Aerosol supply device

Abstract

The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device and a method for operating the aerosol supply device. [Solution] An aerosol supply device is provided, comprising a heating assembly configured to heat an aerosol-generating material, an indicator assembly, and a control device. The control device is configured to cause the heating assembly to heat the aerosol-generating material and to determine the properties of the heating assembly. If the determined properties meet at least one criterion, the control device is configured to cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] ,

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol supply device and a method of operating the aerosol supply device.

Background Art

[0002] Smoking articles such as cigarettes and cigars generate tobacco smoke by burning tobacco during use. Attempts have been made to provide alternatives to these tobacco-burning articles by creating products that release compounds without combustion. An example of such a product is a heating device that releases compounds by heating a material without burning it. This material may be, for example, tobacco or other non-tobacco products, and may or may not contain nicotine.

Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an aerosol supply device comprising: a heating assembly configured to heat an aerosol-generating material; an indicator assembly; causing the heating assembly to heat the aerosol-generating material; determining the characteristics of the heating assembly; if the determined characteristics meet at least one criterion, causing the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use; a control device configured to perform; [[ID=​​​​​​​​​​​​​Receiving output from a temperature sensor, Based on the output from the temperature sensor, the temperature of the heating assembly is determined, If the determined temperature meets at least one criterion, the indicator assembly will indicate that the device is ready for use. A control device configured to perform the following: An aerosol supply device equipped with the following is provided.

[0005] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a method for operating an aerosol supply device, The steps include heating the aerosol-generating material in the heating assembly of the device, Steps to determine the characteristics of the heating assembly, If the determined characteristics meet at least one criterion, the device's indicator assembly is made to indicate that the device is ready for use; A method is provided that includes this.

[0006] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method for operating an aerosol supply device, The steps include heating the aerosol-generating material in the heating assembly of the device, The steps include determining the temperature of the heating assembly based on the output from the temperature sensor, If the determined temperature meets at least one criterion, the device's indicator assembly is made to indicate that the device is ready for use. A method is provided that includes this.

[0007] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, an aerosol supply device, An inductor coil that generates a fluctuating magnetic field, A susceptor configured to heat an aerosol-generating material, which can be heated by the intrusion of a fluctuating magnetic field, Indicator assembly and To initiate the generation of a fluctuating magnetic field in the inductor coil, The indicator assembly is made to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after the inductor coil has started heating the aerosol-generating material, A control device configured to perform the following: An aerosol supply device equipped with the following is provided.

[0008] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, which are shown only as examples with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a front view of an example of an aerosol supply device. [Figure 2] This is a front view of the aerosol supply device shown in Figure 1 with the outer cover removed. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of the aerosol supply device. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is an exploded view of the aerosol supply device. [Figure 5] Fig. 5A is a cross-sectional view of the heating assembly within the aerosol supply device. Fig. 5B is a magnified view of a portion of the heating assembly in Fig. 5A. [Figure 6] This is a front view of the device. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view of the device housing. [Figure 8] This is a perspective view of a device without a housing. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of the LEDs placed inside the device. [Figure 10] This is a diagram showing an outer member with multiple openings. [Figure 11] This diagram shows the components of a device positioned above the LED. [Figure 12] This diagram shows a system comprising a control unit, a heating assembly, an input interface, and an indicator assembly. [Figure 13A] It is a diagram showing an outer member with a plurality of LEDs lit. [Figure 13B] It is a diagram showing an outer member with a plurality of LEDs lit. [Figure 13C] It is a diagram showing an outer member with a plurality of LEDs lit. [Figure 13D] It is a diagram showing an outer member with a plurality of LEDs lit. [Figure 13E] It is a diagram showing an outer member with a plurality of LEDs lit. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart of a method for operating a device. [Figure 15] It is a flowchart of a method for operating a device.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] In this specification, the term "aerosol generating material" includes a material that usually gives a volatile component when heated, in the form of an aerosol. The aerosol generating material includes any tobacco-containing material, for example, one or more of tobacco, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, reconstituted tobacco, or tobacco substitutes. Also, other non-tobacco products are included as the aerosol generating material, and depending on the product, it may or may not contain nicotine. The aerosol generating material may be in the form of, for example, a solid, liquid, gel, wax, etc. Also, the aerosol generating material may be, for example, a combination or mixture of materials. Also, the aerosol generating material may be known as a "smoking material".

[0011] Devices are known that form an inhalable aerosol by heating an aerosol-generating material to volatilize at least one component of the aerosol-generating material, usually without burning or combusting the aerosol-generating material. Such devices may be described as “aerosol-generating devices,” “aerosol-supplying devices,” “non-combustion heating devices,” “tobacco heating product devices,” or “tobacco heating devices,” or similar. Similarly, there are so-called e-cigarette devices that vaporize an aerosol-generating material (which may or may not contain nicotine), usually in liquid form. The aerosol-generating material may be in the form of a part of a rod, cartridge, or cassette that can be inserted into the device, or may be provided as a part of such a part. A heater for heating and volatilizing the aerosol-generating material may be provided as a “permanent” part of the device.

[0012] An aerosol supply device can accept and heat an article containing aerosol-generating material. In this context, “article” is a component that, when used, comprises or contains aerosol-generating material and is heated to volatilize the aerosol-generating material and optionally other components being used. After a user inserts an article into the aerosol supply device, the aerosol supply device may be heated to generate an aerosol that the user will later inhale. The article may be of a predetermined or specific size, configured to be placed, for example, within a heating chamber of a device sized to accept the article.

[0013] A first aspect of the present disclosure defines an aerosol supply device comprising a control device configured to (i) cause a heating assembly to heat an aerosol-generating material; (ii) determine the properties of the heating assembly; and (iii) cause an indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use if the determined properties satisfy at least one criterion.

[0014] Therefore, this device can measure or monitor the characteristics of the heating assembly and, based on these characteristics, notify the user when the device is ready for use. Thus, the device can inform the user that it is ready to be used. This avoids making the user wait unnecessarily long before aerosol inhalation, which would reduce aerosol consumption and customer satisfaction.

[0015] In a particular example, the above characteristic is the temperature of the heating assembly. Therefore, the control device may determine the temperature of the heating assembly and, in response, cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use if the temperature meets at least one criterion. The temperature of the aerosol-generating material being heated by the heating assembly may be determined by the temperature of the heating assembly.

[0016] This temperature may be measured by a temperature sensor. Therefore, the device may include a temperature sensor configured to provide an output (signal, etc.) indicating the temperature of the heating assembly (components of the heating assembly, etc.). The control unit receives the output from the temperature sensor and determines / calculates the temperature based on this output. If the temperature satisfies the criteria, the control unit can cause the device's indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use.

[0017] Therefore, this device can measure or monitor the temperature of the heating assembly and, based on this temperature, notify the user when the device is ready for use.

[0018] The temperature of the heating assembly may be measured or estimated by other means. For example, the heating assembly may include a susceptor. The susceptor may contain two or more different materials with different Curie temperatures. When a material reaches its Curie temperature (after being heated), its properties may change. This change in state may be detectable by circuitry within the device. Therefore, the control device may determine that the material has reached its Curie temperature without directly measuring the temperature using a more standard temperature sensor.

[0019] "To cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use if the determined characteristics meet at least one criterion" could mean "to determine that the characteristics meet at least one criterion, and in response to that determination that the characteristics meet the criterion, to cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use."

[0020] At least one criterion may be met if the determined temperature is above a threshold temperature. Therefore, the user is only notified that the device is ready for use when the temperature exceeds the threshold. This can ensure that the aerosol-generating material has been heated to a minimum temperature, at which point the aerosol-generating material is considered to be releasing a sufficient amount / concentration of aerosol. Below this threshold, the aerosol is considered unsuitable for inhalation.

[0021] The control device may be configured to cause an indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use after a predetermined time has elapsed since it has been determined that the determined temperature meets at least one criterion. During this predetermined time, the heating assembly is driven to maintain its temperature, so the temperature of the heating assembly may fluctuate above or below the threshold. Therefore, the temperature may not necessarily exceed the threshold. This predetermined time allows time for heat to penetrate the aerosol-generating material. The user may then be notified later that the device is ready for use. In one example, the predetermined time is approximately 10 seconds, 15 seconds, or 20 seconds after the heater has reached the threshold temperature.

[0022] In an alternative example, at least one criterion may be met if the determined temperature was above a threshold temperature for at least a predetermined time. Thus, the aerosol-generating material can be heated above this temperature for a specific length of time. This can ensure that there was time for heat to penetrate the aerosol-generating material and generate more / higher concentrations of aerosol. For example, at the point when the temperature exceeds the threshold, the aerosol-generating material may still be at a relatively low temperature. The predetermined time may be approximately more than 10 seconds, approximately more than 15 seconds, or approximately more than 20 seconds after the heater reaches the threshold temperature.

[0023] The heater may be configured to reach a threshold temperature in approximately less than 5 seconds, approximately less than 3 seconds, or approximately less than 2 seconds after the control device initiates heating of the aerosol-generating material in the heating assembly.

[0024] The threshold temperature may be the "setpoint" of the heater, i.e., the temperature at which the heater is maintained for at least part of the heating session. Different threshold temperatures may exist within a heating session.

[0025] The threshold temperature may be approximately above 240°C, approximately above 250°C, approximately above 260°C, approximately above 270°C, approximately above 280°C, or approximately above 290°C. The threshold temperature may be approximately above 240°C and below approximately 290°C, approximately above 250°C and below approximately 260°C, or approximately above 280°C and below approximately 290°C.

[0026] In some examples, the device is configured to operate in either a first mode or a second mode, where the first mode has different heating characteristics than the second mode, and the threshold temperature differs between the two modes. For example, the threshold temperature may be higher in the second mode. In some examples, the predetermined time is the same in both heating modes. In other examples, the predetermined time differs between the first mode and the second mode. For example, the predetermined time may be longer in the first mode because the threshold temperature may be lower.

[0027] Therefore, this device can operate in two or more different heating modes. For example, each heating mode may involve heating the aerosol-generating material to a different temperature and / or heating the aerosol-generating material for different durations of time. Thus, each heating mode may have different characteristics.

[0028] In one example, the threshold temperature in the first mode is approximately 240°C to 260°C, and in the second mode, the threshold temperature is approximately 270°C to 290°C.

[0029] Furthermore, this device may be configured to operate in other non-heating modes. For example, it may be configured to operate in a configuration mode. Heating mode and non-heating mode may be more commonly known as the operating modes of this device.

[0030] The first mode may be known as the default mode, and the second mode may be known as the boost mode. The second mode may generate a larger or higher concentration of aerosol than the first mode, for example.

[0031] The characteristics of the heating assembly may also be the energy used by the heating assembly. The control device may determine or calculate the energy used by the heater and cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use when the energy used by the heating assembly is above a threshold energy. Thus, this criterion may be met when the determined energy usage is above a threshold. For example, the control device may determine when the heating assembly has used approximately 50 J, approximately 60 J, approximately 80 J, approximately 100 J, or approximately 120 J after it has started heating the aerosol-generating material. By measuring the energy used, the device does not require a temperature sensor, and the number of components required for the device can be reduced.

[0032] The threshold may be the percentage of the total energy used in the heating session. For example, the control device may determine when the heating assembly has used more than approximately 2%, 3%, 5%, 7%, or 10% of the total energy used in the heating session.

[0033] In some examples, the device further includes an input interface configured to receive inputs for operating the device. In one example, the input interface is configured to receive an input for selecting a heating mode from a plurality of heating modes, including a first mode and a second mode. Thus, the user can select a heating mode by interacting with or manipulating the input interface. The control unit detects the input for selecting a heating mode, and in response to the detection of this input, determines the selected heating mode based on the input, and causes the heating assembly to begin heating the aerosol-generating material according to the selected heating mode. The same input interface may also be used to receive an input for selecting a setting mode from a plurality of operating modes. Thus, in some examples, the device starts heating only when a heating mode is selected. This makes it possible to improve the energy efficiency of the device.

[0034] It is preferable that the control device initiates heating of the aerosol-generating material in the heating assembly substantially simultaneously with the determination of the selected heating mode, in accordance with the selected heating mode. For example, these may occur simultaneously. This reduces the time the user has to wait before starting to use the device. In other examples, there may be a slight delay between the above steps, such as less than 1 second, less than 0.5 seconds, less than 0.1 seconds, less than 0.01 seconds, or less than 0.001 seconds.

[0035] In some examples, the indicator assembly shows that the heating assembly has started heating the aerosol-generating material. This prevents the user from having to restart the device operation.

[0036] In one configuration, the indicator assembly includes a visual component configured to indicate that the device is ready for use. For example, the visual component may include an LED, multiple LEDs, a display, an e-ink display, or a mechanical element that displays one or more patterns by movement. In some examples, the visual component is configured to emit light.

[0037] In a specific example, the indicator assembly may have multiple LEDs, and the number of lit LEDs indicates when the device is ready for use. For example, when the heating assembly first begins heating the aerosol-generating material, a first number of LEDs will light up, and when the device is ready for use, a second number of LEDs will light up, which may be greater than the first number. The first number of LEDs may be zero. The second number may be all LEDs. Thus, the indicator assembly can indicate how close the device is to being ready for use. The LEDs may light up sequentially as the heating assembly heats up. The LEDs may light up sequentially based on the temperature measured by a temperature sensor.

[0038] In a particular example, there may be multiple LEDs, such as four LEDs, which are sequentially turned on based on the temperature of the heating assembly (i.e., when the heating assembly is heated). For example, initially, all four LEDs may be off. When the temperature rises above a first threshold, one of the four LEDs may be turned on. When the temperature rises above a second threshold, another LED may be turned on. When the temperature rises above a third threshold, another LED may be turned on, and when the temperature rises above a fourth threshold, all four LEDs may be turned on. The fourth threshold may be equal to the threshold temperature mentioned above. In this way, all LEDs may be lit when the temperature equals the threshold temperature.

[0039] In another example, there may be multiple LEDs, such as four LEDs, which are turned on sequentially after the control device determines that the temperature is above a threshold temperature. For example, initially, all four LEDs may be off. After the control device determines that the temperature is above a threshold temperature, one of the four LEDs may be turned on after a first threshold time has elapsed. The first threshold time may be zero seconds (i.e., the LED may be turned on as soon as the control device determines that the temperature is above a threshold temperature). After the control device determines that the temperature is above a threshold temperature, the second LED may be turned on after a second threshold time has elapsed. After the control device determines that the temperature is above a threshold temperature, the third LED may be turned on after a third threshold time has elapsed. After the control device determines that the temperature is above a threshold temperature, the last LED may be turned on after a fourth threshold time has elapsed.

[0040] In another example, the indicator assembly includes a tactile component configured to provide tactile feedback indicating that the device is ready for use. For example, the tactile component may be a tactile motor that vibrates the device when it is ready for use. In some examples, the tactile component provides tactile feedback according to a first pattern after the heating assembly has started heating the aerosol-generating material, and then provides tactile feedback according to a second pattern when the device is ready for use. The first pattern may continue until the device is ready for use or terminate after a short period of time. Thus, the tactile component may also indicate that the device has started heating the aerosol-generating material so that the user can recognize that the device is working.

[0041] In another example, the indicator assembly includes an auditory indicator configured to emit a sound to indicate that the device is ready for use. The auditory indicator may be a transducer, a buzzer, a bell, or the like.

[0042] In a particular example, the indicator assembly comprises a tactile component and a visual component. The tactile component may be configured to provide a tactile indicator that the heating assembly has begun heating the aerosol-generating material. The visual component may be configured to provide a visual indicator that the device is ready for use.

[0043] In some examples, the indicator assembly is configured to provide an indicator of the time remaining before the device terminates its operation. For example, the indicator assembly may provide different indicators depending on the time remaining before the device terminates its operation. The device may "terminate operation" when power is cut off to the heating assembly (i.e., when it stops actively heating or maintains a certain temperature), or when the aerosol temperature / amount is considered to have fallen below an acceptable level (which may be a few seconds after power is cut off to the heating assembly). In one example, the device may "terminate operation" when the temperature of the heating assembly falls below a second threshold.

[0044] In a particular example, an indicator assembly may have multiple LEDs, and the number of lit LEDs indicates the remaining time until the device has finished operating. For example, when the device is operating, a first number of LEDs may be lit, and when the device has finished operating, a second number of LEDs may be lit, the second number may be less than the first number. The second number may be, for example, zero. The first number may be all LEDs. Thus, the LEDs may perform a "countdown" as the device approaches its end.

[0045] In a particular example, there may be multiple LEDs, such as four LEDs, which are sequentially turned off based on the temperature of the heating assembly (i.e., as the heating session nears its end). For example, all four LEDs may be lit before the device finishes operating. One of the four LEDs may be turned off when the temperature drops by a first degree. Another LED may be turned off when the temperature drops by a second degree. Another LED may be turned off when the temperature drops by a third degree, and all four LEDs may be turned off when the temperature drops by a fourth degree. The first degree may be approximately 5-10°C below the operating temperature of the heating assembly (i.e., the threshold temperature). The second degree may be approximately 10-20°C below the operating temperature of the heating assembly (i.e., the threshold temperature). The third degree may be approximately 15-30°C below the operating temperature of the heating assembly (i.e., the threshold temperature). The fourth degree may be approximately 20-40°C below the operating temperature of the heating assembly (i.e., the threshold temperature). The fourth degree may also be equal to the second threshold described above.

[0046] In another example, the tactile component may provide different tactile feedback patterns based on the temperature of the heating assembly. For example, the tactile component may provide tactile feedback indicating the temperature decrease of the heating assembly (which may indicate the remaining time). The type of tactile feedback may indicate how much time is left.

[0047] In yet another example, the auditory indicator may produce different sounds based on the temperature of the heating assembly (which may indicate remaining time). For example, the pitch, tone, sound pattern, etc., may change over time.

[0048] In another example, the control device is configured to cause an indicator assembly to indicate that the device has finished or is about to finish operating. The indicator assembly may then indicate the moment the device has finished or is about to finish operating. For example, when the device has finished operating, the visual indicator may no longer provide any visual indication. In a particular example, when the device has finished or is about to finish operating, all LEDs may be turned off. This indicates to the user that they should stop drawing from the device.

[0049] The control device may cause an indicator assembly to indicate that the device has finished or is about to finish operation if the determined temperature meets a second criterion. The second criterion may be met if the determined temperature is below a second threshold temperature. The second threshold temperature may be lower than the above threshold temperature. For example, the second threshold temperature may be approximately 10°C to approximately 50°C lower than the above threshold temperature.

[0050] In a specific example, there may be multiple LEDs, such as four LEDs, which are sequentially turned off as the heating session nears its end. For example, all four LEDs may be lit 20 seconds before the device finishes operating. One of the four LEDs may be turned off when there are 15 seconds remaining. Another LED may be turned off when there are 10 seconds remaining. Another LED may be turned off when there are 5 seconds remaining, and all four LEDs may be turned off at 0 seconds remaining.

[0051] In another example, the tactile component may provide different tactile feedback patterns depending on the remaining time. For example, the tactile component may provide tactile feedback indicating that a certain amount of time is remaining. The type of tactile feedback may indicate the amount of time remaining. For example, if 20 seconds remain, there may be short, low-intensity tactile feedback, while if only 5 seconds or 0 seconds remain, the tactile feedback may be longer and more intense.

[0052] In yet another example, the auditory indicator may produce different sounds depending on the remaining time. For example, the pitch, tone, sound pattern, etc., may change over time.

[0053] The heating assembly may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating material such that the indicator assembly indicates that the device is ready for use approximately 30 seconds, approximately 20 seconds, approximately 15 seconds, or approximately 10 seconds after the heating assembly has started heating the aerosol-generating material.

[0054] Certain heating assemblies, such as induction heating assemblies, have been found to be able to heat aerosol-generating materials to a suitable temperature in a shorter time compared to other types of heating assemblies. Therefore, users of the device may be able to inhale aerosols using the device in, for example, less than approximately 20 seconds. Because certain heating assemblies can rapidly heat aerosol-generating materials, by the time the device indicates that it is ready, the aerosol-generating material will have released a sufficient amount of aerosol.

[0055] As described above, the device may be configured to operate in either a first mode or a second mode, where, in the first mode, a component of the heating assembly is heated to a first temperature, and in the second mode, a component of the heating assembly is heated to a second temperature. The second temperature may be higher than the first temperature.

[0056] In some examples, the timing at which the temperature meets at least one criterion is based on the heating mode. For example, in a second mode, the control device may be configured to cause the heating assembly to heat its components to a higher temperature than in the first mode. In the second mode, the timing at which the temperature meets the criterion may be earlier than when the device is operating in the first mode.

[0057] In some examples, the indicator assembly may indicate the selected heating mode. In some examples, this indicator is the same as the indicator indicating that the device is ready for use. Therefore, the type of indicator used to indicate that the device is ready for use may be based on the selected heating mode. In other examples, the indicator indicating the selected heating mode may occur after the heating mode has been selected but before the device is ready for use. Therefore, two separate indicators may occur. The first indicator may indicate the selected heating mode, and the second indicator may indicate that the device is ready for use. This may allow the user to cancel heating if they unintentionally select the wrong mode. In a particular example, the first indicator is given by a tactile component, and the second indicator is given by a visual component. This is useful because the user may hold the device when selecting the heating mode, but may place the device on a surface while waiting for it to be ready for use. The visual indicator is more easily verifiable when the user is no longer holding the device.

[0058] The input interface may also be known as the user interface. The input interface may be a button, a touchscreen, a dial, a knob, or a wireless connection to a mobile device (e.g., Bluetooth). This interface allows the user to select an operating mode from several operating modes. The operating modes may include one or more heating modes and / or setting modes. When input is received, the input interface can transmit one or more signals indicating the input to the control unit. Based on these (one or more) signals, the control unit can determine the selected operating mode, such as the selected heating mode or setting mode.

[0059] In a particular example, the input interface includes a button, and the input includes a signal indicating that the button has been released. The control unit is capable of receiving input from the input interface. As a result, the heating assembly begins heating the aerosol-generating material once the button is released. The heating assembly may refrain from heating the aerosol-generating material while the user is holding down the button. Therefore, the predetermined time begins when the user releases the button. The button may be a software button or a hardware button. The signal may be a single signal or two or more signals.

[0060] In a particular example, the input further includes a signal indicating the length of time the button is pressed, and the control device is configured to detect an input for selecting a heating mode in response to (i) receiving a signal indicating that the button has been released, and (ii) determining that the length of time the button has been pressed is greater than or equal to a threshold time. The signal indicating the length of time the button has been pressed may be part of the same signal indicating that the button has been released, or it may be a separate signal. This allows, in some examples, the heating assembly to start heating only if the button is pressed for a specific length of time greater than or equal to a threshold time. In a particular example, the threshold time is 3 seconds or 5 seconds. If the time the button is held and released is less than the threshold time, the heating assembly may not start heating. This avoids heating the aerosol-generating material in cases where the user may unintentionally press the button and expend energy. For this reason, the control device determines that the length of time the button has been pressed is less than a threshold, and decides not to allow the heating assembly to start heating.

[0061] The control device may be configured to determine the selected heating mode based on the length of time the button is pressed. In one example, the device is configured to operate in a first mode if the length of time the button is pressed is greater than or equal to a first threshold time but less than a second threshold time, and to operate in a second mode if the length of time the button is pressed is greater than or equal to a second threshold time. For example, the first threshold time may be 3 seconds, and the second threshold time may be 5 seconds. This allows the user to select different modes using a single button. Selecting multiple modes with a single interface simplifies the operation of the device and reduces the number of components. Fewer components result in a lighter device and fewer parts that could break or malfunction.

[0062] The heating assembly may be an induction heating assembly. For example, the heating assembly may comprise one or more inductor coils and susceptors. In another example, the heating assembly may be a resistance heating assembly. For example, one or more components that heat the aerosol-generating material may be resistance-heated.

[0063] In a particular example, the heating assembly comprises an inductor coil that generates a fluctuating magnetic field and a susceptor configured to heat an aerosol-generating material, the susceptor being heatable by the intrusion of the fluctuating magnetic field. The control device is configured to cause the heating assembly to heat the aerosol-generating material by causing the inductor coil to generate a fluctuating magnetic field. Thus, the susceptor may be the heated component of the heating assembly. For example, in a first mode, the inductor coil may be configured to heat the susceptor to a first temperature. For example, in a second mode, the inductor coil may be configured to heat the susceptor to a second temperature. Thus, a temperature sensor measures the temperature of the susceptor. The temperature sensor may be placed between the susceptor and the first inductor coil. Preferably, the temperature sensor is placed on the outer surface of the susceptor. The temperature sensor may be a thermistor or a thermocouple.

[0064] Induction heating systems have been found to be able to heat aerosol-generating materials to a suitable temperature in a shorter time compared to other types of heating assemblies, such as resistance heating assemblies.

[0065] In some examples, the above-mentioned inductor coil is the first inductor coil, and the device further comprises a second inductor coil that generates a second fluctuating magnetic field. In a particular configuration, the first inductor coil is adjacent to the second inductor coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the device, and the control device is configured to cause the second inductor coil to generate a second fluctuating magnetic field after an indicator assembly indicates that the device is ready for use. When in use, an aerosol is drawn out along the device's flow path toward the proximal end of the device, and the first inductor coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second inductor coil.

[0066] Therefore, the device may have two inductor coils, with the first inductor coil being closer to the mouth end of the device. Thus, the first inductor coil heats the aerosol-generating material closer to the user's mouth. The first inductor coil operates first. The second inductor coil can operate later. For example, the control device may cause the second inductor coil to generate a second magnetic field at a third predetermined time after the first inductor coil has generated a first magnetic field. The third predetermined time may be, for example, approximately 40 seconds to approximately 60 seconds. The third predetermined time may depend on the mode in which the device is operating.

[0067] The first inductor coil may continue to generate the first magnetic field while the second inductor coil is generating the second magnetic field.

[0068] In a specific example, the first inductor coil has a first length, the second inductor coil has a second length, and the first length is shorter than the second length. A shorter length means less aerosol-generating material is heated, and therefore less aerosol is generated, thus suppressing the phenomenon known as "hot puffing."

[0069] In another embodiment, a method for operating the aerosol supply device described above is provided. This method includes the steps of: heating an aerosol-generating material in a heating assembly of the device; determining the properties of the heating assembly; and, if the determined properties satisfy at least one criterion, causing an indicator assembly of the device to indicate that the device is ready for use.

[0070] The above characteristics may also refer to the temperature of the heating assembly. For example, in an induction heating system, it may refer to the temperature of the susceptor.

[0071] At least one criterion may be met if the determined temperature is equal to or greater than a threshold temperature. The method may further include the step of causing an indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use after a predetermined time has elapsed since it was determined that the determined temperature satisfies at least one criterion.

[0072] This method may further include a step of causing an indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use less than approximately 30 seconds after the heating assembly has begun heating the aerosol-generating material.

[0073] This method may further include the step of causing an indicator assembly to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after the heating assembly has started heating the aerosol-generating material.

[0074] Although this method has been described in relation to any type of heating assembly, it is naturally also applicable to devices with induction heating assemblies.

[0075] In another embodiment, the aerosol supply device comprises an inductor coil that generates a fluctuating magnetic field, a susceptor configured to heat an aerosol-generating material and capable of being heated by the intrusion of the fluctuating magnetic field, an indicator assembly, and a control device. The control device is configured to cause the inductor coil to start generating a fluctuating magnetic field and, within a predetermined time after the inductor coil has started heating the aerosol-generating material, to cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating. This allows the user to be notified when the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating. As a result, if the amount, concentration, or temperature of the generated aerosol becomes insufficient, the user is prevented from continuing to use the device.

[0076] In another embodiment, a method for operating an aerosol supply device includes the steps of causing an inductor coil of the aerosol supply device to generate a fluctuating magnetic field for heating a susceptor, and causing an indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after the inductor coil assembly has started heating the aerosol-generating material.

[0077] Although this method has been described in relation to induction heaters, it is naturally applicable to devices with non-inductive heating assemblies. For example, the device may have a heating assembly configured to heat an aerosol-generating material instead of an inductor coil.

[0078] In a particular example, the indicator assembly comprises one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and an outer member positioned above one or more LEDs. The outer member has a plurality of openings visible from the outside of the aerosol supply device. Electromagnetic radiation (e.g., in the form of visible light) passes through the plurality of openings and is visible to the user. At least a portion of the outer member may constitute the outer surface of the device.

[0079] The indicator assembly may further comprise a photoformed member positioned between one or more LEDs and an outer member. The photoformed member may comprise one or more light conductors that guide light through it to generate a specific pattern or design. The photoformed member may include an opaque region configured to block some of the light from the LEDs. The photoformed member may include a transparent or translucent region through which light can pass. Alternatively, the photoformed member may include an opening through which light can pass. Photoformed members including opaque and transparent or translucent regions may be more robust than photoformed members with openings. Furthermore, the translucent region allows for further light diffusion / reduction.

[0080] In some examples, the photomolded member is formed by two or more outer covering components. For example, the opaque and transparent / translucent regions may be formed by two outer covering components.

[0081] In one example, the photomolded member includes an opaque region extending around its periphery / outer edge. This prevents light from leaking out to the outer periphery of the outer member. The opaque region may also be an outer ring.

[0082] In one example, opaque areas are colored black or dark gray.

[0083] In one example, the opaque region is cross-shaped.

[0084] In a particular example, the device comprises four LEDs, each of which is positioned beneath the photomolded member and between adjacent opaque regions such that the light from the LEDs is separated into four quadrants. The opaque regions are configured to prevent light leakage from one quadrant to the next.

[0085] This device is preferably a tobacco heating device, also known as a non-combustion heating device.

[0086] Figure 1 shows an example of an aerosol supply device 100 that generates an aerosol from an aerosol-generating medium / material. Generally, the device 100 may be used to heat a replaceable article 110 containing an aerosol-generating medium to generate an aerosol or other aspirable medium for the user of the device 100 to inhale.

[0087] The device 100 comprises a housing 102 (in the form of an outer cover) that encloses and houses various components of the device 100. The device 100 has an opening 104 at one end, through which an article 110 may be inserted for heating by a heating assembly. When in use, the article 110 may be inserted all or partly into the heating assembly and heated by one or more components of the heating assembly.

[0088] The device 100 in this example includes a first end member 106, the first end member 106 having a lid 108 that can close the opening 104 by moving relative to the first end member 106 when the article 110 is not in a predetermined position. In Figure 1, the lid 108 is shown in an open configuration, but the cap 108 can also be moved to a closed configuration. For example, the user may slide the lid 108 in the direction of arrow "A".

[0089] Furthermore, device 100 may be equipped with an input interface 112, which may include a button or switch that activates device 100 when pressed. For example, a user may turn on device 100 by operating the input interface 112.

[0090] Furthermore, device 100 may be equipped with electrical connectors / components such as sockets / ports 114, which can accept cables for charging the battery of device 100. For example, socket 114 may be a charging port such as a USB charging port. In some examples, socket 114 may be used for data transfer between device 100 and another device such as a computer device, as an addition or alternative to the above.

[0091] Figure 2 shows the device 100 of Figure 1 with the outer cover 102 removed and the item 110 absent. The device 100 defines a longitudinal axis 134.

[0092] As shown in Figure 2, the first end member 106 is positioned at one end of the device 100, and the second end member 116 is positioned at the opposite end of the device 100. The first and second end members 106 and 116 together define at least partially the end face of the device 100. For example, the bottom surface of the second end member 116 defines at least partially the bottom surface of the device 100. The edge of the outer cover 102 may also define a part of the end face. In this example, the lid 108 defines a part of the top surface of the device 100.

[0093] The end of the device closest to the opening 104 is considered to be known as the proximal end (or mouth end) of device 100, as it is closest to the user's mouth when in use. When in use, the user inserts the article 110 into the opening 104 and operates the user control 112 to start heating the aerosol-generating material, utilizing the aerosol generated in the device. This causes the aerosol to flow through device 100 along the flow path toward the proximal end of device 100.

[0094] The other end of the device furthest from the opening 104 is the end furthest from the user's mouth during use, and is therefore considered to be the distal end of device 100. When the user utilizes the aerosol generated in the device, the aerosol flows away from the distal end of device 100.

[0095] The device 100 further comprises a power supply 118. The power supply 118 may be a battery, such as a rechargeable battery or a non-rechargeable battery. Examples of suitable batteries include lithium batteries (such as lithium-ion batteries), nickel batteries (such as nickel-cadmium batteries), and alkaline batteries. The battery is electrically coupled to the heating assembly and supplies power as needed, and heats the aerosol-generating material under the control of a control device (not shown). In this example, the battery is connected to a central support 120 that holds the battery 118 in place. The central support 120 may also be known as a battery support or battery carrier.

[0096] The device further comprises at least one electronic module 122. The electronic module 122 may include, for example, a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB 122 may support at least one control device, such as a processor, and memory. The PCB 122 may also have one or more electrical tracks that electrically connect various electronic components of the device 100. For example, battery terminals may be electrically connected to the PCB 122 so that power can be distributed throughout the device 100. The socket 114 may also be electrically coupled to the battery via an electrical track.

[0097] In exemplary device 100, the heating assembly is an induction heating assembly comprising various components for heating the aerosol-generating material of article 110 by an induction heating process. Induction heating is a process of heating a conductor (such as a susceptor) by electromagnetic induction. The induction heating assembly may comprise an induction element (e.g., one or more inductor coils) and a device for passing a fluctuating current, such as alternating current, through the induction element. The fluctuating current in the induction element generates a fluctuating magnetic field. The fluctuating magnetic field penetrates a susceptor suitably positioned relative to the induction element, generating eddy currents inside the susceptor. Since the susceptor has electrical resistance to eddy currents, the flow of eddy currents against this resistance heats the susceptor by Joule heating. Furthermore, if the susceptor contains a ferromagnetic material such as iron, nickel, or cobalt, heat may also be generated by magnetic hysteresis loss in the susceptor, i.e., by the fluctuating orientation of magnetic dipoles in the magnetic material as a result of alignment with the fluctuating magnetic field. In induction heating, compared to, for example, conduction heating, rapid heating is possible because heat is generated inside the susceptor. Furthermore, since no physical contact is required between the induction heater and the susceptor, the degree of freedom in configuration and application is increased.

[0098] The induction heating assembly of the exemplary device 100 comprises a susceptor structure 132 (hereinafter referred to as the “susceptor”), a first inductor coil 124, and a second inductor coil 126. The first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are made of a conductive material. In this example, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are made of Litz wire / cable that is wound spirally to provide helical inductor coils 124 and 126. The Litz wire comprises a plurality of individual wires that are individually insulated and formed into a single wire by a single twist. The Litz wire is designed to minimize skin effect losses of the conductor. In the exemplary device 100, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are made of copper Litz wire with a rectangular cross-section. In other examples, the Litz wire may have a cross-section of other shapes, such as circular.

[0099] The first inductor coil 124 is configured to generate a first fluctuating magnetic field that heats a first portion of the susceptor 132, and the second inductor coil 126 is configured to generate a second fluctuating magnetic field that heats a second portion of the susceptor 132. In this example, the first inductor coil 124 is adjacent to the second inductor coil 126 in a direction along the longitudinal axis 134 of the device 100 (i.e., the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 do not overlap). The susceptor configuration 132 may consist of a single susceptor or two or more separate susceptors. The ends 130 of the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are connectable to the PCB 122.

[0100] Naturally, in some examples, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 may have at least one characteristic that is different from each other. For example, the first inductor coil 124 may have at least one characteristic that is different from the second inductor coil 126. More specifically, in one example, the first inductor coil 124 may have a different inductance value than the second inductor coil 126. In Figure 2, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 have different lengths such that the portion of the first inductor coil 124 wound around the susceptor 132 is smaller than that of the second inductor coil 126. For this reason, the first inductor coil 124 may have a different number of turns than the second inductor coil 126 (assuming that the spacing between individual turns is substantially the same). In yet another example, the first inductor coil 124 may be made of a different material than the second inductor coil 126. In some examples, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 may be substantially identical.

[0101] In this example, the first inductor coil 124 and the second inductor coil 126 are wound in opposite directions. This can be useful when the two inductor coils operate at different timings. For example, the first inductor coil 124 may operate first to heat a first part of article 110, and then the second inductor coil 126 may operate to heat a second part of article 110. Winding the coils in opposite directions helps to reduce the current induced in the non-operating coil when used in conjunction with certain types of control circuits. In Figure 2, the first inductor coil 124 is a right-handed helix and the second inductor coil 126 is a left-handed helix. However, in another embodiment, the inductor coils 124 and 126 may be wound in the same direction, or the first inductor coil 124 may be a left-handed helix and the second inductor coil 126 may be a right-handed helix.

[0102] In this example, the susceptor 132 is hollow and therefore defines a receptacle into which the aerosol-generating material can be received. For example, article 110 can be inserted into the susceptor 132. In this example, the susceptor 120 is tubular with a circular cross-section.

[0103] The device 100 in Figure 2 is generally tubular and further comprises an insulating member 128 that can at least partially surround the susceptor 132. The insulating member 128 may be made of any insulating material, such as plastic. In this particular example, the insulating member is made of polyetheretherketone (PEEK). The insulating member 128 can help insulate various components of the device 100 from the heat generated in the susceptor 132.

[0104] Furthermore, the heat insulating member 128 can support all or part of the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are arranged around the heat insulating member 128 and are in contact with the radially outward surface of the heat insulating member 128. In some examples, the heat insulating member 128 does not abut the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126. For example, a small gap may exist between the outer surface of the heat insulating member 128 and the inner surfaces of the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126.

[0105] In a particular example, the susceptor 132, the heat insulating member 128, and the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are coaxial around the longitudinal axis of the center of the susceptor 132.

[0106] Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional side view of device 100. In this example, an outer cover 102 is present. The rectangular cross-sectional shapes of the first and second inductor coils 124 and 126 are more clearly visible.

[0107] The device 100 further includes a support portion 136 that engages with one end of the susceptor 132 to hold the susceptor 132 in a predetermined position. The support portion 136 is connected to the second end member 116.

[0108] The device may also include a second printed circuit board 138 associated within the input interface 112.

[0109] Device 100 further comprises a second lid / cap 140 and a spring 142 located on the distal end of device 100. The spring 142 allows access to the susceptor 132 by opening the second lid 140. The user may clean the susceptor 132 and / or support 136 by opening the second lid 140.

[0110] The device 100 further comprises an expansion chamber 144 extending from the proximal end of the susceptor 132 toward the opening 140 of the device. At least a portion of a retaining clip 146 is disposed within the expansion chamber 144, which contacts and holds the article 110 received within the device 100. The expansion chamber 144 is connected to the end member 106.

[0111] Figure 4 is an exploded view of the device 100 of Figure 1, with the outer cover 102 omitted.

[0112] Fig. 5A in Figure 5 shows a cross-section of a portion of the device 100 in Figure 1. Fig. 5B in Figure 5 shows a magnified view of a region of Fig. 5A. Figs. 5A and 5B show an article 110 received within the susceptor 132, which is sized so that its outer surface abuts the inner surface of the susceptor 132. This ensures the most efficient heating. The article 110 in this example includes an aerosol-generating material 110a, which is located within the susceptor 132. The article 110 may also include other components such as a filter, packaging material, and / or a cooling structure.

[0113] Fig. 5B shows that the outer surface of the susceptor 132 is 150 units away from the inner surfaces of the inductor coils 124 and 126, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In a particular example, the distance 150 is approximately 3mm to 4mm, approximately 3mm to 3.5mm, or approximately 3.25mm.

[0114] Fig. 5B shows that the outer surface of the thermal insulation member 128 is a distance of 152 from the inner surfaces of the inductor coils 124 and 126, measured perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 158 of the susceptor 132. In one particular example, the distance 152 is approximately 0.05 mm. In another example, the distance 152 is substantially 0 mm, so that the inductor coils 124 and 126 are in contact with the thermal insulation member 128.

[0115] In one example, the susceptor 132 has a wall thickness 154 of approximately 0.025 mm to 1 mm or approximately 0.05 mm.

[0116] In one example, the susceptor 132 has a length of approximately 40mm to 60mm, approximately 40mm to 45mm, or approximately 44.5mm.

[0117] In one example, the insulation member 128 has a wall thickness 156 of approximately 0.25 mm to 2 mm, approximately 0.25 mm to 1 mm, or approximately 0.5 mm.

[0118] Figure 6 is a front view of device 100. As briefly mentioned earlier, this device may include an input interface 112. In some examples, the user may operate device 100 by interacting with the input interface 112. An indicator assembly may be located adjacent to the input interface 112, which can indicate to the user the occurrence of one or more events, such as when the device is ready for use and / or when the device has finished operating. The indicator assembly may also indicate the operating mode of device 100.

[0119] Figure 6 shows an outer member 202 positioned above (i.e., in front of) the indicator assembly. In other examples, the indicator assembly may be located elsewhere in the device. In the examples described herein, the indicator assembly comprises a visual component configured to provide a visual indicator. The visual component comprises a number of LEDs that emit electromagnetic radiation, such as light, to indicate a particular event to the user. Naturally, the indicator assembly may also include a tactile component or an auditory indicator as an addition or alternative. In this device 100, the indicator assembly comprises a visual component and a tactile component.

[0120] The outer member 202 constitutes the outermost component of the input interface 112. The user may interact with the device 100 by pressing the outer member 202. As will be described in more detail below, the outer member 202 has multiple openings 204 through which light from multiple LEDs can pass.

[0121] Figure 7 shows the housing 102 (also known as the outer cover) of the device 100. The housing 102 defines an opening 206. An outer member (not shown in Figure 7) can be positioned within the opening 206. For example, the outer member may be positioned coplanar with the outer surface of the housing 102, or it may be raised above or below the outer surface of the housing 102.

[0122] Figure 8 shows device 100 in which the housing 102 is not in a predetermined position. In this example, the outer member 202 is attached to the photoforming member 210 via an adhesive layer 208. The adhesive of the adhesive layer 208 may cover part or all of the inner surface of the outer member 202. A sealing member 212 extends around the photoforming member 210.

[0123] In some examples, the outer member 202, adhesive layer 208, photomolding member 210, and sealing member 212 may be omitted from the device.

[0124] Figure 9 shows device 100 with the outer member 202, photomolded member 210, and sealing member 212 removed. Device 100 has a visual component with four LEDs 214, but in other examples the number of LEDs may differ, such as one or more LEDs 214. The LEDs 214 are positioned below the outer member 202 so that light travels from the LEDs 214 through a plurality of openings 204 formed in the outer member 202. Thus, the light also passes through the photomolded member 210 and the adhesive layer 208. One or more additional components may be positioned between the LEDs 214 and the outer member 202.

[0125] In the example in Figure 9, the LED 214 is positioned around an input interface 112 configured to detect user interaction. For example, the user may press or move the outer member 202, which is detected by the input interface 112. The input interface 112 may be a button or switch that operates when the user applies force to the outer member 202. In another example, the input interface 112 and the outer member 202 may be part of a capacitive sensor that detects when the user touches the outer member 202.

[0126] Figure 10 is a front view of the outer member 202. As mentioned above, the outer member 202 defines a plurality of openings 204. In this example, each of the openings 204 constitutes a slot of a certain length and width.

[0127] The opening 204 is preferably located around the periphery / outer edge of the outer member 202. As shown in Figure 10, the opening 204 is located closer to the periphery of the outer member 202 than to its center. This allows the opening 204 to be exposed (and thus allow light to be seen) even when the user is pressing on the outer member 202. The user is more likely to press / hold the center of the outer member 202 than to the edge of the outer member 202.

[0128] Figure 11 is an exploded view showing some of the components of device 100. As previously mentioned, device 100 may include an adhesive layer 208 disposed between the LED 214 and the outer member 202. In the illustrated example, the adhesive layer is the same shape and size as the outer member 202 so that the adhesive covers the opening 204. Light can then pass through the adhesive layer 208 before passing through the opening 204. Therefore, the adhesive layer 208 can be transparent or translucent. A translucent adhesive layer 208 can help diffuse the light from the LED so that "hot spots" are avoided. A hot spot is an area where the light intensity is higher than the surrounding area.

[0129] In some examples, the outer member 202 is attached to the photoformed member 210 via an adhesive layer 208. In the illustrated example, the photoformed member 210 includes one or more opaque regions 230 (which can be integrally joined) and one or more translucent or transparent regions 232 (which can also be integrally joined). The translucent or transparent regions 232 may be known as optical conductors because they guide light through the photoformed member 210. Light from the LED 214 can pass through the translucent or transparent regions 232 but is blocked by the opaque regions 230. Therefore, the opaque regions 230 reduce the intensity of light passing through some of the openings 204 (i.e., openings 204 located above the opaque regions 230). The opaque regions 230 and the translucent or transparent regions 232 may be regions of a single integral component, or one or both of these regions may be treated to have their own unique optical properties. In another example, the opaque regions 230 and the translucent or transparent regions 232 are separate components that are externally covered.

[0130] In this example, the photomolding member 210 includes an opaque region 230 extending around its periphery / outer edge. This prevents light from leaking out to the outer periphery of the outer member 202. The opaque region may be, for example, an outer ring.

[0131] In this example, device 100 comprises four LEDs 214, each of which is positioned between adjacent opaque regions 230 such that the light from the LED is separated into four quadrants. In other words, the LEDs 214 may be positioned below transparent or translucent regions. By separating the light into different regions, different indicators can be provided to the user. For example, the number of illuminated quadrants can indicate a particular event to the user. Therefore, the light may be blocked by opaque regions so that it cannot pass through part of the opening.

[0132] In some examples, the regions between the opaque regions 230 are openings and therefore do not contain translucent or transparent material.

[0133] A sealing member 212, such as a gasket, is positioned between the photoforming member 210 and the LED 214. The outer diameter of the sealing member 212 is larger than the outer diameter of the outer member 202 and the photoforming member 210. In some examples, the sealing member 210 abuts against the inner surface of the housing 102 to prevent liquid and dust from entering the device 100.

[0134] An indication that the device is ready for use. Figure 12 shows a system comprising a control device 302 (one or more processors, etc.), a heating assembly 304, a temperature sensor 308, an indicator assembly 306, and an input interface 112. In some examples, the input interface 112 may be omitted. The control device 302 is communicate-coupled to the heating assembly 304, temperature sensor 308, indicator assembly 306, and input interface 112 via one or more wired or wireless connections (shown by dashed lines).

[0135] The control device 302 may be located, for example, on the PCB 122. The control device 302 can control the operation of the device 100, such as causing the heating assembly 304 to heat the aerosol-generating material. In some examples, the control device 302 receives signals from the input interface 112 and controls the heating assembly 304 and the indicator assembly 306 in response. The user can operate the device by providing input to the input interface 112. In certain examples, a heating mode is selected via the input interface 112.

[0136] As described above, the indicator assembly 306 can indicate to the user the occurrence of one or more events. To cause the indicator assembly 306 to provide an indicator, the control device 302 can transmit signals or commands to the indicator assembly 306. In the examples shown in Figures 6 to 11, the indicator assembly 306 includes a visual component with multiple LEDs 214. Naturally, the following description is also applicable to other types of indicator assemblies 306.

[0137] The temperature sensor 308 is configured to measure the temperature of the heating assembly 304. For example, the temperature sensor 308 can measure the temperature of the susceptor 132. The temperature sensor 308 can provide an output (e.g., in the form of one or more signals) indicating the temperature of the heating assembly 304. The control unit 302 receives this output and can determine the temperature based on the output. In some examples, this output indicates the temperature. In other examples, the control unit uses the output to calculate or determine the temperature. Thus, the control unit 302 can monitor the temperatures of the components of the heating assembly 304.

[0138] The control device 302 can control the heating assembly 304 based on temperature. For example, the control device 302 may ensure that the heating assembly 304 is maintained at or near a threshold temperature. If the temperature exceeds the threshold temperature, the control device 302 can control the heating assembly 304 to lower the temperature. For example, the control device 302 may temporarily stop heating the heating assembly 304 or reduce the power output of the heating assembly 304. If the temperature falls below the threshold temperature, the control device 302 can control the heating assembly 304 to raise the temperature. For example, the control device 302 may start or continue heating the heating assembly or increase the power output of the heating assembly 304.

[0139] In the following example, the heating assembly 304 comprises one or more inductor coils that generate one or more magnetic fields to heat the susceptor. The control device 302 can cause the (one or more) inductor coils of device 100 to generate a fluctuating magnetic field. For example, the control device 302 can transmit one or more signals to the (one or more) inductor coils. Once the (one or more) inductor coils generate a fluctuating magnetic field, the susceptor 132 is heated, thereby heating the aerosol-generating material near the susceptor 132. Thus, the temperature sensor 308 can be configured to measure the temperature of the susceptor 132. Naturally, the following description may also apply to other types of heating assemblies 304.

[0140] The control device 302 may cause one or more inductor coils to heat the susceptor to a threshold temperature of approximately 240°C to approximately 290°C. In a particular example, the device is configured to operate in either a first mode or a second mode, both of which are heating modes. In one example, when the device is operating in the first (default) mode, the control device 302 may cause the first inductor coil 124 to heat a first region of the susceptor 132 to a threshold temperature of approximately 240°C to approximately 260°C (e.g., approximately 250°C). In another example, the device may be operating in a second (boost) mode, and the control device 302 may cause the first inductor coil 124 to heat a first region of the susceptor 132 to a threshold temperature of approximately 270°C to approximately 290°C (e.g., approximately 280°C).

[0141] The second inductor coil 126 may be configured to generate a second magnetic field after the heating session. For example, the second inductor coil 126 may generate a second magnetic field approximately 60 to 130 seconds after the first inductor coil 124 generates the first magnetic field. The second inductor coil is configured to heat a second region of the susceptor 132. In some examples, both inductor coils 124 and 126 operate simultaneously.

[0142] After the first inductor coil 124 begins heating the susceptor 132, the control device 302 can periodically or continuously determine the temperature of the heating assembly 304 based on the output from the temperature sensor 308. Thus, the control device 302 can determine the temperature of the susceptor 132 and whether this temperature satisfies at least one criterion. If the control device 302 determines that the temperature meets the criterion, it causes the indicator assembly 306 to indicate that the device is ready for use. For example, the control device 302 can send a signal or command to the indicator assembly 306 to provide a specific indicator.

[0143] In one example, the above criterion is met if the determined temperature is equal to or greater than the threshold temperature.

[0144] In another example, the above criterion is met when the determined temperature is above the threshold temperature, but the control device 302 does not cause the indicator assembly 306 to indicate that the device is ready for use until a predetermined time has elapsed after it has been determined that the determined temperature is above the threshold temperature. This may be useful because, in some examples, the temperature of the susceptor 132 may fluctuate above or below the threshold temperature. Delaying the indicator assembly 306 to indicate that the device is ready for use allows time for heat to penetrate the aerosol-generating material. For example, even if the susceptor 132 is close to the threshold temperature, it may take at least 10 seconds to release a suitable amount of aerosol. It may take up to approximately 60 seconds for the aerosol-generating material to be sufficiently heated.

[0145] In another example, the above criterion is met if the determined temperature remains above the threshold temperature for at least a predetermined period of time. In this case as well, time is required for heat to penetrate the aerosol-generating material.

[0146] The heating assembly 304 is preferably configured so that the device is ready for use within approximately 30 seconds of the start of heating of the aerosol-generating material.

[0147] In one example, LED214 emits light to indicate when device 100 is ready for use. For example, when device 100 is ready for use (i.e., after the criteria are met), one or all of LED214 may light up.

[0148] In a specific example, the number of lit LEDs 214 indicates when the device is ready for use. For example, the device may be ready for use when all LEDs 214 are lit.

[0149] Figures 13A to 13E show the outer member 202 positioned above the four LEDs 214. In this example, the LEDs 214 light up sequentially as the heating assembly 304 heats up. For example, the number of lit LEDs may indicate how close the device is to being ready. When all four LEDs are lit, the device is ready for use.

[0150] Figure 13A shows the point in time when none of the LEDs 214 are lit. At this point, the criteria are not met, and the control device 302 may or may not have started generating a fluctuating magnetic field in the inductor coil 124.

[0151] Figure 13B shows the outer member 202 after a certain time interval in Figure 13A. At this point, one of the LEDs is lit, and light is passing through some of the openings 204, illuminating one of the quarter circles of the outer member 202. The LED may be configured to light up when the temperature of the susceptor 132 exceeds a first threshold. For example, the device may operate in a mode in which the heating assembly is maintained at a threshold temperature of approximately 250°C. The first threshold may be less than the threshold temperature. For example, the first threshold may be 220°C. Alternatively, the heating assembly may have already reached the threshold temperature, and a first threshold time may have elapsed since reaching the threshold temperature. The heating assembly may still be above the threshold temperature, or it may have fallen below the threshold temperature at least once. The first threshold time may be, for example, 5 seconds after the control device determines that the temperature has reached the threshold temperature.

[0152] Figure 13C shows the outer member 202 after a certain time interval in Figure 13B. At this point, two of the LEDs are lit, and light is passing through some of the openings 204, illuminating two quarters of the outer member 202. The second LED may be configured to light up when the temperature of the susceptor 132 exceeds a second threshold. The second threshold may be higher than the first threshold and lower than the threshold temperature. For example, the first threshold may be 230°C. Alternatively, the heating assembly may have already reached the threshold temperature, and a second threshold time may have elapsed since reaching the threshold temperature. The heating assembly may still be above the threshold temperature, or it may have fallen below the threshold temperature at least once. The second threshold time may be, for example, 10 seconds after the control device determines that the temperature has reached the threshold temperature.

[0153] Figure 13D shows the outer member 202 after a certain time interval in Figure 13C. At this point, three of the LEDs are lit, and light is passing through some of the openings 204, illuminating three quarters of the outer member 202. The third LED may be configured to light up when the temperature of the susceptor 132 exceeds a third threshold. The third threshold may be higher than the second threshold and lower than the threshold temperature. For example, the first threshold may be 240°C. Alternatively, the heating assembly may have already reached the threshold temperature, and a third threshold time may have elapsed since reaching the threshold temperature. The heating assembly may still be above the threshold temperature, or it may have fallen below the threshold temperature at least once. The third threshold time may be, for example, 15 seconds after the control device determines that the temperature has reached the threshold temperature.

[0154] Figure 13E shows the outer member 202 after a certain time interval in Figure 13D. At this point, all four LEDs are lit, with light passing through the opening 204 and illuminating the four quadrants of the outer member 202. A fourth LED may be configured to light up when the temperature of the susceptor 132 exceeds a fourth threshold. The fourth threshold may be equal to the threshold temperature. Alternatively, the heating assembly may have already reached the threshold temperature, and a fourth threshold time may have elapsed since reaching the threshold temperature. The heating assembly may still be above the threshold temperature, or it may have fallen below the threshold temperature at least once. The fourth threshold time may be, for example, 20 seconds after the control device determines that the temperature has reached the threshold temperature. At this point, the criteria are met, and the device is ready for use. By illuminating all four LEDs, the indicator assembly 306 indicates that the device is ready for use.

[0155] In another example, the first threshold time may be approximately 3 to 5 seconds, the second threshold time may be approximately 6 to 10 seconds, the third threshold time may be approximately 9 to 15 seconds, and the fourth threshold time may be approximately 12 to 20 seconds. The first, second, third, and fourth threshold times may depend on the mode in which the device is operating. For example, when the device is operating in the first default mode, the first, second, third, and fourth threshold times may be longer than the first, second, third, and fourth threshold times when the device is operating in the second boost mode. This may be because the aerosol-generating material heats up more rapidly in the second boost mode.

[0156] In a particular example, the indicator assembly 306 may further include a tactile component configured to provide tactile feedback indicating that the device has begun heating the aerosol-generating material. This may be useful when none of the LEDs are lit when the inductor coil begins generating a magnetic field. The tactile feedback may indicate the mode in which the device is operating.

[0157] In another example, the indicator assembly 306 may include a haptic component configured to provide haptic feedback indicating that the device is ready for use. This may occur as a substitute for or addition to any other type of indicator. For example, the indicator assembly 306 may provide both a visual indicator and haptic feedback indicating that the device is ready for use.

[0158] In another example, the indicator assembly 306 may include an auditory indicator configured to emit a sound indicating that the device is ready for use. This may occur as a substitute for or in addition to any other type of indicator. For example, the indicator assembly 306 may provide both a visual indicator and an audible emission to indicate that the device is ready for use.

[0159] Input Interface As described above, the control device 302 detects input from the input interface 112 and, in response, determines the selected heating mode and causes the inductor coil 124 to generate a fluctuating magnetic field. In this example, the input interface 112 has a single button that sends a signal to the control device 302 indicating that the user has operated the input interface 112. In a particular example, this signal indicates that the user has released the button. Therefore, the user can press and hold the button, and after the button is released, the control device 302 determines the selected heating mode and causes the inductor coil 124 to generate a fluctuating magnetic field.

[0160] In a particular example, the user may press and hold a button for different durations of time, and the device operates in a specific mode depending on the duration of this time. Therefore, the input received from the input interface 112 may include a signal indicating the duration of the button press, and the control device 302 may be configured to cause the inductor coil 124 to generate a fluctuating magnetic field in response to the reception of a signal indicating the button has been released and the determination that the duration of the button press is greater than or equal to a threshold time. The signal indicating the duration of time may be an indication of the time itself, or it may be a button press signal that allows the control device to determine the duration of time by measuring the time between the button press and button release signals. If the duration of time is less than the threshold time, the device 100 does not begin heating. Based on this duration of time, the control device 302 can determine the selected mode. In a particular example, if the duration of time is less than the threshold time, the device 100 may display the power level of the device's power supply 118.

[0161] As described above, device 100 may be configured to operate in a first mode or a second mode. For example, in a particular case, if the duration for which the button is pressed is greater than or equal to a first threshold time and less than a second threshold time, the control device 302 is configured to operate the device in the first mode. If the duration for which the button is pressed is greater than or equal to a second threshold time, the device is configured to operate in the second mode. For example, the first threshold time may be 3 seconds, and the second threshold time may be 5 seconds. This allows the user to select different modes using a single button. If the user holds the button down for longer than 3 seconds and less than 5 seconds, the device operates in the first mode.

[0162] In a specific example, the device is configured to operate in configuration mode if the duration for which a button is pressed is greater than or equal to a third threshold time. In configuration mode, the user can configure the device. The third threshold time may be longer than the second threshold time. In a specific example, the third threshold time is 8 seconds. If the user holds the button down for more than 5 seconds but less than 8 seconds, the device operates in the second mode.

[0163] In another example, the device is configured to display the power level of the power supply 118 if the duration for which the button is pressed is greater than or equal to a fourth threshold time and less than a first time. The fourth threshold time may be, for example, 1 second. The device can display the power level if the user holds the button down for longer than 1 second and less than 3 seconds. The power level may be indicated by the indicator assembly 306. For example, if the power level is between 0% and 25%, one of the four LEDs 214 may light up. If the power level is between 25% and 50%, two of the LEDs 214 may light up. If the power level is between 50% and 75%, three of the LEDs 214 may light up. If the power level is between 75% and 100%, four of the LEDs 214 may light up.

[0164] The above describes only one specific type of input interface 112. In another example, the user selects the operating mode using a touchscreen. In another example, there may be one or more input interfaces. For example, the user may activate the first input interface to operate the device in a first mode, and the user may activate the second input interface to operate the device in a second mode. Therefore, the control device 302 may be configured to cause an inductor coil to generate a fluctuating magnetic field in response to an input received from either the first or second input interface.

[0165] Display indicating that the device has finished its operation. As described above, the indicator assembly 306 can indicate that the device is ready for use or that the device has begun heating the aerosol-generating material. Alternatively or in addition, the indicator assembly 306 can indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating. In a particular example, the indicator assembly 306 is configured to indicate the time remaining until the device finishes operating.

[0166] The device may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating material over a predetermined period of time. Therefore, the control device 302 may cause the indicator assembly 306 to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after the inductor coil has generated a fluctuating magnetic field. This predetermined time may be, for example, approximately 3 minutes, 3 minutes 30 seconds, or 4 minutes. In some examples, this predetermined time depends on the mode in which the device is operating.

[0167] In one example, the indicator assembly 306 indicates that the device has finished or is about to finish operating by stopping any of its indicators. For example, while the device is operating, one or more visual components such as LEDs may visually indicate that the device is operating. When the visual indicators stop, the user may be informed that the device has finished operating. For example, if one or more LEDs are lit while the device is operating, and the device has finished operating, the LEDs may turn off to provide an indicator to the user.

[0168] In another example, the indicator assembly 306 indicates that the device has finished operating by a specific indicator. For example, a visual component may indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating by a specific indicator. This visual indicator may be different from the previous visual indicator. For example, if one or more LEDs are lit while the device is operating, they may flash in a specific pattern to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating.

[0169] In a particular example, the indicator assembly 306 may further include a tactile component configured to provide tactile feedback indicating that the device has finished or is about to finish an operation. In another example, the indicator assembly 306 may include an auditory indicator configured to emit a sound indicating that the device has finished or is about to finish an operation. Two or more different types of indicators may be provided.

[0170] In some examples, the control device 302 may cause the indicator assembly 306 to indicate that the device has finished or is about to finish operating if the determined temperature meets a second criterion. The second criterion may be met if the determined temperature is below a second threshold temperature. The second threshold temperature may be approximately 10°C to approximately 50°C below the aforementioned threshold temperature. Thus, if the heating assembly 304 falls below a certain point, the indicator assembly 306 can indicate that the device has finished or is about to finish operating.

[0171] In some examples, the indicator assembly 306 is configured to provide an indicator of the time remaining until the device finishes its operation. For example, the indicator may be provided at various points in time as the device approaches its end time.

[0172] For example, the tactile component may provide tactile feedback 20 seconds after the end of the heating session, or it may provide tactile feedback 15 seconds, 10 seconds, 5 seconds, and at the end of the heating session. The tactile feedback provided at each point in time may be the same or different. For example, the feedback may become stronger towards the end of the heating session or may last for a longer period.

[0173] In another example, the indicator assembly 306 may have multiple LEDs, and the number of lit LEDs indicates the remaining time until the device finishes operating. For example, when the device is operating, a first number of LEDs may be lit, and when the device has finished operating, a second number of LEDs may be lit, the second number may be less than the first number. The second number may be zero, for example. The first number may be all LEDs. Thus, the LEDs may perform a "countdown" as the device approaches its end.

[0174] In a particular example, there may be multiple LEDs, such as four LEDs, which are sequentially turned off as the heating session nears its end. Figure 13E may show the outer component 202 when the device is operating. The first and / or second inductor coils may or may not be operating at this point. At this point, all four LEDs are lit, indicating that the user can still use the device. There may be a threshold time remaining before the device finishes operating. For example, there may be 20 seconds remaining before the device finishes operating.

[0175] In one example, the device can be said to have "ended operation" when the first and / or second inductor coils cease generating a fluctuating magnetic field. In another example, the device can be said to have "ended operation" when the aerosol temperature / amount is thought to have fallen below an acceptable level (which may be after the first and / or second inductor coils cease generating a fluctuating magnetic field).

[0176] Figure 13D may show the outer member 202 at a later point in time than in Figure 13E. For example, there may only be 15 seconds remaining until the device finishes operating. At this point, one of the four LEDs is off, and light passes through some of the openings 204, illuminating the three quadrants of the outer member 202.

[0177] Figure 13C may show the outer member 202 at a later point in time than in Figure 13D. For example, there may only be 10 seconds remaining until the device finishes operating. At this point, two of the four LEDs are off, and light passes through some of the openings 204, illuminating two quadrants of the outer member 202.

[0178] Figure 13B may show the outer member 202 at a later point in time than in Figure 13C. For example, there may only be 5 seconds remaining until the device finishes operating. At this point, three of the four LEDs are off, and light is passing through some of the openings 204, illuminating one of the quarter circles of the outer member 202.

[0179] Figure 13A may show the outer member 202 at a later point in time than that shown in Figure 13B. For example, the device may have finished its operation. At this point, all four LEDs are off and no light is visible. Thus, the indicator assembly 306 indicates that the device has finished its operation, while also indicating the time remaining until the device finishes its operation.

[0180] In another example, the LEDs are sequentially turned off based on the temperature of the heating assembly (i.e., as the heating session nears its end). For example, all four LEDs may remain lit before the device finishes operating. One of the four LEDs may be turned off when the temperature drops by a first degree. Another LED may be turned off when the temperature drops by a second degree. Another LED may be turned off when the temperature drops by a third degree, and all four LEDs may be turned off when the temperature drops by a fourth degree. The first degree may be approximately 5-10°C below the operating temperature of the heating assembly (i.e., the threshold temperature). The second degree may be approximately 10-20°C below the operating temperature of the heating assembly (i.e., the threshold temperature). The third degree may be approximately 15-30°C below the operating temperature of the heating assembly (i.e., the threshold temperature). The fourth degree may be approximately 20-40°C below the operating temperature of the heating assembly (i.e., the threshold temperature). The fourth degree may also be equal to the second threshold described above.

[0181] Figure 14 is a flowchart of a method for operating an aerosol supply device. This method includes, in block 402, the step of heating an aerosol-generating material in the device's heating assembly. This method includes, in block 404, the step of determining the temperature of the heating assembly based on the output from a temperature sensor. This method includes, in block 406, the step of causing the device's indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use if the determined temperature meets at least one criterion.

[0182] Figure 15 is a flowchart of another method for operating the aerosol supply device. This method includes, in block 502, causing the inductor coil of the aerosol supply device to generate a fluctuating magnetic field that heats the susceptor. This method includes, in block 504, causing the indicator assembly of the aerosol supply device to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after the inductor coil assembly has started heating the aerosol-generating material.

[0183] The embodiments described above are to be understood as illustrative examples useful for explaining the present invention. Other embodiments of the present invention are also conceivable. Any feature described in any one embodiment may be used alone or in combination with other described features, and may be used in combination with one or more features of any other embodiment or any combination thereof. Furthermore, without departing from the scope of the present invention, other equivalents and improvements not described above as set forth in the appended claims may also be adopted.

Claims

1. an aerosol supply device, A heating assembly configured to heat an aerosol-generating material, Indicator assembly and The heating assembly is used to heat the aerosol generating material, To determine the characteristics of the aforementioned heating assembly, If the characteristics determined above satisfy at least one criterion, the indicator assembly is made to indicate that the device is ready for use. A control device configured to perform the following: An aerosol supply device equipped with the following features.

2. The aerosol supply device according to claim 1, wherein the characteristic is the temperature of the heating assembly.

3. The system further comprises a temperature sensor configured to provide an output indicating the temperature of the heating assembly, The control device, Receiving the output from the temperature sensor, Based on the output from the temperature sensor, the temperature of the heating assembly is determined. An aerosol supply device according to claim 2, configured to perform the following:

4. The aerosol supply device according to claim 3, wherein the at least one criterion is satisfied when the determined temperature is equal to or greater than a threshold temperature.

5. The aerosol supply device according to claim 4, wherein the control device is configured to cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use after a predetermined time has elapsed since it has been determined that the determined temperature satisfies at least one criterion.

6. The aerosol supply device according to claim 3, wherein the at least one criterion is satisfied if the determined temperature has been above a threshold temperature for at least a predetermined period of time.

7. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the threshold temperature is higher than approximately 240°C.

8. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the device is configured to operate in either a first mode or a second mode, the first mode having different heating characteristics from the second mode, and the threshold temperature is different between the first mode and the second mode.

9. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the indicator assembly comprises a visual component indicating that the device is ready for use.

10. The aerosol dispensing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the indicator assembly comprises a tactile component configured to provide tactile feedback indicating that the device is ready for use.

11. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the indicator assembly comprises an auditory component configured to emit a sound indicating that the device is ready for use.

12. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the heating assembly is configured to heat the aerosol-generating material such that the indicator assembly indicates that the device is ready for use less than approximately 30 seconds after the heating assembly has begun heating the aerosol-generating material.

13. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the control device is configured to cause the heating assembly to heat the aerosol generating material such that the indicator assembly indicates that the device is ready for use less than approximately 30 seconds after the heating assembly has started heating the aerosol generating material.

14. The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the control device is configured to cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after the heating assembly has heated the aerosol generating material.

15. The heating assembly, An inductor coil that generates a fluctuating magnetic field, A susceptor configured to heat the aerosol generating material, wherein the susceptor is capable of being heated by the intrusion of the fluctuating magnetic field, Equipped with, The aerosol supply device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the control device is configured to heat the aerosol generating material in the heating assembly by causing the inductor coil to generate the fluctuating magnetic field.

16. The inductor coil is a first inductor coil, and the heating assembly further comprises a second inductor coil that generates a second fluctuating magnetic field. The first inductor coil is adjacent to the second inductor coil in a direction along the longitudinal axis of the device, The control device is configured to cause the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use, and then to cause the second inductor coil to generate the second fluctuating magnetic field. The aerosol supply device according to claim 15, wherein, when in use, the aerosol is drawn out along the flow path of the device toward the proximal end of the device, and the first inductor coil is positioned closer to the proximal end of the device than the second inductor coil.

17. A method for operating an aerosol supply device, The steps include heating the aerosol generating material in the heating assembly of the device, A step of determining the characteristics of the heating assembly, If the determined characteristics satisfy at least one criterion, the step of causing the indicator assembly of the device to indicate that the device is ready for use, Methods that include...

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein the characteristic is the temperature of the heating assembly.

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the at least one criterion is satisfied when the determined temperature is equal to or greater than a threshold temperature.

20. The method according to claim 19, further comprising the step of causing the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use after a predetermined time has elapsed since it has been determined that the temperature determined above satisfies at least one criterion.

21. The method according to claim 18, wherein the at least one criterion is satisfied if the determined temperature has been above a threshold temperature for at least a predetermined period of time.

22. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the threshold temperature is higher than approximately 240°C.

23. The method according to any one of claims 19 to 22, wherein the device is configured to operate in either a first mode or a second mode, the first mode having different heating characteristics from the second mode, and the threshold temperature is different in the first mode and the second mode.

24. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 23, further comprising the step of causing the indicator assembly to indicate that the device is ready for use less than approximately 30 seconds after the heating assembly has started heating the aerosol generating material.

25. The method according to any one of claims 17 to 24, further comprising the step of causing the indicator assembly to indicate that the device has finished operating or is about to finish operating within a predetermined time after the heating assembly has started heating the aerosol generating material.

Images