temperature.

[0040] The one or more device functions may include one or more auxiliary device functions. An auxiliary device function may refer to an operation or function of the aerosol generating device that is different from the primary heating function of the aerosol generating device. For example, the auxiliary device function may differ from the primary heating function in one or more of the following: type of function, purpose of the function, duration of the function, one or more components involved in performing the function, and energy consumption. However, the auxiliary device function may differ from the primary heating function in any other aspect, feature, or element.

[0041] As used herein, evaluating the determined storage condition against at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device may include analyzing the determined storage condition against at least one threshold. For example, at least one threshold may be associated with at least one device function based on defining and / or encoding one or more criteria that preferably must be met so that the at least one device function can be performed or implemented by the aerosol generating device. Thus, evaluating the storage condition against the threshold may analyze the storage condition in terms of one or more criteria that preferably must be met so that the at least one device function can be implemented.

[0042] In some cases, such analysis or assessment of the storage state may include comparing the storage state to at least one threshold. Alternatively, or additionally, analysis or assessment of the storage state may include converting the storage state and / or threshold into a converted storage state and / or converted threshold. In non-limiting examples, a threshold or storage state related to electrical energy may be converted to a threshold or storage state related to capacity, and vice versa.

[0043] In some cases, one or more storage state variables may be derived from or calculated based on the determined storage state to assess the storage state, for example, based on comparing the one or more derived storage state variables to at least one threshold. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more further thresholds may provide, calculate, or derive the at least one threshold for assessing the storage state. One or more of the thresholds or further thresholds may be, for example, compared to the storage state and / or one or more storage state variables derived therefrom.

[0044] As noted above, the at least one threshold may be associated with or related to at least one device function, e.g., the threshold may be associated with heating of the aerosol-generating article, substrate, and / or heating element, e.g., during one or more use sessions or one or more pause modes, as discussed in more detail below.

[0045] In non-limiting examples, the at least one threshold may describe and / or indicate one or more criteria, predefined criteria, requirements, and / or prerequisites for performing the at least one device function associated with the at least one threshold. In other words, the at least one threshold may reflect or be coded as one or more criteria, requirements, and / or prerequisites that must be met in order to perform the at least one device function and / or to enable the at least one device function, e.g., to allow a user to perform the at least one device function.

[0046] In one example, the at least one threshold value may be indicative of and / or correlate to the energy consumption of the aerosol generating device to perform or implement one or more device functions. For example, the at least one threshold value may be indicative of and / or correlate to the amount of energy required to perform one or more device functions. Alternatively, or additionally, the at least one threshold value may be associated with the energy consumption to perform one or more device functions.

[0047] In one example, the at least one threshold value may correlate with and / or be indicative of the amount of energy required to perform a primary heating function of the aerosol-generating device during one or more use sessions. Alternatively, or additionally, the at least one threshold value may correlate with and / or be indicative of the amount of energy required to heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article to above a predetermined heating temperature during or between one or more use sessions. Alternatively, or additionally, the at least one threshold value may correlate with and / or be indicative of the amount of energy required to perform one or more auxiliary device functions.

[0048] Alternatively, or additionally, the at least one threshold associated with the at least one device function may be associated with and / or indicative of one or more characteristics of the energy storage unit. For example, the at least one threshold may indicate one or more predefined criteria that the energy storage unit must meet in order to enable the at least one device function.

[0049] In one example, the determined storage state may include at least one of a current energy level of electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit and an operating state of the energy storage unit, which indicates the amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit. For example, the current energy level may refer to or indicate a current state of charge of the energy storage unit. The state of charge may also be referred to herein as a state of charge. Furthermore, the energy storable in the energy storage unit may be correlated with or indicated by a current capacity or storage capacity of the energy storage unit. Thus, the storage state may indicate one or both of a current state of charge of the energy storage unit and a storage capacity of the energy storage unit.

[0050] Optionally, the storage state may include one or more storage variables or storage state variables, for example one indicative of the current state of charge of the energy storage unit, and a further one indicative of the storage capacity of the energy storage unit.

[0051] In particular, when an aerosol generating device is frequently used or operated to generate aerosol, the quality or operability of the energy storage unit, which may be related to or indicate the ability to store electrical energy, may decrease over time. This effect may also be referred to as the aging or aging effect of the energy storage unit. Based on an evaluation of the storage state, the aging effect of the energy storage unit can be comprehensively taken into account for energy management, which may further increase overall energy efficiency. Furthermore, taking the aging effect into account may enable a user to dynamically adjust the repertoire of device functions available to the user according to the operating state or condition of the energy storage unit.

[0052] Furthermore, limited capacity of the energy storage and / or frequent use of the device to generate aerosol during one or more use sessions may result in frequent charging and discharging of the energy storage. Such frequent charging and discharging of the energy storage may adversely affect the quality of the energy storage, and its ability to store electrical energy may decrease over time. After a certain life or service life of the energy storage, the aerosol generation device, or at least the energy storage, may be replaced. Based on an assessment of the storage condition, excessive charging and / or discharging may also be avoided or reduced, which may extend the life of the energy storage and the aerosol generation device.

[0053] It should be noted that in the context of the present disclosure, the terms energy and capacity of an energy storage unit can be used interchangeably and / or converted into one another. For example, an energy value given in units of Wh or mWh may be calculated based on the capacity of the energy storage unit, e.g., given in Ah or mAh, and multiplied by the nominal voltage of the energy storage unit.

[0054] According to one example, evaluating the determined storage state may include comparing the determined storage state to at least one threshold. In some cases, the at least one threshold may indicate a threshold storage state. For example, the at least one threshold may indicate a threshold or minimum amount of electrical energy currently stored in the energy storage unit. Alternatively, or additionally, the at least one threshold may indicate a threshold or minimum state of charge of the energy storage unit.

[0055] For example, when the control circuit determines that the storage condition reaches or exceeds at least one threshold, the control circuit may enable execution of at least one device function, e.g., by a user. Alternatively, or additionally, when the control circuit determines that the storage condition falls below at least one threshold, the control circuit may disable at least one device function, e.g., for execution by a user.

[0056] Alternatively, when the control circuit determines that the storage state reaches or exceeds at least one threshold, the control circuit may disable at least one device function, for example, for execution by a user. Alternatively, or additionally, when the control circuit determines that the storage state falls below at least one threshold, the control circuit may enable at least one device function, for example, for execution by a user.

[0057] In one example, the at least one threshold value may indicate a threshold energy or amount of energy required to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating of the aerosol-generating article, particularly to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature for generating the aerosol. Alternatively, or additionally, the at least one threshold value may indicate a threshold energy or amount of energy required to perform the primary heating function of the aerosol generating device. Based on evaluating the storage state at such threshold energy, it may be reliably determined whether the amount of energy currently stored in the energy storage unit is sufficient to complete at least one use session and / or to allow a user to experience or consume at least one aerosol-generating article in one or more use sessions.

[0058] For example, the storage state may indicate a current state of charge, and the control circuitry may be configured to compare the storage state with a threshold value that may indicate a threshold energy or amount of energy required to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article, in particular to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature for generating the aerosol. When it is determined that the storage state or the state of charge indicated by the storage state reaches or exceeds the threshold value, at least one device function, e.g., a main heating function, may be enabled. Alternatively, or additionally, when it is determined that the storage state or the state of charge indicated by the storage state is below the threshold value, at least one device function, e.g., a main heating function, may be disabled. Thus, in the latter case, the user may be prevented from using the aerosol generating device to generate aerosol in one or more use sessions.

[0059] In an exemplary implementation, the control circuitry may be configured, based on the evaluation, to determine that a current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate the aerosol. Thus, the control circuitry may be configured, based on the evaluation, to determine whether the amount of energy currently stored in the energy storage unit is sufficient to complete a use session.

[0060] In a further embodiment, the at least one threshold value may indicate a threshold energy required to perform a primary heating function of the aerosol-generating device during at least one use session, the primary heating function comprising supplying electrical energy to at least one heating element to heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol. Alternatively, or additionally, the control circuitry may be configured to enable the primary heating function when, based on the evaluation, it determines that the current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform the primary heating function during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol. Thus, the primary heating function may be enabled by the control circuitry only if the energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform the primary function at least once during at least one use session, for example, using at least one aerosol-generating article.

[0061] In some cases, in response to determining that the energy stored in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform the main heating function for one or more use sessions, for example, using one or more aerosol-generating articles, the control circuit may indicate the availability of one or more use sessions to the user, for example, by activating one or more user interfaces of the aerosol-generating device, such as a control light, one or more LEDs, or a display.

[0062] Further, optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to determine, based on the evaluation, the number and / or number of usage sessions that the primary function may be performed before recharging the energy storage unit with a respective fully charged energy storage unit. Optionally, the number of usage sessions or experiences of the aerosol-generating article available to the user may be displayed and / or communicated to the user, for example, based on activating one or more user interfaces of the aerosol generating device.

[0063] In an exemplary implementation, the at least one threshold may indicate a threshold energy required to complete a current use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article, particularly to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature, to generate the aerosol. The current use session may refer to a use session currently in progress or a use session already initiated or started by a user. Accordingly, the control circuitry may be configured to determine, during an ongoing use session, whether sufficient energy is stored in the energy storage unit to complete the use session. Whether the current use can be completed may be indicated and / or communicated to the user by the control circuitry, possibly based on, for example, activating one or more user interfaces of the device.

[0064] Alternatively, or additionally, the at least one threshold value may indicate a threshold energy required to complete a predefined number of use sessions to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate the aerosol. The predefined number of use sessions may indicate, for example, the maximum number of use sessions that can be completed with the amount of energy currently stored in the energy storage unit before recharging the energy storage unit and / or after the energy storage unit has been charged. Note that "after the energy storage unit has been charged" may refer to, or be used synonymously with, the period after the energy storage unit was last charged or between two consecutive charging events. Alternatively, or additionally, the predefined number of use sessions may indicate a full charge of the energy storage unit and / or the number of use sessions that can be completed with the device in a fully charged state or available to a user with the energy storage unit. Alternatively, or additionally, the predefined number of use sessions may indicate, describe, and / or represent the number of use sessions that the aerosol generating device is operable for or can operate before the next, subsequent, or consecutive charging event. Alternatively, or additionally, the predefined number of usage sessions may be indicative, descriptive, and / or representative of the number of usage sessions during which the aerosol generating device is or can be operated with a charged or fully charged energy store and / or between two temporally consecutive charging events.

[0065] It should be noted that fully charging an energy storage unit or a fully charged energy storage unit may refer to or indicate an energy storage unit that has been charged to its maximum energy capacity, such that the maximum amount of electrical energy is stored in the energy storage unit. Therein, the maximum energy capacity, also referred to herein as the storage capacity or capacity of the energy storage, may be defined by the physical or chemical limitations of the energy storage unit. Alternatively, or additionally, the maximum energy capacity may be defined by the corresponding configuration of the energy storage unit.

[0066] Optionally, the predefined number of usage sessions may be displayed and / or communicated to the user, for example, based on activating one or more user interfaces by the control circuitry.

[0067] For example, the predefined number of use sessions may be at least one use session, preferably at least two use sessions, at least three use sessions, at least four use sessions, or even more use sessions, and a minimum number of one, two, three, four, or more aerosol-generating articles may then be used by a user to generate aerosol in at least one, two, three, four, or more use sessions.

[0068] In one example, the control circuitry may be configured to enable the primary heating function and / or one or more auxiliary device functions when, based on the evaluation, the control circuitry determines that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to complete the current use session and / or complete a predetermined number of use sessions to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than the predetermined heating temperature. Alternatively or additionally, the control circuitry may be configured to disable the primary heating function or one or more auxiliary device functions, e.g., the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit, is insufficient to complete the current use session and / or complete a predetermined number of use sessions to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than the predetermined heating temperature.

[0069] The aerosol generating device may include a heating circuit and / or heating device that can operate in at least two operating modes: an aerosol-emission mode and a pause mode. Thus, the aerosol generating device can operate in at least two operating modes. The heating circuit may be part of or provided by the control circuit. The aerosol generating device, heating circuit, and / or control circuit may be configured to heat the heating element, the aerosol-generating article, and / or the substrate at a first temperature level in the aerosol-emission mode. The first temperature level may correspond to a predetermined heating temperature or a higher temperature. The aerosol generating device may further be configured to heat the heating element, the aerosol-generating article, and / or the substrate at a second temperature level below the first temperature level in the pause mode of the aerosol generating device. The second temperature level may, for example, refer to a temperature above room temperature and below the first temperature level.

[0070] In yet another embodiment, the at least one threshold may indicate a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one pause in use in a pause mode that interrupts a use session.

[0071] A use session or user experience, also referred to herein as an aerosol-generating article experience, can be interrupted, for example, by switching the device into a pause mode and later resumed by the user, with the aerosol-generating article or substrate being kept in the pause mode of the aerosol-generating device at a temperature below a first temperature level and / or below a predetermined heating temperature used during normal use of the device (particularly during the user experience or use session), but still above or well above room temperature. That is, the second temperature level is preferably selected to avoid degradation of the undepleted substrate or aerosol-generating article. In particular, the second temperature level is selected to be sufficiently low to minimize depletion of the substrate or article during the pause mode, and at the same time sufficiently high to avoid condensation of vapor within the device, which could affect the quality of the undepleted aerosol-forming substrate or article.

[0072] During use of the device, particularly when a user experience or use session is taking place, the heating element, heating circuit, and / or heating arrangement may operate in an aerosol emission mode, whereas during pauses in use of the device, i.e., when no user experience or use session is taking place and / or when the use session is interrupted by a pause, the aerosol generating device may operate in a pause mode. During both the aerosol emission mode and the aerosol generating device's pause mode, the heating element, heating circuit, and / or heating arrangement may be in operation, particularly in heating operation, but at different temperature levels, i.e., a first temperature level during the aerosol emission mode, which is selected to be sufficiently high to generate an aerosol, and a second temperature level, lower than the first temperature level, during the pause mode, which is selected to be sufficiently low to minimize substrate depletion while avoiding degradation.

[0073] Depending on the type and composition of the particular aerosol-generating article used with the device, the first temperature level may be in the range of 250°C to 450°C, specifically 270°C to 430°C, and more specifically 315°C to 355°C. These temperatures may be suitable operating or heating temperatures sufficient to allow volatile compounds to be released from the aerosol-generating article or substrate, for example, during one or more use sessions and / or when the device is operated in an aerosol-emitting mode. For example, the first temperature level and / or heating temperature of a liquid aerosol-generating article or substrate may be lower than the first temperature level of a solid aerosol-generating article or substrate.

[0074] Generally, the second temperature level is selected to maintain the utility of the aerosol-emitting substrate for an extended period of time. The second temperature level may also depend on the type and composition of the aerosol-forming substrate used with the apparatus. Thus, the second temperature level may be within the range of 175°C to 225°C, specifically 185°C to 215°C, and more specifically 195°C to 205°C. These temperatures may be low enough to minimize substrate depletion during pause mode, yet high enough to avoid condensation of vapors within the apparatus, which could result in degradation of the aerosol-generating apparatus or the substrate.

[0075] To avoid condensation effects in the device, in particular to avoid condensation of substances within the aerosol-forming substrate, the second temperature level may be at least 150 degrees Celsius, in particular at least 175 degrees Celsius, preferably at least 185 degrees Celsius, more preferably at least 195 degrees Celsius.

[0076] Conversely, to minimize substrate depletion during the pause mode, the second temperature level may be at most 220° C., specifically at most 225° C., preferably at most 215° C., and more preferably at least 205° C. Specifically, the second temperature level may be selected to reduce aerosol generation by at least 50 percent compared to the aerosol emission mode.

[0077] Relatively, the second temperature level may be at least 50 degrees Celsius, particularly at least 75 degrees Celsius, more particularly at least 100 degrees Celsius lower than the first temperature level.

[0078] The above temperature values ​​given are preferably the average temperatures of the aerosol-forming article or substrate during operation of the device. In addition, as already mentioned, the temperature values ​​may depend, among other things, on the type and composition of the aerosol-generating article or substrate used in the device.

[0079] As used herein, suspended mode may refer to a first operating mode of an aerosol generating device in which the heating element, heating circuit and / or heating arrangement may be operated during a suspended operation of the aerosol generating device, i.e., during a suspended use of the aerosol generating device, i.e., when the user experience or use session is suspended and aerosol generation does not occur or is at least reduced to a minimal level, i.e., in suspended mode, the aerosol generating device is in a suspended state of use.

[0080] Conversely, the aerosol emission mode may refer to a second operating mode of the aerosol generating device, which is the normal heating operating mode of the heating element, circuit, and / or arrangement for aerosol generation, in which the heating element, heating circuit, and / or heating arrangement may operate during use of the device by a user, i.e., when a user experience or use session is taking place, particularly when aerosol generation is taking place. Generally, aerosol generation may occur continuously or on an as-needed basis, particularly on a puff basis, i.e., in response to a user's request when taking a puff.

[0081] The aerosol-generating device may include at least one sensor configured to output a sensor signal indicating whether the device is being operated by a user, whether it is in use by a user, or whether it is in a paused state, i.e., suspended from use. Advantageously, such a sensor may facilitate automatically detecting whether the operation of the heating arrangement can be switched to a paused mode because the device is not currently being used and is therefore in a paused state, i.e., suspended from use. Thus, aerosol generation may continue but be stopped in a timely manner to avoid undesired depletion of the aerosol-forming substrate. Similarly, such a sensor may facilitate automatically detecting whether the operation of the heating arrangement should be switched back to an aerosol-emitting mode, i.e., back to the normal heating operating mode for aerosol generation, when the user wishes to resume their user experience.

[0082] In one embodiment, the control circuit may be configured to switch and / or configure the aerosol generating device into an aerosol emission mode or a pause mode based on an evaluation of the memory state determined with respect to at least one threshold value.

[0083] For example, the control circuit may be configured to enable and / or enable at least one device function when, based on the evaluation, it determines that the current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one pause in use in a pause mode that interrupts a use session.

[0084] In an exemplary implementation, the at least one threshold may indicate and / or correlate to a threshold energy required to perform at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively or additionally, the control circuitry may be configured to enable and / or enable at least one auxiliary device function upon determining, based on the evaluation, that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device. Thus, the storage status may be analyzed as to whether sufficient energy is stored therein to perform or complete the at least one auxiliary device function. If the energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to complete the auxiliary device function, the function may be enabled or activated. Thus, the function or repertoire of functions available to the user may be expanded or increased. Alternatively or additionally, if it is determined that the energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is insufficient to perform or complete the auxiliary device function, the function may be prevented, disabled, and / or stopped, e.g., so that it cannot be initiated by and / or is unavailable to the user.

[0085] In one embodiment, the auxiliary device function may be unrelated to and / or distinct from heating the aerosol generating device during a use session to generate an aerosol, e.g., based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol. Alternatively, or additionally, the auxiliary device function may be associated with a pause mode that interrupts a use session.

[0086] In yet another example, the at least one device function may include at least one of a primary heating function of the aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol during at least one use session based on heating an aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol, and at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device different from the primary heating function. In other words, the at least one device function to which at least one threshold value is associated and / or which may be associated and / or enabled or disabled by the control circuitry based on an evaluation of the storage condition may refer to or include one or both of the primary heating function and an auxiliary device function different from the primary device function. For example, the control circuitry may evaluate the storage condition from the perspective of at least the primary heating function and, optionally, from the perspective of one or more auxiliary device functions.

[0087] For example, the auxiliary device functions may include one or more of: operating the aerosol generating device with reduced energy consumption during a use session or for operation in an aerosol emission mode to generate an aerosol; heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature above room temperature but below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol; heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature above room temperature but below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol for a predetermined period of time, such as during a pause in use; activating or deactivating tactile controls of the aerosol generating device; activating or deactivating one or more user interfaces of the aerosol generating device; operating a user interface of the aerosol generating device; operating a communication circuit of the aerosol generating device to communicatively couple the aerosol generating device to a computing device or receiving device; operating a sensor of the aerosol generating device; and operating a biometric sensor of the aerosol generating device for user authentication. Therein, operating may include one or more of activating, enabling, disabling, activating, and shutting down. Generally, any device function other than the primary heating function may be considered or referred to as an auxiliary device function in the context of this disclosure.

[0088] In an exemplary implementation, the at least one threshold may correlate to: a) a threshold energy required to perform a primary heating function of the aerosol generating device during at least one use session to generate aerosol; and b) a threshold energy required to perform an auxiliary device function that is distinct from, unrelated to, and / or unrelated to the primary heating function of the aerosol generating device. In other words, the at least one threshold may be indicative of the energy consumption when performing both the primary heating function and the at least one auxiliary device function. It should be noted that two thresholds may also be used: a first threshold indicative of the energy required to perform the primary heating function of the aerosol generating device during at least one use session to generate aerosol, and a second threshold indicative of the energy required to perform the auxiliary device function.

[0089] In some cases, the at least one threshold may correlate to a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one use session in the aerosol-emitting mode to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating an aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature, and b) during a pause in use in the pause mode that interrupts at least one use session. Alternatively or additionally, the control circuitry is configured to enable a) a primary heating function of the aerosol generating device during at least one use session, which is to generate an aerosol based on heating an aerosol element, article, and / or substrate to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature, and b) at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device, different from and / or unrelated to the primary heating function, where the control circuitry determines, based on evaluation, that a current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage is sufficient to perform the primary heating function and at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, or additionally, if, based on the evaluation, the control circuit determines that the current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is insufficient to perform the main heating function and at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device, the control circuit may disable or prevent one or both of the main heating function and at least one auxiliary device function.

[0090] For example, the at least one auxiliary device function may refer to and / or be associated with heating the heating element, aerosol-generating article, and / or substrate to a second temperature level or temperature during a pause or pause mode of use of the device, where the second temperature level may be above room temperature and below the predetermined heating temperature or first temperature level. Thus, the control circuitry may reliably detect whether the energy storage unit stores sufficient electrical energy to perform the primary heating function for one or more use sessions and at least one use pause that interrupts the one or more use sessions. Generally, this allows for reliably determining whether the device is capable of operating with one or more use pauses. Furthermore, operation of the device in a pause mode may be dynamically permitted or prevented depending on the energy storage unit's storage status. The number of use sessions may then be maximized for the user, for example, based on the pause mode and / or the prevention of the at least one auxiliary device function.

[0091] In an exemplary implementation, the control circuitry may be configured to trigger or request recharging of the energy storage unit based on an evaluation of the storage state determined with respect to at least one threshold. For example, upon determining that an insufficient amount of energy is stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit, the control circuitry may request a user to recharge the energy storage unit, e.g., to a predetermined charge state or to a maximum charge state of the energy storage unit. Thus, triggering recharging of the energy storage unit may include indicating to a user that the device needs to be recharged, e.g., based on activation of one or more user interfaces. Alternatively, or additionally, triggering recharging may include deactivating the device for further use.

[0092] In one embodiment, the at least one threshold value may represent a percentage of the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, particularly between about 70% and about 100% of the current maximum capacity, and preferably at least about 90% of the current maximum capacity. As noted above, one or more corresponding energy threshold values ​​may be used instead of or in addition to the capacity threshold value.

[0093] For example, the main heating function and optionally one or more auxiliary device functions may be enabled when the control circuit determines that the current capacity, state of charge, and / or amount of energy stored in the energy storage unit is at or corresponds to at least 70%, at least 80%, or at least 90% of the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit. Therein, the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit may indicate the maximum amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit. For example, due to aging effects of the energy storage unit, the current maximum capacity may be less than or equal to the initial or nominal capacity of the energy storage unit. The latter may refer, for example, to the storage capacity without aging effects.

[0094] In one example, determining the storage state may include determining a current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage relative to a current maximum capacity of the energy, wherein the current energy level of the stored electrical energy may indicate a current state of charge of the energy storage. Alternatively, or additionally, the current energy level of the storable electrical energy may indicate a current capacity, a storage capacity, and / or a current maximum capacity of the energy storage.

[0095] The control circuitry may be configured to determine a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit. Alternatively, or additionally, the control circuitry may be configured to determine an initial maximum capacity and / or initial stored capacity of the energy storage unit. In some cases, the control circuitry may be configured to determine a relative percentage or proportion of the current maximum capacity to the initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit.

[0096] In one embodiment, the at least one threshold value may represent a percentage of the initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, particularly a percentage between about 35% and about 75% of the initial maximum capacity. For example, if the control circuit determines that the current maximum capacity or current storage capacity of the energy storage unit is below the percentage of the initial maximum capacity or initial storage capacity indicated by the threshold value, one or both of the primary heating function and at least one auxiliary device function, such as a pause mode, may be disabled.

[0097] Alternatively, or in addition, the at least one threshold value may indicate whether the energy storage unit has reached a predetermined charging stage in a previous charging event, in particular a constant voltage stage of a charging voltage of about 3 to 5 V, for example about 3.4 V to about 3.9 V, in particular about 3.65 V. Typically, this allows the amount of electrical energy currently stored in the energy storage unit to be determined.

[0098] In some cases, the control circuitry may be configured to determine whether the energy storage unit was charged to a predetermined charging stage in a previous charging event. As described above, the predetermined charging stage may relate to a constant voltage stage of a charging voltage of about 3 to 5 V, for example, about 3.4 V to about 3.9 V, particularly about 3.65 V. Based on determining the charging stage reached in the previous charging event, the control circuitry can determine the amount of electrical energy currently stored in the energy storage unit and, therefore, the amount of electrical energy available for one or more device functions.

[0099] It should be noted that any other characteristic of the previous charging event may be used to estimate the amount of energy stored in the energy storage unit. For example, a charging current profile (or charging current as a function of charging time) may be used. Alternatively, or additionally, charging time may be used. For example, the control circuit may be configured to determine whether the energy storage unit was charged according to a predefined charging profile and / or to a predefined charging current stage in the previous charging event by a predetermined charging time. As used herein, a charging event may refer to a period of time during which the energy storage unit is supplied with electrical energy from an energy supply source and / or a companion device of the aerosol generating system.

[0100] In an exemplary implementation, determining the storage state may include determining an operational state of the energy storage unit. Alternatively, or additionally, the control circuitry may be configured to determine the operational state of the energy storage unit. Alternatively, or additionally, determining the storage state may include determining a lifetime of the energy storage.

[0101] As used herein, the operating state of an energy storage unit may indicate and / or correlate to the maximum energy currently storable in the energy storage unit, the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, and / or the current storage capacity. For example, frequent charging and discharging of the energy storage unit may cause the operating state of the energy storage unit to deteriorate over time, also referred to as the aging effect or aging of the energy storage unit. Thus, determining the operating state or operating state of the energy storage unit may include determining the current or actual maximum capacity of the energy storage unit. Determining the operating state of the energy storage unit generally enables energy management that takes into account changes in the energy storage unit over time, thereby enabling more accurate and efficient energy management. This may also improve the usability of the device for a user, for example, in terms of maximizing the number of usage sessions the device can be used by the user before recharging the energy storage unit and / or with a fully charged energy storage unit.

[0102] In an exemplary configuration, the at least one threshold may indicate a threshold operating state and / or a threshold elapsed time of the energy storage unit. Thus, evaluating the storage state relative to the threshold may involve analyzing the energy storage unit in terms of its operating state. Further, at least one device function may be enabled or disabled in response to the determined and evaluated operating state.

[0103] In one embodiment, the control circuitry may be configured to determine the operational status of the energy storage unit based on determining one or more of the following: a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit relative to an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, a number of usage sessions in which the aerosol generation device has been used to generate aerosol, an operating time during which the aerosol generation device has been operated or used to generate aerosol, charging data relating to charging the energy storage unit over one or more charging cycles, and a total energy consumption of the aerosol generation unit. Alternatively or additionally, the control circuitry may be configured to determine and / or monitor one or more of the following: a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit relative to an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, a number of usage sessions in which the aerosol generation device has been used to generate aerosol, e.g., an operating time during which the aerosol generation device has been operated to generate aerosol since the energy storage unit was last charged, charging data relating to charging the energy storage unit over one or more charging cycles, and a total energy consumption of the aerosol generation unit. Any one or more of these quantities may be used to reliably determine, estimate, and / or calculate the operational status.

[0104] In yet another exemplary implementation, determining the storage state may include determining a current maximum capacity and / or a current storage capacity of the energy storage unit, which indicates a maximum amount of energy that can be stored in the energy storage unit, and determining a current energy level or amount of electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit.

[0105] Optionally, the at least one threshold may include a first threshold for a state of charge and / or amount of energy available in the energy storage unit, and a second threshold for a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit indicating a maximum amount of energy that can currently be stored in the energy storage unit, and the control circuit may be configured to compare the determined current energy level with the first threshold and to compare the determined current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit with the second threshold.

[0106] Taking into account not only the actual state of charge of the energy storage but also its storage capacity, or for example, the amount of energy that can be theoretically stored, enables comprehensive energy management. The repertoire of device functions can then be tailored to the user's specific requirements. For example, the number of usage sessions or experiences may be maximized based on the prevention of one or more auxiliary device functions, or may be limited based on the prevention of the main heating function.

[0107] In yet another example implementation, the at least one threshold may include a first threshold for a current energy level or amount of energy available in the energy storage unit and a second threshold for a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit indicating a maximum amount of energy currently storable in the energy storage unit, and the control circuit may be configured to compare the determined current energy level with the first threshold and compare the determined current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit with the second threshold.

[0108] In yet another exemplary implementation, at least one threshold may be adjustable and / or variable. Alternatively, or additionally, the control circuitry may be configured to adjust, change, replace, modify, alter, and / or change at least one threshold.

[0109] For example, at least one threshold may be adjusted by the control circuitry based on or in accordance with a user's specific needs or requirements. For example, the number of usage sessions and / or usage pauses available to or initiable by the user may be optimized, e.g., maximized. Alternatively, or additionally, the number of usage sessions may be defined by the user. Thus, the versatility and flexibility of the device may be enhanced.

[0110] In one embodiment, the control circuitry may be configured to adjust, adapt, and / or vary at least one threshold value based on benefit data indicative of past or prior use of the aerosol generating device and / or historical data indicative of the user's consumption behavior. In one embodiment, the control circuitry may be configured to determine and / or derive the user's consumption behavior from the historical data.

[0111] It has been recognized that different users may have different consumption behaviors, which may refer to or be defined as, for example, the consumption time and / or duration of one or more use sessions, during which the heating element, aerosol-generating article, and / or substrate may be heated to a temperature above a predetermined heating temperature. Thus, the energy required or consumed by a user per use session may vary from user to user. Such different consumption behaviors may be reflected in adjustable thresholds, such that energy management may be tailored according to a particular user's consumption behavior.

[0112] An exemplary user may consume, for example, less than about 100 mAh, particularly less than about 95 mAh, e.g., about 60 mAh to about 85 mAh, of energy per use session and / or per aerosol-generating article. If a fixed threshold for the maximum amount of energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit were used, such a user would need to have a longer charging time than actually required to experience the next use session. In other words, some users, particularly those with consumption behaviors that require less energy per use session, may be forced to recharge the energy storage unit when a fixed threshold is used, but the energy storage unit may still store enough energy to complete one or more use sessions. Such a scenario can be effectively prevented or avoided by adjusting the threshold. In other words, an adjustable or variable threshold allows for flexible addressing of different needs from different users.

[0113] Furthermore, when using a fixed threshold, the user may not be able to pause between puffs and / or between use sessions. By adjusting the threshold, the device may be flexibly controlled by the user, for example, between puffs and / or during a use session. Overall, the functionality and user experience of the device may be improved.

[0114] The aerosol generating device may optionally include data storage or memory. For example, the historical data may be stored in the data storage. Alternatively, or additionally, the historical data may be stored in a computing device, such as a server, server network, or mobile device, communicatively connectable to the aerosol generating device, for example, by communication circuitry in the aerosol generating device.

[0115] As used herein, a computing device may refer to any device or apparatus having data processing capabilities, such as a server, a server network, a mobile device, a smartphone, a tablet, a smart device, and a smart wearable. The computing device may be configured to communicate or transmit data to the aerosol-generating device, for example, wirelessly or via a wire. Thus, the computing device may include a communication interface or circuitry configured to transmit data, for example, historical data or other data, to the aerosol-generating device.

[0116] Generally, the historical data may indicate a user's consumption behavior during one or more use sessions. In particular, data related to one or more use sessions may be stored in the historical data. For example, one or more of the following may be stored in the historical data: start time, stop time, duration, energy consumption, number of puffs in a use session, total number of puffs, number of experiences, number of use sessions, number of aerosol-generating articles used, and other information related to one or more use sessions.

[0117] Alternatively, or additionally, data relating to or indicative of one or more suspensions of use and / or operation of the device in a suspended mode may be included in the historical data. For example, start times, stop times, and / or durations of one or more suspensions of use may be stored in the historical data. Alternatively, or additionally, energy consumption during suspensions of use may be saved in the historical data.

[0118] Alternatively, or additionally, the historical data may include data relating to and / or indicative of energy consumed to perform one or more device functions.

[0119] In one embodiment, the control circuitry may be configured to calculate an amount of energy used in a single use session based on historical data indicative of operation of the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol, and adjust at least one threshold value based on the determined amount of energy used in the single use session. In some cases, the determined amount of energy used in a single use session may correspond to and / or be used as at least one threshold value. Generally, the energy used in a single use session may refer to the energy actually used in an actual use session. Alternatively, or additionally, the energy used in a single use session may refer to or indicate an average or mean amount of energy used or consumed per use session. It should be noted that the energy used in a single use session may substantially correspond to the energy required to perform the primary heating function of the aerosol generating device in a single use session.

[0120] In yet another embodiment, the at least one threshold may indicate a threshold energy or value required to operate the aerosol-generating device during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the heating element and bringing the aerosol-generating article and / or substrate to a temperature at or above a predetermined heating temperature. Preferably, the at least one threshold may be less than about 100 mAh, e.g., less than about 95 mAh, preferably between about 60 mAh and 85 mAh. Typical devices currently in use may have a fixed threshold of about 100 mAh or greater. Thus, reducing the threshold may provide a user with more use sessions or experiences before recharging the energy storage and / or with a fully charged energy storage.

[0121] In yet another embodiment, the control circuitry may be configured to determine, based on historical data indicating operation of the aerosol generating device to generate aerosol, a maximum number of usage sessions the aerosol generating device can be used with a fully charged energy storage unit since the energy storage unit was last charged and / or between two consecutive charging events. Furthermore, the control circuitry may be configured to adjust at least one threshold value based on the determined maximum number of usage sessions. Thus, the control circuitry may analyze the historical data and calculate and / or estimate the maximum number of usage sessions.

[0122] In some cases, the maximum number of usage sessions may be displayed and / or notified to the user, for example, based on activating, operating, and / or controlling one or more user interfaces. Alternatively, or additionally, the control circuitry may be configured to indicate the determined maximum number of usage sessions to the user based on controlling a user interface of the aerosol generating device. For example, several light-emitting diodes, LEDs, may be switched on or off according to the maximum number of usage sessions, or other means for notification may be used instead or additionally.

[0123] Alternatively or additionally, the number of currently available usage sessions, e.g., depending on the amount of energy currently stored in the energy storage unit, may be displayed and / or communicated to the user, e.g., based on activating one or more user interfaces.

[0124] In further examples, the control circuitry may be configured to determine a maximum number of pause modes or pauses in use that may be activated by a user with a fully charged energy storage unit between two consecutive charging events and / or before recharging the energy storage unit since the energy storage unit was last charged. Optionally, the number of pause modes or pauses in use may also be indicated and / or communicated to a user, for example, based on activating one or more user interfaces.

[0125] In yet another exemplary implementation, the control circuitry may be configured to enable and / or permit use of the aerosol generating device for a use session to generate an aerosol based on heating the heating element to bring the aerosol-generating article and / or substrate to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature, e.g., for a subsequent use session, regardless of several previous use sessions, the aerosol generating device has been used since the last charging process or the last charging process. Thus, the control circuitry may enable or disable at least one device function, particularly the main heating function, regardless of whether the device has been used since the last charging process or a previous charging process in one or more use sessions. Thus, user-specific energy management can be implemented within the device.

[0126] Alternatively or additionally, at least one threshold may be adjustable and / or variable based on user input. Alternatively or additionally, at least one threshold may be adjusted and / or changed based on user input. Alternatively or additionally, the control circuitry may be configured to change and / or modify at least one threshold based on user input. Such user input may be received, for example, using one or more user interfaces of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively or additionally, user input may be received from a companion device of the aerosol generating system and / or from a computing device, for example, a server or mobile device communicatively coupled to the aerosol generating device. Thus, the threshold may be modified by the user according to their preferences or requirements. Also, the user may be able to adjust their consumption behavior, for example, by limiting or reducing the number of usage sessions per fully charged energy storage unit.

[0127] In one example, the at least one threshold value is adjustable or may be adjusted based on a user input indicating the number of experiences per charge cycle, per charge, or per full charge of the energy storage unit, and / or based on a user input indicating the duration of a single usage session. As used herein, a charge cycle may refer to a cycle of fully charging the energy storage unit and fully discharging the energy storage unit. Thus, the at least one threshold value is adjustable or may be adjusted based on a user input indicating the number of experiences or usage sessions per fully charged energy storage unit and / or indicating the duration of a single usage session. Thus, a user may modify or adjust the threshold value according to their preferences or needs based on user intuitive input or information.

[0128] For example, a user may specify, via one or more user inputs, the duration of a single usage session and / or the number of usage sessions per fully charged energy storage unit or per full charge of the energy storage unit, and the control circuitry may calculate a corresponding threshold energy or capacity value. Based on evaluating the memory state determined with the calculated threshold energy or capacity value, the user may be granted a number of usage sessions per charge cycle and / or a number of usage sessions having a user-defined duration.

[0129] Alternatively, or in addition, a companion device and / or computing device communicatively connectable to the aerosol generating device may calculate one or more threshold values ​​based on user input and send corresponding control signals to the aerosol generating device indicating the one or more threshold values.

[0130] It should be noted that a fully charged energy storage unit may refer to charging the energy storage unit to its current maximum capacity or state of charge, which may be defined by the physical or chemical limitations of the energy storage unit and / or by control circuitry, e.g., by configuring the energy storage unit's controller to limit the current maximum capacity or state of charge to a particular value. Alternatively, or additionally, a fully discharged energy storage unit may refer to an empty energy storage unit, a current minimum capacity, or a minimum state of charge, which may be defined by the physical or chemical limitations of the energy storage unit and / or by control circuitry, e.g., by configuring the energy storage unit's controller to limit the current minimum capacity or state of charge to a particular value. When the minimum capacity is reached, the control circuitry may request, trigger, and / or force a recharge of the energy storage unit.

[0131] In an exemplary implementation, the control circuitry may be configured to calculate and / or derive at least one threshold value based on historical data collected from one or more past or previous use sessions. For example, the aerosol generating device or the control circuitry may be configured to store or record data related to a use session during operation. For example, one or more of the following may be saved or recorded by the control circuitry for one or more past or previous use sessions: start time, stop time, duration, energy consumption, reduction in the amount of energy stored in the energy storage unit, reduction in energy storage capacity, temperature, temperature profile, indication of an interruption of the use session due to a pause mode, number of pause modes or use pauses in the use session, or other information, such as information related to charging the energy storage unit. The historical data may be stored, for example, in data storage on the aerosol generating device. Alternatively or additionally, the historical data may be transmitted to one or more of the companion device and a computing device communicatively coupled to the aerosol generating device, such as a server or a mobile device. One or more data elements related to one or more use sessions and / or one or more pauses or pause modes of use may be included in the historical data.

[0132] The control circuitry may be further configured to process and / or analyze one or more data elements of the historical data to determine one or more thresholds for evaluation with the storage state of the energy storage unit. For example, one or more thresholds related to energy consumption per usage session and / or change in capacity per usage session may be determined by the control circuitry. Thus, the user's consumption behavior, as reflected by the historical data, may be used to dynamically adjust at least one threshold and / or adapt the number of usage sessions granted to the user per fully charged energy storage unit.

[0133] In one example, the control circuitry may be configured to determine or calculate at least one threshold value based on a predefined number of previous or past usage sessions. For example, several data elements of the historical data corresponding to a predetermined number of previous or past usage sessions may be processed and / or analyzed by the control circuitry to derive or calculate at least one threshold value for evaluation using the storage state of the energy storage unit.

[0134] In a non-limiting example, the at least one threshold may be calculated using only the last usage session or corresponding data elements of the historical data. Alternatively, the at least one threshold may be calculated using two or more, e.g., 2-20, preferably 2-16, previous usage sessions or corresponding data elements of the historical data. In the latter case, the at least one threshold may reflect an average or mean energy consumption or capacity decrease of the energy storage unit per usage session.

[0135] In an exemplary implementation, the control circuitry may be configured to calculate or compute threshold values ​​based on a current value of a running average of energy consumption per usage session and / or the duration of a usage session, e.g., based on processing corresponding data elements of the historical data. Accordingly, at least one threshold value may be calculated by the control circuitry based on determining a current value of a running average of energy consumption per usage session and / or the duration of a usage session. Thus, the current value of the running average of energy consumption per usage session may correspond to an average or average amount of energy consumed over one or more usage sessions considered in the running average. Alternatively, or additionally, the current value of the running average of usage session duration may correspond to an average or average duration of the usage sessions considered in the running average.

[0136] Generally, calculating the threshold value based on calculating the value of the moving average allows for a reduction in the volume of data stored in the aerosol generating device. For example, the aerosol generating device's data storage may store only the current value of the moving average, without necessarily storing historical data. In particular, the current value of the running average may be stored only in random access memory (RAM).

[0137] For example, the control circuitry may be configured to calculate a current value of the running average of consumption or energy expenditure based on a previous or last value of the running average of consumption or energy expenditure, possibly stored in and / or retrieved from a data storage device or RAM of the aerosol generating device, based on the amount of energy used or consumed in the last or previous use session.

[0138] Optionally, the last value of the running average may be multiplied by a particular factor or constant C and added to the amount of energy used or consumed in the last usage session. The result of this calculation may then be divided by the constant or factor C plus 1 or normalized to provide a new or current value of the running average. The constant or factor C may be, for example, in the range of about 2 to tens of times, e.g., the constant or factor C may be about 9.

[0139] Expressed mathematically, the current value of the running average, CV, may be calculated as CV=(LV×C+duration of current usage session) / (C+1), where C is a constant or coefficient and LV is the last or preceding value of the moving average. Initially (e.g., when the device is used for the first time), if there is no last or preceding value, a dummy value may be used. The current value of the running average of energy consumption per usage session may then be used as or to calculate at least one threshold value.

[0140] Alternatively, or in addition, the control circuit may be configured to calculate a current value of the moving average of the duration of a usage session based on the previous or last value of the moving average of the duration of a usage session and based on the duration of the last or previous usage session, which may optionally be stored in and / or retrieved from the data storage or RAM of the aerosol generating device.

[0141] Optionally, the last value of the running average may be multiplied by a particular coefficient or constant C and added to the duration of the last usage session. The result of this calculation may then be divided by the constant or coefficient C plus 1 or normalized to provide a new or current value of the running average. The constant or coefficient C may range, for example, from about 2 to several tens of values, e.g., the constant or coefficient C may be about 9.

[0142] Expressed mathematically, the current value of the running average, CV, may be calculated as CV=(LV×C+duration of current usage session) / (C+1), where C is a constant or coefficient and LV is the last, previous, or previous value of the running average. The current value of the running average of the duration of the usage session may then be used as or used to calculate at least one threshold value.

[0143] In a further optional implementation, the control circuitry may be configured to calculate the at least one threshold value based on calculating multiple values ​​of multiple running averages of the amount of energy consumed in a usage session, the energy consumption per usage session, and / or the duration of a usage session, wherein different running averages of the multiple running averages may differ with respect to the number and / or duration of usage sessions each considered for a particular running average to calculate the corresponding value.

[0144] For example, a first value of a first running average for energy consumed per usage session and / or duration of a usage session may be calculated based on a first number of previous usage sessions, and a second value of a second running average for energy consumed per usage session may be calculated based on a second number of previous usage sessions, wherein the first number of previous usage sessions may be different from the second number of previous usage sessions. In particular, the first number of previous usage sessions may be smaller than the second number of previous usage sessions.

[0145] In a non-limiting example, the first number of previous usage sessions may be from about 2 to about 20 previous usage sessions, and the second number of previous usage sessions may be from about 200 to about 20,000 previous usage sessions. Thus, the first running average may consider only the last few usage sessions, such that the corresponding value reflects the user's short-term behavior, while the second running average may reflect the user's long-term behavior or habits.

[0146] In one embodiment, the control circuitry may be configured to calculate at least one threshold value based on calculating an average energy per usage session and / or an average duration of a usage session, based on multiplying a second value of the second running average, Value_2, by a constant or variable coefficient, C, and based on multiplying a first value of the first running average, Value_1, by a constant or variable coefficient, C minus 1.

[0147] Expressed mathematically, the threshold T may be calculated as T=C×Value_2+(1−C)×Value_1, where C is a constant or variable coefficient, Value_1 is the first value of the first running average, and Value_2 is the second value of the second running average. The constant or variable factor C may be between 0.2 and 0.9, such as 0.7.

[0148] Depending on whether the first and second values ​​correspond to an average energy expenditure or duration, the threshold may also be given in terms of an average or mean threshold energy expenditure or duration. Other parameters, such as a relative energy reduction per usage session, may alternatively or additionally be used.

[0149] In some cases, the number of usage sessions considered by the control circuitry for calculation of the at least one threshold may be user-definable, for example, based on providing one or more user inputs.

[0150] The control circuitry may be configured to determine the amount of energy used during a single pause in use based on historical data indicating operation of the aerosol generating device in a pause mode, and adjust at least one threshold value based on the determined amount of energy. For example, one or more of the following may be stored or recorded by the control circuitry for one or more past or previous user-initiated pauses in use or pause modes: start time, stop time, duration, energy consumption, reduction in the amount of energy stored in the energy storage unit, reduction in the capacity of the energy storage unit, temperature, temperature profile, indication of an interruption of the use session due to a pause mode, and number of pause modes or use pauses in the use session. The historical data may be stored, for example, in data storage of the aerosol generating device.

[0151] The control circuitry may further be configured to process and / or analyze one or more data elements of the historical data to determine one or more thresholds for evaluation with the storage state of the energy storage unit. For example, one or more thresholds related to energy consumption per pause (or pause mode) and / or change in capacity per pause (or pause mode) may be determined by the control circuitry. Thus, the user's consumption behavior, as reflected by the historical data, may be used to dynamically adjust at least one threshold and / or adapt the number of pauses in use allowed or granted to the user per fully charged energy storage.

[0152] In one embodiment, the control circuitry may be configured to determine or calculate at least one threshold value based on a predetermined number of prior or past usage pauses or pause modes. For example, a number of data elements of the historical data corresponding to a predetermined number of prior or past usage pauses or pause modes may be processed and / or analyzed by the control circuitry to derive or calculate at least one threshold value for evaluating the energy storage unit's storage status. In a non-limiting example, only the last usage pause or corresponding data element of the historical data may be used to calculate the at least one threshold value. Alternatively, two or more prior usage pauses or corresponding data elements of the historical data, e.g., between 2 and 20, preferably between 2 and 16, may be used to calculate the at least one threshold value. In the latter case, the at least one threshold value may reflect an average or mean energy consumption or capacity decrease of the energy storage unit per usage pause. In some cases, the number of usage pauses considered by the control circuitry for calculation of the at least one threshold value may be user-definable, for example, based on providing one or more user inputs.

[0153] Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to derive or calculate, based on historical data, a first threshold indicative of energy consumption during one or more use sessions and a second threshold indicative of energy consumption during one or more pauses in use. Alternatively, or additionally, the first and second thresholds may be calculated relative to the duration of a use session or other parameter.

[0154] In one embodiment, the at least one threshold value may indicate a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one pause in use that interrupts a use session. Non-limiting exemplary threshold values ​​may range from about 2 mAh to about 80 mAh, e.g., from about 10 mAh to about 65 mAh. However, other values ​​may also be used.

[0155] In an exemplary implementation, the at least one threshold value may be received from a computing device or companion device communicatively coupled to the aerosol-generating device, which may also be referred to herein as a receiving device.

[0156] For example, the aerosol generating device may be operable and / or communicatively connectable to a companion device or receiving device for supplying electrical energy to the energy storage unit, and at least one threshold value may be received from the companion device or receiving device upon coupling the aerosol generating device to the companion device.

[0157] The companion device or receiving device may be configured to at least partially receive the aerosol generating device, for example, to charge the aerosol generating device and / or to store the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may be configured for wireless charging by the companion device. For example, the companion device and the aerosol generating device may be inductively coupled to charge the energy storage of the aerosol generating device. Alternatively, or additionally, the control circuitry may be configured to establish an electrical connection with the companion device to charge the energy storage. Thus, the aerosol generating device may be configured to be operably coupled to the companion device to charge the energy storage of the aerosol generating device.

[0158] Alternatively, or in addition, the companion device may comprise a communication interface for communicatively coupling the companion device to the aerosol generating device and for transmitting, for example, at least one threshold value or a corresponding control signal from the companion device to the aerosol generating device. In some cases, the communicative coupling between the aerosol generating device and the companion device may be established upon operably coupling the aerosol generating device with the companion device for charging the aerosol generating device, or vice versa.

[0159] In one embodiment, the companion device may include a user interface for receiving one or more user inputs at the companion device, such as, for example, information for defining at least one threshold or enabling at least one threshold to be derived, e.g., the number of usage sessions and / or usage break times per fully charged energy store, usage sessions and / or usage break times, which may be transmitted to the aerosol generating device.

[0160] Alternatively or additionally, the companion device may be communicatively coupled to a computing device such as a server, server network, computer, tablet, smartphone, or mobile device, and at least one threshold value or corresponding control signal may be received by the companion device from the computing device and then transmitted to the aerosol-generating device. Alternatively or additionally, historical data may be transmitted and / or exchanged between the aerosol-generating device and the companion device, between the computing device and the aerosol-generating device, and / or between the computing device and the companion device.

[0161] In an exemplary implementation, the at least one threshold may indicate the duration or time of a single use session. Alternatively, or additionally, the at least one threshold may indicate the duration or time of a single use pause. Thus, the at least one threshold may be time-based. In some cases, the energy storage unit's storage state may also be time-based, e.g., indicate the amount of time the device can operate with a single fully charged energy storage unit after the energy storage unit was last charged, per full charge of the energy storage unit, and / or between two consecutive charging events for generating aerosols in one or more use sessions and / or one or more use pauses. Based on an evaluation of the time-based storage state against the operating threshold, at least one device function, e.g., a certain number of use sessions and / or use pauses reflected by the threshold, can be granted or permitted to the user with a single fully charged energy storage unit and / or before forcing a recharge of the energy storage unit. Alternatively, or additionally, the time-based threshold may be converted to an energy- or capacity-based value or other quantity and compared to a storage state or a quantity derived from the storage state.

[0162] In another example, the at least one threshold may represent an average energy consumption per usage session. Alternatively, or additionally, the at least one threshold may represent an average decrease in capacity of the energy storage unit per usage session.

[0163] Alternatively, or in addition, the at least one threshold may indicate an average energy consumption per pause in use that interrupts one or more sessions of use. Alternatively, or in addition, the at least one threshold may indicate an average decrease in capacity of the energy storage unit per pause in use or pause mode.

[0164] As described above, in one embodiment, the control circuitry may be configured to calculate at least one threshold value based on historical data and store the calculated at least one threshold value in the aerosol generating device's data storage. Alternatively or additionally, the control circuitry may be configured to retrieve historical data from the aerosol generating device's data storage and / or from an external data source, the historical data indicating one or more of the following: the number of use sessions in which the aerosol generating device has operated to generate aerosol; the aerosol generating device operating in a pause mode that interrupts one or more use sessions; the number of use pauses and the duration of the one or more use sessions; the duration of the one or more use pauses that interrupt one or more use sessions; energy consumption during the one or more use sessions; energy consumption during the one or more use pauses; total energy consumption; charging data related to charging the energy storage in one or more charge cycles; energy remaining in the energy storage before recharging in one or more charge cycles; and energy consumption per use session.

[0165] In yet another exemplary implementation, the control circuitry may be configured to determine the operational state of the energy storage unit based on historical data indicative of operation of the aerosol generating device to generate aerosol. Accordingly, the control circuitry may be configured to determine the stored state based on processing the historical data. For example, the control circuitry may determine or calculate the operational state of the energy storage unit based on one or more of the number of use sessions and / or pauses in use in which the device has operated, the total energy consumption, the duration of operation or hours of operation, the current maximum capacity, the initial maximum capacity, and / or a relative decrease in capacity relative to other information stored in the historical data, as described in more detail herein above and below.

[0166] In one embodiment, the control circuitry may be configured to calculate at least one threshold value based on data received from a computing device or companion device communicatively coupleable to the aerosol generating device, for example, historical data or data related to one or more user inputs may be received from the computing device and / or companion or receiving device.

[0167] The control circuitry may be configured to calculate at least one threshold value based on historical data relating to one or more previous use sessions and / or one or more previous pauses in use. Optionally, the control circuitry may be configured to calculate an average of energy consumed or average energy expenditure during multiple use sessions and / or pauses in use based on historical data indicative of operation of the aerosol generating device during one or more use sessions and / or one or more pauses in use. Alternatively, or additionally, an average or average duration of a use session or one or more other parameters may be calculated.

[0168] In an exemplary configuration, the aerosol-generating device may comprise at least part of a heating element, heating arrangement, or heating circuit coupled to the energy store and configured to heat at least part of the aerosol-generating article. Thus, at least part of the heating element and / or heating circuit may be incorporated into the aerosol-generating article.

[0169] For example, a resistive blade, a resonator, an excitation coil, a microwave generator, or other type of heating element may be at least partially disposed and / or integrated within the aerosol generation device.

[0170] Alternatively, or in addition, the aerosol generating device may be connectable to an aerosol generating article that includes at least part of a heating element, heating arrangement, or heating circuit, and the energy storage unit may be configured to supply electrical energy to at least one heating element of the aerosol generating article to generate the aerosol.

[0171] For example, a resistive blade, resonator, excitation coil, microwave generator, or other type of heating element may be at least partially disposed and / or integrated within the aerosol-generating article and powered or supplied with electrical energy drawn from an energy storage unit of the aerosol-generating device.

[0172] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aerosol generation system comprising an aerosol-generating device as described hereinabove and below, and an aerosol-generating article that is connectable or connected to the aerosol-generating device to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-generating device can generate an aerosol, for example, by supplying electrical energy to one or more aerosol generators to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating article. The disclosure presented hereinabove and hereinbelow with reference to the aerosol-generating device and / or aerosol-generating article according to one or more aspects of the present disclosure applies equally to the aerosol-generating system, and vice versa.

[0173] The energy storage and / or control circuitry may be configured to supply electrical energy to at least one aerosol generating means or aerosol generator for generating an aerosol from at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article connectable to the aerosol-generating device. Exemplary aerosol generators or means may comprise one or more heating elements, one or more heat sources, one or more vibrating elements, one or more vibrating meshes, and one or more atomizing devices.

[0174] For example, the energy storage unit and / or control circuit may be configured to supply electrical energy to at least one heating element to generate aerosol from an aerosol-generating article connectable to an aerosol generating device, for example, based on heating at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article.

[0175] Further aspects of the present disclosure relate to the use of the aerosol generating devices and / or systems described herein above and below.

[0176] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method of operating an aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device operating according to the method may be an aerosol generating device as described hereinabove and below with reference to one or more aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, any feature, function, element, and / or step described hereinabove and below with reference to an aerosol generating device may also be a feature, function, element, and / or step of a method of operating an aerosol generating device, and vice versa. Alternatively, or additionally, the method may relate to a method of operating an aerosol generating system as described hereinabove and below.

[0177] An aerosol generating device operating according to the method of the present disclosure includes an energy storage unit configured to supply electrical energy to a control circuit for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article. The control circuit may be operably coupled to the energy storage unit. The energy storage unit may supply electrical energy to a heating element to heat at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article connectable to the aerosol generating device. The method includes at least: - determining, using a control circuit, a storage state of the energy storage unit indicative of the amount of electrical energy currently stored and / or available for storage in the energy storage unit; - evaluating the determined storage condition with respect to at least one threshold associated with heating of the aerosol-generating article; - enabling or disabling at least one device function associated with heating the aerosol-generating article based on the evaluation.

[0178] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of operating an aerosol generating device, the method comprising at least: - determining, with control circuitry, a storage state of the energy storage unit indicative of at least one of an amount of electrical energy currently stored and an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit; - evaluating the determined storage condition with respect to at least one threshold value, the at least one threshold value correlating with a threshold energy required to perform a primary heating function of the aerosol-generating device to heat the aerosol-generating article at or above a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol in at least one use session, and to perform at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol-generating device different from the primary heating function; - enabling or disabling at least one of the primary heating function and the at least one auxiliary device function based on the evaluation.

[0179] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of operating an aerosol generating device, the method comprising at least: - determining, with a control circuit, a storage state, including an operating state, of the energy storage unit, which is indicative of an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit; - evaluating the determined memory state with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device; - enabling or disabling at least one device feature based on the evaluation.

[0180] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of operating an aerosol generating device, the method comprising at least: - determining, with control circuitry, a storage state of the energy storage unit indicative of at least one of an amount of electrical energy currently stored and an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit; - evaluating the determined storage condition with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device, wherein the at least one threshold is adjustable; and - enabling or disabling at least one device feature based on the evaluation.

[0181] Any one of the methods described with reference to one aspect of the present disclosure may be combined with one or more steps of one or more additional methods according to one or more additional aspects of the present disclosure.

[0182] The energy storage and / or control circuitry may be configured to supply electrical energy to at least one aerosol generating means or aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article connectable to the aerosol generating device. Exemplary aerosol generators or means may comprise one or more heating elements, one or more heat sources, one or more vibrating elements, one or more vibrating meshes, and one or more atomizing devices.

[0183] For example, the energy storage unit and / or control circuit may be configured to supply electrical energy to at least one heating element to generate aerosol from an aerosol-generating article connectable to an aerosol generating device, for example, based on heating at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article.

[0184] In one example, determining the storage status may include determining at least one of a current energy level of electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit and an operating status of the energy storage unit indicative of an amount of electrical energy currently available to be stored in the energy storage unit.

[0185] In yet another example, evaluating the determined storage state may include comparing or comparing the determined storage state with at least one threshold value. Optionally, at least one device function may be enabled by the control circuitry upon determining, based on the evaluation, that a current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature.

[0186] In one example, the method may further include enabling a main heating function upon determining, based on the evaluation, that a current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform the main heating function during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol. Alternatively, or additionally, the method may further include enabling at least one device function upon determining, based on the evaluation, that a current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to complete a current use session and / or to complete a predefined number of use sessions to generate an inhalable aerosol.

[0187] In a further embodiment, the method may include enabling at least one device function when, based on the evaluation, it is determined that the current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one pause of use in a pause mode that interrupts the use session.

[0188] Alternatively, or in addition, the method may further include enabling at least one auxiliary device function when, based on the evaluation, it is determined that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device.

[0189] The method may further include enabling at least one of a main heating function of the aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol in at least one use session based on heating the aerosol-generating article to or above a predetermined heating temperature, and at least one auxiliary function of the aerosol generating device that is different from the main heating function, other than the main heating function, and / or unrelated to heating the aerosol generating device during the use session for generating the aerosol.

[0190] The method further includes enabling one or more auxiliary device functions, including one or more of operating the aerosol generating device with reduced energy consumption relative to operation during the use session to generate an aerosol, heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol, heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature above room temperature and below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol, heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature above room temperature and below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol for a predetermined period of time, operating a user interface of the aerosol generating device, operating communication circuitry of the aerosol generating device to communicatively couple the aerosol generating device to a computing device or receiving device, pausing use or operating the device in a pause mode, operating sensors of the aerosol generating device, activating or deactivating tactile controls, and operating a biometric sensor of the aerosol generating device for user authentication.

[0191] The method further includes a) enabling a main heating function of the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol during at least one use session, and b) at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device that is otherwise and / or not related to the main heating function of the aerosol generating device, and determining, based on the evaluation, that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform the main heating function and at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device.

[0192] Alternatively, or in addition, if, based on the evaluation, it is determined that the current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is insufficient to perform the main heating function and at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device, the main heating function and / or the auxiliary device function may be disabled or prevented from being initiated by the user.

[0193] Optionally, the method may further include triggering a recharge of the energy storage unit, for example, upon determining, based on an evaluation of the determined storage state against at least one threshold, that the current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is insufficient to perform the main heating function and at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device.

[0194] In one example, determining the storage state may include determining a current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit relative to a current maximum capacity of the energy. In some cases, an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit may be determined by the control circuitry.

[0195] In one embodiment, the method may further include determining whether the energy storage unit was charged to a predetermined charging stage in a previous charging event.

[0196] In yet another example, determining the storage condition may include determining the age or operational condition of the energy storage unit.

[0197] The method may further include determining one or more of a current maximum capacity of the energy storage, a current maximum capacity of the energy storage relative to an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage, a number of uses the aerosol generating device has been used to generate an aerosol, an operating time the aerosol generating device has operated to generate an aerosol, charging data relating to charging the energy storage in one or more charging cycles, and a total energy consumption of the aerosol generating device.

[0198] In some cases, determining the storage state may include determining a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, which indicates the maximum amount of energy that can be stored in the energy storage unit, and determining a current energy level or amount of electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit.

[0199] As an example, the at least one threshold may include a first threshold for a current energy level or amount of energy available in the energy storage unit, and a second threshold for a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit indicating a maximum amount of energy currently capable of being stored in the energy storage unit.

[0200] Optionally, the method may further include one or more of comparing the determined current energy level to a first threshold and comparing the determined current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit to a second threshold.

[0201] In yet another embodiment, the method may further include adjusting, modifying, altering, replacing, and / or changing at least one threshold value.

[0202] For example, at least one threshold may be adjusted based on historical data indicative of past use of the aerosol generating device and / or indicative of a user's consumption behavior.

[0203] Alternatively, or in addition, the method may further include calculating at least one threshold value based on historical data indicative of operation of the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol, and adjusting the at least one threshold value based on the amount of energy used in a single use session and the determined amount of energy used in the single use session.

[0204] In one embodiment, the method may further include determining a maximum number of usage sessions that the aerosol generating device can use with a fully charged energy storage unit based on historical data indicating operation of the aerosol generating device to generate aerosol, and adjusting at least one threshold value based on the determined maximum number of usage sessions.

[0205] The method may further include indicating the determined maximum number of usage sessions to a user based on controlling a user interface of the aerosol generating device. For example, a number of LEDs corresponding to the number of usage sessions or experiences available to the user in the current state of the energy storage unit may be illuminated or controlled by the control circuitry.

[0206] The method may further include enabling or allowing use of the aerosol generating device for a subsequent use session regardless of the number of previous use sessions, the aerosol generating device having been used since the previous charging process.

[0207] In one embodiment, at least one threshold may be adjusted and / or changed based on user input.

[0208] Alternatively, or additionally, the method may further include calculating at least one threshold value based on historical data collected from one or more previous usage sessions.

[0209] Alternatively, or in addition, the method may further include determining the amount of energy used during a single suspension of use based on historical data indicating operation of the aerosol generating device in a suspension mode, and adjusting at least one threshold based on the determined amount of energy.

[0210] The method may further include determining the operating condition, age, and / or storage condition of the energy storage unit based on historical data indicative of operation of the aerosol generating device to generate aerosol during one or more usage sessions and / or during one or more pauses in usage or pause modes.

[0211] Optionally, the method may further include calculating at least one threshold value based on data received from a computing device or a receiving device communicatively connectable to the aerosol generating device.

[0212] For example, at least one threshold value may be calculated based on historical data relating to one or more previous use sessions. Alternatively, or additionally, an average energy consumption amount of energy consumed during multiple use sessions may be calculated based on historical data indicative of operation of the aerosol generating device to generate aerosol, and may optionally be used as the threshold value.

[0213] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a computer program which, when executed by an aerosol generating device or an aerosol generating system, instructs the aerosol generating device or system to perform the steps of the methods as described herein above and below.

[0214] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a non-transitory, computer-readable medium, e.g., storing a computer program, which when executed by an aerosol generating device or aerosol generating system, instructs the aerosol generating device or system to perform the steps of the methods as described herein above and below.

[0215] It is emphasized that any feature, step, function, element, technical effect and / or advantage described herein with reference to one aspect applies to any other aspect of the disclosure as well.

[0216] The following provides a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples, any one or more of the features of which may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0217] Example 1a: An aerosol generating article comprising: a control circuit; and an energy storage unit configured to provide electrical energy to the control circuit for generating an aerosol from the aerosol-generating article; The control circuit determining a storage state of the energy storage unit indicative of the amount of electrical energy currently stored and / or available for storage in the energy storage unit; evaluating the determined memory state with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol-generating device, for example, associated with heating of the aerosol-generating article; and enabling or disabling at least one device function based on the evaluation.

[0218] Example 1b: An aerosol-generating article comprising: a control circuit; and an energy storage unit configured to provide electrical energy to the control circuit to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating article; The control circuit determining a storage state of the energy storage unit indicative of at least one of an amount of electrical energy currently stored and an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit; evaluating the determined storage condition with respect to at least one threshold value, wherein the at least one threshold value correlates to a threshold energy required to perform a primary heating function of the aerosol generating device to heat the aerosol-generating article at or above a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol during at least one use session, and to perform at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device different from the primary heating function; and enabling or disabling at least one of a main heating function and at least one auxiliary function based on the evaluation.

[0219] Example 1c: An aerosol-generating article, comprising: a control circuit; and an energy storage unit configured to provide electrical energy to the control circuit to generate an aerosol from the aerosol-generating article; The control circuit determining a storage state, including an operating state, of the energy storage unit, indicating an amount of electrical energy currently available to be stored in the energy storage unit; evaluating the determined memory state with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device; and enabling or disabling at least one device function based on the evaluation.

[0220] Example 1d: An aerosol generating device comprising: a control circuit; and an energy storage unit configured to provide electrical energy to the control circuit for generating an aerosol from the aerosol generating device; The control circuit determining a storage state of the energy storage unit indicative of at least one of an amount of electrical energy currently stored and an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit; evaluating the determined memory state with respect to at least one adjustable threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device; and enabling or disabling at least one device function based on the evaluation.

[0221] Example 1e: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 1d, wherein the energy storage unit is configured to supply electrical energy to one or more aerosol generators to generate an aerosol from at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article connectable to the aerosol generating device.

[0222] Example 1f: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 1e, wherein the energy storage unit is configured to supply electrical energy to at least one heating element to heat at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article connectable to the aerosol generating device.

[0223] Example 1g: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 1f, wherein the control circuitry is operably coupled to the energy storage unit.

[0224] Example 2: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 1g, wherein the determined storage state includes at least one of a current energy level of electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit, and an operating state of the energy storage unit indicating the amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit.

[0225] Example 3: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 2, wherein evaluating the determined memory state comprises comparing the determined memory state with at least one threshold value, and preferably the determined memory state is expressed as a value.

[0226] Example 4: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 3, wherein at least one threshold value indicates a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate the aerosol.

[0227] Example 5: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 4, wherein the control circuit is configured to enable at least one device function when it determines, based on the evaluation, that a current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage is sufficient to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one usage session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol.

[0228] Example 6: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 5, wherein at least one threshold indicates a threshold energy required to perform a primary heating function of the aerosol generating device during at least one use session, and the primary heating function comprises supplying electrical energy to at least one heating element to heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol.

[0229] Example 7: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 6, wherein the control circuit is configured to enable the main heating function when it determines based on the evaluation that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform the main heating function during at least one use session for generating an inhalable aerosol.

[0230] Example 8: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 7, wherein at least one threshold value indicates a threshold energy required to complete a current use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating an aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol, and / or at least one threshold value indicates a threshold energy required to complete a predefined number of use sessions to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating an aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol.

[0231] Example 9: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 8, wherein the control circuit is configured to enable at least one device function when, based on the evaluation, it determines that the current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage is sufficient to complete a current use session and / or to complete a predefined number of use sessions for generating an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate the aerosol.

[0232] Example 10: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 9, wherein at least one threshold value indicates a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one pause in use in a pause mode that interrupts a use session.

[0233] Example 11: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 10, wherein the control circuit is configured to enable at least one device function when it determines, based on the evaluation, that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one pause in use in a pause mode that interrupts a use session.

[0234] Example 12: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 11, wherein at least one threshold value indicates a threshold energy required to perform at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device.

[0235] Example 13: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 12, wherein the control circuit is configured to enable at least one auxiliary device function upon determining, based on the evaluation, that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device.

[0236] Example 14: The auxiliary device function is based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol, and / or is unrelated to or distinct from heating the aerosol-generating device during a use session to generate an aerosol; and / or 14. The aerosol generating device of claim 13, wherein the auxiliary device function is associated with a pause mode that interrupts a usage session.

[0237] Example 15: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 14, wherein the at least one device function comprises at least one of a main heating function of the aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol in at least one use session based on heating an aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol, and at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device that is different from the main heating function.

[0238] Example 16: An auxiliary device function is operating the aerosol generating device at a reduced energy consumption relative to operation during a use session to generate the aerosol; heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol; heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature above room temperature and below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol; heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature above room temperature and below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol for a predetermined period of time; activating or deactivating a tactile control of the aerosol generating device; activating a user interface of the aerosol generating device; operating communication circuitry of the aerosol generating device to communicatively couple the aerosol generating device to a computing device or a receiving device; activating a sensor of the aerosol generating device; 16. The method of any one of Examples 12 to 15, comprising: activating a biometric sensor of the aerosol generating device for user authentication.

[0239] Example 17: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 16, wherein at least one threshold correlates with the threshold energy required to a) perform a primary heating function of the aerosol generating device in at least one use session to generate an aerosol, and b) perform an auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device that is different from the primary heating function of the aerosol generating device.

[0240] Example 18: An aerosol generating device as described in any of Examples 1a to 17, wherein at least one threshold correlates with a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one use session in an aerosol emission mode to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating an aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature, and b) interrupting at least one use session during a use suspension mode.

[0241] Example 19: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 18, wherein the control circuit is configured to enable a) the main heating function of the aerosol generating device during at least one use session to generate an aerosol, and b) at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device that is different from the main heating function of the aerosol generating device, and based on the evaluation, determines that the current energy level of electrical energy that can be stored and / or saved in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform the main heating function and at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device.

[0242] Example 20: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 19, wherein the control circuit is configured to trigger or request recharging of the energy storage unit based on an assessment of the storage state determined with respect to at least one threshold value.

[0243] Example 21: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 20, wherein at least one threshold value represents a percentage of the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, in particular between about 70% and about 100% of the current maximum capacity, preferably at least about 90% of the current maximum capacity.

[0244] Example 22: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 21, wherein determining the storage state includes determining the current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit relative to a current maximum capacity of energy.

[0245] Example 23: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 22, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit.

[0246] Example 24: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 23, wherein at least one threshold value represents an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, in particular a percentage of about 35% to about 75% of the initial maximum capacity.

[0247] Example 25: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 24, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage.

[0248] Example 26: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 25, wherein at least one threshold value indicates a predetermined charging stage reached by the energy storage unit in a previous charging event, in particular a constant voltage stage of a charging voltage of about 3.65 V.

[0249] Example 27: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 26, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine whether the energy storage unit has been charged to a predetermined charging stage in a previous charging event.

[0250] Example 28: Determining the storage state includes determining an operational state of the energy storage; and / or 28. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1a, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine the operating state of the energy storage unit.

[0251] Example 29: The energy storage device according to any one of claims 1a to 28, wherein at least one threshold value indicates a threshold operating state of the energy storage unit and / or a threshold elapsed time.

[0252] Example 30: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 29, wherein determining the storage state comprises determining the lifespan of the energy storage unit.

[0253] Example 31: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 30, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine the operating state of the energy storage unit based on determining one or more of: a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit relative to an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, a number of uses the aerosol generating device has been used to generate aerosol, an operating time the aerosol generating device has operated to generate aerosol, charging data related to charging the energy storage unit in one or more charging cycles, and a total energy consumption of the aerosol generating device.

[0254] Example 32: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 31, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine one or more of: a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit; an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit; a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit relative to the initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit; a number of uses the aerosol generating device has been used to generate aerosol; an operating time the aerosol generating device has operated to generate aerosol; charging data relating to charging the energy storage unit in one or more charging cycles; and a total energy consumption of the aerosol generating device.

[0255] Example 33: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 22, wherein determining the storage state includes determining a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, which indicates the maximum amount of energy that can be stored in the energy storage unit, and determining a current energy level or amount of current energy stored in the energy storage unit.

[0256] Example 34: The at least one threshold includes a first threshold for a current energy level or amount of energy available in the energy storage unit, and a second threshold for a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit indicating a maximum amount of energy currently storable in the energy storage unit; An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 33, wherein the control circuit is configured to compare the determined current energy level with a first threshold and to compare the determined current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit with a second threshold.

[0257] Example 35: At least one threshold is adjustable, and / or 35. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the control circuit is configured to adjust at least one threshold value.

[0258] Example 36: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 35, wherein the control circuit is configured to adjust at least one threshold value based on historical data indicating past use of the aerosol generating device and / or historical data indicating the user's consumption behavior.

[0259] Example 37: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 36, wherein the control circuit is configured to adjust at least one threshold based on historical data indicative of operation of the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol, the amount of energy used in one or more usage sessions, e.g., a single usage session, or the determined amount of energy used in one or more usage sessions, e.g., a single usage session.

[0260] Example 38: At least one threshold value indicates a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol-generating device during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article; and / or 38. The aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1a to 37, wherein at least one threshold value is less than about 95 mAh, preferably about 60 mAh to 85 mAh.

[0261] Example 39: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1a to 38, wherein the control circuit is configured to: determine historical data indicative of the operation of the aerosol generating device to generate aerosol; determine a maximum number of usage sessions that the aerosol generating device can use with a fully charged energy storage unit; and adjust at least one threshold value based on the determined maximum number of usage sessions.

[0262] Example 40: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 39, wherein the control circuit is configured to indicate to the user the determined maximum number of usage sessions based on controlling the user interface of the aerosol generating device.

[0263] Example 41: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 40, wherein the control circuit is configured to enable or allow use of the aerosol generating device for a subsequent use session regardless of any previous use sessions, and the aerosol generating device has been used since a previous charging process.

[0264] Example 42: At least one threshold is adjustable based on user input; and / or 42. An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1a to 41, wherein the control circuitry is configured to change or modify at least one threshold value based on user input.

[0265] Example 43: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 32, wherein at least one threshold is adjustable based on a user input indicating the number of usage sessions per charging cycle of the energy storage unit and / or a user input indicating the duration of one or more usage sessions, for example, a single usage session.

[0266] Example 44: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 43, wherein the control circuit is configured to calculate at least one threshold value based on historical data collected from one or more previous usage sessions.

[0267] Example 45: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 44, wherein the control circuit is configured to calculate at least one threshold value, for example, based on calculating a running average of energy consumption per usage session and / or a current value of the duration of the usage session, based on processing corresponding data elements of the historical data.

[0268] Example 46: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 45, wherein the control circuitry is configured to calculate a current value of the running average of energy expenditure per usage session and / or the duration of the usage session based on preceding or previous values ​​of the running average of energy expenditure per usage session and / or the duration of the usage session, for example as stored in data storage or RAM of the aerosol generating device.

[0269] Example 47: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 46, wherein the control circuit is configured to calculate at least one threshold value based on calculating multiple running averages of the amount of energy consumed during a usage session, the energy consumption per usage session, and / or the duration of a usage session, wherein different running averages differ in the number of usage sessions considered for a particular running average.

[0270] Example 48: The aerosol generating device of any one of claims 1a to 47, wherein the control circuitry is configured to calculate at least one threshold value based on: calculating a first value of a first running average of the energy consumed per usage session and / or the duration of the usage session based on a first number of previous usage sessions; and calculating a second value of a second running average of the energy consumed per usage session and / or the duration of the usage session based on a second number of previous usage sessions, wherein the first number of previous usage sessions is different from the second number of previous usage sessions. In particular, the first number of previous usage sessions may be smaller than the second number of previous usage sessions.

[0271] Example 49: An aerosol generating device as described in Example 48, wherein the first number of previous usage sessions is less than the second number of previous usage sessions.

[0272] Example 50: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 49, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine the amount of energy used during a pause of a single use based on historical data indicating operation of the aerosol generating device in pause mode, and to adjust at least one threshold based on the determined amount of energy.

[0273] Example 51: At least one threshold indicates a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one pause in use that interrupts a use session; and / or 51. The aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 50, wherein at least one threshold value is in the range of about 2 mAh to about 65 mAh.

[0274] Example 52: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 51, wherein at least one threshold value is received from a computing device or receiving device communicatively connectable to the aerosol generating device.

[0275] Example 53: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 52, wherein at least one threshold value indicates the duration or time period of a single usage session.

[0276] Example 54: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 53, wherein at least one threshold value indicates the period or duration of a single suspension of use.

[0277] Example 55: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 54, wherein at least one threshold value represents the average energy expenditure per usage session.

[0278] Example 56: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 55, wherein at least one threshold value indicates the average energy expenditure per pause in use that interrupts a use session.

[0279] Example 57: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 56, wherein the control circuit is configured to calculate at least one threshold value based on historical data and store the calculated at least one threshold value in the data storage of the aerosol generating device.

[0280] Example 58: An aerosol generating device as described in any one of Examples 1a to 57, wherein the control circuitry is configured to retrieve historical data from the aerosol generating device's data storage and / or from an external data source, the historical data indicating one or more of the number of use sessions in which the aerosol generating device has operated to generate aerosol, the aerosol generating device operating in a pause mode that interrupts one or more use sessions, the number of use pauses and the duration of the one or more use sessions, the duration of the one or more use pauses that interrupt one or more use sessions, energy consumption during the one or more use sessions, energy consumption during the one or more use pauses, total energy consumption, charging data related to charging the energy storage unit in one or more charge cycles, energy remaining in the energy storage unit before recharging in one or more charge cycles, and energy consumption per use session.

[0281] Example 59: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 58, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine the operating state of the energy storage unit based on historical data indicating the operation of the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol.

[0282] Example 60: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 59, wherein the control circuit is configured to calculate at least one threshold value based on data received from a computing device or receiving device communicatively connectable to the aerosol generating device.

[0283] Example 61: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 60, wherein the control circuit is configured to calculate at least one threshold value based on historical data associated with one or more previous usage sessions.

[0284] Example 62: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 61, wherein the control circuit is configured to calculate the average energy consumption of energy consumed during multiple usage sessions based on historical data indicating the operation of the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol.

[0285] Example 63: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 62, further comprising a heating element coupled to the energy storage unit and configured to heat the aerosol-generating article.

[0286] Example 64: An aerosol generating device described in any one of Examples 1a to 63, wherein the aerosol generating device is connectable to an aerosol generating article including at least one heating element, and the energy storage unit is configured to supply electrical energy to the at least one heating element of the aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol.

[0287] Example 64a: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 63, wherein the aerosol comprises nicotine.

[0288] Example 65: An aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 64a, and an aerosol-generating article connectable or connected to an aerosol-generating device, optionally for generating an aerosol from at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article based on heating at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article.

[0289] Example 65a: The aerosol-generating system of Example 65, wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-generating substrate that includes nicotine.

[0290] Example 66: Use of an aerosol generating device according to any one of Examples 1a to 64a or an aerosol generating system according to Example 65 or 65a to generate an aerosol.

[0291] Example 67a: A method of operating an aerosol generating device comprising an energy storage unit configured to supply electrical energy to a control circuit operable to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article, the method comprising: determining, with the control circuitry, a storage state of the energy storage unit indicative of the amount of electrical energy currently stored and / or available for storage in the energy storage unit; evaluating the determined memory state with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol-generating device, in particular associated with heating of the aerosol-generating article; and enabling or disabling at least one device function, for example, a primary heating function and / or at least one auxiliary device function, based on the evaluation.

[0292] Example 67b: A method of operating an aerosol generating device including an energy storage unit configured to provide electrical energy to a control circuit for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article, comprising: determining, with control circuitry, a storage state of the energy storage unit indicative of at least one of an amount of electrical energy currently stored and an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit; evaluating the determined storage condition with respect to at least one threshold value, the at least one threshold value correlating with a threshold energy required to perform a primary heating function of the aerosol generating device to heat the aerosol-generating article at or above a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol during at least one use session, and to perform at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device different from the primary heating function; and enabling or disabling at least one of the primary heating function and the at least one auxiliary device function based on the evaluation.

[0293] Example 67c: A method of operating an aerosol generating device including an energy storage unit configured to provide electrical energy to a control circuit for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article, comprising: determining, with a control circuit, a storage state, including an operating state, of the energy storage unit, indicative of an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit; evaluating the determined memory state with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device; and enabling or disabling at least one device feature based on the evaluation.

[0294] Example 67d: A method of operating an aerosol generating device including an energy storage unit configured to provide electrical energy to a control circuit for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article, comprising: determining, with control circuitry, a storage state of the energy storage unit indicative of at least one of an amount of electrical energy currently stored and an amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit; evaluating the determined storage condition with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device, wherein the at least one threshold is adjustable; and and enabling or disabling at least one device feature based on the evaluation.

[0295] Example 67e: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 67d, wherein the energy storage unit is configured to supply electrical energy to a heating element to heat an aerosol-generating article connectable to the aerosol-generating device.

[0296] Example 67f: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 67e, wherein the control circuitry is operably coupled to the energy storage unit.

[0297] Example 67e: A method described in any one of Examples 67a to 67d, wherein the energy storage unit is configured to supply electrical energy to one or more aerosol generators to generate an aerosol from at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article connectable to the aerosol-generating device.

[0298] Example 67f: A method described in any one of Examples 67a to 67e, wherein the energy storage unit is configured to supply electrical energy to at least one heating element to heat at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article connectable to an aerosol-generating device.

[0299] Example 67g: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 67f, wherein the control circuitry is operably coupled to the energy storage unit.

[0300] Example 68: The method described in any one of Examples 67a to 67g, wherein determining the storage state includes determining at least one of a current energy level of the electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit and an operating state of the energy storage unit that indicates the amount of electrical energy currently available to be stored in the energy storage unit.

[0301] Example 69: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 68, wherein evaluating the determined memory state comprises comparing the determined memory state to at least one threshold value.

[0302] Example 70: A method according to any one of Examples 67a to 69, wherein at least one device function is stored in the energy storage unit based on evaluation and / or the current energy level of the storable electrical energy is sufficient to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature.

[0303] Example 71: A method described in any one of Examples 67a to 70, further comprising enabling a primary heating function when, based on the evaluation, it is determined that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage device is sufficient to perform the primary heating function during at least one use session for generating an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature.

[0304] Example 72: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 71, further comprising enabling at least one device function when, based on the evaluation, it is determined that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to complete a current use session and / or to complete a predefined number of use sessions to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature.

[0305] Example 73: A method described in any one of Examples 67a to 72, further comprising enabling at least one device function when, based on the evaluation, it is determined that the current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to operate the aerosol generating device during at least one break in use in a sleep mode that interrupts a use session.

[0306] Example 74: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 73, further comprising enabling at least one auxiliary device function when, based on the evaluation, it is determined that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage device is sufficient to perform at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device.

[0307] Example 75: A method according to any one of claims 67a to 74, further comprising enabling at least one of a main heating function of the aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol in at least one use session and at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device, different from the main heating function and / or different from heating the aerosol generating device during the use session, for generating an aerosol based on heating an aerosol-generating article to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature.

[0308] Example 76: Operating an aerosol generating device at reduced energy consumption relative to operation during a use session to generate an aerosol; heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol; heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature above room temperature and below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol for a predetermined period of time; heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature above room temperature and below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol for a predetermined period of time; activating a user interface of the aerosol generating device; operating communication circuitry of the aerosol generating device to communicatively couple the aerosol generating device to a computing device or a receiving device; activating a sensor of the aerosol generating device; The method of any one of Examples 67a to 75, comprising operating a biometric sensor of the aerosol generating device for user authentication.

[0309] Example 77: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 76, comprising enabling a) a primary heating function of the aerosol generating device in at least one use session to generate an aerosol, and b) at least one auxiliary function of the aerosol generating device that is different from the primary heating function of the aerosol generating device, and further comprising enabling the primary heating function of the aerosol generating device and b) at least one auxiliary function of the aerosol generating device that is different from the primary heating function of the aerosol generating device when, based on the evaluation, it is determined that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform the primary heating function and the at least one auxiliary function of the aerosol generating device. Example 78: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 77, further comprising triggering recharging of the energy storage unit based on an assessment of the storage state determined with respect to at least one threshold.

[0310] Example 79: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 78, wherein determining the storage state includes determining a current energy level of electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit relative to a current maximum capacity of energy.

[0311] Example 80: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 79, further comprising determining an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit.

[0312] Example 81: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 80, further comprising determining whether the energy storage unit was charged to a predetermined charge stage in a previous charging event.

[0313] Example 82: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 81, wherein determining the storage condition comprises determining the age of the energy storage.

[0314] Example 83: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 82, further comprising determining one or more of: a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit; a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit relative to an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit; a number of usage sessions in which the aerosol generation device has been used to generate aerosol; an operating time in which the aerosol generation device has been operated to generate aerosol; charging data relating to charging the energy storage unit in one or more charging cycles; and a total energy consumption of the aerosol generation device. Example 84: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 83, wherein determining the storage state includes determining a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, which indicates the maximum amount of energy that can be stored in the energy storage unit, and determining a current energy level or amount of electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit.

[0315] Example 85: The at least one threshold includes a first threshold for a current energy level or amount of energy available in the energy storage unit, and a second threshold for a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit indicating a maximum amount of energy currently storable in the energy storage unit; comparing the determined current energy level to a first threshold; 85. The method of any one of Examples 67a-84, comprising comparing the determined current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit to a second threshold.

[0316] Example 86: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 85, further comprising adjusting at least one threshold.

[0317] Example 87: A method described in any one of Examples 67a to 86, further comprising adjusting at least one threshold based on historical data indicating past use of the aerosol generating device and / or historical data indicating the user's consumption behavior.

[0318] Example 88: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 87, further comprising operating the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol, calculating at least one threshold value based on historical data indicating the amount of energy used in one or more use sessions, preferably a single use session, and adjusting the at least one threshold value based on the determined amount of energy used in the one or more use sessions, preferably a single use session.

[0319] Example 89: The method described in any one of Examples 67a to 88, further comprising determining a maximum number of usage sessions that the aerosol generating device can use with a fully charged energy storage unit based on historical data indicating operation of the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol, and adjusting at least one threshold value based on the determined maximum number of usage sessions.

[0320] Example 90: A method described in any one of Examples 67a to 89, further comprising indicating to the user the determined maximum number of usage sessions based on controlling the user interface of the aerosol generating device.

[0321] Example 91: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 90, further comprising enabling or realizing use of the aerosol generating device for a subsequent use session regardless of the number of previous use sessions, wherein the aerosol generating device has been used since the previous charging process.

[0322] Example 92: The method described in any one of Examples 67a to 91, wherein at least one threshold is adjusted based on user input.

[0323] Example 93: The method described in any one of Examples 67a to 92, further comprising calculating at least one threshold value based on historical data collected from one or more previous usage sessions.

[0324] Example 94: A method described in any one of Examples 67a to 93, further comprising determining the amount of energy used during one or more suspensions of use, preferably during one suspension of use, based on historical data indicating operation of the aerosol generating device in a suspension mode, and adjusting at least one threshold based on the determined amount of energy.

[0325] Example 95: The method described in any one of Examples 67a to 94, further comprising receiving at least one threshold value from a computing device or receiving device communicatively coupled to the aerosol generating device.

[0326] Example 96: The method described in any one of Examples 67a to 95, further comprising calculating at least one threshold value based on historical data and storing the calculated at least one threshold value in the data storage of the aerosol generating device.

[0327] Example 97: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 96, further comprising processing historical data indicating one or more of: the number of use sessions in which the aerosol generating device has operated to generate aerosol; the aerosol generating device operating in a pause mode that interrupts one or more use sessions; the number of use pauses and the duration of the one or more use sessions; the duration of the one or more use pauses that interrupt one or more use sessions; energy consumption during the one or more use sessions; energy consumption during the one or more use pauses; total energy consumption; charging data related to charging the energy storage unit in one or more charge cycles; energy remaining in the energy storage unit before recharging in one or more charge cycles; and energy consumption per use session.

[0328] Example 98: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 97, further comprising determining the operational state of the energy storage unit based on historical data indicating operation of the aerosol generating device to generate the aerosol.

[0329] Example 99: A method described in any one of Examples 67a to 98, further comprising calculating at least one threshold value based on data received from a computing device or receiving device communicatively coupled to the aerosol generating device.

[0330] Example 100: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 99, further comprising calculating at least one threshold value based on historical data associated with one or more previous usage sessions.

[0331] Example 101: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 100, further comprising calculating an average energy expenditure of energy consumed during multiple use sessions based on historical data indicating operation of the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol.

[0332] Example 101a The method of any one of Examples 67a-101, wherein the aerosol comprises nicotine.

[0333] Example 101b: The method of any one of Examples 67a to 110a, wherein the aerosol-generating article comprises an aerosol-generating substrate that includes nicotine.

[0334] Example 102: A computer program that, when executed by an aerosol generating device or an aerosol generating system, instructs the aerosol generating device or system to perform the steps of the method according to any one of Examples 67a to 101b.

[0335] Example 103: A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing a computer program according to Example 102.

[0336] The embodiments will now be further described with reference to the following figures: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0337] [Figure 1]FIG. 1 shows an aerosol generating device and an aerosol generating system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary charging profile for the energy storage of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows the change over time of the energy storage section of the aerosol generator. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 illustrates one or more methods of operating one or more aerosol generating devices.

[0338] The figures are only schematic and are not to true scale. As a rule, identical or similar parts, elements and / or steps are given identical or similar reference signs in the figures.

[0339] Figure 1 illustrates an exemplary aerosol-generating device 100. The aerosol-generating device 100 in Figure 1 is illustratively shown as part of an aerosol-generating system 1000 that includes optional components such as an aerosol-generating article 200, a companion device 300, a mobile device 400, and a computing device 500. It should be noted that the aerosol-generating device 100 can operate as a standalone device 100 without including any of the components 200, 300, 400, 500 of the system 1000.

[0340] The aerosol generating device 100 includes one or more energy storage units 102 for storing electrical energy and / or providing electrical energy for generating aerosol. The one or more energy storage units may be one or more batteries (e.g., lithium-ion batteries). When the energy storage unit(s) 102 are batteries, the cathode material may include lithium cobalt oxide (LCO), lithium manganese oxide (LMO), lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC), lithium iron phosphate (LFP), and / or lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA). The anode material may include carbon (e.g., graphite), silicon, and / or lithium titanate oxide (LTO).

[0341] 1 includes at least a portion of a heating circuit 104 having at least one heating element 106 for heating at least a portion of an aerosol-generating article 200 connectable to the aerosol-generating device 100. Of course, it should be noted that the heating circuit 104 and heating element 106 are optional. Alternatively, or additionally, at least a portion or the entire heating circuit 104, heating device 104, and / or heating element 106 may be integrated or disposed within the aerosol-generating article 200.

[0342] Also, it should be noted that the heating element 106 is shown in Figure 1 for illustrative purposes only as an induction coil configured to inductively heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 200, e.g., a susceptor material disposed within the aerosol-generating substrate 202 of the aerosol-generating article 200. Alternatively, or additionally, at least one heating element 106 may be configured for one or more of resistive heating and microwave heating.

[0343] 1 as having a rod-like or tubular shape and as being at least partially insertable through an opening 105 in a housing 107 of the aerosol-generating device 100, e.g., into a heated chamber 109 of the aerosol-generating device 100. In other exemplary designs, the aerosol-generating article 200 may be formed as a container or cartridge that may be fixedly integrated into the aerosol-generating device 100 or that may be connectable to the device 100.

[0344] The aerosol generating device 100 further comprises a control circuit 110 or device control circuit 110 operatively coupled to the energy storage unit 102. The control circuit 110 may comprise one or more processors 112 for data processing. The control circuit 110 may comprise a microcontroller comprising a processor, memory, and input / output means.

[0345] Additionally, optionally, the aerosol generating device 100 and / or control circuit 110 include data storage 114 for storing data such as, for example, the energy storage status, one or more thresholds associated with at least one device function, and / or historical data indicative of one or more past usage sessions and / or suspensions of usage, as described in more detail above and below in this specification.

[0346] Alternatively, or in addition, software instructions may be stored in the data storage 114 which, when executed by the control circuitry 112, instruct the aerosol generating device 100 to perform one or more functions of the device 100, as described above and below in this specification. The aerosol generating device 100 optionally includes a user interface 120 for receiving one or more user inputs from a user, for example, for operating the aerosol generating device 100 to generate aerosol. The user interface 120 is illustrated as a button in Figure 1. Any other type of user interface 120, such as an acoustic interface, a tactile interface, a touch interface, a display, an arrangement of one or more LEDs, etc., may alternatively or additionally be included in the aerosol generating device 100.

[0347] Further, optionally, the aerosol generating device 100 includes a communication interface or circuitry 130 for communicatively coupling the aerosol generating device 100 to one or more optional components of the aerosol generating system 1000, particularly one or more of the companion device 300, the mobile device 400, and the computing device 500.

[0348] One or more communication interface types or protocols may be implemented in the aerosol generating device 100 and its communication interface or circuitry 130. In particular, the communication interface or circuitry 130 may be configured for one or both of wired and wireless communication with one or more of the computing device 500, the mobile device 400, and the companion device 300. For example, the communication interface 130 may be based on one or more of BUS communication, cable communication, Bluetooth communication, wireless local area network communication, infrared communication, near field communication, Internet communication, or any other suitable type of communication or communication protocol.

[0349] The aerosol generating device 100 may optionally be at least partially inserted into a companion device 300 to charge the energy storage unit 102 and / or to store the aerosol generating device 100. Charging may be based on inductive charging, for example, or may be via an electrical connection.

[0350] The aerosol-generating device 100 and / or control circuitry 110 are configured to provide electrical energy to at least one heating element 106 to heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 200 .

[0351] Additionally, the device control circuitry 110 may be configured to determine a storage state of the energy storage unit 102, which is indicative of at least one of the amount of electrical energy currently stored and the amount of electrical energy currently storable within the energy storage unit 102. Additionally, the control circuitry 110 may be configured to evaluate the determined storage state with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device 100, for example, related to heating of the aerosol-generating article. Additionally, the control circuitry 110 may be configured to enable or disable at least one device function of the aerosol generating device 100 based on the evaluation.

[0352] Alternatively or additionally, the control circuitry 110 may be configured to determine a storage state of the energy storage unit 102 indicating at least one of the amount of electrical energy currently stored and the amount of electrical energy currently available to be stored in the energy storage unit, and to evaluate the determined storage state with respect to at least one threshold value, the at least one threshold value correlating with a threshold energy required to perform a primary heating function of the aerosol generating device 100 to heat the aerosol-generating article 200 above a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol in at least one use session, and to perform at least one auxiliary function of the aerosol generating device 100 different from the primary heating function. The control circuitry 110 may further be configured to enable or disable at least one of the primary heating function and the at least one auxiliary function of the aerosol generating device 100 based on the evaluation.

[0353] Alternatively, or in addition, the control circuit 110 may be configured to determine a storage state, including an operating state, of the energy storage unit 102 indicating the amount of electrical energy currently available to be stored in the energy storage unit, evaluate the determined storage state with respect to at least one threshold value associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device 100, and enable or disable at least one device function of the aerosol generating device 100 based on the evaluation.

[0354] Alternatively or additionally, the control circuit 110 may be configured to determine a storage status of the energy storage unit 102 indicating at least one of the amount of electrical energy currently stored and the amount of electrical energy currently storable in the energy storage unit 102, and to evaluate the determined storage status with respect to at least one threshold value associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device 100, at least the threshold value being adjustable. Furthermore, the control circuit 110 may be configured to enable or disable at least one device function of the aerosol generating device 100 based on the evaluation.

[0355] Below, various exemplary designs and configurations of the aerosol generating device 100 are described and summarized. In one embodiment, the determined storage state includes at least one of a current energy level of electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit and an operating state of the energy storage unit, which indicates the amount of electrical energy currently available to be stored in the energy storage unit. For example, the control circuit 110 may compare the determined storage state to a threshold value.

[0356] For example, the at least one threshold value may represent a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol-generating device 100 during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article 100 to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate the aerosol. Alternatively, or additionally, the at least one threshold value may represent a threshold energy required to perform a primary heating function of the aerosol-generating device 100 during at least one use session, the primary heating function comprising supplying electrical energy to the at least one heating element 106 to heat at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article 200 to a temperature equal to or greater than a predetermined heating temperature to generate the aerosol.

[0357] For example, at least one threshold may indicate a threshold energy required to complete a current use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating the aerosol-generating article 200 to a temperature above a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol.

[0358] Alternatively, or in addition, at least one threshold may indicate a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol generating device 100 during at least one pause in use in a pause mode that interrupts a use session.

[0359] Alternatively, or in addition, the at least one threshold may indicate a threshold energy required to perform at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device. The auxiliary device function may be unrelated to or different from generating an aerosol based on heating the aerosol generating device during a use session to heat the aerosol-generating article to a temperature above a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol. Alternatively, or in addition, the auxiliary device function may be associated with a pause mode that interrupts a use session.

[0360] In some cases, the auxiliary device functions may include one or more of: operating the aerosol generating device with reduced energy consumption relative to operation during a use session to generate aerosol; heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature above room temperature and below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol; heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature above room temperature and below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol; heating at least one heating element and / or aerosol-generating article to a temperature above room temperature and below a heating temperature sufficient to generate an aerosol for a predetermined period of time; activating or deactivating tactile controls of the aerosol generating device; operating a user interface of the aerosol generating device; operating communication circuitry of the aerosol generating device to communicatively couple the aerosol generating device to a computing device or receiving device; operating a sensor of the aerosol generating device; and operating a biometric sensor of the aerosol generating device for user authentication.

[0361] In one embodiment, the at least one threshold correlates to a) a threshold energy required to perform a primary heating function of the aerosol generation device during at least one use session to generate an aerosol, and b) a threshold energy required to perform an auxiliary function of the aerosol generation device different from the primary heating function of the aerosol generation device. The control circuitry 110 may be configured to enable a) the primary heating function of the aerosol generation device during at least one use session to generate an aerosol, and b) at least one auxiliary function of the aerosol generation device different from the primary heating function of the aerosol generation device when, based on the evaluation, it determines that the current energy level of the electrical energy stored and / or storable in the energy storage unit is sufficient to perform the primary heating function and at least one auxiliary function of the aerosol generation device.

[0362] In some cases, control circuitry 110 may be configured to trigger or request recharging of energy storage unit 102 based on an evaluation of the memory state determined with respect to at least one threshold.

[0363] Additionally, the control circuit 110 may be configured to determine an operational state of the energy storage unit 102. In some cases, the at least one threshold value may indicate a threshold operational state and / or a threshold age of the energy storage unit 102.

[0364] Further, the control circuit 110 may be configured to determine the operating status of the energy storage unit 102 based on determining one or more of the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit 102, including the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit 102 relative to the initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, the number of usage sessions in which the aerosol generating device 100 has been used to generate aerosol, the operating time in which the aerosol generating device 100 has operated to generate aerosol, charging data related to charging the energy storage unit 102 in one or more charging cycles, and the total energy consumption of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0365] In yet another embodiment, the control circuit 110 may be configured to determine a maximum amount of energy that can be stored in the energy storage unit 102 and a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit 102, which indicates the current energy level or amount of electrical energy currently stored in the energy storage unit 102.

[0366] In some cases, the control circuit 110 may be configured to adjust at least one threshold value based on, for example, one or more user inputs and / or based on historical data indicative of past use of the aerosol generating device and / or indicative of the user's consumption behavior.

[0367] The control circuitry 110 may be configured to calculate the amount of energy used in a single use session based on historical data indicative of operation of the aerosol generating device to generate an aerosol, and to adjust the at least one threshold value based on the determined amount of energy used in the single use session. For example, the at least one threshold value may indicate a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol generating device 100 during at least one use session to generate an inhalable aerosol based on heating of the aerosol-generating article, and the at least one threshold value may be less than about 95 mAh, preferably between about 60 mAh and 85 mAh.

[0368] The control circuit 110 may be configured to determine a maximum number of usage sessions that the aerosol generating device can use with a fully charged energy storage unit 102 based on historical data indicating the operation of the aerosol generating device 100 to further generate aerosol, and to adjust at least one threshold value based on the determined maximum number of usage sessions.

[0369] Optionally, control circuitry 110 may be configured to activate user interface 120 to indicate the determined maximum number of usage sessions to the user.

[0370] Alternatively, or in addition, the control circuitry 110 may be configured to determine the amount of energy used during a single pause in use based on historical data indicating operation of the aerosol generating device 100 in a pause mode, and adjust the at least one threshold value based on the determined amount of energy. For example, the at least one threshold value may indicate a threshold energy required to operate the aerosol generating device 100 during at least one pause in use that interrupts a use session, and the at least one threshold value may be in a range from about 2 mAh to about 65 mAh.

[0371] Continuing with reference to Figure 1 and subsequently to Figures 2 and 3, exemplary features of an exemplary aerosol generation device 100 according to the present disclosure are summarized, which may be implemented alone or in combination with any of the above-described functions of the aerosol generation device 100. Figure 2 shows an exemplary charging profile of the energy storage unit 102 of the aerosol generation device 100, and Figure 3 shows the change in the energy storage unit 102 of the aerosol generation device 100 over time.

[0372] The aerosol generating device 100 includes an energy storage unit 102 and a control circuit 110, as described with reference to FIG. 1 . One of the device functions or auxiliary device functions of the aerosol generating device 100 may be a pause mode, which allows a user to interrupt and resume an ongoing use session without substantial deterioration of the aerosol-generating article 200, for example, due to condensation of vapors within the device 100 or the article 200. As described in detail above, the device 100 may be switched by the user from an aerosol-emitting mode, in which the main heating function of the device 100 may be activated and the heating element 106 may be heated to a predetermined heating temperature and placed in a pause mode, for example, based on activating the user interface 120. During a pause in use or in the pause mode, the temperature of the heating element 106 may be maintained above room temperature and below the predetermined heating temperature.

[0373] Control circuitry 110 of device 100 may be configured to determine whether to allow or enable a pause mode in device 100 based on evaluating the determined storage state of energy storage unit 102 and using at least one threshold associated with the pause mode or device functionality.

[0374] Generally, pause mode allows a user to pause between puffs during a use session. The pauses can range, for example, from a few seconds to several minutes, e.g., 8 or 10 minutes. During a pause in use, the temperature of the substrate 202, the article 200, and / or the heating element 106 may be maintained at a particular level, e.g., a second temperature level, as described herein above. When the pause mode is terminated by the user or otherwise terminated, the temperature is raised to the predetermined heating temperature or first temperature level, allowing the user to continue the experience or use session. Because energy is consumed during pause mode, one or more requirements, criteria, or prerequisites may be considered and preferably met for activation of pause mode to ensure that the energy storage unit 102 has sufficient energy to complete the experience or use session. One or more of these requirements may be defined or included in at least one threshold that is evaluated using the storage state of the energy storage unit 102.

[0375] For example, at least one threshold value indicative of the current capacity of the energy storage unit 102 and / or at least one threshold value indicative of the operating state of the energy storage unit 102 are taken into account by the control circuit 110 and used to evaluate the storage state of the energy storage unit 102.

[0376] In particular, the capacity value of the energy storage unit 102, or the amount of electrical energy currently stored in the energy storage unit 102, may be, for example, at least 60%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, and 100% of its current maximum capacity. Preferably, the capacity value or amount of electrical energy currently stored in the energy storage unit 102 is at least 90%, 95%, and 100% of its current maximum capacity.

[0377] Alternatively, or additionally, the suspend mode may be enabled upon determining that the energy storage unit 102 is fully charged.

[0378] In another embodiment, the control circuit 110 can determine whether a particular charge state was reached in a previous charge cycle. Figure 2 shows an exemplary charging profile for the energy storage unit 102 of the aerosol generating device 100, with charging voltage 150 and charging current 152 profiles shown in arbitrary units versus charging time in arbitrary units.

[0379] In a non-limiting example, the at least one threshold may indicate a predetermined charging stage reached by the energy storage unit in a previous charging event, specifically a constant voltage stage indicated by reference numeral 155 in FIG. 2. The constant voltage stage may be a charging voltage of 3.65 V. Alternatively, or additionally, one or more characteristics related to charging current and charging time may be considered by the control circuit 110 to assess the storage state and / or enable or disable the suspend mode.

[0380] Alternatively, or additionally, control circuitry 110 may be configured to determine a storage condition, including an operating condition, or a storage condition indicative of the age of energy storage device 102. Generally, the current storage capacity of energy storage device 102 or the amount of energy currently stored in energy storage device 102 may decrease over time.

[0381] Figure 3 illustrates the change over time of the energy storage unit 102 of the aerosol generating device 100. The fully charged energy storage unit 102 at the far left of Figure 3 may represent the initial capacity or storage capacity of the energy storage unit 102. As time increases, the current storage capacity of the energy storage unit 102 decreases, as shown by the sequential diagrams from left to right in Figure 3. This may mean that the energy storage unit 102 loses some of its ability to store energy and / or that a fully charged energy storage unit can store less and less energy over time.

[0382] The control circuitry 110 may be configured to determine, based on determining one or more of the number of experiences, the operating status or age of the energy storage unit 102, the total energy consumption, the usage time and current maximum capacity, the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit relative to the initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, the number of usage sessions in which the aerosol generating device was used to generate aerosol, the operating time in which the aerosol generating device operated to generate aerosol, charging data related to charging the energy storage unit in one or more charging cycles, and the total energy consumption of the aerosol generating device.

[0383] Upon reaching and / or exceeding one or more corresponding thresholds for one or more of the aforementioned amounts, pause mode and / or main heating function may be disabled or inhibited.

[0384] The current maximum capacity may be greater than at least 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, and 70% of the initial capacity of the energy storage unit 102. If the current maximum capacity falls below, for example, 50%, 55%, and 60% of the initial capacity, the pause mode and / or main heating function may not be allowed or enabled.

[0385] For example, the initial capacity of the energy storage unit 102 may be approximately 300 mAh. The current maximum capacity is equal to the initial capacity. After repeated cycles (charging and discharging), the energy storage unit 102 ages and the maximum capacity may decrease, as shown in FIG. 3. In this context, the capacity value may refer to the available capacity of the energy storage unit 102.

[0386] The determination of the availability of the pause mode may be determined or checked, for example, at the end of each charging event or when the user removes the device 100 from the companion device 300, at the start of the experience, and during the experience or usage session.

[0387] Upon determining that pause mode can be activated or enabled, control circuitry 110 may activate user interface 120, for example, to indicate or notify a user of the availability of pause mode. For example, an LED may indicate the availability or non-availability of pause mode. Alternatively, or additionally, the availability of pause mode may be indicated based on a change in color of one or more LEDs or elements of user interface 120.

[0388] In some cases, the availability may be indicated in response to a user input, for example, in response to pressing a button or otherwise activating the user interface 120 .

[0389] The capacity of the energy storage unit 102 may be determined or checked at the end of a charging event or when the user removes the device 100 from the companion device 300.

[0390] The control circuit 110 may optionally simulate a fuel gauge in the aerosol generating device 100 and / or request a fuel gauge or charging circuit in the device 100 to check the capacity of or energy stored in the energy storage unit 102, and the current maximum capacity or storage capacity of energy that can be stored in the energy storage unit 102. The control circuit 110 may compare the results from the fuel gauge to determine whether a suspend mode should be allowed. When a user attempts to activate suspend mode (or when the user removes the device 100 from the companion device 300), the control circuit 110 may indicate or operate an indicator that indicates whether suspend mode is allowed or enabled.

[0391] The indicator may be, for example, a visual indicator (e.g., an LED light), an audio indicator, a vibration or tactile indicator, a tactile indicator, or a combination thereof. In particular, a pause symbol with two parallel vertical bars, such as used in media players, may be shown on user interface 120.

[0392] The operating state may be determined or checked at the end of charging or when the user removes the device 100 from the companion device 300. The control circuitry 110 may request data storage, as described above, storing data or historical data related to, for example, the initial battery capacity, the number of experiences or usage sessions, total energy consumption, usage time, etc. The control circuitry 110 may simulate or request a fuel gauge (of the device 100 relative to the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit 102). The control circuitry 110 may further estimate the operating state to determine whether a pause mode should be allowed. When a user attempts to activate pause mode or when the user removes the device 100 from the companion device 300, the control circuitry 110 may indicate or operate an indicator that indicates whether pause mode has been allowed or activated. The indicator may be, for example, a visual indicator (e.g., an LED light), an audio indicator, a vibration or tactile indicator, a tactile indicator, or a combination thereof. In particular, a pause symbol with two parallel vertical bars, such as those used in media players, may be shown on the user interface 120.

[0393] Alternatively, or additionally, an adjustable or variable threshold may be implemented in the aerosol generating device 100, as exemplarily summarized below.

[0394] In a typical conventional device, a fixed threshold or current capacity of energy stored in the energy storage unit 102 is considered to determine whether a usage session or experience can be granted. Also, only a fixed number of usage sessions, such as two, can be granted per fully charged energy storage unit 102. Thus, the user can be notified by the control circuitry 110 whether there is sufficient capacity based on a standard capacity value. If the remaining capacity in the energy storage unit is less than the standard capacity value, the device will advise the user to recharge the device. For example, if the remaining capacity falls below the standard capacity value, e.g., 60 mAh, the device needs to be recharged until it reaches a standard energy value, e.g., 95 mAh, triggering a notification, such as a light, to the user to allow or authorize an additional experience or usage session.

[0395] However, it has been found that the energy required for each usage session or experience may vary depending on the user, since the duration of each experience or usage session may vary. Most users consume a shorter experience and require less than approximately 95 mAh of capacity or energy, for example, approximately 50 to 85 mAh. Using an adjustable threshold to evaluate the storage status, such as the current capacity or energy stored in the energy storage unit 102, allows for flexible response to different needs from different users. Alternatively or additionally, the pause mode may be dynamically enabled or disabled based on the adjustable threshold.

[0396] Rather than being based on a standard or fixed capacity value, such as 95 mAh, a threshold capacity value and / or threshold energy value may be used. The threshold capacity value or threshold energy value may be used to determine whether the device enables the next experience or usage session and / or pause mode. Whether the next experience or usage session is enabled may not depend on the number of credits, experiences, or usage sessions granted on a fully charged energy storage unit 102, or since the last charging event.

[0397] The aerosol generating device 100 comprises a user interface 120, which may function as an indicator, for example, a control circuit 110, and optionally a fuel gauge which may be connected to the energy storage unit .

[0398] The fuel gauge may be simulated and implemented in the control circuit 110. The control circuit 110 may be configured to measure the remaining capacity or energy stored in the energy storage unit 102. The control circuit 110 may be configured to compare the remaining capacity with a threshold energy value to check whether the remaining capacity can provide the threshold energy value. The control circuit 110 may convert the capacity to energy or the energy to capacity to determine whether the remaining capacity is sufficient for the next, e.g., N+1, experience or usage session, and may indicate the result of whether the remaining capacity is sufficient for the next experience using an indicator or user interface 120.

[0399] In this manner, a warning can be provided to a user of the aerosol generating device 100 when there is only enough battery capacity remaining for the next experience or use session.A warning can be provided to a user of the aerosol generating device 100 when there is only enough battery capacity remaining for the next experience or use session.

[0400] The threshold capacity or energy value can be obtained in various ways: for example, (a) a capacity value of 85 mAh may be fixed or 0.272 mWh at a nominal voltage of 3.2 V may be used, (b) the value may be input by a user via an interactive platform, for example, using computing device 500 or mobile device 400, and / or (c) may be calculated according to historical data collected from previous experience(s) and / or usage session(s).

[0401] If the remaining capacity or energy is above a threshold, for example above 85 mAh or above 0.272 mWh, control circuit 110 enables the next experience or usage session.

[0402] For example, an interactive platform, such as an app, may be provided to the user, allowing the user to review usage and historical data, such as the length of each experience or usage session, and / or input the desired duration of the experience or usage session (e.g., 7 minutes). Either the interactive platform or the control circuitry 110 of the apparatus 100 may calculate a threshold capacity value or a threshold energy value. In the former case, the threshold energy value and / or threshold capacity value may be transmitted to the device 100.

[0403] Alternatively or additionally, the aerosol generating device 100 may collect historical data, such as energy consumption during each previous experience or use session, capacity consumption during each previous experience or use session, recharging, time to charge, battery level, charger type, etc., and calculate at least one threshold value, e.g., reflecting the appropriate amount of energy or capacity required for a single experience or use session, wherein the threshold energy value may be calculated as the average energy consumption and, optionally, the standard deviation.

[0404] Alternatively, or additionally, the threshold energy value may be based on energy consumed in one or more experiences or usage sessions. For example, this may be based on the first experience since the last full charge, or on two or more previous experiences or usage sessions, or on 16-20 or more previous experiences or usage sessions.

[0405] Alternatively, or in addition, the aerosol generating device 10 may calculate a threshold volume value or appropriate volume amount required for a single experience or use session, wherein the threshold volume value may be calculated as the average volume consumption and, optionally, the standard deviation.

[0406] Historical data may be stored in the data storage or memory of the aerosol generating device 100, for example in the form of a record of energy consumed in previous usage sessions and / or volume consumed in previous usage sessions.

[0407] As described above, device 100 allows a user to pause between puffs in a single experience or use session and switch device 100 to pause mode. During pause mode, energy or capacity may be used to hold aerosol-generating article or article 200 at a specified temperature above room temperature, thereby consuming energy or capacity. The energy or capacity for the experience or use session and the energy or capacity for pausing may be stored separately in the historical data.

[0408] For example, control circuitry 110 may calculate average energy consumption as the average energy of the previous use sessions, or the average energy of the energy for the previous use sessions, and the energy for pausing during one or more use pauses. Alternatively, or additionally, average capacity consumption may be calculated as the average capacity of the previous use sessions, or the average capacity of the capacity for the previous use sessions, and the average capacity for pausing during one or more use pauses.

[0409] In some cases, the calculated energy or capacity threshold is independent of a charging event. Alternatively, or additionally, the energy or capacity threshold may be dependent on a charging event. For example, after fully charging the energy storage unit 102, the user may enjoy a first experience and a second experience or usage session. The user fully recharges the battery and enjoys a third experience. Whether the user can enjoy a fourth experience depends only on the data from the third experience or usage session.

[0410] Control circuitry 110 of device 100 may determine whether the remaining capacity in energy storage 102 is greater than a threshold energy value. In particular, control circuitry 110 may determine whether a next usage session can be granted at the end of usage session (N). The results may be communicated to the user, for example, using user interface 120, as to whether the user can be granted an N+1 experience or usage session.

[0411] If energy is used for the comparison, control circuitry 110 may extract historical data from the memory or data storage of device 100 and calculate a threshold energy value according to past experiences or usage sessions, as described above. Control circuitry 110 may request or simulate a fuel gauge to determine the remaining capacity or energy stored in energy storage unit 102. Control circuitry 110 may optionally convert the energy value to a capacity value. One or more of the current energy or capacity of energy storage unit 102 may then be compared with one or more corresponding thresholds to determine whether the next usage session and / or pause mode is permitted. The results may be communicated via an indicator or user interface 120, such as a visual indicator (e.g., an LED light), an audio indicator, a vibration or tactile indicator, or a tactile indicator.

[0412] Alternatively, or in addition, the control circuit 110 may extract historical data from memory or data storage and calculate a threshold energy value according to past experiences or usage sessions, for example, 16 to 20 experiences. The control circuit 110 may simulate or request a fuel gauge to determine the remaining capacity. In some cases, the threshold energy value may be converted to a threshold capacity value and compared with the remaining capacity to determine whether the next experience or usage session is acceptable. The result may be communicated via an indicator or user interface 120, for example, a visual indicator (e.g., an LED light), an audio indicator, a vibration or tactile indicator, or a tactile indicator.

[0413] If capacity is used for comparison, control circuit 110 may extract historical data from memory or data storage and calculate a threshold capacity value according to past experiences or usage sessions, for example, 16 to 20 experiences. Control circuit 110 may simulate or request a fuel gauge to determine the remaining stored capacity or energy. Control circuit 110 may compare the remaining capacity with the threshold capacity value to determine whether to enable the next experience or usage session. The result may be communicated by an indicator or user interface 120, for example, a visual indicator (e.g., an LED light), an audio indicator, a vibration or tactile indicator, or a tactile indicator.

[0414] FIG. 4 illustrates one or more methods of operating one or more aerosol generating devices, such as aerosol generating device 100 described with reference to any one or more of the previous figures.

[0415] In step S1, the storage state of the energy storage unit 102, which indicates the amount of electrical energy currently stored and / or available to be stored in the energy storage unit 102, is determined by the control circuit 110.

[0416] In step S2, the determined storage condition is evaluated with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol-generating device 100, in particular associated with heating of the aerosol-generating article 200.

[0417] Alternatively or additionally, step S2 may include evaluating the determined memory state with respect to at least one threshold value, the at least one threshold value correlating with the threshold energy required to perform the primary heating function of the aerosol generating device 100 to heat the aerosol generating article 200 at or above a predetermined heating temperature to generate an aerosol in at least one use session, and correlating with a step for performing at least one auxiliary device function of the aerosol generating device 100 that is different from the primary heating function.

[0418] Alternatively, or in addition, step S2 may include using the control circuit 110 to determine a storage state, including an operating state, of the energy storage unit 102, which indicates the amount of electrical energy currently available to be stored in the energy storage unit 102.

[0419] Alternatively, or additionally, step S2 may include evaluating the determined storage condition with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device 100, wherein the at least one threshold is adjustable.

[0420] In step S3, at least one device function of the aerosol generating device 100, for example, a main heating function and / or at least one auxiliary device function, is enabled or disabled based on the evaluation.

[0421] Alternatively, or additionally, step S3 may include enabling or disabling at least one of the main heating function and the at least one auxiliary device function based on the evaluation.

[0422] It should be noted that any one or more features, functions, and configurations of the aerosol generating device 100 as described herein above may be implemented as optional, supplemental, or alternative steps in the method of FIG.

[0423] For purposes of this specification and the appended claims, unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing amounts, quantities, percentages, and the like are to be understood in all instances as modified by the term "about" or "substantially." Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein. Thus, in this context, the number A is understood as A ± 20% of A. Within this context, the number A may be considered to include values ​​within the normal standard error for the measurement of the property for which the number A varies. Also, all ranges include the disclosed maximum and minimum points, and include any intermediate ranges therein, which may or may not be specifically recited herein.

[0424] While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such illustration and description is exemplary or representative and not restrictive, and the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art and by practice of the invention, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

[0425] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting their scope.

Claims

1. 1. An aerosol generating device comprising: a control circuit; and an energy storage unit configured to supply electrical energy to the control circuit for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-generating article, The control circuit determining a storage state including an operating state of the energy storage unit, the storage state indicating an amount of electrical energy currently available to be stored in the energy storage unit; evaluating the determined storage condition with respect to at least one threshold associated with at least one device function of the aerosol generating device; The aerosol generating device is configured to enable or disable at least one device function based on the evaluation.

2. 2. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the at least one threshold value indicates a threshold operating condition and / or an age threshold of the energy storage unit.

3. 3. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein determining the storage state includes determining the life of the energy storage unit.

4. 4. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine the operating state of the energy storage unit based on one or more of: determining a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit; the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit relative to an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit; the number of usage sessions used by the aerosol generating device to generate aerosol; the operating time for which the aerosol generating device has operated to generate aerosol; charging data related to charging of the energy storage unit in one or more charging cycles; and the total energy consumption of the aerosol generating device.

5. 5. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine one or more of the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, the initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit relative to the initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, the number of usage sessions used by the aerosol generating device to generate aerosol, the operating time the aerosol generating device has operated to generate aerosol, charging data related to charging the energy storage unit in one or more charging cycles, and the total energy consumption of the aerosol generating device.

6. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein determining the storage state includes determining a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, which indicates the maximum amount of energy that can be stored in the energy storage unit, and determining a current energy level or amount of electrical energy currently stored in the energy storage unit.

7. the at least one threshold value includes a first threshold value related to a current energy level or amount of energy available in the energy storage unit, and a second threshold value related to a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, the second threshold value indicating a maximum amount of energy currently storable in the energy storage unit; An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control circuit is configured to compare the determined current energy level with the first threshold value and to compare the determined current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit with the second threshold value.

8. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the control circuit is configured to trigger or request recharging of the energy storage unit based on the evaluation of the determined storage state against the at least one threshold value.

9. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one threshold value represents a percentage of the current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, preferably at least about 90% of the current maximum capacity.

10. An aerosol generating device as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein determining the storage state includes determining the current energy level of electrical energy stored in and / or storable in the energy storage unit relative to a current maximum capacity of the energy.

11. 11. An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine a current maximum capacity of the energy storage unit.

12. 12. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one threshold value represents a percentage of the initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit, in particular between about 35% and about 75% of the initial maximum capacity.

13. 13. An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine an initial maximum capacity of the energy storage unit.

14. the at least one threshold value indicating a predetermined charge stage reached by the energy storage unit in a previous charging event; 14. An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the control circuit is configured to determine whether the energy storage unit has been charged to the predetermined charging stage in a previous charging event.

15. 1. An aerosol generating system comprising: An aerosol generating device according to any one of claims 1 to 14; an aerosol-generating article connectable to or connected to the aerosol-generating device, and which generates an aerosol from at least a portion of the aerosol-generating article;

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