Heat Not Burn (HNB) aerosol generator and capsule

Abstract

The heat-not-burn aerosol generating device includes a housing defining a capsule-receiving cavity and a lid fixedly coupled to the housing in a first position and releasably coupled to the housing in a second position different from the first position. The lid is configured to cover the capsule-receiving cavity in a closed position. The lid includes a first retainer and an interchangeable mouthpiece coupleable to the lid such that air drawn into the housing and through the capsule-receiving cavity exits through the interchangeable mouthpiece. The mouthpiece includes a second retainer configured to engage with the first retainer to releasably secure the interchangeable mouthpiece to the lid.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to heat not burn (HNB) aerosol generating devices and capsules configured to generate aerosols without substantial thermal decomposition of the aerosol-forming substrate. [Background technology]

[0002] Some electronic devices are configured to heat plant material to a temperature sufficient to release components of the plant material, while maintaining the temperature below the plant material's combustion point to avoid substantial thermal decomposition. Such devices are sometimes referred to as aerosol generating devices (e.g., heat-not-burn aerosol generating devices), and the heated plant material may be tobacco and / or cannabis. In some cases, the plant material may be introduced directly into the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device. In other embodiments, the plant material may be pre-packaged in individual containers for easy insertion and removal from the aerosol generating device. Summary of the Invention

[0003] At least some exemplary embodiments relate to a heat not burn aerosol generating device.

[0004] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a heat-not-burn aerosol generating device may include a housing defining a capsule-receiving cavity and a lid fixedly coupled to the housing in a first position and releasably coupled to the housing in a second position different from the first position. The lid may be configured to cover the capsule-receiving cavity in a closed position. The lid may include a first retaining portion coupleable to the lid and an interchangeable mouthpiece such that air drawn into the housing and through the capsule-receiving cavity exits through the interchangeable mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may include a second retaining portion configured to engage with the first retaining portion to releasably secure the interchangeable mouthpiece to the lid.

[0005] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first retaining portion can include a retaining bar and the second retaining portion can include a clip defining a notch therein. The notch can be configured to receive the retaining bar.

[0006] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece can define a first channel extending through the interchangeable mouthpiece from the first mouthpiece end to the second mouthpiece end.

[0007] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heat not burn aerosol generating device can further include a seal defining a second opening, and the seal can be configured to engage the second mouthpiece end such that the first opening and the second opening are at least partially aligned.

[0008] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the seal includes a first surface and a second surface.

[0009] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first surface can contact the second mouthpiece end, and the second surface can include a ramp (chamfer) centrally located along the second surface, which can be configured to engage a capsule in the capsule-receiving cavity and bias the capsule into the capsule-receiving cavity when the lid moves from the open position to the closed position.

[0010] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heat not burn aerosol generating device can further include a ledge on a surface of the replaceable mouthpiece. The ledge can be adjacent to an end of the second mouthpiece. The ledge can be configured to position the replaceable mouthpiece relative to the lid. The first and second retaining portions can be configured to couple the replaceable mouthpiece to the lid.

[0011] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the housing can include an outer wall and an inner wall, and the outer wall and the inner wall can define an air passage therebetween.

[0012] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the air passage can extend from the bottom of the housing to a manifold, which can be in fluid communication with the capsule-receiving cavity.

[0013] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heat not burn aerosol generating device can further include at least one air inlet defined in a bottom portion of the housing, the at least one air inlet being in fluid communication with the air passageway.

[0014] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heat not burn aerosol generating device can further include a magnetic sensor within the housing.

[0015] In at least one embodiment, the lid can include a magnet that can be configured to align with a magnetic sensor in the housing when the lid is in the closed position.

[0016] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the top surface of the portion of the housing defining the capsule receiving cavity may be recessed toward the capsule receiving cavity to expose a portion of the capsule received within the capsule receiving cavity.

[0017] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the bottom surface of the lid may engage with an engagement surface of the housing when in the closed position, and the portion of the housing that defines the capsule receiving cavity may extend from the level of the engagement surface toward the replaceable mouthpiece when the lid is in the closed position.

[0018] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the portion of the housing that defines the capsule-receiving cavity may have a mesa shape relative to the mating surface.

[0019] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heat-not-burn aerosol generating device may further include a lid latch assembly. The lid latch assembly may include a lid latch provided on an inner surface of the lid, a latch button provided on a side of the housing, a latch button arm extending from the inner surface of the latch button, an inner latch lever pivotally attached to an outer portion of the capsule receiving cavity, and a spring connecting the inner latch lever to the outer portion of the capsule receiving cavity. The inner latch lever may include a latch arm configured to engage with the lid latch when the lid is in the closed position and a receiving arm perpendicular to the latch arm. The receiving arm may be configured to contact the latch button arm such that, when the latch button is pressed, the latch button arm pushes the receiving arm, disengaging the latch arm from the lid latch and moving the inner latch lever to open the lid.

[0020] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the lid latch assembly is capable of applying a downward force of approximately 30 Newtons to the capsule within the capsule receiving cavity when the lid is in the closed position.

[0021] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heat not burn aerosol generating device can further include a charging connector defined within the housing. The at least one air inlet can surround the charging connector.

[0022] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heat not burn aerosol generating device can further include a grill surrounding the charging connector. The grill can define at least one air inlet.

[0023] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a first end of the capsule receiving cavity can have a first width, a second end of the capsule receiving cavity can have a second width, and the capsule receiving cavity can be tapered between the first and second ends.

[0024] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the second end of the capsule receiving cavity can include one or more alignment members. The one or more alignment members can be configured to guide the capsule received by the capsule receiving cavity. The one or more alignment members can have a rib shape. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0025] Various features and advantages of the non-limiting embodiments herein will become more apparent from a consideration of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly stated. Various dimensions of the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top right front perspective view of an exemplary aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0027] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a right-bottom front perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0028] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0029] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a top view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0030] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is an upper right, front perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 1 with the lid open.

[0031] [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0032] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a top view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0033] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a top right, front perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 5, including a capsule.

[0034] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0035] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a partial front perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 8 with a portion of the housing removed.

[0036] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary capsule connector used in an aerosol generating device (eg, the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 1), according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0037] [Figure 12] 12 is a top front perspective view of the exemplary capsule connector shown in FIG.

[0038] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a bottom rear perspective view of the exemplary capsule connector shown in FIG.

[0039] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a top view of an exemplary electrical contact for use in an aerosol generating device (eg, the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 1), according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0040] [Figure 15] 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary capsule connector shown in FIG.

[0041] [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a front, upper right perspective view of an exemplary replaceable mouthpiece for use in an aerosol generating device (eg, the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 1) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0042] [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a front view of the exemplary interchangeable mouthpiece shown in FIG.

[0043] [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a first side view of the exemplary replaceable mouthpiece shown in FIG.

[0044] [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a bottom view of the exemplary replaceable mouthpiece shown in FIG.

[0045] [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a top view of the exemplary replaceable mouthpiece shown in FIG.

[0046] [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a top right, front perspective view of another exemplary aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0047] [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a right-bottom front perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0048] [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a top view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0049] [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is an upper left rear perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 21 with the lid open.

[0050] [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a top view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0051] [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a top right, front perspective view of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG. 24 receiving a capsule.

[0052] [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a front, upper right perspective view of another exemplary interchangeable mouthpiece and exemplary capsule connector for use in an aerosol generating device (e.g., in the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 21) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0053] [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a front view of the exemplary interchangeable mouthpiece shown in FIG.

[0054] [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a side view of the exemplary interchangeable mouthpiece shown in FIG.

[0055] [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a bottom view of the exemplary replaceable mouthpiece shown in FIG.

[0056] [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a top view of the exemplary replaceable mouthpiece shown in FIG.

[0057] [Figure 32]FIG. 32 is an upper left, front (i.e., downstream) perspective view of an exemplary capsule for use in an aerosol generating device (e.g., the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and / or the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 21) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0058] [Figure 33] FIG. 33 is a lower left, front (ie, upstream) perspective view of the exemplary capsule shown in FIG.

[0059] [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is an exploded view of the exemplary capsule of FIG.

[0060] [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is an exploded view of the exemplary capsule of FIG.

[0061] [Figure 36] FIG. 36 is a close-up view of an exemplary heater used within a capsule (eg, the capsule of FIG. 34) in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0062] [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a rare upper right (i.e., downstream) perspective view of another exemplary capsule used in an aerosol generating device (e.g., in the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and / or in the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 21) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0063] [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is an upstream end view of the exemplary capsule of FIG.

[0064] [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary capsule of FIG.

[0065] [Figure 40] FIG. 40 is an exploded view of the exemplary capsule of FIG.

[0066] [Figure 41] FIG. 41 is an isolated view of an exemplary heater used within a capsule (eg, the capsule of FIG. 40) in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0067] [Figure 42] FIG. 42 is a perspective view of a variation of the heater of FIG.

[0068] [Figure 43] Figure 43 is a downstream perspective view of another exemplary capsule used in an aerosol generating device (e.g., in the exemplary aerosol generating device of Figure 1 and / or in the exemplary aerosol generating device of Figure 21) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0069] [Figure 44] Figure 44 is a downstream perspective view of another exemplary capsule used in an aerosol generating device (e.g., in the exemplary aerosol generating device of Figure 1 and / or in the exemplary aerosol generating device of Figure 21) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0070] [Figure 45] Figure 45 is a downstream perspective view of another exemplary capsule used in an aerosol generating device (e.g., in the exemplary aerosol generating device of Figure 1 and / or in the exemplary aerosol generating device of Figure 21) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0071] [Figure 46] FIG. 46 is a downstream perspective view of another exemplary capsule used in an aerosol generating device (e.g., in the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and / or in the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 21) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0072] [Figure 47] FIG. 47 is an upper left perspective view of an exemplary aerosol-forming substrate in a coupled configuration, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0073] [Figure 48] FIG. 48 is an upper left perspective view of another exemplary aerosol-forming substrate in a coupled configuration, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0074] [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is a perspective view of an exemplary aerosol-forming substrate in a loose form, according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0075] [Figure 50] FIG. 50 is a block diagram of an exemplary aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0076] [Figure 51] FIG. 51 is a front view of another exemplary aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0077] [Figure 52] 52 is a side view of a first side of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51.

[0078] [Figure 53] 53 is a side perspective view of a second side of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51.

[0079] [Figure 54] FIG. 54 is a front view of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51, with the housing transparent to show part of the internal structure of the exemplary aerosol generating device.

[0080] [Figure 55]FIG. 55 is a front view of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51, with the housing transparent and the lid in an open position for illustrative purposes only to show part of the internal structure of the aerosol generating device.

[0081] [Figure 56] FIG. 56 is a top perspective view of the upper portion of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51 with the lid in the open position and a capsule received in the capsule receiving cavity of the housing.

[0082] [Figure 57] FIG. 57 is a side perspective view of the top of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51 with the lid in an open position and a capsule received in the capsule-receiving cavity of the housing.

[0083] [Figure 58A] 58A is an internal view of the latch assembly portion of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51. FIG.

[0084] [Figure 58B] FIG. 58B is a side view of the top of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51, in a position between open and closed, with the housing removed and the lid transparent for illustrative purposes only.

[0085] [Figure 58C] FIG. 58C is a perspective side view of the top of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51, with the housing partially removed and the lid transparent for purposes of illustration only.

[0086] [Figure 58D] FIG. 58D is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the top of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG.

[0087] [Figure 59] FIG. 59 is a bottom rear perspective view of the exemplary capsule connector shown in FIG. 58A.

[0088] [Figure 60] 60 is a rear perspective view of an exemplary consumer interface panel of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51.

[0089] [Figure 61] FIG. 61 is a perspective view of the internal portion of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG.

[0090] [Figure 62] FIG. 62 is a side perspective view of the housing of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0091] [Figure 63] 63 is an enlarged bottom view of a portion of the housing of FIG. 62. FIG.

[0092] [Figure 64] FIG. 64 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AB in FIG.

[0093] [Figure 65] FIG. 65 is a perspective view of another internal portion of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0094] [Figure 66] FIG. 66 is a perspective view of another internal portion of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0095] [Figure 67] FIG. 67 is an enlarged view of the charging connector assembly of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0096] [Figure 68] FIG. 68 is an exploded view of the charging connector assembly of FIG. 67.

[0097] [Figure 69] FIG. 69 is an enlarged view of the top of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51 with the outer lid housing removed.

[0098] [Figure 70] FIG. 70 is a bottom perspective view of an exemplary replaceable mouthpiece of the exemplary aerosol generating device shown in FIG.

[0099] [Figure 71] Figure 71 is a side cross-sectional view of an exemplary replaceable mouthpiece and capsule showing contact between the replaceable mouthpiece and capsule when the lid of the exemplary aerosol generating device illustrated in Figure 51 is moved from an open position to a closed position, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0100] Although several detailed exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing the exemplary embodiments, however, the exemplary embodiments may be embodied in many alternative forms and should not be construed as being limited to only the exemplary embodiments set forth herein.

[0101] Accordingly, while example embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the example embodiments are intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the example embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures.

[0102] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected," "coupled," or "overlying" another element or layer, it should be understood that it may be directly connected to, coupled to, or overlying the other element or layer, or that intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly resting on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0103] It should be understood that terms such as first, second, and third may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layers, and / or sections, but these elements, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section described below can be referred to as a second element, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments.

[0104] For convenience of explanation, spatially relative terms (e.g., "below," "below," "down," "above," "above," etc.) may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature as shown in the figures. It should be understood that spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device during use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were turned over, elements described as "below" or "below" other elements or features would now be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the term "below" may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be in other orientations (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptors used herein would be interpreted accordingly.

[0105] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprise," "include," "comprise," "comprises," and / or "consisting of" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, and / or elements, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or groups thereof.

[0106] When the terms "about" or "substantially" are used in connection with numerical values ​​herein, it is intended that the associated numerical values ​​include manufacturing or operational tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical values. Furthermore, when the terms "generally" or "substantially" are used in connection with geometric shapes, it is intended that precision in the geometric shapes is not required, but that freedom in the shapes is within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, whether a numerical value or shape is modified as "about," "generally," or "substantially," it will be understood that the numerical value or shape should be interpreted as including manufacturing or operational tolerances (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical value or shape.

[0107] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the exemplary embodiments belong. Furthermore, terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined as such herein.

[0108] As used herein, "bonded" includes both removably bonded and permanently bonded. For example, if an elastic layer and a support layer are removably bonded to one another, the elastic layer and the support layer can be separated when sufficient force is applied.

[0109] 1-10 are illustrations of an aerosol generation device 100 (e.g., a heat-free (HNB) aerosol generation device) in accordance with at least one exemplary embodiment. For example, FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of the aerosol generation device 100 with the lid 110 in a closed position. FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the aerosol generation device 100 with the lid 110 in a closed position. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the aerosol generation device 100 with the lid 110 in a closed position. FIG. 4 is a top view of the aerosol generation device 100 with the lid 110 in a closed position. FIG. 5 is another top perspective view of the aerosol generation device 100 with the lid 110 open. FIG. 6 is another top perspective view of the aerosol generation device 100 with the lid 110 open. FIG. 7 is a top view of the aerosol generation device 100 with the lid 110 open. Figure 8 is another top perspective view of the aerosol generating device 100 with the lid 110 open and the capsule 200 received by the capsule receiving cavity 130. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol generating device 100 with the lid 110 open and the capsule 200 received by the capsule receiving cavity 130. Figure 10 is a partial perspective view of the aerosol generating device 100 with a portion of the housing 120 removed to show various internal components, the lid 110 open, and the capsule 200 received by the capsule receiving cavity 130.

[0110] As shown, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 has a generally oval, elliptical, or pebble shape and has a replaceable mouthpiece 190 extending from the body of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, the aerosol generating device 100 may include a housing 120 defining a capsule-receiving cavity 130 (as best shown in FIGS. 5-8 ) and a lid 110 configured to be openable and closable relative to the housing 120 and connectable to the replaceable mouthpiece 190. For example, the lid 110 may be fixedly connected to the housing 120 at a first position 122 and releasably connected to the housing 120 at a second position 124. The first position 122 of the housing 120 may be on a first side 102 of the aerosol generating device 100, and the second position 124 of the housing 120 may be on a second side 104 of the aerosol generating device 100. In some cases, the lid 110 may also be referred to as a door.

[0111] The exterior of housing 120 and / or lid 110 may be formed from metal (aluminum, stainless steel, etc.); aesthetic, food-contact rated plastic (such as polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), copolyester plastic, or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic), or any combination thereof. Replaceable mouthpiece 190 may likewise be formed from metal (aluminum, stainless steel, etc.); aesthetic, food-contact rated plastic (such as polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) material, liquid crystal polymer (LCP), copolyester plastic, or any other suitable polymer and / or plastic); and / or plant-based material (wood, bamboo, etc.). One or more interior surfaces of the housing 120 and / or the lid 110 may be formed from or coated with a high temperature plastic (e.g., polyetheretherketone (PEEK), liquid crystal polymer (LCP), etc.) The lid 110 and the housing 120 together may be considered the main body of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0112] The lid 110 may be fixedly coupled to the housing 120 at a first location 122 by a hinge 112, or other similar connector, that allows the lid 110 to move (e.g., swing and rotate) from an open position (as illustrated in FIGS. 5-10) to a closed position (as illustrated in FIGS. 1-2). As shown in FIG. 10, the hinge 112 may include a torsion spring 117. In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5-6 and 8-10, the housing 120 includes a recess 126 at the first location 122. The recess 126 may be configured to receive a portion of the lid 110 to allow easy and smooth movement of the lid 110 from the open position to the closed position (and vice versa). The recess 126 may have a structure that corresponds to a corresponding portion of the lid 110. For example, as shown, the recess 126 may include a substantially tapered portion 127 having a generally concave shape that corresponds to the curvature of the lid 110, which has a generally convex shape.

[0113] The lid 110 may be releasably coupleable to the housing 120 in the second position 124 by a latch 114 or other similar connector, such that the lid 110 is secured or fixed in a closed position and is easily releasable so that the lid 110 can be moved from the secured closed position to an open position. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the latch 114 may be coupled to a de-latch mechanism 116. The de-latch mechanism 116 may be configured to move the latch 114 from a first or closed position to a second or open position. For example, as best shown in FIG. 10 , the latch 114 may extend downward within the housing 120, and the de-latch mechanism 116 may be perpendicular to the downward length of the latch 114. In this manner, the de-latch mechanism 116 is configured to apply pressure to the latch 114. For example, the de-latch mechanism 116 may be movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the de-latch mechanism 116 may be neutral with respect to the latch 114. In the second position, the unlatching mechanism 116 can apply pressure to the downward length of the latch 114 to move the latch 114 from the secured or latched closed position to the open position.

[0114] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 10 , the unlatch mechanism 116 is in communication with an unlatch button 118 configured to actuate the unlatch mechanism 116, i.e., move the latch 114 from a first, closed, or secured position to a second, or applied pressure position, and move / return the latch 114 from an open position to a secured or closed position. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the unlatch button 118 is an adult-consumer-interactive button located on the second side 104 of the aerosol generating device 100. For example, when the unlatch button 118 is pressed by an adult consumer, the unlatch mechanism 116 can move from the first, closed, or secured position to the second, or applied pressure position, thereby moving the latch 114 from the secured or closed position to the open position. The unlatch button 118 can have a substantially circular shape with a central depression or indentation configured to direct pressure applied by an adult consumer, although exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. One or more sensors (not shown) configured to detect the opening and closing of the lid 110 may be embedded or otherwise disposed within the housing 120 and / or one or more elements therein (e.g., the latch 114, the unlatch mechanism 116, the unlatch button 118).

[0115] 9 and 10 , in at least one exemplary embodiment, housing 120 encloses or houses unlatch mechanism 116, as well as power supply 150 and processing or control circuitry 160. Control circuitry 160 may be hardware including logic circuits, a hardware / software combination such as a processor executing software, or a combination thereof. For example, control circuitry 160 may include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a system-on-chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or the like. In at least one exemplary embodiment, control circuitry 160 may further include a haptic motor, which may be located near power supply 150.

[0116] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the supply of current from power source 150 can be responsive to manual activation (e.g., button activation) or automatic activation (e.g., puff activation). Power source 150 can include one or more batteries (e.g., a rechargeable dual-cell arrangement, a lithium-ion battery, and / or a fuel cell). It should be understood that the shape of the battery (or battery) for the power source can vary. For example, the battery can be cylindrical, prismatic, disc-shaped, a pouch battery, or other variations of battery shapes known in the art. It should also be understood that the battery can be any of a variety of types. For example, in one embodiment, the battery can be a rechargeable battery (e.g., lithium-ion). In another embodiment, the battery can be a non-rechargeable battery (e.g., alkaline battery). In yet another embodiment, the battery can include silver oxide, zinc carbon, cadmium, nickel, or other materials known in the art. Furthermore, the battery can include primary and / or secondary batteries. Those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in battery form and detail can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0117] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as best shown in FIGS. 1-2, 5, and 8-10, the housing 120 includes a consumer interface panel 143 disposed on the second side 104 of the aerosol generation device 100. For example, the consumer interface panel 143 may be an oval-shaped panel running along the second side 104 of the aerosol generation device 100. The consumer interface panel 143 may include the unlatch button 118, as described above, as well as a communication screen 140 and / or a power button 142. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the consumer interface panel 143 may include the communication screen 140 disposed between the unlatch button 118 and the power button 142. As shown, the unlatch button 118 is disposed toward the top of the aerosol generation device 100, and the power button 142 is disposed toward the bottom of the aerosol generation device 100. Like the unlatch button 118, the power button 142 may also be an adult consumer interaction button. The power button 142, by way of example and not limitation, can have a substantially circular shape with a central depression or indentation configured to direct pressure applied by an adult consumer. The power button 142 can power the aerosol generating device 100 on and off. While only two buttons are shown, it should be understood that more or fewer buttons may be provided depending on the available functionality and desired adult consumer interface.

[0118] In at least one exemplary embodiment, communication screen 140 is an integrated thin film transistor ("TFT") screen. In other exemplary embodiments, communication screen 140 is an organic light emitting diode ("OLED") or light emitting diode ("LED") screen. Communication screen 140 is configured for adult consumer engagement and can have a generally rectangular shape.

[0119] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the housing 120 defines a charging connector or port 170. For example, as best shown in FIG. 2, the charging connector 170 may be defined / located at a bottom or second end of the housing 120 distal from the capsule receiving cavity 130. The charging connector 170 may be configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB cable) to charge the aerosol generating device 100, the internal power source 150. In at least one exemplary embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 3, for example, the charging connector 170 may be an assembly defining a cavity 171 having a protrusion 175 within the cavity 171. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the protrusion 175 does not protrude beyond the rim of the cavity 171. Additionally, charging connector 170 may be configured to transmit data to and / or receive data from (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB cable) another aerosol generating device (e.g., a heat not burn (HNB) aerosol generating device) and / or other electronic devices (e.g., a phone, tablet, computer, etc.). In at least one embodiment, aerosol generating device 100 may alternatively or additionally be configured to wirelessly communicate (e.g., via Bluetooth) with such other aerosol generating devices and / or electronic devices.

[0120] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 3 , a protective grill 172 is disposed around the charging connector 170. The protective grill 172 may be configured to help reduce or prevent the intrusion of debris and / or the inadvertent blockage of incoming airflow. For example, the protective grill 172 may define a plurality of holes 173 along its length or course. As shown, the protective grill 172 may have an annular configuration that surrounds the charging connector 170. In this regard, the holes 173 may also be disposed around the charging connector 170 (e.g., in series). Each hole 173 may have, without limitation, an oval or circular shape. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the protective grill 172 may include an approved food contact material. For example, the protective grill 172 may include plastic, metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum), or any combination thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the surface of the protective grill 172 may be coated with a thin layer of plastic and / or anodized, for example.

[0121] The holes 173 in the protective grille 172 may serve as an inlet for air to be drawn into the aerosol generating device 100. During operation of the aerosol generating device 100, ambient air entering through the holes 173 in the protective grille 172 around the charging connector 170 converges to form a combined flow that travels to the capsule 200. For example, the holes 173 may be in fluid communication with the capsule receiving cavity 130. In at least one exemplary embodiment, air may be drawn from the holes 173 through the capsule receiving cavity 130. For example, air may be drawn through the capsule 200 received by the capsule receiving cavity 130 and through the replaceable mouthpiece 190.

[0122] The capsule 200 (e.g., shown in FIG. 8) can have a variety of forms and configurations. For example, the capsule 200 can have any of the forms and configurations described below in connection with FIGS. 32-46. Specifically, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the capsule 200 can be the same as that described in connection with the capsule 1300 of FIGS. 37-41. Referring to FIGS. 37-41, the capsule 1300 includes a housing configured to house an aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., the aerosol-forming substrate 1860′ of FIG. 48) and a heater, where a downstream portion of the housing can be in the form of a first end cap 1310 (e.g., a downstream cap) and an upstream portion of the housing can be in the form of a second end cap 1320 (e.g., an upstream cap, a connector cap). A main body portion of the housing can be in the form of a cover 1330 (e.g., a shell, a box sleeve).

[0123] As shown in FIGS. 37-38 , the first end cap 1310 defines a first opening 1312, and the second end cap 1320 defines a second opening 1322. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first opening 1312 is in the form of a series of outlet openings (e.g., nine outlet openings), and the second opening 1322 is in the form of a series of inlet openings (e.g., eight inlet openings). Additionally, the second end cap 1320 can expose a first end section 1342 and a second end section 1346 of the heater 1340 (e.g., FIG. 41 ). As shown, the second opening 1322 can be between the exposed portion of the first end 1342 and the exposed portion of the second end 1346. The first end cap 1310 and / or the second end cap 1320 may be transparent to act as a window configured to allow viewing of the contents / components (e.g., the aerosol-forming substrate and / or the heater) within the capsule 1300.

[0124] 39, intermediate portion 1344 of heater 1340 is an interior segment configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate within capsule 1300. First end section 1342 and second end section 1346 of heater 1340 are exterior segments configured to establish electrical connection with a power source (e.g., electrical connection with power source 150 via electrical contacts 152a and 152b).

[0125] In addition to the second opening 1322, the second end cap 1320 also defines an alignment recess 1326 and an entrance recess 1328. The alignment recess 1326 and the entrance recess 1328 can be considered to be multi-tiered, with the base / inner end face of the alignment recess 1326 (exposing the first end 1342 and second end 1346) being considered to be on one level and the base / inner end face of the entrance recess 1328 (or the grill-like surface of the second opening 1322) being considered to be on another level. The alignment recess 1326 is configured to facilitate alignment of the capsule 1300 during insertion of the aerosol generating device into the device body. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the alignment recess 1326 has angled sidewalls that taper inward toward the entrance recess 1328. The angled sidewalls allow the alignment recess 1326 to more easily and quickly mate with a corresponding engaging member on the device body. For example, when received within the capsule-receiving cavity 130 of the aerosol generation device 100, the alignment recess 1326 of the capsule 1300 can engage with the angled surface 176 of the capsule connector 132, while the inlet recess 1328 of the capsule 1300 can engage with the capsule seal 202 (e.g., FIG. 12 ). As a result, the capsule 1300 can be properly loaded and aligned within the device body of the aerosol generation device in a relatively consistent manner.

[0126] 40 , the first end cap 1310 includes a first seal ridge 1314, and the second end cap 1320 includes a second seal ridge 1324. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first seal ridge 1314 is in the form of a series of ribs (e.g., four ribs), and the second seal ridge 1324 is in the form of a series of ribs (e.g., four ribs). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the ribs in each series may be of different heights to ensure desired contact with the cover 1330. When the capsule 1300 is assembled, the first seal ridge 1314 of the first end cap 1310 and the second seal ridge 1324 of the second end cap 1320 are configured to interface (e.g., via an interference fit) with the inner surface of the cover 1330 to provide an air seal. As a result, when air is introduced into the capsule 1300 during operation of the aerosol generating device, the air enters the capsule 1300 via the inlet recess 1328 and the second opening 1322 in the second end cap 1320 (as opposed to entering the capsule 1300 via the gap between the second end cap 1320 and the cover 1330; such air may essentially only flow along the inner surface of the cover 1330, primarily bypassing the aerosol-forming substrate and / or the middle section 1344 of the heater 1340). Similarly, with appropriate seals, aerosol generated within the chamber of the capsule 1300 is drawn in through the first opening 1312 in the first end cap 1310 (as opposed to leaking through the gap between the first end cap 1310 and the cover 1330).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 41 , the heater 1340 includes a first end section 1342, a middle section 1344, and a second end section 1346. The middle section 1344 of the heater 1340 can have a planar and winding configuration resembling a compression wave or zigzag with multiple parallel segments (e.g., 8 to 16 parallel segments). However, it should be understood that other configurations for the middle section 1344 of the heater 1340 are also possible (e.g., a spiral configuration, a flower-like configuration). The ends of each of the first end section 1342 and the second end section 1346 may be oriented perpendicular to the plane of the middle section 1344. Each of the first end section 1342 and the second end section 1346 may also include a segment having a transverse J-shape. As a result, the first end section 1342 and the second end section 1346 can be relatively securely embedded within the second end cap 1320 while providing a pair of electrical contact surfaces.

[0128] The above discussion should be understood as a non-limiting introduction to capsule 200, which may be identical to capsule 1300, as described above. As a result, the insertion and mechanical / electrical engagement of capsule 200 within aerosol generating device 100 may be discussed with reference to specific details of capsule 1300. Further details and alternatives regarding capsule 1300 are also described subsequently herein.

[0129] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 10 , the housing 120 encloses or houses an air hose 180. The air hose 180 can extend between and / or be physically connected to the capsule receiving cavity 130 and one or more air inlets or holes 173 (via an air inlet connection 184). An air channel assembly 181 can also be provided as an intermediate between the air hose 180 and the holes 173. In such an example, the air flow path assembly 181 can be configured to direct incoming airflow (drawn through the holes 173) to the air hose 180. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the air flow path assembly 181 includes an air flow restrictor configured to provide optional control over the airflow through the aerosol generation device 100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, one or more flow sensors 185 can be disposed within or along the air flow path assembly 181 and / or along the air hose 180. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the one or more flow sensors 185 include a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) flow or pressure sensor or another type of sensor configured to measure airflow, such as a hot wire anemometer. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the one or more flow sensors 185 may include a pressure sensor, such as a capacitive pressure sensor configured to measure negative pressure during a suction event. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the airflow path assembly 181 may omit one or more sensors 185.

[0130] In at least one exemplary embodiment, housing 120 encloses capsule connector 132. Additionally, in some cases, capsule connector 132 is mounted or otherwise secured to a printed circuit board (PCB) within housing 120. In at least one exemplary embodiment, capsule connector 132 defines capsule receiving cavity 130. Figures 11-15 are illustrations of capsule connector 132 according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0131] In at least one example embodiment, capsule connector 132 includes a body or housing 134 that defines capsule-receiving cavity 130. In at least one example embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 13 , body 134 includes an air inlet connection 184. Air inlet connection 184 can be configured to couple to an end of air hose 180. In at least one example embodiment, body 134 includes one or more couplers or mounting brackets 135, 136 configured to couple capsule connector 132 to housing 120 and / or components within housing 120. First coupler or mounting bracket 136 can include, for example, one or more wing or tab portions 137 and a coupler-receiving opening 138 (e.g., a mounting boss). Coupler-receiving opening 138 can be configured to receive one or more corresponding couplers of housing 120 (e.g., couplers 128 (e.g., screws) as best shown in FIG. 15 ). The second coupler or mounting bracket 135 may include, for example, one or more wing or tab portions 141 and a coupler-receiving opening 139. The receiving opening 139 may be configured to receive one or more corresponding couplers on the lid 110. For example, the coupler-receiving opening 139 may be configured to receive a post 115 defined on the inner surface of the lid 110. Specifically, a switch (e.g., a push button switch) may be disposed within the coupler-receiving opening 139 such that it is pressed by the post 115 when the lid 110 is closed and released when the lid 110 is open. As a result, a method of detecting whether the lid is open or closed may be provided.

[0132] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the capsule connector 132 includes one or more electrical connectors or contacts 152A, 152B. For example, as shown, the capsule connector 132 may include a first electrical contact 152A and a second electrical contact 152B. As shown, the first electrical contact 152A may be in the form of three contact members. Similarly, the second electrical contact 152B may also be in the form of three contact members. The electrical contacts 152A, 152B are configured to apply an electrical current or other electrical signal to the capsule 200 received by the capsule receiving cavity 130. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the electrical contacts 152A, 152B may be in electrical communication with the power source 150 and / or the control circuitry 160 disposed within the housing 120. The electrical contacts 152A, 152B may be formed of copper or a copper alloy (e.g., copper-titanium), and in at least one exemplary embodiment, the electrical contacts 152A, 152B may have a gold plating.

[0133] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 14 , each contact member of electrical contacts 152A, 152B can be one of two types: contact member 152′ or contact member 152″. For example, electrical contact 152A can include a combination of both contact members 152′ and contact members 152″. As shown, electrical contact 152A can include a contact member 152″ between a pair of contact members 152′. In another embodiment, electrical contact 152A can include a contact member 152′ between a pair of contact members 152″. Alternatively, instead of two types of contact members, electrical contact 152A can include multiple instances of either contact member 152′ or contact member 152″ (e.g., the same contact member).

[0134] Similarly, electrical contact 152B may include a combination of both contact members 152' and contact members 152". As shown, electrical contact 152B may include a contact member 152" between a pair of contact members 152'. In another embodiment, electrical contact 152B may include a contact member 152' between a pair of contact members 152". Alternatively, instead of two types of contact members, electrical contact 152B may include multiple instances of either contact members 152' or contact members 152" (e.g., the same contact member).

[0135] Each contact member 152′, 152″ includes a base 154A, 154B, respectively. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the contact members 152′, 152″ each have a terminal or soldering location 162A, 162B, respectively. As shown, the soldering location 162A of the contact member 152′ may be aligned (e.g., coaxial) with the base 154A. In contrast, the soldering location 162B of the contact member 152″ may be laterally shifted / offset relative to the base 154B, extending parallel to the base 154B while being misaligned with the base 154B. As a result, the interleaving of the contact members 152′, 152″ may provide a staggered arrangement of the soldering locations 162A, 162B for the electrical contacts 152A, 152B (e.g., FIGS. 13-14 ). In the exemplary embodiment, the soldering locations 162A, 162B are configured to engage corresponding openings in a printed circuit board within the housing 120. As a result, the soldering locations 162A, 162B may establish a mechanical and electrical connection between the contact members 152′, 152″ (forming the electrical contacts 152A, 152B) and the power source 150 and / or control circuitry 160 disposed within the housing 120.

[0136] In at least one exemplary embodiment, each of the contact members 152′, 152″ (of the electrical contacts 152A, 152B) includes a continuous spring mechanism 156A, 156B extending from a respective base 154A, 154B. The continuous spring mechanism 156A, 156B can have a planar wound shape. The continuous spring mechanism 156A, 156B is movable (e.g., perpendicular to the respective base 154A, 154B) between a first compressed position and a second extended position.

[0137] In at least one exemplary embodiment, each of the contact members 152′, 152″ (of the electrical contacts 152A, 152B) includes a contact pin or contact surface 158A, 158B extending from a respective continuous spring mechanism 156A, 156B. For example, the contact surface 158A, 158B extends from the respective continuous spring mechanism 156A, 156B at an end distal from the base 154A, 154B. The contact surface 158A, 158B may extend from the respective continuous spring mechanism 156A, 156B into the capsule receiving cavity 130 such that the contact surface 158A, 158B may contact the capsule 200 therein (e.g., via end sections of the capsule 200 similar to the first end section 1342 and the second end section 1346 of the capsule 1300).

[0138] In this manner, the contact surfaces 158A, 158B are spring-biased to enhance engagement with the capsule 200. For example, the contact surfaces 158A, 158B may extend into the capsule receiving cavity 130 a first amount when in use and a second amount when not in use. The first amount may be less than the second amount. For example, when in use, the contact surfaces 158A, 158B may extend into the capsule receiving cavity 130 by approximately 0.20 mm (i.e., a first amount) as a result of the sequential spring mechanisms 156A, 156B being in a compressed or loaded state. Meanwhile, when not in use, the contact surfaces 158A, 158B may extend into the capsule receiving cavity 130 by approximately 0.90 mm (i.e., a second amount) as a result of the sequential spring mechanisms 156A, 156B being in a non-compressed or unloaded state. Thus, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the electrical contacts 152A, 152B are configured such that a connection is not established with the capsule 200 until the capsule 200 is fully inserted into the capsule receiving cavity 130.

[0139] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 11 , each of electrical contacts 152A, 152B may be formed with a combination of both contact members 152′ and contact members 152″ (e.g., FIG. 14 ). For example, electrical contact 152A may include a contact member 152″ between a pair of contact members 152′. Similarly, electrical contact 152B may include a contact member 152″ between a pair of contact members 152′. While electrical contacts 152A, 152B are shown as including three contact members each, it should be understood that exemplary embodiments are not limited in this regard. Specifically, in other embodiments, electrical contacts 152A, 152B may include more (e.g., four contact members each) or fewer (e.g., one or two contact members each) contact members than the three contact members each shown in the drawings. Because the contact members 152′, 152″ of the electrical contacts 152A, 152B are separate structures configured to allow independent mechanical / electrical engagement, an improved electrical connection can be established between the electrical contacts 152A, 152B and the capsule 200 (via end sections of the capsule 200 similar to the first end section 1342 and the second end section 1346 of the capsule 1300). Notably, a more reliable and flexible connection with the power source 150 and / or control circuit 160 can be provided by the separate configuration of the electrical contacts 152A, 152B.

[0140] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the control / heating method and associated circuitry and electrical contacts (e.g., capsule connector 132 including one or more electrical connectors or contacts 152A, 152B) can be as described in U.S. Application No. 17 / 151,375, entitled "Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices Including Energy Based Heater Control, and Methods Of Controlling A Heater," filed January 18, 2021, by Atty. Dkt. No. 24000NV-000668-US, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,240,000, filed January 18, 2021, by Atty. Dkt ... Application No. 17 / 151,409, entitled "Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices Including Intra-Draw Heater Control, and Methods of Controlling a Heater" (Atty. Dkt. No. 24000NV-000670-US), filed January 18, 2021, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0141] The capsule 200 is loaded into the aerosol generating device 100 by first inserting the capsule 200 into the capsule receiving cavity 130 defined by the capsule connector 132. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the capsule 200 makes contact (e.g., full contact) with the electrical contacts 152A, 152B within the capsule receiving cavity 130 only upon application of force (e.g., downward / inward force) to the capsule 200. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the force is applied to the capsule 200 by closing and / or latching the lid 110. In other exemplary embodiments, the force is applied to the capsule 200 by an adult consumer. In still other exemplary embodiments, the force is applied by a combination of pressure applied by an adult consumer and closing and / or latching the lid 110. For example, in each example, the force is applied until resistance is felt and / or a click is heard, indicating that the capsule 200 is fully engaged with the capsule receiving cavity 130.

[0142] The underside of the lid 110 may include an abutment / engagement member or surface 113 configured to engage with the capsule 200 when the lid 110 is pivoted to the closed position. The abutment / engagement member or surface 113 of the lid 110 may include a recess (e.g., corresponding to the size and shape of the capsule 200) and / or a resilient material to enhance the interface with the capsule 200 so as to provide a desired seal. When the capsule 200 is inserted into the capsule receiving cavity 130, the weight of the capsule 200 itself may not be sufficient (e.g., at least not to a significant extent) to compress the electrical contacts 152A, 152B. As a result, the capsule 200 may simply rest on the exposed pins of the electrical contacts 152A, 152B (e.g., the contact surfaces 158A, 158B of the contact members 152′ / 152″) without compressing (or significantly compressing) the electrical contacts 152A, 152B. Furthermore, the weight of the lid 110 itself, when swung to transition to the closed position, may not compress the electrical contacts 152A, 152B to any significant extent, but instead may simply rest on the capsule 200 in an intermediate, partially open / closed position. In such an instance, intentional action (e.g., a downward force) to close the lid 110 causes the abutment / engagement member or surface 113 of the lid 110 to press down on the capsule 200 to provide the desired seal and also compress the capsule 200, thus fully engaging the electrical contacts 152A, 152B. Furthermore, full closure of the lid 110 results in engagement with the latch 114, which maintains the desired mechanical / electrical engagement involving the closed position and the capsule 200 until released (e.g., via the unlatching button 118). The force required to close the lid 110 may help ensure and / or improve the air / aerosol seal, provide a stronger electrical connection, and may also help improve device and thermal efficiency and battery life by reducing or eliminating initial power consumption and / or parasitic heating of the capsule 200.

[0143] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 11 , the capsule receiving cavity 130 includes a first or upper end 166A and a second or lower end 166D distal from the first end 166A. For example, the contact surfaces 158A, 158B can extend through the second end 166D of the capsule receiving cavity 130. When the lid 110 is in the closed position, the first end 166A can be in communication with the lid 110 and / or the replaceable mouthpiece 190. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first end 166A has a first width and the second end 166D has a second width. The first width may be greater than the second width. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, if capsule 200 has cross-sectional dimensions of approximately 6.0 mm x 12.4 mm, capsule receiving cavity 130's first cross-sectional dimension at first end 166A may be approximately 7.2 mm x 13.6 mm, and capsule receiving cavity 130's second cross-sectional dimension at second end 166D may be approximately 6.2 mm x 12.6 mm. Thus, in at least one exemplary embodiment, capsule receiving cavity 130 may taper (e.g., approximately 5% to 15% reduction in width / lateral dimension) between first end 166A and second end 166D such that capsule receiving cavity 130 is configured to guide capsule 200 into position. The tapered configuration may also improve moldability as well as provide a thin air layer around capsule 200 (e.g., for thermal insulation) during use of device 200.

[0144] 12 and 15 , the bottom end 166D of the capsule receiving cavity 130 includes a capsule seal 202. The capsule seal 202 is configured to mate with an inlet recess of the capsule 200 (e.g., an inlet recess of the capsule 200 similar to the inlet recess 1328 of the capsule 1300) when the capsule 200 is seated within the capsule receiving cavity 130. The capsule seal 202 may be configured to help ensure and / or improve an air / aerosol seal between the capsule 200 and the capsule connector 132 such that all (or substantially all) of the air received via the air inlet connection 184 is directed into the capsule 200. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the capsule seal 202 may be a silicone seal.

[0145] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the bottom end 166D of the capsule receiving cavity 130 includes one or more alignment members configured to help ensure proper alignment between the capsule 200 and the electrical contacts 152A, 152B. In at least one exemplary embodiment, as best shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 , the one or more alignment members can include one or more flat surfaces 174 and / or one or more angled surfaces 176. The one or more flat surfaces 174 can provide a hard stop for the capsule 200, and the electrical contacts 152A, 152B can extend through the one or more flat surfaces 174. As shown, a pair of flat surfaces 174 can be provided, with the capsule seal 202 disposed between the flat surfaces 174. The one or more angled surfaces 176 may include one or more 15° draft surfaces (e.g., about 0.05 mm less than the equivalent profile on the capsule 200) extending downward from the one or more flat surfaces 174 to a peripheral depth 177, which is the deepest depth or bottom of the capsule receiving cavity 130. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the alignment member may resemble a pair of plateaus, with the angled surfaces 176 (e.g., ramps) rising from the peripheral depth 177 to the flat surfaces 174. Additionally, in some embodiments, three angled surfaces 176 may lead to each flat surface 174.

[0146] The distal / upstream end of the capsule 200 can have a shape that corresponds to one or more alignment members formed in the capsule receiving cavity 130. As a result, the capsule 200 can be properly aligned in a relatively simple and consistent manner when loaded into the aerosol generating device 100. When the capsule 200 is inserted into the capsule receiving cavity 130, the end sections of the capsule 200 (which can be similar to the first end section 1342 and the second end section 1346 of the capsule 1300) can initially rest on the electrical contacts 152A, 152B. A downward / inward force on the capsule 200 (e.g., via the closure of the lid 110) compresses the electrical contacts 152A, 152B (e.g., via the spring mechanisms 156A, 156B of the contact members 152′, 152″), thus urging the capsule 200 downward / inward to retract into the capsule connector 132. As a result, while being pressed against the electrical contacts 152A, 152B, the end sections of the capsule 200 (which may be similar to the first end section 1342 and the second end section 1346 of the capsule 1300) may also contact the flat surface 174 of the alignment member in the capsule receiving cavity 130. Furthermore, the alignment recess of the capsule 200 (which may be similar to the alignment recess 1326 of the capsule 1300) may contact or otherwise be adjacent to the angled surface 176 of the alignment member in the capsule receiving cavity 130. Furthermore, the entrance recess of the capsule 200 (which may be similar to the entrance recess 1328 of the capsule 1300) may receive the capsule seal 202 for resilient engagement. In such a case, a relatively tight fit with the capsule 200, and thus a reliable electrical connection and desirable seal, may be established.

[0147] 16-20 are diagrams of an interchangeable mouthpiece 190. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the interchangeable mouthpiece 190 includes a first end 192 and a second end 194 distal from the first end 192. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the interchangeable mouthpiece 190 may be tapered between the first end 192 and the second end 194. For example, the diameter or average length / width dimension of the first end 192 may be smaller than the diameter or average length / width dimension of the second end 194. Toward the first end 192, the taper may have a slight inward taper 191 configured to receive the lips of an adult consumer and improve comfort and experience.

[0148] The first end 192 may have an oval or elliptical shape and may include one or more outlets 196. For example, as shown, the first end 192 may include four outlets 196 so that the aerosol generating device 100 can engage four or more different regions or quadrants of an adult consumer's mouth during use. The second end 194 may be connectable to the lid 110. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the second end 194 includes a ledge 197, one or more ridges 195, and one or more coupling structures 198. The ledge 197 may include a recess 193, and in at least one exemplary embodiment, one or more ridges 195 may extend perpendicularly (or substantially perpendicularly) from the recess 193. In other exemplary embodiments, the one or more ridges 195 may extend perpendicularly (or substantially perpendicularly) from a major surface of the ledge 197. The ledge 197 and one or more ridges 195 may be configured to position or align the interchangeable mouthpiece 190 relative to the lid 110. One or more coupling structures 198 may be configured to couple the interchangeable mouthpiece 190 to the lid 110. The one or more coupling structures 198 may be bubble couplers or projection couplers. For example, as shown, the interchangeable mouthpiece 190 may include two four-bubble or projection couplers disposed along each major length of the second end 194 of the interchangeable mouthpiece 190.

[0149] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the replaceable mouthpiece 190 can be inserted through an opening 111 in the lid 110 configured to receive and secure the second end 194 of the replaceable mouthpiece 190 (e.g., via a snap-fit ​​arrangement). In this manner, as best shown in FIGS. 1 , 6 , and 9 , the ledge 197, the one or more ridges 195, and the one or more coupling structures 198 are covered by the lid 110 when assembled with the aerosol generation device 100. For example, when the aerosol generation device 100 is assembled, only the tapered portion and the first end 192 of the replaceable mouthpiece 190 may be visible. Furthermore, as a result of the mating features (e.g., the coupling structure 198), confirmatory feedback (e.g., an audible click) may be provided when the replaceable mouthpiece 190 is properly engaged with the lid 110.

[0150] 21-26 are diagrams of another aerosol generation device 500 (e.g., a heat-free (HNB) aerosol generation device) according to at least one exemplary embodiment. The aerosol generation device 500 is similar to the aerosol generation device 100, except that the aerosol generation device 500 includes a cylindrical mouthpiece 590. For example, FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of the aerosol generation device 500 with the lid 110 closed. FIG. 22 is a bottom perspective view of the aerosol generation device 500 with the lid 110 closed. FIG. 23 is a top view of the aerosol generation device 500 with the lid 110 closed. FIG. 24 is another top perspective view of the aerosol generation device 500 with the lid 110 open. FIG. 25 is a top view of the aerosol generation device 500 with the lid 110 open. FIG. 26 is another top perspective view of the aerosol generating device 500 with the lid 110 opened and the capsule 200 received by the capsule receiving cavity 130.

[0151] 27-31 are diagrams of an interchangeable mouthpiece 590. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the interchangeable mouthpiece 590 includes a first end 592 and a second end 594 distal from the first end 592. Unlike the interchangeable mouthpiece 190, the first end 592 of the interchangeable mouthpiece 590 can have a substantially cylindrical shape. While only two shapes are illustrated, one skilled in the art will recognize that the first ends 192, 592 of the interchangeable mouthpieces 190, 590 can take on a variety of other shapes. The second end 594 of the interchangeable mouthpiece 590 has the same or a similar shape as the second end 194 of the interchangeable mouthpiece 190, allowing the interchangeable mouthpiece 590 to be similarly engaged by the opening 111 in the lid 110. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the interchangeable mouthpiece 590 can be tapered between the first end 592 and the second end 594. The diameter of the first end 592 may be smaller than the diameter or average length / width dimension of the second end 594. Towards the first end 592, the taper may have a slight inward taper 591 configured to accommodate the lips of an adult consumer, improving comfort and experience.

[0152] A first end 592 of the interchangeable mouthpiece 590 includes one or more outlets 596. For example, as shown, the first end 592 can include four outlets 596 (e.g., bifurcated outlets) so that four or more different regions or quadrants of a consumer's mouth can be engaged during use of the aerosol generating device 500. The second end 594 is connectable to the lid 110. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the second end 594 includes a ledge 597, one or more ridges 595, and one or more coupling structures 598. The ledge 597 can include a recess 593, and in at least one exemplary embodiment, the one or more ridges 595 can extend perpendicularly (or substantially perpendicularly) from the recess 593. In other exemplary embodiments, the one or more ridges 595 can extend perpendicularly (or substantially perpendicularly) from a major surface of the ledge 597. The ledge 597 and one or more ridges 595 may be configured to position or align the interchangeable mouthpiece 590 relative to the lid 110. One or more coupling structures 598 may be configured to couple the interchangeable mouthpiece 590 to the lid 110. The one or more coupling structures 598 may be bubble couplers or projection couplers. For example, as shown, the interchangeable mouthpiece 590 may include two four-bubble or projection couplers disposed along each major length of the second end 594 of the interchangeable mouthpiece 590.

[0153] In an aerosol generating device according to at least some exemplary embodiments (e.g., the aerosol generating device 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1-10 and / or the aerosol generating device 500 illustrated in FIGS. 21-26 and / or the aerosol generating device 5100 illustrated in FIGS. 51-68), the aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., the capsule 200) includes an aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., the aerosol-forming substrate 1860′). Additional details and / or alternatives regarding the aerosol generating device, capsule, and / or aerosol-forming substrate are found in U.S. Application Serial No. 17 / 151,277, entitled “Capsules Including Embedded Heaters And Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices,” filed January 18, 2021, by Atty. Dkt. No. 24000NV-000667-US, U.S. Patent Application No. 24000NV-000667-US. Application No. 29 / 766,691, entitled "Aerosol-Generating Capsules" (Atty.Dkt.No.24000NV-000716-US), filed January 18, 2021, and U.S. Application No. 17 / 151,336, entitled "Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices And Capsules" (Applicant: Atty.Dkt.No.24000NV-000718-US), filed January 18, 2021, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0154] As discussed herein, an aerosol-forming substrate is a material or combination of materials capable of producing an aerosol. Aerosol refers to a substance produced or output by the disclosed and claimed devices, and equivalents thereof. The material may include a compound (e.g., nicotine, cannabinoids), and when the material is heated, an aerosol containing the compound is produced. Heating may be below combustion temperatures to produce the aerosol without substantial thermal decomposition of the aerosol-forming substrate or substantial production of combustion by-products, if any. Thus, in at least one exemplary embodiment, no thermal decomposition occurs during heating and the resulting production of the aerosol. In other instances, there may be thermal decomposition or combustion by-products, but these are considered relatively minor and / or merely incidental.

[0155] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a fibrous material. For example, the fibrous material may be a plant material. The fibrous material is configured to release a compound when heated. The compound may be a component naturally occurring in the fibrous material. For example, the fibrous material is a plant material such as tobacco, and the released compound is nicotine. The term "tobacco" includes any tobacco plant material, including tobacco leaf, tobacco plugs, reconstituted tobacco, compressed tobacco, extruded tobacco, powdered tobacco, and combinations thereof from one or more tobacco plants, such as Nicotiana rustica and Nicotiana tabacum.

[0156] In some exemplary embodiments, the tobacco material can include material from any member of the Nicotiana genus. Furthermore, the tobacco raw material can also include a blend of two or more different tobacco varieties. Examples of suitable types of tobacco raw materials that can be used include, but are not limited to, flue-fired tobacco, burley tobacco, dark tobacco, Maryland tobacco, Oriental tobacco, rare tobacco, specialty tobacco, blends thereof, and the like. The tobacco material can be provided in any suitable form, including, but not limited to, tobacco lamina, processed tobacco materials such as expanded tobacco or puffed tobacco, processed tobacco stems such as cut rolling stems or cut puffed stems, reconstituted tobacco materials, blends thereof, and the like. In some exemplary embodiments, the tobacco material is in the form of a substantially dried mass of tobacco. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the tobacco material can be mixed and / or combined with at least one of propylene glycol, glycerin, subcombinations thereof, or combinations thereof.

[0157] The compound may also be a naturally occurring component of a medicinal plant with medically recognized therapeutic effects. For example, the medicinal plant may be the cannabis plant, and the compound may be a cannabinoid. Cannabinoids interact with receptors in the body, resulting in a variety of effects. As a result, cannabinoids have been used for a variety of medicinal purposes, including the treatment of pain, nausea, epilepsy, and psychiatric disorders. The fibrous material may include leaf and / or flower material from one or more cannabis species, such as Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. In one embodiment, the fibrous material is a mixture of 60-80% (e.g., 70%) Cannabis sativa and 20-40% (e.g., 30%) Cannabis indica.

[0158] Examples of cannabinoids include tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol acid (CBDA), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabichromene (CBC), and cannabigerol (CBG). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) is the precursor to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and cannabidiol acid (CBDA) is the precursor to cannabidiol (CBD). Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and cannabidiol acid (CBDA) can be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), respectively, by heating. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the heat from the heater may cause decarboxylation to convert tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) in the capsule to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and / or cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) in the capsule to cannabidiol (CBD).

[0159] When both tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are present in the capsule, decarboxylation and the resulting conversion result in a decrease in tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) and an increase in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). At least 50% (e.g., at least 87%) of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA) may be converted to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) during heating of the capsule. Similarly, when both cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and cannabidiol (CBD) are present in the capsule, decarboxylation and the resulting conversion result in a decrease in cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) and an increase in cannabidiol (CBD). At least 50% (e.g., at least 87%) of cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) may be converted to cannabidiol (CBD) during heating of the capsule.

[0160] Furthermore, the compound may include, or may additionally include, non-naturally occurring additives that are subsequently introduced into the fibrous material. In one example, the fibrous material may include at least one of cotton, polyethylene, polyester, rayon, combinations thereof, and the like (e.g., in the form of gauze). In another example, the fibrous material may be a cellulosic material (e.g., a non-tobacco and / or non-cannabis material). In either example, the introduced compound may include nicotine, a cannabinoid, and / or a flavoring. The flavoring may be naturally occurring, such as a plant extract (e.g., tobacco extract, cannabis extract), and / or artificially occurring. In yet another example, if the fibrous material includes tobacco and / or cannabis, the compound may be, or may additionally include, one or more flavorings (e.g., menthol, mint, vanilla). Thus, the compound within the aerosol-forming substrate may include naturally occurring components and / or non-naturally occurring additives. In this regard, it should be understood that the existing levels of naturally occurring components in the aerosol-forming substrate may be increased by supplementation. For example, the amount of nicotine in tobacco can be increased by supplementing it with an extract containing nicotine. Similarly, the existing levels of one or more cannabinoids in a quantity of cannabis can be increased by supplementing it with an extract containing such cannabinoids.

[0161] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate, e.g., as contained within a capsule, is about 30 mmH2O or greater (e.g., 40 mmH2O or greater, about 50 mmH2O or greater, about 60 mmH2O or greater, about 70 mmH2O or greater, about 80 mmH2O or greater, about 90 mmH2O or greater, about 100 mmH2O or greater, about 110 mmH2O or greater, or about 120 mmH2O or greater). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the RTD is about 130 mmH2O or less (e.g., about 120 mmH2O or less, about 110 mmH2O or less, about 100 mmH2O or less, about 90 mmH2O or less, about 80 mmH2O or less, about 70 mmH2O or less, about 60 mmH2O or less, about 50 mmH2O or less, or about 40 mmH2O or less). In at least one embodiment, the RTD is in the range of about 60 mmH2O to about 80 mmH2O (e.g., about 65 mmH2O to about 75 mmH2O, about 67 mmH2O to about 73 mmH2O, or about 69 mmH2O to about 71 mmH2O).

[0162] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate has a density of about 0.2 g / cm or more (e.g., about 0.25 g / cm or more, about 0.3 g / cm or more, about 0.35 g / cm or more, about 0.4 g / cm or more, about 0.45 g / cm or more, about 0.5 g / cm(3), about 0.55 g / cm or more, about 0.6 g / cm or more, about 0.65 g / cm or more, about 0.7 g / cm or more, about 0.75 g / cm or more). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the bulk density is about 0.8 g / cm or less (e.g., about 0.75 g / cm or less, about 0.7 g / cm or less, about 0.65 g / cm or less, about 0.6 g / cm or less, about 0.55 g / cm or less, about 0.5 g / cm(3), about 0.45 g / cm or less, about 0.4 g / cm or less, about 0.35 g / cm or less, about 0.3 g / cm or less, or about 0.25 g / cm or less). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the bulk density is in the range of about 0.3 g / cm to about 0.5 g / cm(3) (e.g., about 0.35 g / cm to about 0.45 g / cm, or about 0.37 g / cm to about 0.43 g / cm).

[0163] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate has a particulate morphology having an average particle size (e.g., diameter) of about 270 μm or more (e.g., about 280 μm or more, about 290 μm or more, about 300 μm or more, about 310 μm or more, about 320 μm or more, about 330 μm or more, about 340 μm or more, about 350 μm or more, about 360 μm or more, about 370 μm or more, about 380 μm or more, about 390 μm or more, about 400 μm or more, or about 410 μm or more). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the average particle size is about 415 μm or less (e.g., about 410 μm or less, about 400 μm or less, about 390 μm or less, about 380 μm or less, about 370 μm or less, about 360 μm or less, about 350 μm or less, about 340 μm or less, about 330 μm or less, about 320 μm or less, about 310 μm or less, about 300 μm or less, about 290 μm or less, or about 280 μm or less).

[0164] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate has a 10th percentile diameter in the range of about 160 μm to about 225 μm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate has a 50th percentile (or median) diameter in the range of about 260 μm to about 385 μm. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol-forming substrate has a 90th percentile diameter in the range of about 390 μm to about 635 μm.

[0165] An aerosol generating device according to at least some exemplary embodiments (e.g., the aerosol generating device 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1-10 and / or the aerosol generating device 500 illustrated in FIGS. 21-26 and / or the aerosol generating device 5100 illustrated in FIGS. 51-68) is configured to generate an aerosol by heating a capsule (e.g., the capsule 200). In at least one exemplary embodiment, a method of generating an aerosol may include first loading the capsule 200 into the aerosol generating device 100 or the aerosol generating device 500. To load the capsule 200, the lid 110 is rotated to an open position and the capsule 200 is inserted into the capsule-receiving cavity 130 defined by the capsule connector 132. The lid 110 is then pivoted to a closed position such that the lid 110 engages the latch 114, further pushing the capsule 200 into the capsule-receiving cavity 130 to fully seat the capsule 200 while maintaining the closed position.

[0166] When the capsule 200 is fully seated within the capsule receiving cavity 130, the end sections of the capsule 200 (which may be similar to the first and second end sections 1342, 1346 of the capsule 1300) are pressed against the electrical contacts 152A, 152B (e.g., pressed against the exposed tips of the contact surfaces 158A, 158B of the contact members 152′, 152″), thereby being compressed and retracted via the spring mechanisms 156A, 156B of the contact members 152′, 152″. While pressed against the electrical contacts 152A, 152B, the end sections of the capsule 200 (which may be similar to the first and second end sections 1342, 1346 of the capsule 1300) may also contact the flat surfaces 174 of the alignment members within the capsule receiving cavity 130. Additionally, the alignment recess of capsule 200 (which may be similar to alignment recess 1326 of capsule 1300) may contact or otherwise be adjacent to angled surface 176 of the alignment member in capsule receiving cavity 130. Additionally, the entrance recess of capsule 200 (which may be similar to entrance recess 1328 of capsule 1300) may receive capsule seal 202 for resilient engagement. As a result, a relatively secure electrical connection and desirable seal with capsule 200 may be established.

[0167] The aerosol generating device 100 or the aerosol generating device 500 and / or the aerosol generating device 5100 can be activated using the consumer interface panel 143 (e.g., by pressing the power button 142) and / or upon detection of an inhalation event (e.g., via the flow sensor 185). Upon activation, the control circuit 160 is configured to instruct the power source 150 to supply current to the capsule 200 via electrical contacts 152A, 152B in the capsule receiving cavity 130. Specifically, the capsule 200 includes a heater (which may be similar to the heater 1340 of the capsule 1300) configured to undergo resistive heating in response to current from the power source 150 introduced through its end sections (which may be similar to the first end section 1342 and the second end section 1346 of the capsule 1300). As a result of the resistive heating, the temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate within the capsule 200 increases such that volatile materials are released to generate an aerosol.

[0168] In at least one exemplary embodiment, heating of the aerosol-forming substrate within capsule 200 may be below the combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate to generate the aerosol without substantial thermal decomposition or substantial generation of combustion by-products, if any, of the aerosol-forming substrate. Thus, in at least one exemplary embodiment, thermal decomposition does not occur during heating and resulting generation of the aerosol. In other examples, thermal decomposition or combustion by-products may be present, but are considered relatively minor and / or merely incidental. The heating / control method is as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 17 / 151,375, entitled "Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices Including Energy Based Heater Control, And Methods Of Controlling A Heater," ty. Dkt. No. 24000NV-000668-US, filed January 18, 2021, and U.S. Patent Application No. 24000NV-000668-US. Application No. 17 / 151,409, entitled "Heat-Not-Burn (HNB) Aerosol-Generating Devices Including Intra-Draw Heater Control, and Methods of Controlling a Heater" (Atty. Dkt. No. 24000NV-000670-US), filed January 18, 2021, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0169] Upon suction or application of negative pressure to the aerosol generation device 100 (e.g., via mouthpiece 190) or the aerosol generation device 500 (e.g., via mouthpiece 590) and / or the aerosol generation device 5100 (e.g., via mouthpiece 5190), ambient air is drawn into the aerosol generation device 100 or the aerosol generation device 500 or the aerosol generation device 5100 through holes 173 in the grill 172. Once inside, the airflow from holes 173 converges and may pass through the air flow path assembly 181 before being directed to the air hose 180. The converged airflow may optionally be detected / monitored by a flow sensor 185 in the air flow path assembly 181 and / or the air hose 180. From the air hose 180, the airflow is directed to the air inlet connection 184 of the capsule connector 132. The airflow then passes through capsule seal 202 and enters capsule 200 through an inlet opening (which may be similar to opening 1322 in capsule 1300). Inside capsule 200, air flows along the plane of the heater (e.g., longitudinally) through the aerosol-forming substrate, entraining volatile substances released by the aerosol-forming substrate, resulting in the generation of an aerosol. Finally, the resulting aerosol passes through an outlet opening in capsule 200 (which may be similar to opening 1312 in capsule 1300) before exiting aerosol-generating device 100 (e.g., via outlet 196 in mouthpiece 190), aerosol-generating device 500 (e.g., via outlet 596 in mouthpiece 590), or aerosol-generating device 5100 (e.g., via outlet 5196 in mouthpiece 5190).

[0170] In at least one exemplary embodiment, a method of use for aerosol generation device 100 or aerosol generation device 500 or aerosol generation device 5100 may include securing an interchangeable mouthpiece (e.g., interchangeable mouthpiece 190 and / or interchangeable mouthpiece 590) to a lid (e.g., 110). For example, the method may include inserting the interchangeable mouthpiece into an opening in the lid (e.g., opening 111) when the lid is in an open position until resistance is felt and / or a click is heard. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the method may include replacing an interchangeable mouthpiece (e.g., interchangeable mouthpiece 190 and / or interchangeable mouthpiece 590 and / or interchangeable mouthpiece 5100). Replacing an interchangeable mouthpiece may include opening the lid (e.g., 110); removing a first interchangeable mouthpiece from the opening (e.g., opening 111); and inserting a second interchangeable mouthpiece into the opening until resistance is felt and / or a click is heard.

[0171] It should be understood that while capsule 200 is illustrated as an example in connection with aerosol generating device 100 and / or aerosol generating device 500 and / or aerosol generating device 5100, other suitable examples may also be used. Further details, variations, and alternatives of the capsule are described below in connection with Figures 32-46.

[0172] FIG. 32 is a downstream perspective view of a capsule of an aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 33 is an upstream perspective view of the capsule of FIG. 32. Referring to FIGS. 32-33, capsule 1200 can include a housing having a downstream portion, an upstream portion, and a body portion between the downstream and upstream portions. The downstream portion of the housing can be in the form of a first end cap 1210 (e.g., a downstream cap). The upstream portion of the housing can be in the form of a second end cap 1220 (e.g., an upstream cap). The body portion of the housing can be in the form of a cover 1230 (e.g., a shell, a box sleeve).

[0173] The first end cap 1210 defines a first opening 1212, and the second end cap 1220 defines a second opening 1222. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first openings 1212 are in the form of a series of outlet openings (e.g., five outlet openings), and the second openings 1222 are in the form of a series of inlet openings (e.g., five inlet openings). In another example, instead of being arranged in series, the openings can be arranged in a row and column array. Additionally, the second end cap 1220 can expose the first end section 1242 and the second end section 1246 of the heater 1240 (e.g., FIG. 34). As shown, the second opening 1222 can be between the exposed portions of the first end section 1242 and the second end section 1246. The first end cap 1210 and the second end cap 1220 can be formed of a high-temperature plastic. Non-limiting examples of suitable high-temperature plastics include liquid crystal polymer (LCP), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), etc. Additionally, the first end cap 1210 and the second end cap 1220 may be the same color or different colors (including, for example, transparent). In embodiments in which the first end cap 1210 and / or the second end cap 1220 are transparent, the first end cap 1210 and / or the second end cap 1220 may function as a window configured to allow viewing of the contents / components (e.g., the aerosol-forming substrate and / or the heater) within the capsule 1200. The color of the first end cap 1210 and the second end cap 1220 may optionally be used for stock-keeping unit (SKU) identification.

[0174] The cover 1230 can be formed of a metal / alloy, a high-temperature plastic, and / or a plant material. In some embodiments, the metal can include aluminum, and the alloy can be stainless steel. The high-temperature plastic can be the same as that disclosed in connection with the first end cap 1210 and the second end cap 1220. The plant material can include cellulose fibers (e.g., in the form of paper pulp). Regarding dimensions, exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto, but the cover 1230 can have a thickness (e.g., wall thickness) of about 0.4 mm or more to about 0.6 mm or less (e.g., about 0.5 mm). In addition to being formed entirely from any of the above materials, the cover 1230 can also have a composite / multi-layer structure. For example, the cover 1230 can include a lower / inner layer of metal combined with an upper / outer layer of plastic and / or a plant material (e.g., paper, cardboard).

[0175] If a metal / alloy is used to manufacture the cover 1230, the manufacturing process may include extruding the metal / alloy to form the cover 1230. In another example, the manufacturing process may include pressing / drawing (e.g., punching the appropriate shape from a sheet of the metal / alloy) and cutting to form the cover 1230. In yet another embodiment, the manufacturing process may include stamping a sheet of the metal / alloy to the appropriate size / shape, folding to form the cover 1230, followed by optional seam welding and / or labeling. The latter two processes may reduce manufacturing costs.

[0176] The capsule 1200 may have a cube-like shape including a front surface, a rear surface opposite the front surface, a first side surface between the front surface and the rear surface, a second side surface opposite the first side surface, a downstream end surface, and an upstream end surface opposite the downstream end surface. It should be understood that a capsule receiving cavity (e.g., the capsule receiving cavity 130 of the aerosol generating device 100) may be configured to receive the capsule 1200. While the capsule 1200 is illustrated as having a cube-like shape with a rectangular cross-section (e.g., a rounded rectangular cube), it should be understood that exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, in some embodiments, the capsule 1200 may have an end view or cross-section that resembles a rectangle (e.g., an elongated circle, an obround, a discordant angle, a stadium, a racetrack), an ellipse / ovoid, or an ellipse with a pair of opposing semicircular ends. The chamber defined within capsule 1200 may have the same shape as the exterior of capsule 1200, or may have a different shape. For example, the chamber and the exterior of capsule 1200 may both have a rectangular cross-section. In another embodiment, the chamber may have a non-rectangular (e.g., obround) cross-section, while the exterior of capsule 1200 has a rectangular cross-section (or vice versa).

[0177] FIG. 34 is an exploded perspective view of the capsule of FIG. 32. FIG. 35 is an exploded upstream perspective view of the capsule of FIG. 32. Referring to FIGS. 34 and 35, the first end cap 1210 includes a protruding edge or flange on its periphery. The protruding range of the protruding edge of the first end cap 1210 may be approximately equal to the wall thickness of the cover 1230. Similarly, the second end cap 1220 includes a protruding edge or flange on its periphery. The protruding range of the protruding edge of the second end cap 1220 may also be approximately equal to the wall thickness of the cover 1230. The first end cap 1210 and the second end cap 1220 are configured to engage with the inner surface of the cover 1230. The protruding edges of the first end cap 1210 and the second end cap 1220 may function as stoppers when the first end cap 1210 and the second end cap 1220 are engaged with the cover 1230. Additionally, when capsule 1200 is assembled, the ends of first end cap 1210 and second end cap 1220 may be substantially flush with adjacent surfaces of cover 1230 .

[0178] In alternative embodiments, the first end cap 1210 may be integral with the cover 1230 to form a unitary structure. For example, the manufacturing process may include stamping / drawing a metal sheet such that the first end cap 1210 and the cover 1230 are integrally formed of the same material (e.g., as a continuous shell). The first opening 1212 may be pre-punched into the metal sheet before stamping / drawing, or post-punched into the metal sheet after stamping / drawing.

[0179] The heater 1240 includes a first end section 1242, a middle portion 1244, and a second end section 1246. The first end section 1242 and the second end section 1246 comprise outer segments of the heater 1240 configured to establish an electrical connection with a power source (e.g., to receive current from the power source 150). During manufacturing, the heater 1240 may be embedded within the second end cap 1220 via injection molding (e.g., insert molding, overmolding). The middle portion 1244 is an inner segment of the heater 1240 configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., the aerosol-forming substrate 1860 of FIG. 47 ). When the capsule 1200 is assembled, the middle portion 1244 of the heater 1240 may be aligned between the first opening 1212 and the second opening 1222.

[0180] The aerosol-forming substrate of the capsule 1200 may be in a connected or loose form. Specifically, if the aerosol-forming substrate is in a connected form, it may have a shape that facilitates placement within the housing. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may be in the form of one or more rectangular sheets / slabs sized for insertion into the cover 1230. If in a loose form, the aerosol-forming substrate may be loaded into the cover 1230 via a vacuum-assisted process. In such a process, the housing may first be partially assembled so that the second end cap 1220 (with the heater 1240 embedded therein) engages with the cover 1230. A vacuum may then be applied to the second opening 1222 of the second end cap 1220 to draw the nearby aerosol-forming substrate into the open end of the cover 1230. The level of vacuum may be varied as needed to achieve a desired density of the aerosol-forming substrate in the capsule 1200. In this manner, multiple capsules may be loaded simultaneously and relatively consistently.

[0181] FIG. 36 is an enlarged view of the heater of FIG. 34. The sheet material may be cut or otherwise processed (e.g., stamped, electrochemically etched, die-cut, laser cut) to produce heater 1240. In such an example, heater 1240 has a unitary, continuous shape. The sheet material may be formed of one or more conductors configured to undergo Joule heating (also known as ohmic / resistive heating). Suitable conductors for the sheet material include iron-based alloys (e.g., stainless steel, iron aluminide), nickel-based alloys (e.g., nichrome), and / or ceramics (e.g., metal-coated ceramics). For example, the stainless steel may be of the type known in the art as SS316L, although example embodiments are not limited thereto. The sheet material may have a thickness of about 0.10 mm or more to about 0.30 mm or less (e.g., about 0.15 mm or more to about 0.25 mm or less). The heater 1240 can have a resistance of about 0.5 ohms or more to about 2.5 ohms or less (e.g., about 1.0 ohms or more to about 2.0 ohms or less). Referring to FIG. 36 , the heater 1240 has a first end section 1242, an intermediate section 1244, and a second end section 1246. The first end section 1242 and the second end section 1246 are configured to electrically connect to a power source when the capsule 1200 is loaded into the device body of the aerosol generating device. When the heater 1240 is activated (e.g., to undergo Joule heating), the temperature of the aerosol-forming substrate can increase, generating an aerosol that can be drawn or otherwise released through the first opening 1212 of the capsule 1200 before continuing downstream through a mouthpiece (e.g., replaceable mouthpiece 190).

[0182] The intermediate portion 1244 of the heater 1240 can have a planar and winding configuration resembling a compressed oscillation or zigzag with multiple parallel segments (e.g., 8 to 16 parallel segments). Each parallel segment can have a width of about 0.28 mm to about 0.32 mm (e.g., about 0.30 mm) and a spacing between parallel segments of about 0.30 mm to about 0.34 mm (e.g., about 0.32 mm), although other dimensions are possible. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the intermediate portion 1244 can occupy a rectangular area to more thoroughly heat the chamber within the cover 1230. However, it should be understood that other configurations for the intermediate portion 1244 of the heater 1240 are also possible (e.g., a spiral configuration, a flower-like configuration). Furthermore, the ends of each of the first end section 1242 and the second end section 1246 can be oriented perpendicular to the plane of the intermediate portion 1244. Furthermore, each of the first end section 1242 and the second end section 1246 may include a segment having a sideways square J-shape that facilitates a transition from the plane of the intermediate portion 1244 to the orthogonal plane of the electrical contact surfaces of the first end section 1242 and the second end section 1246. In this regard, the first end section 1242 and the second end section 1246 may also be considered to resemble a pair of “legs” of the heater 1240. As a result, the first end section 1242 and the second end section 1246 may be relatively firmly embedded within the second end cap 1220 while providing a pair of electrical contact surfaces (e.g., for engaging with the electrical contacts 152 a and 152 b of the aerosol generation device 100).

[0183] FIG. 37 is a downstream perspective view of another capsule of an aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment. FIG. 38 is an upstream end view of the capsule of FIG. 37. In general, capsule 1300 shares commonalities (e.g., features, characteristics, materials of construction, and manufacturing methods) with capsule 200 and capsule 1200. Accordingly, it should be understood that similar aspects of capsule 1300 may be the same as those disclosed in connection with capsule 200 and capsule 1200 unless otherwise noted. Referring to FIGS. 37-38, capsule 1300 includes a housing configured to house an aerosol-forming substrate (e.g., aerosol-forming substrate 1860′ of FIG. 48) and a heater, and the downstream portion of the housing may be in the form of a first end cap 1310 (e.g., a downstream cap). The upstream portion of the housing may be in the form of a second end cap 1320 (e.g., an upstream cap, a connector cap). The main body portion of the housing may be in the form of a cover 1330 (e.g., a shell, a box sleeve).

[0184] The first end cap 1310 defines a first opening 1312, and the second end cap 1320 defines a second opening 1322. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first openings 1312 are in the form of a series of outlet openings (e.g., nine outlet openings), and the second openings 1322 are in the form of a series of inlet openings (e.g., eight inlet openings). In another example, instead of being arranged in series, the openings can be arranged in an array of rows and columns. Furthermore, each of the openings can have a width of about 0.26 mm or more to about 0.30 mm or less (e.g., about 0.28 mm) to reduce or prevent the shedding of particles of the aerosol-forming substrate. While rectangular recesses are shown in the sides of the first end cap 1310 and the second end cap 1320, it should be understood that these features (e.g., gate features) are the result of a manufacturing process (e.g., injection molding) and may be omitted in some embodiments. Additionally, the second end cap 1320 can expose a first end section 1342 and a second end section 1346 of the heater 1340 (e.g., FIG. 41 ). As shown, the second opening 1322 can be between the exposed portions of the first end 1342 and the second end 1346.

[0185] As shown in the drawings, capsule 1300 has a shape in end view or cross section that resembles a rectangle (e.g., an elongated circle, a circle, a disk, a stadium, a racetrack) with a pair of opposing semicircular ends. The shape of capsule 1300 can also be considered as a cylinder elongated or flattened radially along its longitudinal axis. However, it should be understood that capsule 1300 may have other suitable shapes. For example, in some embodiments, capsule 1300 may have an oval or ellipsoidal shape with an elliptical or oval cross-section. In other embodiments, capsule 1300 may have a cube-like shape with a rectangular cross-section (e.g., a rounded rectangular cube). The chamber defined within capsule 1300 may have the same shape as the exterior of capsule 1300, or a different shape. For example, the cross-section of the chamber and the exterior cross-section of capsule 1300 may both be oblong. In another embodiment, the cross section of the chamber may be non-circular (eg, rectangular), while the cross section of the exterior of capsule 1300 may be circular (or vice versa).

[0186] Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view of the capsule of Figure 37. Referring to Figure 39, intermediate portion 1344 of heater 1340 is an interior segment configured to heat an aerosol-forming substrate within capsule 1300. It should be understood that the aerosol-forming substrate of capsule 1300 may be the same as that described in connection with the aerosol-forming substrate of capsule 200 and capsule 1200. First end section 1342 and second end section 1346 of heater 1340 are exterior segments configured to establish an electrical connection with a power source (e.g., electrical connection with power source 150 via electrical contacts 152a and 152b).

[0187] In addition to the second opening 1322, the second end cap 1320 also defines an alignment recess 1326 and an inlet recess 1328. The alignment recess 1326 and the inlet recess 1328 can be considered to be multi-tiered, with the base / inner end face of the alignment recess 1326 (exposing the first end 1342 and second end 1346) being considered to be on one level and the base / inner end face of the inlet recess 1328 (or the grill-like surface of the second opening 1322) being considered to be on another level. The alignment recess 1326 is configured to facilitate alignment of the capsule 1300 during insertion into the device body of the aerosol generating device. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the alignment recess 1326 has angled sidewalls that taper inward toward the inlet recess 1328. The angled sidewalls allow the alignment recess 1326 to more easily and quickly mate with a corresponding engaging member on the device body. For example, when received within the capsule receiving cavity 130 of the aerosol generating device 100, the alignment recess 1326 of the capsule 1300 can engage with the angled surface 176, while the entrance recess 1328 of the capsule 1300 can engage with the capsule seal 202. As a result, the capsule 1300 can be properly loaded and aligned within the device body of the aerosol generating device in a relatively consistent manner.

[0188] FIG. 40 is an exploded view of the capsule of FIG. 37. Referring to FIG. 40, the first end cap 1310 includes a first seal ridge 1314, and the second end cap 1320 includes a second seal ridge 1324. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first seal ridge 1314 is in the form of a series of ribs (e.g., four ribs), and the second seal ridge 1324 is in the form of a series of ribs (e.g., four ribs). In certain implementations, the ribs in each series can be of different heights to ensure desired contact with the cover 1330. When the capsule 1300 is assembled, the first seal ridge 1314 of the first end cap 1310 and the second seal ridge 1324 of the second end cap 1320 are configured to interface (e.g., via an interference fit) with the inner surface of the cover 1330 to provide an air seal. As a result, when air is introduced into the capsule 1300 during operation of the aerosol generating device, the air enters the capsule 1300 via the inlet recess 1328 and the second opening 1322 in the second end cap 1320 (as opposed to entering the capsule 1300 via the gap between the second end cap 1320 and the cover 1330; such air may essentially only flow along the inner surface of the cover 1330, primarily bypassing the aerosol-forming substrate and / or the middle section 1344 of the heater 1340). Similarly, with appropriate seals, aerosol generated within the chamber of the capsule 1300 is drawn in through the first opening 1312 in the first end cap 1310 (as opposed to leaking through the gap between the first end cap 1310 and the cover 1330).

[0189] The first end cap 1310 and the second end cap 1320 can be configured to include lead-in features to facilitate introduction into the cover 1330. For example, the first end cap 1310 can have a distal end having a periphery in the form of a tapered edge. Similarly, the second end cap 1320 can have a proximal end having a periphery in the form of a tapered edge. Such a configuration can facilitate insertion of the first end cap 1310 and the second end cap 1320 into the cover 1330 (e.g., via a press fit) during assembly of the capsule 1300.

[0190] FIG. 41 is an exploded perspective view of the heater of FIG. 40. Referring to FIG. 41, the heater 1340 includes a first end 1342, a middle section 1344, and a second end 1346. The middle section 1344 of the heater 1340 can have a planar and wound configuration resembling a compression oscillation or zigzag with multiple parallel segments (e.g., 8-16 parallel segments). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the two outermost parallel segments of the middle section 1344 can be wider than the inner parallel segments (e.g., about 0.30 mm versus about 0.60 mm) for thermal relaxation and mechanical rigidity. The inner parallel segments of the middle section 1344 can be closer to the first opening 1312 of the first end cap 1310 and the second opening 1322 of the second end cap 1320 than the outer parallel segments of the middle section 1344. Such a configuration can facilitate heating of the center of the capsule 1300. However, it should be understood that other configurations of the middle portion 1344 of the heater 1340 are possible (eg, a spiral configuration, a flower-like configuration).

[0191] The ends of each of the first end section 1342 and the second end section 1346 may be oriented perpendicular to the plane of the intermediate section 1344. Each of the first end section 1342 and the second end section 1346 may also include a segment having a sideways J-shape. Furthermore, each of the first end section 1342 and the second end section 1346 may include opposing finger / claw-like structures. The finger / claw-like structures may function as positioning features for manufacturing equipment (e.g., an overmolding die). As a result, the first end 1342 and the second end 1346 may be relatively securely embedded within the second end cap 1320 while providing a pair of electrical contact surfaces.

[0192] Figure 42 is a perspective view of a variation of the heater of Figure 41. Referring to Figure 42, a heater 1340' includes a first end section 1342', a middle section 1344', and a second end section 1346'. The first end section 1342', middle section 1344', and second end section 1346' of the heater 1340' may be the same as those described in connection with the first end section 1342, middle section 1344, and second end section 1346, respectively, of the heater 1340, unless otherwise indicated. For example, with respect to differences, the transition from the middle section 1344' to the first end section 1342' and second end section 1346' may involve little or no dimensional change (e.g., a uniform width versus the wider, thermal relief / low resistance section of Figure 41). Additionally, the first end section 1342' and the second end section 1346' may each include simplified tabs as anchor structures and electrical contact structures.

[0193] FIG. 43 is a downstream perspective view of another capsule of an aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment. In general, capsule 1400 shares commonalities (e.g., features, characteristics, materials of construction, manufacturing methods) with capsule 1300. Accordingly, it should be understood that similar aspects of capsule 1400 may be the same as those disclosed in connection with capsule 1300 unless otherwise indicated. With reference to FIG. 43 , capsule 1400 comprises a housing having a downstream portion in the form of a first end cap 1410 (e.g., downstream cap) defining a first opening 1412, an upstream portion in the form of a second end cap 1420 (e.g., upstream cap, connector cap), and a body portion therebetween in the form of a cover 1430 (e.g., shell, box sleeve). Regarding alternatives to the illustrated shape, it should be understood that in some embodiments, capsule 1400 may instead have a cube-like shape having a rectangular cross-section (e.g., a rounded rectangular cube). In other embodiments, capsule 1400 can have an oval or ellipsoid shape with an oval or elliptical cross-section. The chamber defined within capsule 1400 can be the same as or different from the outer shape of capsule 1400. For example, the cross-section of the chamber and the cross-section of the exterior of capsule 1400 can both be round. In another example, the cross-section of the chamber can be non-circular (e.g., rectangular), while the cross-section of the exterior of capsule 1400 can be circular (or vice versa).

[0194] As shown, the sides of the first end cap 1410 and the second end cap 1420 may lack the rectangular recesses (e.g., gate features) present in some other embodiments (e.g., compare capsule 1300 of FIG. 37 ) as a result of the manufacturing process. Additionally, the sides of the first end cap 1410 and the second end cap 1420 may be substantially flush with the adjacent / mating surfaces of the cover 1430, although it should be understood that other variations are possible. For example, in some embodiments, the protruding edge / flange of the first end cap 1410 (which acts as a hard stop for the cover 1430) may be larger than the wall thickness of the cover 1430 such that the adjacent / mating surfaces of the first end cap 1410 and the cover 1430 are not flush or substantially flush. In other embodiments, the protruding edge / flange of the second end cap 1420 (which acts as a hard stop for the cover 1430) may be larger than the wall thickness of the cover 1430 such that the adjacent / mating surfaces of the second end cap 1420 and the cover 1430 are not flush or substantially flush. In still other embodiments, both the protruding edge / flange of the first end cap 1410 and the second end cap 1420 may be larger than the wall thickness of the cover 1430 such that the adjacent / mating surfaces of the first end cap 1410 and the cover 1430 are not flush or substantially flush, and the adjacent / mating surfaces of the cover 1430 and the second end cap 1420 are not flush or substantially flush.

[0195] In another variation, the first end cap 1410 and / or the second end cap 1420 may be configured to fit completely within the cover 1430. For example, the downstream end face of the first end cap 1410 may be flush with (or slightly below) the downstream rim of the cover 1430. Similarly, the upstream end face of the second end cap 1420 may be flush with (or slightly below) the upstream rim of the cover 1430.

[0196] FIG. 44 is a downstream perspective view of another capsule of an aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment. In general, capsule 1500 shares commonalities (e.g., features, characteristics, materials of construction, methods of manufacture) with capsule 1300. Accordingly, it should be understood that similar aspects of capsule 1500 may be the same as those disclosed in connection with capsule 1300 unless otherwise indicated. Referring to FIG. 44, capsule 1500 comprises a housing having a downstream portion in the form of a first end cap 1510 (e.g., downstream cap) defining a first opening 1512, an upstream portion in the form of a second end cap 1520 (e.g., upstream cap, connector cap), and a body portion therebetween in the form of a cover 1530 (e.g., shell, box sleeve). Regarding alternatives to the illustrated shapes, it should be understood that in some embodiments, capsule 1500 may instead have an end view or cross section that resembles a rectangle (e.g., an elongated circle, obround, discorectangle, stadium, racetrack), an ellipse / oval, or an ellipse-like shape with a pair of opposing semicircular ends.

[0197] As shown, the first end cap 1510 and the second end cap 1520 may overlap the cover 1530. Specifically, the periphery of each of the first end cap 1510 and the second end cap 1520 may be larger than the periphery of the cover 1530 so that opposite ends of the cover 1530 can be received within the first end cap 1510 and the second end cap 1520. In such an example, the first end cap 1510 and the second end cap 1520 may interface with the outer surface of the cover 1530. In another embodiment, the first end cap 1510 and the second end cap 1520 may interface with both the outer and inner surfaces of the cover 1530. In either embodiment, the first end cap 1510 and the second end cap 1520 may include sealing ridges configured to interface with the cover 1530 to provide a desired air seal. Additionally, the overlapping configuration of FIG. 44 may provide improved ergonomics by allowing the capsule 1500 to be more easily grasped and handled.

[0198] FIG. 45 is a downstream perspective view of another capsule of an aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment. In general, capsule 1600 shares commonalities (e.g., features, characteristics, materials of construction, methods of manufacture) with capsule 1500. Accordingly, it should be understood that similar aspects of capsule 1600 may be the same as those disclosed in connection with capsule 1500 unless otherwise indicated. Referring to FIG. 45, capsule 1600 comprises a housing having a downstream portion in the form of a first end cap 1610 (e.g., downstream cap) defining a first opening 1612, an upstream portion in the form of a second end cap 1620 (e.g., upstream cap, connector cap), and a body portion therebetween in the form of a cover 1630 (e.g., shell, box sleeve). Regarding alternatives to the illustrated shape, it should be understood that in some embodiments, capsule 1600 may instead have an end view or cross section that resembles a rectangle (e.g., an elongated circle, obround, discorectangle, stadium, racetrack), an ellipse / oval, or an ellipse-like shape with a pair of opposing semicircular ends.

[0199] As shown, the first end cap 1610 may overlap the cover 1630. Specifically, the periphery of the first end cap 1610 may be larger than the periphery of the cover 1630 so that the proximal end of the cover 1630 can be received within the first end cap 1610. In such an example, the first end cap 1610 may interface with an outer surface of the cover 1630, and the second end cap 1620 may interface with an inner surface of the cover 1630. Conversely, in another embodiment, the first end cap 1610 may interface with an inner surface of the cover 1630, and the second end cap 1620 may interface with an outer surface of the cover 1630. In either example, the first end cap 1610 and the second end cap 1620 may include sealing ridges configured to interface with the cover 1630 to provide a desired air seal. Furthermore, the overlapping configuration of Figure 45, in which the first end cap 1610 overlaps the cover 1630, can help ensure proper orientation of the capsule 1600 when loading it into the device body of the aerosol generating device (e.g., by limiting the possible orientation options for loading the capsule 1600).

[0200] FIG. 46 is a downstream perspective view of another capsule of an aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment. In general, capsule 1700 shares commonalities (e.g., features, characteristics, materials of construction, methods of manufacture) with capsule 1500. Accordingly, it should be understood that similar aspects of capsule 1700 may be the same as those disclosed in connection with capsule 1500 unless otherwise noted. Referring to FIG. 46, capsule 1700 comprises a housing having a downstream portion in the form of a first end cap 1710 (e.g., downstream cap) defining a first opening 1712, an upstream portion in the form of a second end cap 1720 (e.g., upstream cap, connector cap), and a body portion therebetween in the form of a cover 1730 (e.g., shell, box sleeve). Regarding alternatives to the illustrated shapes, it should be understood that in some embodiments, capsule 1700 may instead have an end view or cross section that resembles a rectangle (e.g., an elongated circle, obround, discorectangle, stadium, racetrack), an ellipse / oval, or an ellipse-like shape with a pair of opposing semicircular ends.

[0201] As shown, the cover 1730 can be a composite structure including an inner shell and an outer wrapper. The inner shell of the cover 1730 can be formed of a metal / alloy or high-temperature plastic. Meanwhile, the outer wrapper of the cover 1730 can be formed of an insulating and / or fibrous material (e.g., pulp / cork wrapping, paper label). For example, the material of the outer wrapper of the cover 1730 can be printed (e.g., with branding / aesthetics or other information). When the capsule 1700 is assembled, the sides of the first end cap 1710 and the second end cap 1720 can be substantially flush with the adjacent / mating surfaces of the cover 1730. Furthermore, the composite structure of the cover 1730 can improve the thermal properties (e.g., thermal insulation for safer handling) and / or aesthetic properties of the capsule 1700.

[0202] FIG. 47 is a perspective view of an aerosol-forming substrate in a coupled configuration, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Referring to FIG. 47 , the aerosol-forming substrate 1860 may include a first aerosol-forming substrate 1860 a and a second aerosol-forming substrate 1860 b to facilitate loading of the substrates during assembly of the capsule. Each of the first aerosol-forming substrate 1860 a and the second aerosol-forming substrate 1860 b may be in a coupled configuration configured to maintain its shape so that they can be integrally positioned within the chamber of the capsule. For example, the first aerosol-forming substrate 1860 a and the second aerosol-forming substrate 1860 b may be in the form of a rectangular sheet / slab sized for insertion into the capsule 1200. Specifically, during assembly / loading, the first aerosol-forming substrate 1860a and the second aerosol-forming substrate 1860b may be inserted into the cover 1230 so as to be on either side of the middle portion 1244 of the heater 1240 (e.g., sandwiching the middle portion 1244). Based on the shape and dimensions of the first aerosol-forming substrate 1860a and the second aerosol-forming substrate 1860b, the aerosol-forming substrates 1860 may occupy all or substantially all of the available space within the chamber defined by the inner surfaces of the first end cap 1210, the second end cap 1220, and the cover 1230.

[0203] FIG. 48 is a perspective view of another aerosol-forming substrate in a coupled configuration, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Referring to FIG. 48 , the aerosol-forming substrate 1860′ may differ from the aerosol-forming substrate 1860 in terms of its shape and dimensions. Otherwise, the aerosol-forming substrate 1860′ may be the same as that described in connection with the aerosol-forming substrate 1860. Consequently, similar aspects already discussed may not be repeated for the sake of brevity. The aerosol-forming substrate 1860′ may include a first aerosol-forming substrate 1860a′ and a second aerosol-forming substrate 1860b′, each of which may be in a coupled configuration. For example, the first aerosol-forming substrate 1860a′ and the second aerosol-forming substrate 1860b′ may be in the form of a slab / pallet having a semicircular cross-section sized for insertion into the capsule 1300. Specifically, during assembly / loading, the first aerosol-forming substrate 1860 a′ and the second aerosol-forming substrate 1860 b′ can be inserted into the cover 1330 so as to be on either side of the middle portion 1344 of the heater 1340 (e.g., sandwiching the middle portion 1344). Based on the shapes and dimensions of the first aerosol-forming substrate 1860 a′ and the second aerosol-forming substrate 1860 b′, the aerosol-forming substrate 1860′ can occupy all or substantially all of the available space within the chamber defined by the first end cap 1310, the second end cap 1320, and the inner surface of the cover 1330 (due to their resulting shape and dimensions having an oblong cross-section corresponding to the cross-section of the chamber).

[0204] FIG. 49 is a perspective view of an aerosol-forming substrate in a loose form, according to at least one exemplary embodiment. Referring to FIG. 49 , the aerosol-forming substrate 1860″ may not have a fixed shape, but rather may be a loose form (e.g., particles, fibers, dregs, fragments, or bits) configured to take the shape of the available space in the chamber when introduced into the capsule. Specifically, during assembly / loading, the loose form of the aerosol-forming substrate 1860″ may partially or completely occupy the available space in the chamber of the capsule, such that it is on each side of the heater's mid-section (e.g., surrounding and contacting the mid-section 1344 of the heater 1340). For example, the loose form of the aerosol-forming substrate 1860″ may be used to fill the remainder of a chamber (e.g., to top off the chamber) that has already been loaded with the aerosol-forming substrate in a coupled form. In another embodiment, the loose form of the aerosol-forming substrate 1860″ may be used to fill the entire chamber of the capsule. Additionally, the aerosol-forming substrate 1860'' may be loaded into a capsule (eg, capsule 1200, capsule 1300) via a vacuum-assisted process.

[0205] 50 is a block diagram of an aerosol generating device according to at least one example embodiment. In one embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be aerosol generating device 100. In another example, the aerosol generating device may be aerosol generating device 500. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating device may be aerosol generating device 5100. Unless otherwise indicated, details of the block diagram apply to aerosol generating device 100 and / or aerosol generating device 500 and / or aerosol generating device 5100.

[0206] 50 , according to at least one exemplary embodiment, control subsystem 2100 may include, but is not limited to, a controller 2105, a power supply 2110, actuator control 2115, a capsule electrical / data interface 2120, device sensors 2125, an input / output (I / O) interface 2130, an aerosol indicator 2135, at least one antenna 2140, and / or a storage medium 2145. For example, control subsystem 2100 may include additional elements, which will not be described for the sake of brevity. In other exemplary embodiments, capsule electrical / data interface 2120 may be only an electrical interface, or the like.

[0207] The controller 2105 can be hardware including logic circuits, a hardware / software combination such as a processor executing software, or a combination thereof. For example, the controller 2105 may include, but is not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), an arithmetic logic unit (ALU), a digital signal processor, a microcomputer, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a system on a chip (SoC), a programmable logic unit, a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.

[0208] If controller 2105 is or includes a processor that executes software, controller 2105 is configured as a special purpose machine (e.g., processing unit) for executing software stored in memory accessible by controller 2105 (e.g., storage medium 2145 or another storage device) to perform the functions of controller 2105. The software may be embodied as program code including instructions for performing and / or controlling any or all of the operations described herein as being performed by controller 2105.

[0209] As disclosed herein, the terms "storage medium," "computer-readable storage medium," or "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium" may refer to one or more devices for storing data, including read-only memory (ROM), random-access memory (RAM), magnetic RAM, core memory, magnetic disk storage media, optical storage media, flash memory devices, and / or other tangible machine-readable media for storing information. The term "computer-readable medium" includes, but is not limited to, portable or non-removable storage devices, optical storage devices, and various other media that can store, preserve, or carry instructions and / or data.

[0210] The controller 2105 communicates with a power source 2110, actuator controls 2115, an electrical / data interface 2120, device sensors 2125, an input / output (I / O) interface 2130, an aerosol indicator 2135, on-product controls, and / or at least one antenna 2140, etc. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, the on-product controls 2150 may include any apparatus or device that can be manually manipulated by an adult operator to indicate a value selection. Embodiments include, but are not limited to, one or more buttons, dials, capacitive sensors, sliders, etc.

[0211] The controller 2105 (or storage medium 2145) stores key material and proprietary algorithm software for encryption. For example, encryption algorithms rely on the use of random numbers. The security of these algorithms depends on how truly random these numbers are. These numbers are typically pre-generated and coded into a processor or memory device. Exemplary embodiments can increase the randomness of the numbers used for encryption by using aerosol inhalation parameters (e.g., the duration of an instance of aerosol inhalation, the interval between instances of aerosol inhalation, or a combination thereof) to generate numbers that are more random and vary from person to person than pre-generated random numbers. All communications between the controller 2105 and the capsule 200 may be encrypted.

[0212] The controller 2105 is configured to run a real-time operating system (RTOS) and control the control subsystem 2100, and updates may be received through reading and / or sensing updates from tags, chips, and / or labels (e.g., security tags, security chips, etc.) included in the capsule 200, through communication with the NVM or CC-NVM, and / or when the control subsystem 2100 is connected to another device (e.g., a smartphone) via the I / O interface 2130 and / or the antenna 2140. For example, updates may include parameter information associated with the corresponding capsule, such as heater parameter information and / or heater profile information tailored to and / or directed toward the aerosol-forming substrate included in the installed capsule 200, capsule authentication updates with information related to capsule authentication methods (e.g., security settings associated with the capsule, updates to the security key used during authentication, etc.), programming updates, etc. Additionally, the I / O interface 2130 and the antenna 2140 enable the control subsystem 2100 to connect to various external devices, such as smartphones, tablets, PCs, etc. For example, I / O interface 2130 may include a USB-C connector, a micro-USB connector, etc. The USB-C connector (e.g., connector port 114) may be used by control subsystem 2100 to charge power source 2110b (e.g., which may correspond to power supply 150) and may also be used to send and / or receive data from at least one external device, such as, but not limited to, an aerosol profile, a heater profile, device performance log data (e.g., controller performance data, memory performance data, battery performance data, heater performance data, etc.), firmware upgrades, software upgrades, etc., example embodiments.

[0213] The controller 2105 may include on-board RAM and flash memory for storing and executing code, including analysis, diagnostics, and software upgrades. Alternatively, the storage medium 2145 may store the code. Furthermore, in another example embodiment, the storage medium 2145 may be mounted on the controller 2105.

[0214] The controller 2105 may further include an on-board clock, reset, and power management module to reduce the area covered by the PCB within the device body housing.

[0215] The device sensors 2125 may include multiple sensor transducers that provide measurement information to the controller 2105. The device sensors 2125 may include a power supply temperature sensor, an external capsule temperature sensor, a heater current sensor, a power supply current sensor, an airflow sensor, and an acceleration sensor that monitors movement and orientation. The power supply temperature sensor and the external capsule temperature sensor may be thermistors or thermocouples, and the heater and power supply current sensors may be resistance-based sensors or other types of sensors configured to measure current. The airflow sensor (e.g., flow sensor 185) may be a pressure sensor (e.g., a capacitive pressure sensor) configured to detect positive or negative air pressure (e.g., draw or puff), a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) flow sensor, and / or another type of sensor configured to measure airflow, such as a hot wire anemometer. Furthermore, instead of or in addition to measuring airflow using a flow sensor included in the device sensors 2125 of the device body housing control subsystem 2100, a hot wire anemometer 2220A located within the capsule 200 may be used to measure airflow. According to at least one exemplary embodiment, the device sensor 2125 further includes a capsule detection sensor for detecting the presence of a capsule within the aerosol generating device 100, and / or a door detection sensor for detecting the closure of the door and / or lid of the aerosol generating device, although exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0216] Data generated from one or more of the device sensors 2125 may be detected based on a binary signal (e.g., an on / off signal), using, for example, a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) circuit, and / or may be sampled at a sample rate appropriate for the parameter being measured, using, for example, a discrete, multi-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC).

[0217] Additionally, according to at least one exemplary embodiment, the device sensors may further include tag sensors, such as barcode sensors, secure element (SE) readers, optical readers, physical parameter readers, etc. Tag sensors and / or tag antennas (e.g., RFID antennas, NFC antennas, etc.) may be used individually or in combination to detect information stored on tags (e.g., RFID tags, NFC tags, barcode tags, SEs, etc.) located and / or attached to the exterior of the capsule 200 and / or to detect and / or sense physical parameters of the capsule 200, such as the resistance value of a heater contained within the capsule 200. The tag sensors and / or tag antennas may be positioned in physical proximity to the capsule 200 into which information stored on a tag, such as electronic ID information, authentication information, hardware parameter information, aerosol-forming substrate information (e.g., aerosol-forming substrate expiration date information, manufacturing date information, etc.), profile information, etc., has been properly inserted.

[0218] The controller 2105 can adapt heater profiles and other profiles for the aerosol-forming substrate based on the measurement information received from the controller 2105. For convenience, these are commonly referred to as aerosol profiles. The heater profile specifies the power profile supplied to the heater during the few seconds during which aerosol extraction occurs, to apply continuous heating to the capsule (e.g., to provide an “oven mode” in which a desired temperature is maintained within the capsule for a desired period of time), and / or the power profile supplied to the heater during an instance of aerosol extraction. For example, the heater profile can supply full power to the heater when aerosol extraction begins, but then quickly reduce the power to half or quarter within a second or so. According to at least some exemplary embodiments, modulation of the power supplied to the heater can be implemented using, but is not limited to, pulse-width modulation.

[0219] Additionally, the heater profile may be altered based on the detected suction and / or application of negative pressure to the aerosol generation device 100. The use of a flow sensor allows the strength of suction on the aerosol to be measured and used as feedback to the controller 2105 to adjust the power supplied to the heater of the capsule 200, which may be referred to as heating or energy supply.

[0220] According to at least some exemplary embodiments, once the controller 2105 recognizes the currently installed capsule 200 (e.g., via the SKU, via a unique identifier contained on a tag (e.g., an RFID tag, an NFC tag, etc.)), the controller 2105 matches the associated heating profile designed for that particular capsule. The controller 2105 and storage medium 2145 store data and algorithms that enable the generation of heating profiles for all SKUs, capsule types, aerosol-forming substrate types, etc. In another exemplary embodiment, the controller 2105 can read the heating profile from the capsule. Additionally, an adult operator can adjust the heating profile to suit their preferences using the on-product controls 2150, using an external device wirelessly paired with the aerosol generating device 100, and / or using an external device connected to the aerosol generating device 100 via the I / O interface 2130, etc. In other exemplary embodiments, the control device 2105 may use a heating profile applied to a previously installed capsule stored in memory for the currently installed capsule, assuming that the current capsule is of the same type as the previously installed capsule.

[0221] The controller 2105 can send data to and receive data from the power supply 2110. The power supply 2110 includes a power source 2110b (which may correspond, for example, to the power supply 150) and a power supply controller 2110a for managing the power output by the power source 2110b.

[0222] The power source 2110b can be a lithium-ion battery or one of its variants, such as a lithium-ion polymer battery. Alternatively, the power source 2110b can be a nickel-metal hydride battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a lithium-manganese battery, a lithium-cobalt battery, or a fuel cell. Alternatively, the power source 2110b can be rechargeable and can include circuitry that allows the battery to be charged by an external charging device. In that case, once charged, the circuitry provides power for a desired (or predetermined) number of aerosol inhalations, after which the circuitry must be reconnected to the external charging device.

[0223] The power supply controller 2110a provides commands to the power source 2110b based on instructions from the controller 2105. For example, the power supply 2110 can receive commands from the controller 2105 (via the capsule electrical / data interface 2120) to provide power to the capsule when the capsule is detected and the adult operator activates the control subsystem 2100 (e.g., by activating a switch such as a toggle button, a capacitive sensor, an IR sensor, etc.). Additionally, according to some exemplary embodiments, the controller 2105 may send commands to the power supply 2110 based on proper authentication of the capsule, although exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto.

[0224] In addition to powering the capsule, the power supply 2110 also powers the controller 2105. Additionally, the power supply controller 2110a can provide feedback to the controller 2105 indicative of the performance of the power source 2110b.

[0225] The controller 2105 transmits data to and receives data from at least one antenna 2140. The at least one antenna 2140 may include an NFC modem, a Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) modem, and / or other modems for other wireless technologies (e.g., WiFi, etc.). In at least one exemplary embodiment, the communication stack resides within the modem, but the modem is controlled by the controller 2105. The Bluetooth LE modem is used for data and control communications with applications on external devices (e.g., smartphones). The NFC / Bluetooth LE / WiFi modem can be used to pair the aerosol generating device 100 with applications and to transmit diagnostic information, data, profile information, capsule information, hardware parameter information, firmware updates, etc. Additionally, the Bluetooth LE / WiFi modem can be used to provide location information (to help an adult operator find the aerosol generating device) and for authentication during purchases, etc.

[0226] As described above, the control subsystem 2100 can generate and adjust various profiles for aerosol generation. The controller 2105 uses the power supply 2110 and actuator control 2115 to adjust the profile for an adult operator.

[0227] The actuator control 2115 includes passive and active actuators for adjusting the desired aerosol profile. For example, the device body housing can include actuators in the air inlet pathway and / or air inlet channel of the device body housing, such as in the air flow subsystem of the aerosol generation device 100 (e.g., air flow path assembly 181, air hose 180, air inlet connection 184, etc.). The actuator control 2115 can use the actuators to control the flow of air in the air inlet channel based on commands from the controller 2105 related to the desired aerosol profile.

[0228] Additionally, actuator control 2115 is used in conjunction with power supply 2110 to energize the heater. More specifically, actuator control 2115 is configured to generate a drive waveform associated with a desired aerosol profile. As discussed above, each possible profile is associated with a drive waveform. Upon receiving a command from controller 2105 indicating the desired aerosol profile, actuator control 2115 can generate the associated modulated waveform for power supply 2110.

[0229] The controller 2105 provides information to the aerosol indicator 2135 to indicate status and occurring actions to the adult operator. The indicator 2135 includes a power indicator that is displayed on a display panel (e.g., communication screen 140), a separate indicator light (e.g., an LED indicator light, etc.) that may be activated when the controller 2105 senses a button being pressed by the adult operator, the indicator 2135 may also include a tactile feedback motor, a speaker, an indicator of the current state of an adult operator-controlled aerosol parameter (e.g., aerosol volume generated), and other feedback mechanisms.

[0230] 51-71 are illustrations of another aerosol generating device 5100 (eg, a heat not burn (HNB) aerosol generating device) according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0231] FIG. 51 is a front view of another exemplary aerosol generating device according to at least one exemplary embodiment.

[0232] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figure 51, the aerosol generating device 5100 is generally the same as the aerosol generating device 100, except that the aerosol generating device 5100 has smaller dimensions than the aerosol generating device 100. For example, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol generating device 5100 of Figure 51 is about 99 mm high, about 45.5 mm wide, and about 22 mm deep. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol generating device 5100 has a height of about 90 mm to about 110 mm, a width of about 40 mm to about 50 mm, and a depth of about 18 mm to about 24 mm.

[0233] Similar to the aerosol generating device 100 (and also the aerosol generating device 500), the aerosol generating device 5100 includes a lid 5110 and a housing 5120 that engage to form a device 5100 having a generally oval, elliptical, or pebble shape. The device 5100 has rounded corners and edges so that it fits comfortably and unobtrusively in an adult consumer's hand.

[0234] Additionally, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol generating device 5100 includes a replaceable mouthpiece 5190 (further described with respect to Figures 69-71) having a slight inwardly curved taper 5191 configured to receive the lips of an adult consumer and improve comfort and experience.

[0235] As shown in FIG. 51 , the lid 5110 can be in a closed position relative to the housing 5120. Like the lid 110, the lid 5110 can be fixedly coupled to the housing 5120 at a first position 5122 by a hinge 112, or other similar connector, that allows the lid 5110 to move (e.g., swing and rotate) from a closed position (as shown and described with respect to FIGS. 51, 52, 53, 54) to an open position (as shown and described with respect to FIGS. 55, 56, 57). The lid 5110 can be releasably coupled to the housing 5120 at a second position 5124 by a latch assembly (shown and described in FIGS. 58A, 58B, 58C, and 58D) that secures or secures the lid 5110 in the closed position and is easily releasable to allow the lid 5110 to move from the secured closed position to an open position.

[0236] As shown, the aerosol generating device 5100 has a first side 5102 and a second side 5104. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the aerosol generating device 5100 includes an interface panel 5143 disposed on the second side 5104 (as further described and shown in FIG. 52 ).

[0237] 52 is a side view of a first side of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51.

[0238] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figure 52, the aerosol generating device 5100 of Figure 51 includes an interface panel 5143 on the second side 5104 of the housing 5120. The interface panel 5143 can include an unlatch button 5118 and a power button 5142 (as further described and shown with respect to Figures 58A, 58B, 58C, and 58D), which can be pressed by an adult consumer to activate the aerosol generating device 5100, as described herein.

[0239] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the interface panel 5143 can include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The unlatch button 5118 and the power button 5142 can include raised or lowered portions that indicate the button's function. The raised or lowered portions can be visually or tactilely identifiable. The LEDs can illuminate the entire interface panel 5143 or only a portion of it. For example, the raised or lowered portions of the unlatch button 5118 and the power button 5142 can be transparent so that light is visible only through the raised or lowered portions.

[0240] 53 is a side perspective view of a second side of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51.

[0241] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figure 53, the aerosol generating device 5100 includes a lid 5110 and a housing 5120 having rounded edges and smooth surfaces to fit comfortably in an adult consumer's hand. The lid 5110 is releasably coupled to the housing 5120 at a first side 5102 of the housing 5120.

[0242] FIG. 54 is a front view of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51, with the housing transparent to show part of the internal structure of the exemplary aerosol generating device.

[0243] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figure 54, the aerosol generation device 5100 includes a lid 5110 that includes a hinge 112 as described above with respect to Figure 10 and the aerosol generation device 100. The lid 5110 pivots about the hinge 112 to move the lid 5110 between a closed position and an open position (shown in Figure 55).

[0244] FIG. 55 is a front view of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51, with the housing transparent and the lid in an open position for illustrative purposes only to show part of the internal structure of the aerosol generating device.

[0245] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figure 55, aerosol generating device 5100 is generally similar to aerosol generating device 100 (and also aerosol generating device 500), except that inner housing 5800 defines a capsule-receiving cavity (not shown). Inner housing 5800 has a mesa shape (as further described and shown in Figures 56-57).

[0246] Additionally, as shown in Figure 55, when the lid 5110 is in an open position relative to the housing 5120, the inner housing 5800 and capsule receiving cavity (not shown) are exposed. Additionally, the latch arm 5114, which will be further described with respect to Figures 58A, 58B, 58C, and 58D, is visible when the lid 5110 is in the open position.

[0247] Figure 56 is a perspective view of the top of the exemplary aerosol generating device of Figure 51 with the lid in the open position and a capsule received in the capsule receiving cavity of the housing. Figure 57 is a perspective side view of the top of the exemplary aerosol generating device of Figure 51 with the lid in the open position and a capsule received in the capsule receiving cavity of the housing.

[0248] 56 and 57, an inner housing 5800 surrounds the capsule receiving cavity 130. The inner housing 5800 may include finger-sized and / or shaped indentations 5802 on one or both sides of the capsule receiving cavity 130 to allow an adult consumer to more easily grasp the capsule held within the capsule receiving cavity 130 for removal.

[0249] 56 and 57, the aerosol generating device also includes a latch arm 5114 (further described with respect to FIGS. 58A, 58B, 58C, and 58D) that extends at least partially through the inner housing 5800. The latch arm 5114 is configured to engage an interior surface or feature of the lid 5110 to maintain the lid 5110 in a closed position relative to the housing 5120. Additionally, the latch arm 5114 moves relative to the inner housing 5800, as further discussed with respect to FIGS.

[0250] FIG. 58A is an internal perspective view of the latch assembly portion of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51 with the housing 5120 removed.

[0251] 58A, the aerosol generating device 5100 is generally similar to the aerosol generating device 100, except that the aerosol generating device 5100 includes a latch assembly 5801 that allows the lid 5110 to be secured or fixed in the closed position while being easily releasable to allow the lid 5110 to move from a secured closed position to an open position. When the lid 5110 is secured in the closed position, the capsule in the capsule receiving cavity is compressed within the capsule receiving cavity to ensure a good electrical connection, as discussed further herein.

[0252] Similar to the latch 114 of the aerosol generation device 100, the latch assembly 5801 includes a latch arm 5114 that allows the lid 5110 to be releasably coupled to the housing 5120 in the second position 5124. At least a portion of the latch arm 5114 extends through the inner housing 5800 (as shown and described with respect to FIGS. 55-57 ). The portion of the latch arm 5114 that extends through the inner housing 5800 is the portion that engages with a lid latch 5840 disposed on the inner surface of the lid 5110.

[0253] 58A , the capsule connector 5132, which defines at least a portion of the capsule receiving cavity (not shown), includes a pair of extensions 5810, each defining a pin receiving hole 5815. At least one of the pair of extensions 5810 also includes a protrusion 5820 that engages a first end of a spring 5117. The inner latch lever 5805 includes an arm protrusion 5845 that engages a second end of the spring 5117, such that the spring 5117 connects the inner latch lever 5805 to at least one of the pair of extensions 5810. It should be noted that the spring 5117 does not participate in holding the lid 5110 in the closed position, but rather acts to move the inner latch lever 5805 to a rest position when the lid 5110 is in the open position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 58A ) or the closed position (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 58C and 58D ).

[0254] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the latch assembly 5801 also includes an inner latch lever 5805 that includes a latch arm 5114 and a receiving arm 5230. The inner latch lever 5805 is disposed between a pair of extensions 5810 and is pivotally attached to a portion of the capsule connector 5132 via a pin 5825 that extends through a pin receiving hole 5815 such that the inner latch lever 5805 pivots relative to the pair of extensions 5810, the inner latch lever 5805, and the extension 5810. The latch arm 5114 is perpendicular to the point at which it rotates about the pin 5825 when the lid 5110 is in the open position.

[0255] In some exemplary embodiments, the major axis of the latch arm 5114 may be perpendicular to the major axis of the receiving arm 5230. For example, the latch arm 5114 may be a protrusion extending from the receiving arm 5230. The protrusion may include substantially parallel first and second lengths or sides 5114A, 5114B extending from the receiving arm 5514, and a third length or side 5114C connecting the first and second lengths. As best shown in FIG. 58D , the protrusion, and in particular the third length 5114C, has a shape that corresponds to the lid latch 5840 formed on the inner surface of the lid 5110. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the third length 5114C can have a substantially rounded shape.

[0256] As shown in FIG. 58B , as the lid 5110 is moved toward the closed position, the latch arm 5114 begins to engage with the lid latch 5840. Moving the latch arm 5114 along the lid latch 5840 from the bottom of the lid latch 5840 to the top of the lid latch 5840 can force the latch lever 5805 to swing, moving the latch arm 5114 away from the interior of the lid 5110 and then back toward the interior of the lid 5110. As shown in FIG. 58D , in the closed position, the underside of the latch arm 5114 can engage the top surface of the lid latch 5840. When the lid is closed, the downward force exerted on a capsule (e.g., capsule 200) received in the capsule-receiving cavity can be approximately 30 Newtons.

[0257] As shown in FIG. 58D , when the lid 5110 is in the closed position, the latch arm 5114 can be parallel to the horizontal axis of the aerosol generation device 5100. The position of the top surface of the lid latch 5840 can be defined by a circle centered on the pin 5825, and in certain examples, the lid latch 5840 can have an angle of approximately 45°. The inclined surface of the lid latch 5840 can reduce the amount of overtravel of the lid 5110 required to engage with the latch arm 5114. Because of this angled surface, the greater the force applied to the lid 5110 when attempting to open it, the more the latch arm 5114 will engage with the lid latch 5840. However, if excessive force is applied, the lid 5110 may deform, causing the surface of the lid 5110 to slip past the top surface of the lid latch 5840, resulting in the lid 5110 being opened. The force applied to the latch arm 5114 can be transferred to the top surfaces of the pair of extensions 5810 without being borne by the spring 5117.

[0258] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the latch assembly 5801 also includes an unlatch button 5118 that is part of the interface panel 5143 shown and described with respect to Figures 51 and 52. The unlatch button 5118 is connected to a latch button arm 5116. The length of the latch button arm 5116 can be approximately 16 mm.

[0259] When the lid is in the closed position, the release latch button 5118 is lifted against the outer surface of the interface panel 5143 as the receiving arm 5230 moves towards the housing 5120 and presses against the latch button arm 5116 .

[0260] To open the lid, the release latch button 5118 is pressed. When the release latch button 5118 is pressed, the latch button arm 5116, which is connected to the release latch button 5118, presses against the receiver arm 5230, which moves towards the capsule connector 5132 and swings the inner latch lever 5805 so that the latch arm 5114 disengages from the lid latch 5840 on the inner surface of the lid 5110. That is, the latch arm 5114 moves away from the inner surface of the lid 5110, providing clearance between the latch arm 5114 and the lid latch 5840.

[0261] 58A , the latch button arm 5116 may be aligned (e.g., parallel) with the receiver arm 5230, or may be decoupled from the receiver arm 5230. In this manner, the latch button arm 5116 is configured to apply pressure to the latch arm 5114 via the receiver arm 5230. The decoupled configuration between the latch arm 5114 and the latch button arm 5116 may help simplify assembly of the aerosol generation device 5100. The connection between the latch arm 5114 and the capsule connector 5132 may assist the latch assembly in applying a downward force to the capsule (e.g., capsule 200).

[0262] Similar to the unlatch button 118, the unlatch button 5118 can have a substantially circular shape with a central depression or indentation configured to direct pressure applied by an adult consumer, although exemplary embodiments are not limited thereto. As best shown in FIG. 52 , the unlatch button 5118 is part of an interface panel 5143 on the second side 5104 of the aerosol generating device 5100. Similar to the consumer interface panel 143, the interface panel 5143 can be an oval-shaped panel.

[0263] Figure 58B is a side view of the top of the exemplary aerosol generating device of Figure 51, and for purposes of illustration only, is a side view of the top of the exemplary aerosol generating device of Figure 51 in a position between open and closed, with the housing 5120 removed and the lid 5110 transparent.

[0264] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 58B, the lid 5110 includes a lid latch 5840 that can be angled downward relative to the horizontal axis of the aerosol generating device.

[0265] Figure 58C is a perspective side view of the top of the exemplary aerosol generation device of Figure 51, with the housing partially removed and the lid transparent, for purposes of illustration only. In particular, Figure 58C is a perspective side view of the aerosol generation device 5100, with the lid 5110 in the closed position and transparent, and the housing 5120 partially removed to show the latch assembly (including the latch 5514 and capsule connector 5132).

[0266] In at least one exemplary embodiment, both extensions of a pair of extensions 5810 are shown pivotally coupled to the inner latch lever 5805 via a pin 5825, as shown in FIG. 58C.

[0267] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 58C, the aerosol generating device may include a manifold 5900.

[0268] FIG. 59 is a bottom rear perspective view of the capsule connector 5132.

[0269] 59 , the capsule connector 5132 defines a capsule receiving cavity 5133 configured to receive a capsule (e.g., capsule 200), similar to the capsule receiving cavity 130. The capsule receiving cavity 130 may include one or more ribs 5135 disposed substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the capsule connector 5132 and extending inward from an interior-facing surface of the cavity 130. The ribs 5135 may be configured to aid in guiding the capsule. In some exemplary embodiments, the capsule connector 5132 may include two pairs of ribs 5135, a first pair of ribs disposed on a first major side of the capsule connector 5132 and a second pair of ribs disposed on a second major side of the capsule connector 5132. The first side and the second side may be substantially parallel.

[0270] 60 is a rear perspective view of an exemplary consumer interface panel of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG. 51.

[0271] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 60 , the aerosol generation device 5100 is generally similar to the aerosol generation device 100 and interface panel 5143 described with respect to FIG. 52 , except that the rear side of the interface panel 5143 is shown. As shown, the interface panel 5143 includes a support or structure 5119 that supports an outward-facing interface 5125 that surrounds the release latch button 5118 and the power button 5142, as described with respect to FIG. 52 . The support structure 5119 and the interface 5125 together define a first opening 5121 configured to receive the release latch button 5118 extending from the latch button arm 5116. The interface 5125 further defines a second opening 5123 configured to receive the power button 5142. The support structure 5119 defines a third opening 5126 that is overlapped or covered by the interface 5125. In this manner, the relationship between the support structure 5119 and the screen 5125 can form a window similar to the communication screen 140 .

[0272] FIG. 61 is a perspective view of the internal portion of the exemplary aerosol generating device of FIG.

[0273] 61 , the aerosol generating device 5100 is generally similar to the aerosol generating device 100, except that it includes a magnet 5115 disposed on or within a lid 5110 of the aerosol generating device 5100 and a magnetic sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor) 5500 disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB) 5111 within the housing 5120. In at least one embodiment, the magnet 5115 is between an inner portion and an outer portion of the lid 5110 and is therefore not visible. Although not shown, it should be appreciated that in at least one embodiment, the magnet 5115 may instead be on the outer surface of the lid 5110.

[0274] The printed circuit board (PCB) 5111 may be the same as or similar to the printed circuit board (PCB) described above in the context of the aerosol generation device 100, except for the addition of the magnetic sensor 5500. The magnet 5115 and the magnetic sensor 5500 may be substantially aligned when the lid 5110 is in the closed position (i.e., when the latch arm 5114 is engaged with the lid latch 5840). In other words, the magnet 5115 is positioned relative to the magnetic sensor 5500 such that when the lid 5110 is closed, the magnetic flux of the magnet 5115 interacts with the magnetic sensor 5500 to generate a signal indicating that the lid 5110 is in the closed or latched position. A control circuit, which may be the same as or similar to the control circuit 160, may receive the signal and subsequently allow the aerosol generation device 5100 to be activated by an adult consumer when or in response to the closed position and / or capsule being detected.

[0275] Figure 62 is a side perspective view of the housing 5120 of the aerosol generating device 5100. Figure 63 is an enlarged bottom view of a portion of the housing 5120 of the aerosol generating device 5100. Figure 64 is a cross-sectional view taken along line AB in Figure 62.

[0276] 62, the aerosol generating device 5100 is generally similar to the aerosol generating device 100, except that the housing 5120 includes a first or front housing portion 5600 and a second or rear housing portion 5610. The first housing portion 5600 mates with the second housing portion 5610 to form the housing 5120.

[0277] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first and second housing portions 5600, 5601 can each have parallel interior and exterior walls along a portion thereof. For example, as shown in Figures 63 and 64, the first housing portion 5600 along the second side 5102 can be defined by a first or inner wall 5602 and a second or outer wall 5604, while the second housing portion 5610 along the second side 5102 can be defined by a first or inner wall 5612 and a second or outer wall 5614. When the first housing portion 5600 and the second housing portion 6510 are coupled to form the housing 5120, the inner wall 5602 of the first housing portion 5600 interfaces or connects with the inner wall 5612 of the second housing portion 5610, and the outer wall 5604 of the first housing portion 5600 interfaces or connects with the outer wall 5614 of the second housing portion 5610, so as to define an air passage 5720 therebetween.

[0278] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as best shown in FIG. 63, an inlet 5725 to the air passage 5720 may be defined in a bottom or second end of the housing 5120. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the inlet 5725 may be in communication with (e.g., connected or coupled to) a charging connector assembly 5169, which will be described below with respect to FIGS. 67 and 68.

[0279] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the air passageway 5720 extends along the length of the second side 5102 of the housing 5120. For example, as best shown in FIGS. 66 and 67, at the top or first end of the housing 5120, the air passageway 5270 may be in fluid communication with an air channel or manifold 5900 (e.g., as further discussed with respect to FIGS. 65-66), which in turn is in communication with (e.g., connected or coupled to) the capsule receiving cavity.

[0280] Because the air passage 5720 is defined between the housing portions, the aerosol generating device 5100 can omit internal tubes, such as the air hose 180, and related features, as discussed in the context of the aerosol generating device 100. That is, because the air passage 5720 is integrated into the housing 5120, the aerosol generating device 5100 requires fewer tubes and additional structures, facilitating the manufacturing process and reducing costs.

[0281] Figure 65 is a perspective view of the interior portion of the aerosol generating device 5100. Figure 66 is another perspective view of the interior portion of the aerosol generating device 5100, showing a cross section of the air channel (or manifold) 5900.

[0282] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 65, a manifold 5900 extends from the air passageway 5270 to the capsule connector 5132. The manifold 5900 may include a manifold plug 5910 that seals the end of the manifold. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 66, the manifold 5900 may include a measurement port 5920 in fluid communication with a pressure sensor (e.g., a MEMS sensor) mounted on the circuit board, such that the pressure sensor is also in communication with the air passageway 5270. The diameter and / or dimensional ratio of the manifold 5900 and the air passageway 5270 may be selected to configure a desired pressure drop experienced by the pressure sensor. The diameter may be configured to allow measurements in a range of 0-300 Pascals (corresponding to a flow rate range of approximately 0-100 mL / s), while reducing and / or minimizing increases in withdrawal resistance.

[0283] Figure 67 is an enlarged view of the charging connector assembly 5169. Figure 68 is an exploded perspective view of the charging connector assembly 5169.

[0284] 67-68, the inlet 5725 can be in communication with the outlet 6110 of the charging connector assembly 5169. As shown, the outlet 6110 can extend along a portion of the charging structure 5170.

[0285] Similar to the charging connector 170, the charging connector assembly 5169 can be configured to receive current from an external power source (e.g., via a USB / mini-USB cable) to charge the power source 150 internal to the aerosol generating device 5100. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the charging connector assembly 5169 can define a cavity 5171 and have a protrusion 5175 within the cavity 5171. Similar to the example charging connector 170, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the protrusion 5175 of the charging connector 5169 does not extend beyond the edge of the cavity 5171.

[0286] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown, the charging connector assembly 5169 can further include a protective grill 5172 surrounding the cavity 5171. Similar to the protective grill 172, the protective grill 5172 of the charging connector assembly 5169 can help reduce and / or prevent the ingress of debris and / or the inadvertent blockage of the incoming airflow. For example, the protective grill 5172 can define a plurality of holes 5173 along its length or course. At least some of the pores 5173 can function as inlets for air to be drawn into the aerosol generating device 5100. The outlet 6110 can be in communication with the plurality of pores 5173 such that, during aerosol generation, air can enter the aerosol generating device 5100 through the outlet 6110 of the charging structure 5170, via the plurality of pores 5173 of the protective grill 5172, and into the air passage 5720 via the inlet 5175 to the capsule (e.g., capsule 200).

[0287] Similar to the protective grill 172, each of the holes 5173 may have, but is not limited to, an oval or circular shape. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the protective grill 5172 may comprise an approved food contact material. For example, the protective grill 5172 may comprise plastic, metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum), or any combination thereof. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the surface of the protective grill 5172 may be coated with a thin layer of plastic and / or anodized, for example. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the charging connector assembly 5169 may further include a locking clip 5180 that holds the protective grill 172 to the charging structure 5170. The locking clip 5180 helps maintain air flow through the charging connector assembly 5169 to the air passageway 5720 and may eliminate the need for adhesive or other mechanical attachment of the protective grill 172 to the charging connector 5170.

[0288] FIG. 69 is an enlarged view of the top of the aerosol generating device 5100 in the closed position with the exterior or outer housing, part or layer 5110A removed.

[0289] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 69, the aerosol generating device 5100 is generally the same as the aerosol generating device 100 (and also the aerosol generating device 500), except that the aerosol generating device 5100 includes a replaceable mouthpiece 5190 and a mouthpiece holding mechanism 6900.

[0290] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the replaceable mouthpiece 5190 includes a first end 5192 and a second end 5194 distal from the first end 5192. The replaceable mouthpiece 5190 tapers between the first end 5192 and the second end 5194. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the diameter or average length / width dimension of the first end 5192 may be smaller than the diameter or average length / width dimension of the second end 5194. At the first end 5192, the tapered portion may have a slight inward taper 5191 configured to receive the lips of an adult consumer to improve comfort and experience. Also, similar to the replaceable mouthpiece 190, the first end 5192 of the replaceable mouthpiece 5190 has an oval or elliptical shape and includes one or more outlets 5196. However, unlike the interchangeable mouthpiece 190, the outlets 5196 of the interchangeable mouthpiece 5190 are aligned to form a line or zone, and each of the one or more outlets 5196 is generally oval or elliptical. In other exemplary embodiments, the interchangeable mouthpiece 5190 can include fewer or more outlets 5196. Additionally, the outlets 5196 can be circular, oval, square, rectangular, or other shapes.

[0291] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece retention mechanism 6900 is a snap-fit ​​mechanism that allows an adult consumer to position and retain the replaceable mouthpiece 5190 within the lid 5110 of the aerosol generating device 5100. In other exemplary embodiments, the mouthpiece retention mechanism 6900 may include a friction fit, threads, or any other suitable retention mechanism that allows an adult consumer to releasably secure the replaceable mouthpiece 5190 within the lid 5110.

[0292] 69 , the housing lid 5110 includes a first retaining portion 6910 disposed about a top 6915 of an inner lid 6920 of the lid 5110. The first retaining portion 6910 may include one or more bars disposed in a groove 6930 defined in the top 6915 of the inner lid 6920. The first retaining portion 6910 may completely or partially surround the top end 6915 of the inner lid 6920. The first retaining portion 6910 may be a continuous or discontinuous structure. In at least one exemplary embodiment, the first retaining portion 6910 may include a continuous or discontinuous bead or protrusion (not shown).

[0293] 69 , the replaceable mouthpiece 5190 includes a second retaining portion 5198 configured to engage with the first retaining portion 6910. The second retaining portion 5198 can include, for example, four protrusions (e.g., tabs or clips) 6950 (two on each side of the replaceable mouthpiece 5190), each defining a groove or notch 6960 therein. The grooves 6960 are sized and configured to receive the first retaining portion 6910 and hold the replaceable mouthpiece 5190 in place relative to the lid 5110. For example, the replaceable mouthpiece 5190 can be inserted from the inside of the lid 5110 such that the tabs 5198 engage the first retaining portion 6910. The tab 5198 pushes out the first retaining portion 6910, and when the second retaining portion 5198 has completely passed through the first retaining portion 6910, the first retaining portion 6910 can snap back to a rest position (or starting position) for holding the interchangeable mouthpiece 5190.

[0294] FIG. 70 is a bottom perspective view of the replaceable mouthpiece 5190.

[0295] 70, the second end 5194 of the interchangeable mouthpiece 5190 may be coupleable to the lid 5110, as described with respect to FIG. 69. Further, in at least one exemplary embodiment, the second end 5194 includes a ledge 5197 and a second retaining portion 5198 disposed above the ledge 5197. The ledge 5197 has one or more recesses 5193 that may be configured to assist in positioning or aligning the interchangeable mouthpiece 5190 relative to the lid 5110.

[0296] FIG. 71 is a cross-sectional side view of an exemplary capsule (e.g., capsule 200) showing the replaceable mouthpiece 5190 and the contact between the replaceable mouthpiece 5190 and capsule 200 when the lid 5190 is moved from an open position to a closed position.

[0297] 71 , a mouthpiece seal 5875 is disposed on and / or near the second end 5194 of the replaceable mouthpiece 5190. The mouthpiece seal 5875 fits within an opening 7130 in the second end 5194 of the replaceable mouthpiece 5190. The mouthpiece seal 5875 may include a top ridge 7120 that extends around the periphery of the mouthpiece seal 5875. The top ridge 7120 fits within the opening 7130 and securely holds the mouthpiece seal 5875 in place relative to the replaceable mouthpiece 5190.

[0298] In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown, the mouthpiece seal 5875 defines a channel 7100 that at least partially aligns with a mouthpiece channel 7110 defined by the replaceable mouthpiece 5190. The channel 7100 and the mouthpiece channel 7110 are in fluid communication with and / or open to the outlet 5196 of the replaceable mouthpiece 5190. In at least one exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 71 , the channel 7100 has a smaller diameter and / or dimensions (e.g., 2.2 mm x 6.2 mm) than the mouthpiece channel 7110 (e.g., approximately 2.65 mm x 8.15 mm at its widest point). In other exemplary embodiments not shown, the channel 7100 has a diameter and / or dimensions that are the same as or larger than the mouthpiece channel 7110.

[0299] In at least one exemplary embodiment, the mouthpiece seal 5875 may include one or more bevels 5878 facing away from the replaceable mouthpiece 5190 and configured on a surface for contacting the capsule (e.g., capsule 200) to apply a substantially focused, uniform downward force to the capsule (e.g., capsule 200) within the capsule receiving cavity 5133. For example, the one or more bevels 5878 may form one or more rounded protrusions extending around a centered opening or entrance 5195. In this aspect, as best shown in FIG. 71 , the mouthpiece seal 5875 is configured such that when the lid 5110 is closed, the bevels 5878 roll over the capsule (e.g., capsule 200) to help press the capsule 200 into place within the capsule receiving cavity 5133 defined by the housing 5120.

[0300] Numerous non-limiting examples of various capsules are disclosed herein. It should be understood that relevant teachings / variations regarding one capsule can also be applied to other capsules unless otherwise indicated. Additionally, while aerosol generation device 100, aerosol generation device 500, and aerosol generation device 5100 are disclosed as being configured to receive and heat capsule 200, it should be understood that aerosol generation device 100 and / or aerosol generation device 500 and / or aerosol generation device 5100 can also be configured to receive and heat capsule 1200, capsule 1300, capsule 1400, capsule 1500, capsule 1600, and capsule 1700, as well as variations thereof. Furthermore, any portion or feature of each of aerosol generation device 100, aerosol generation device 500, and / or aerosol generation device 5100 can be substituted for other aerosol generation devices 100, aerosol generation device 500, and / or aerosol generation device 5100, as desired.

[0301] While several exemplary embodiments have been disclosed herein, it should be understood that other variations are possible. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and all such modifications that would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

[0302] Although described with reference to specific embodiments and drawings, various modifications, additions, and substitutions of the exemplary embodiments may be made by those skilled in the art in accordance with the description. For example, the described techniques may be performed in an order different from that described, and / or the described system, architecture, device, circuit, etc. elements may be connected or combined differently from that described, or the results may be achieved by other elements or equivalents, as appropriate.

Claims

1. A heat not burn aerosol generating device, comprising: a housing defining a capsule receiving cavity; a lid fixedly coupled to the housing at a first position and removably coupled to the housing at a second position different from the first position, the lid configured to cover the capsule receiving cavity in a closed position; The lid is a first holding portion; an interchangeable mouthpiece connectable to the lid; the replaceable mouthpiece is configured so that inhaled air flows into the housing, passes through the capsule receiving cavity, and exits the replaceable mouthpiece, wherein the mouthpiece includes a second holding portion; A heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the second holding portion is configured to engage with the first holding portion, thereby removably securing the replaceable mouthpiece to the lid.

2. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 1, the first holding portion includes a holding bar; The heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the second retaining portion includes a clip defining a notch therein, the notch being configured to receive the retaining bar.

3. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 1, The heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the mouthpiece defines a first channel extending through the interchangeable mouthpiece from a first mouthpiece end to a second mouthpiece end.

4. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 3, a seal member defining a second opening; the seal member is configured to engage the second mouthpiece end; The heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the first opening and the second opening are at least partially aligned.

5. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 4, The heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the seal member includes a first surface and a second surface.

6. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 5, the first surface is in contact with the second mouthpiece end; the second surface includes a ramp centrally located along the second surface; A heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the inclined portion is configured to engage with a capsule in the capsule receiving cavity and urge the capsule into the capsule receiving cavity when the lid moves from the open position to the closed position.

7. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 3, a ledge on a surface of the replaceable mouthpiece, the ledge adjacent the second mouthpiece end, the ledge configured to position the replaceable mouthpiece relative to the lid; The heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the first holding portion and the second holding portion are configured to couple the replaceable mouthpiece to the lid.

8. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 1, The housing includes: The exterior wall and an inner wall, wherein the outer wall and the inner wall define an air passage therebetween.

9. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 8, The heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the air passage extends from the bottom of the housing to a manifold, the manifold being in fluid communication with the capsule receiving cavity.

10. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 9, further comprising at least one air inlet defined in a bottom portion of the housing; The at least one air inlet is in fluid communication with the air passage.

11. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 1, The heat not burn aerosol generating device further comprising a magnetic sensor within the housing.

12. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 11, the lid includes a magnet; The heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the magnet is configured to align with the magnetic sensor in the housing when the lid is in a closed position.

13. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 1, A heat-not-burn aerosol generating device, wherein the upper surface of a portion of the housing defining the capsule receiving cavity is recessed toward the capsule receiving cavity so as to expose a portion of the capsule received in the capsule receiving cavity.

14. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 13, a bottom surface of the lid engages an engagement surface of the housing when the lid is in the closed position; A heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein when the lid is in the closed position, the portion of the housing defining the capsule receiving cavity extends from the level of the engagement surface toward the replaceable mouthpiece.

15. 15. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 14, A heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the portion of the housing defining the capsule receiving cavity has a mesa shape relative to the engagement surface.

16. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a lid latch assembly; The lid latch assembly includes: a lid latch provided on the inner surface of the lid; a latch button provided on a side surface of the housing; a latch button arm extending from an inner surface of the latch button; an inner latch lever pivotally mounted to an exterior portion of the capsule receiving cavity; a spring connecting the inner latch lever to the outer portion of the capsule receiving cavity; The inner latch lever a latch arm configured to engage the lid latch when the lid is in the closed position; a receiving arm perpendicular to the latch arm; the receiving arm is configured to contact the latch button arm; When the latch button is pressed, the latch button arm presses the receiving arm, This causes the inner latch lever to operate, disengaging the latch arm from the lid latch and opening the lid, forming a heat not burn aerosol generating device.

17. 18. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 17, The heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the lid latch assembly applies a downward force of approximately 30 Newtons to a capsule in the capsule receiving cavity when the lid is in the closed position.

18. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a charging connector defined within the housing; The heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the at least one air inlet is configured to surround the charging connector.

19. 19. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 18, a grill surrounding the charging connector; The grill defines the at least one air inlet.

20. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 1, the first end of the capsule receiving cavity has a first width; the second end of the capsule receiving cavity has a second width; The heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the capsule receiving cavity is tapered between the first end and the second end.

21. 21. The heat not burn aerosol generating device according to claim 20, the second end of the capsule receiving cavity includes one or more alignment members configured to guide a capsule received by the capsule receiving cavity; The heat not burn aerosol generating device, wherein the one or more alignment members have a rib shape.

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