An aerosol generator that provides tactile feedback of progress through a usage session

Abstract

The aerosol generating device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session. The use session progresses through multiple successive phases between a use session start and a use session stop. The aerosol generating device includes a timer, a tactile output unit, and a controller. The progression of the use session through the multiple successive phases is controlled by the controller in response to timing signals from the timer and in response to signals representative of the monitored user interaction parameters. The controller is configured to control the tactile output unit to emit a different tactile output during each of the multiple successive phases to indicate the progression of the use session.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device configured to generate an aerosol during a use session, and to a method of using such a device. [Background technology]

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

[0003] Some aerosol generating devices are configured to provide a user experience that has a finite duration. For example, the aerosol generating device may be configured to operate for a predetermined period of time in any single use session. Aerosol generating devices configured for use with separate aerosol-generating articles may be configured to operate in individual use sessions that last no longer than the time it takes to deplete the aerosol-forming substrate within the individual aerosol-generating articles.

[0004] Traditional combustible cigarettes have a burn line that moves along the cigarette as it is consumed, thereby constantly providing the user with a visual indication of progress throughout the user's experience. Therefore, the user can determine how much of the cigarette is available for consumption at any given time. With many aerosol generating devices, this determination is more difficult. While some devices provide an indication that a usage session is about to end prior to the end of such session, this does not provide the user with information related to the progress of the usage session during the usage session. Progression information is particularly useful to the user when the duration of a usage session is controlled by more than one parameter. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating device is configured to generate an aerosol during a use session that progresses through multiple successive phases between a use session start and a use session stop. The aerosol generating device comprises a timer, a tactile output unit, and a controller. The progression of the use session through the multiple successive phases is controlled by the controller in response to timing signals from the timer and in response to signals representative of monitored user interaction parameters. The controller is configured to control the tactile output unit to emit a different tactile output during each of the multiple successive phases to indicate the progress of the use session.

[0006] The haptic output unit may be configured to emit a haptic output representative of a current use session phase in response to a user input. For example, a user may initiate a status query, for example, by pressing a button on the aerosol generating device. A haptic output representative of the current use session may then be emitted in response to the status query.

[0007] The haptic output unit may comprise, for example, a haptic actuator or a haptic motor, such as an eccentric rotating mass actuator. The haptic output may be in the form of one or more vibrations or buzzes detectable by a user holding the device.

[0008] The tactile output unit may be configured to emit a tactile output representative of the current use session phase in response to a transition from one of the plurality of consecutive phases to one of the plurality of subsequent consecutive phases. Thus, a tactile signal may be emitted automatically upon transition from one phase to a subsequent phase. This may provide the user with a continuous tactile indication of the progress of the use session.

[0009] A usage session is a finite usage session, i.e., a usage session that has a beginning and an end. The duration of a usage session, as measured by time, may be affected by use during the usage session. The duration of a usage session may have a maximum duration determined by the maximum time from the start of the usage session. The duration of a usage session may be less than the maximum duration if one or more monitored parameters reach a predetermined threshold before the maximum time from the start of the usage session.

[0010] Aerosol generating devices are typically handheld devices. They may have dimensions similar to those of, for example, a conventional cigar or a conventional cigarette. Handheld aerosol generating devices have limited surface area on which to mount or otherwise position information displays, such as indicators. Therefore, displays with multiple display units, such as multiple light-emitting units, occupy a significant area on the surface of a typical aerosol generating device. Furthermore, displays with multiple display units also consume large amounts of energy. Typical aerosol generating devices have limited space for power sources, such as batteries, and therefore, features requiring high energy consumption require larger capacity, and therefore physically larger, power sources. More complex displays, such as screens, may be configurable to display a wide variety of information, but they also consume large amounts of energy and present other related design complexities due to the need for complex electronic architectures and requirements for providing adequate power to the display and dissipating heat generated by the display device.

[0011] A user may be engaged in other activities, such as conversation, while using an aerosol generating device. In these situations, it may not be appropriate for the user to constantly check their device to monitor the progress of a usage session. Therefore, it may be advantageous if the user can monitor the progress of a usage session in a discrete and non-intrusive manner. For example, it may be beneficial if the user can determine the progress of a usage session without having to check a visual indication.

[0012] If a user does not have adequate feedback, the user may tend to interact with the aerosol-generating device more frequently. For example, if the user is unsure of how much of a use session is remaining, the user may take more puffs, resulting in more rapid depletion of the aerosol-forming substrate and potentially a quicker termination of the use session, which the user may not want. The ability to monitor the progress of a use session may make the user more relaxed during the use session and, therefore, make the user experience more enjoyable.

[0013] An aerosol generating device capable of providing tactile feedback indicating the progress of a use session may allow a user to monitor the progress of a use session while continuing other activities, such as conversing with others.

[0014] A use session may be defined as a period of finite duration during which a user can obtain a user experience. A use session may, for example, span between the beginning of the use session (e.g., which may be referred to as session start) and the end of the use session (e.g., which may be referred to as session stop). A session start may be defined to be the moment an aerosol generating device is activated. For example, a user may manually initiate a use session by activating the aerosol generating device, e.g., by pressing a button that activates the aerosol generating device. The aerosol generating device may also be configured to automatically initiate a use session, e.g., in response to an aerosol-generating article engaging the aerosol generating device.

[0015] The aerosol generating device may be configured such that a use session has a maximum duration determined by a timer. The maximum duration may ensure that the use session is terminated without further input from the user. An aerosol generating device configured to provide a use session with a maximum duration helps maintain the quality of the user experience by preventing the user from attempting to generate aerosol when the aerosol-forming substrate is depleted. A use session with a maximum duration also helps ensure safety, as an activation system, typically involving a heater, is not left activated even if the user forgets that a use session has begun. A use session with a maximum duration also requires the user to make a conscious decision to begin an additional use session, which may help the user control their aerosol intake.

[0016] The aerosol-generating device may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the aerosol-generating device may be configured to receive a cartridge containing an aerosol-forming substrate, such as a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may be configured to receive a heated aerosol-generating article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0017] The aerosol-generating device may be configured to detect the presence of an aerosol-generating article. A sensor or detector within the device may detect the presence of the article and may be capable of distinguishing between one article configured for use with the device and another article configured for use with the device. The device may be capable of distinguishing between an article configured for use with the device and another article not configured for use with the device. The device may be capable of preventing the initiation of a use session if the aerosol-generating article is not an article configured for use with the device.

[0018] The aerosol generating device may be configured so that a use session terminates when the aerosol-generating article is removed from the aerosol generating device. Thus, in such a configuration, if a user removes the article from the device during a use session, the use session may end before its maximum duration. This may improve safety and the user experience.

[0019] The aerosol-generating device may be configured to monitor a user interaction parameter indicative of use of the aerosol-generating device during a use session. The use session may be configured to terminate when the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold. Thus, in such a configuration, if the monitored user interaction parameter reaches the threshold before the maximum duration of the use session is reached, the use session may be terminated before the maximum duration. If the user uses the device heavily during a use session, the aerosol-forming substrate may be depleted more quickly than if the user does not use the device heavily. Therefore, the ability to monitor and terminate a use session when the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold may improve the user experience by preventing aerosol generation from a depleted aerosol-generating article. To continue use, the user may need to replace the article and begin another use session.

[0020] As an example, the user interaction parameter may indicate that the user has taken a puff during the use session. The aerosol generating device may include a puff counting mechanism for determining the number of puffs taken by the user during the use session. The aerosol generating device may be configured to terminate the use session when the number of puffs taken by the user during the use session reaches a predetermined threshold. Thus, the use session may include a limited number of puffs that the user can take. The use session may be terminated before the maximum duration determined by the timer if the number of puffs taken during the use session reaches the predetermined threshold before the maximum duration determined by the timer. Thus, in cases where the user takes a large number of puffs within a short time interval, which would deplete the aerosol-forming substrate, the user experience is maintained by preventing puffs after the aerosol-forming substrate is depleted.

[0021] When the length of a usage session is determined by more than one threshold, such as a maximum duration determined by a time threshold and a threshold determined by one or more user interaction parameters, a representative display of progress through a usage session becomes more complex.

[0022] A use session is determined to include multiple consecutive phases. Progression of the use session as a whole may be determined relative to progression through the multiple consecutive phases. The multiple consecutive phases may be at least three consecutive phases, or at least four consecutive phases. For example, the multiple consecutive phases may include at least five consecutive phases, or at least six consecutive phases. The greater the number of phases into which a use session is divided, the more accurate the indication of progression during the session. However, if the number of phases is too large, the indication of progression may become confusing and provide little practical benefit to the user.

[0023] The aerosol generating device may be configured such that any or each of a plurality of consecutive phases has a phase duration defined by a phase start and a phase end. The aerosol generating device may be configured such that any or each of a plurality of consecutive phases has a maximum phase duration determined by a timer. Thus, any or each of a plurality of consecutive phases may terminate when a monitored period reaches a predetermined threshold for the phase, unless the phase terminated earlier.

[0024] A first phase of the plurality of consecutive phases may have a first phase duration defined, for example, by a first phase start and a first phase end, and may be considered to begin at a session start of a usage session.

[0025] If the aerosol generating device includes a heater, the first phase may include a heating period during which the heating element increases its temperature from ambient temperature to an operating temperature for generating the aerosol.

[0026] A first phase of the plurality of consecutive phases may have a first phase duration, e.g., defined by a first phase start and a first phase end, where the first phase may be considered to start at the end of a pre-phase heating period, which pre-phase heating period starts at the session start. The pre-phase heating period may be a heating period during which the heating element increases temperature from ambient temperature to an operating temperature for generating the aerosol.

[0027] A second phase of the plurality of consecutive phases may have a second phase duration defined by a second phase start and a second phase end. The second phase may begin at the end of the first phase.

[0028] A third phase of the plurality of consecutive phases may have a third phase duration defined by a third phase start and a third phase end. The third phase may begin at the end of the second phase. The use session may end at the end of the third phase. Thus, the use session may be divided into three phases, each having its own duration, with the use session ending at the end of the third phase. Progression through the use session may then be determined by determining in which phase the use session is at any point during the use session.

[0029] A usage session may be divided into four or more phases.

[0030] A fourth phase of the plurality of consecutive phases may have a fourth phase duration defined by a fourth phase start and a fourth phase end. The fourth phase may begin at the end of the third phase.

[0031] The use session may end at the end of the fourth phase. Thus, the use session may be divided into four phases, each having a respective duration, with the use session ending at the end of the fourth phase. Progression through the use session may then be determined by determining which phase the use session is in at any time during the use session.

[0032] The use session may be divided into five or more phases. A fifth phase of the plurality of consecutive phases has a fifth phase duration that may be defined by a fifth phase start and a fifth phase end. The fifth phase may start at the end of the fourth phase. The use session may end at the end of the fifth phase.

[0033] The use session may be divided into six or more phases. A sixth phase of the plurality of consecutive phases may have a sixth phase duration defined by a sixth phase start and a sixth phase end. The sixth phase may begin at the end of the fifth phase. The use session may end at the end of the sixth phase.

[0034] The aerosol generating device may be configured to monitor a user interaction parameter indicative of use of the aerosol generating device during a use session. The duration of any of the, or each of, a plurality of successive phases may be controlled with respect to the monitored user interaction parameter. Preferably, the duration of any of the, or each of the successive phases is controlled with respect to the user interaction parameter and at least one further parameter. The at least one further parameter is preferably the passage of time determined by a timer.

[0035] Thus, the progress of a usage session through each of a number of successive phases may be determined by reference to both a timer that provides a maximum duration for each phase and a monitored user interaction parameter that may terminate a phase earlier than the maximum possible duration for that phase if the monitored user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold.

[0036] The user interaction parameter may be an indication that the user has taken a puff during the use session.

[0037] The user interaction parameter may be an indication of the amount or volume of aerosol emitted by the aerosol-forming substrate. The user interaction parameter may be an indication of the amount or volume of aerosol delivered to the user. The user interaction parameter may be the cumulative volume of aerosol delivered to the user.

[0038] The user interaction parameter may be an indication of the power supplied to the heating element during a use session.

[0039] The aerosol generating device may include a puff counting mechanism for determining the number of user puffs taken during a use session. User puffs may be determined, for example, by monitoring the power supplied by a power source during a use session or by monitoring the temperature of a heating element during a use session. User puffs may also be determined by monitoring airflow through the device during a use session. Thus, the duration of any of the, or each of, multiple successive phases may be controlled with respect to the number of user puffs taken during a use session.

[0040] The aerosol generating device may be configured such that a use session has a maximum use session duration determined by a timer, and the aerosol generating device is configured to record at least one user interaction parameter during the use session, and the phase duration of any of the or each of the plurality of consecutive phases may have a duration shorter than the maximum phase duration if the value of the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold before the end of that phase.

[0041] A use session may include, for example, a first phase, a second phase, a third phase, and a fourth phase. The first phase may begin at a session initiation of the use session. The first phase may end, and thus the second phase may begin, after a monitored period beginning at monitoring initiation reaches a predetermined first phase time threshold or after a recorded user interaction parameter reaches a first predetermined value if the first predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the predetermined first phase time threshold.

[0042] The second phase may end, and thus the third phase may begin, after the monitored time, which begins at the start of monitoring, reaches a predetermined second phase time threshold, or after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a second predetermined value if the second predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the predetermined second phase time threshold.

[0043] The third phase may end, and thus the fourth phase may begin, after the monitored time, which begins at the start of monitoring, reaches a predetermined third phase time threshold, or after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a third predetermined value if the third predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the predetermined third phase time threshold.

[0044] The fourth phase may end after the monitored time, which begins at the start of monitoring, reaches a predetermined fourth phase time threshold, or after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a fourth predetermined value if the fourth predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the predetermined fourth phase time threshold.

[0045] The monitoring start time may conveniently be the session start of a use session. The recorded user interaction parameters may be representative of the number of puffs the user takes during the use session.

[0046] The first phase time threshold may be a value between 75 seconds and 105 seconds from the start of the use session. The first predetermined value may be three puffs or four puffs.

[0047] The second phase time threshold may be a value between 150 seconds and 210 seconds from the start of the use session. The second predetermined value may be 6 puffs or 7 puffs.

[0048] The third phase time threshold may be a value between 225 seconds and 315 seconds from the start of the use session. The third predetermined value may be 9 puffs or 10 puffs.

[0049] The fourth phase time threshold may be a value between 300 and 420 seconds from the start of the use session. The fourth predetermined value may be 12 puffs or 13 puffs.

[0050] In another example, the recorded user interaction parameter may represent the volume of aerosol delivered to the user during a use session. This parameter may be calculated, for example, by monitoring the power signal, detecting the start and end points of the user's puff, and integrating to determine the total power delivered during the user's puff. From this total power delivered, it may be possible to calculate the volume of aerosol delivered.

[0051] For example, the device may be configured to monitor parameters indicative of aerosol generation, such as power supplied to a heater, during operation of the aerosol generating device, analyze the monitored parameters to identify a user puff, where the user puff is defined by a puff start and an end, analyze the monitored parameters during the user puff to calculate a puff volume, where the puff volume is the volume of aerosol generated during the user puff, and use the puff volume as the user interaction parameter.

[0052] The first phase time threshold may be a value between 75 seconds and 105 seconds from the start of the use session. The first predetermined value may be between 50 ml and 200 ml of aerosol.

[0053] The second phase time threshold may be a value between 150 seconds and 210 seconds from the start of the use session. The second predetermined value may be between 100 ml and 400 ml of aerosol.

[0054] The third phase time threshold may be a value between 225 seconds and 315 seconds from the start of the use session. The third predetermined value may be between 150 ml and 600 ml of aerosol.

[0055] The fourth phase time threshold may be a value between 300 seconds and 420 seconds from the start of the use session. The fourth predetermined value may be between 200 ml and 800 ml of aerosol.

[0056] The use session may include a final phase, which may be a fourth or subsequent phase, and the final phase may end after a monitored period of time, for example, after the time that began at the session start of the use session reaches a predetermined final phase time threshold, or after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a final predetermined value if the final predetermined value is reached before the predetermined final phase time threshold.

[0057] Thus, a usage session entering a final phase may be an indication to the user that the usage session is coming to an end. The final phase may have a maximum duration that is shorter than the maximum duration of any preceding phase.

[0058] The aerosol generating device may be configured such that a usage session includes at least four consecutive phases, and the haptic output unit may be configured to emit a different haptic output during each of the at least four consecutive phases, The haptic output may be in the form of one or more vibrations or buzzes perceptible to a user holding the device.

[0059] During the first phase, the haptic output unit may emit an output including a first number of vibrations, for example selected from the list consisting of a single vibration, a double vibration, a triple vibration, and a quadruple vibration.

[0060] During the second phase, the haptic output unit may emit an output including a second number of vibrations, for example, a second number of vibrations selected from a list including single vibrations, double vibrations, triple vibrations, and quadruple vibrations, and the haptic output emitted during the second phase is different from the haptic output emitted during the first phase.

[0061] During the third phase, the haptic output unit may emit an output including a third number of vibrations, for example, a third number of vibrations selected from a list including single vibrations, double vibrations, triple vibrations, and quadruple vibrations, and the haptic output emitted during the third phase is different from the haptic output emitted during both the first phase and the second phase.

[0062] During the fourth phase, the haptic output unit may emit an output including a fourth number of vibrations, for example, a fourth number of vibrations selected from a list including single vibrations, double vibrations, triple vibrations, and quadruple vibrations, and the haptic output emitted during the fourth phase is also different from the haptic output emitted during any of the first phase, the second phase, and the third phase.

[0063] Therefore, the aerosol generating device may be configured to generate aerosol for a finite use session. The use session may be divided into multiple consecutive phases. The controller may be configured to determine and control the duration of the use session with respect to monitored parameters. The controller may also determine and control the duration of each of the multiple phases with respect to monitored parameters. The length of the use session and the length of any phase within the use session may have a maximum duration or a latest end point determined by timing thresholds. The length of the use session and the length of any phase within the use session may have a duration shorter than the maximum duration allowed by the timing thresholds if one or more monitored parameters reach a threshold. The controller may be capable of determining which phase of the use session the device is in and controlling the tactile output unit to emit an indication representative of that phase. Therefore, by dividing the use session into multiple consecutive phases, the user can determine the phase of the use session at any time during the use session. The user may thereby have an indication of how much time remains in the use session or how much further interaction the user can have with the device before the use session ends. This can be a particular advantage where the duration of a usage session depends to some extent on the level of user interaction with the device.

[0064] The aerosol-generating device may include a heater for heating the aerosol-forming substrate to form the aerosol. The heater may be an induction heater. The induction heater may include an inductor configured to generate a varying magnetic field designed to heat the susceptor. The heater may be a resistive heater.

[0065] The heater may comprise a heating element for heating the consumable aerosol-generating article. The heating element may be an internal heater designed to be inserted into the consumable aerosol-generating article, for example, a resistance heating element or susceptor in the form of a pin or blade that can be inserted into an aerosol-forming substrate located within the consumable aerosol-generating article. The heating element may also be an external heater designed to heat the exterior surface of the consumable aerosol-generating article, for example, a resistance heating element or a susceptor located around or surrounding a cavity that receives a substrate for receiving the consumable aerosol-generating article.

[0066] The aerosol generating device may include a replaceable substrate section that houses the aerosol-forming substrate. The replaceable substrate section may form part of the body of the aerosol generating device, and may itself position or house a portion of the aerosol-forming substrate within the device for consumption. The replaceable substrate section may be located distal to the proximal end of the device, for example, distal to the mouthpiece. The replaceable substrate section may be located proximal to the distal end of the device. The replaceable substrate section may be connected to one or more other sections that form the body of the aerosol generating device by connecting means such as a screw thread, or a bayonet joint, or a magnetic connection, or a mechanical latching means such as a snap fit or interference fit.

[0067] The replaceable substrate section may comprise a reservoir of liquid aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the replaceable substrate section may comprise a liquid reservoir containing nicotine and an aerosol former such as propylene glycol or glycerin. Alternatively, the replaceable substrate section may comprise a container of solid aerosol-forming substrate or a container of colloidal aerosol-forming substrate such as a gel substrate.

[0068] The aerosol generating device may include interchangeable base sections that house two or more components that, when combined, form the aerosol.

[0069] The replaceable substrate section may include an atomizer, such as a heating element, for heating the aerosol-forming substrate or for heating at least one of two or more components that, when combined, form the aerosol. Thus, the replaceable substrate section may be in the form of an atomizer and may include both the aerosol-forming substrate and the atomizing component. In such embodiments, the replaceable substrate section will preferably include electrical contacts configured to contact corresponding electrical contacts on the battery portion of the aerosol generating device to provide power for operation of the atomizer.

[0070] In one embodiment, the atomizer may be a resistive heater such as a resistive wire or a resistive track on a substrate, hi another embodiment, the atomizer may be an induction susceptor capable of heating when placed in a varying magnetic field generated by an induction coil.

[0071] The aerosol-generating device may be configured to receive an aerosol-generating article including an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may be a solid aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the aerosol-generating device may include a substrate-receiving cavity for receiving a consumable aerosol-generating article including an aerosol-forming substrate. Examples of aerosol-generating articles include solid aerosol-forming substrates, cigarettes, and cigarette-like article-filled sachets containing an aerosol-forming substrate contained within a wrapper, capsule, or container, such as cigarette paper, of a liquid aerosol-forming substrate or a colloidal aerosol-forming substrate. The consumable aerosol-generating article may include interchangeable substrate sections containing two or more components that, when combined, form an aerosol.

[0072] The consumable aerosol-generating article may include an atomizer, such as a heating element, for heating an aerosol-forming substrate or for heating at least one of two or more components that, when combined, form an aerosol. Thus, the consumable aerosol-generating article may be in the form of an atomizer and may include both an aerosol-forming substrate and an atomizing component. In such embodiments, the consumable aerosol-generating article will preferably include electrical contacts configured to contact corresponding electrical contacts on a battery portion of the aerosol generating device to provide power for operation of the atomizer.

[0073] In an example, the atomizer may be a resistive heater such as a resistive wire or a resistive track on a substrate. In another embodiment, the atomizer may be an induction susceptor capable of heating when placed in a varying magnetic field generated by an induction coil.

[0074] The aerosol generating device may be configured such that power is supplied to the heater to maintain the heater at a predetermined temperature during a use session.

[0075] Power may be supplied to the heater to raise the temperature of the heater element to an operating temperature range for aerosol generation, and the heater element remains within the operating temperature range until the end of the use session. During the use session, power may be supplied to the heater both when the user is taking a puff and when the user is not taking a puff. In such a configuration, the power supplied while the user is taking a puff may be greater than the power supplied when the user is not taking a puff, since less power will be required to maintain the temperature of the heater between puffs.

[0076] A preferred consumable aerosol-generating article may be in the form of a cigarette or cigarette-like article comprising a solid aerosol-forming substrate contained within a wrapper. Such an article preferably comprises a mouth end intended to be inserted into a user's mouth for consumption of the article. The mouth end preferably comprises a filter that mimics a conventionally prepared cigarette. The consumable aerosol-generating article is preferably configured to interact with an atomizer, preferably a heater, located within the body of the aerosol-generating device. Thus, a heating means, such as a resistive heating element, may be located within or around a substrate-receiving cavity for receiving the consumable aerosol-generating article. The substrate-receiving cavity may be located at the proximal end of the device. For example, an opening to the substrate-receiving cavity may be located at the proximal end of the device.

[0077] The aerosol-generating system may comprise an aerosol generator as described above and an aerosol-generating article configured to be received by the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0078] The aerosol generation system may further comprise a charging device for charging the aerosol generation device. The charging device may include a primary power source and may have a docking arrangement configured to engage the aerosol generation device.

[0079] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for indicating the progress of a use session in an aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol-generating device comprising a tactile output unit and a controller, the method including the steps of determining a session start point of the use session, monitoring timing signals generated by a timer, monitoring user interaction parameters, determining the progress of the use session based on the timing signals and the monitored user interaction parameters, and controlling the tactile output unit to emit different tactile outputs to indicate the progress of the use session.

[0080] By dividing a use session into multiple consecutive phases, the device has the ability to determine and indicate to the user the progress of the use session. The user can determine the phase of the use session by receiving a tactile indication. The user may thereby have an indication of how much time remains in the use session or how much further interaction the user can have with the device before the use session ends. This can be a particular advantage where the duration of a use session depends to some extent on the level of user interaction with the device.

[0081] The aerosol generating device may be configured to generate the aerosol during a use session, and the use session progresses through a plurality of successive phases between a use session start and a use session stop, and the method may include controlling the haptic output unit to emit a different haptic output during each of the plurality of successive phases to indicate the progress of the use session.

[0082] The method may include determining a session starting point for the use session, determining a progress of the use session, and controlling the haptic output unit to emit a haptic output to indicate the progress of the use session.

[0083] The method may include the further step of defining at least four successive phases between a session start and a session stop, and controlling the haptic output unit to emit a different haptic output during each of the successive phases.

[0084] The method may include the further steps of recording user interaction parameters during a usage session and determining a duration of the usage session and / or each of a plurality of successive phases based on the timing information and the values ​​of the user interaction parameters.

[0085] The user interaction parameter may represent the number of puffs taken by the user, and the total duration of the use session may be determined to a maximum duration determined by a timer, or to a duration less than the maximum duration if the number of puffs taken during the use session exceeds the maximum number of puffs allowed during the use session.

[0086] The user interaction parameter may represent the number of puffs taken by the user, and the total duration of each phase may be determined by a timer to a maximum phase duration, or to a duration less than the maximum phase duration if the number of puffs taken during a phase exceeds the maximum number of puffs allowed during the phase.

[0087] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol generating device being configured to generate the aerosol during a use session that progresses through multiple successive phases between a use session start and a use session stop. The aerosol generating device comprises a timer, a tactile output unit, and a controller. The aerosol generating device comprises a computer-readable medium containing instructions for performing a method of determining a session start point of the use session, monitoring timing signals generated by the timer, monitoring user interaction parameters, determining progress of the use session based on the timing signals and the monitored user interaction parameters, and controlling the tactile output unit to emit different tactile outputs to indicate the progress of the use session.

[0088] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol that can be inhaled directly through the user's mouth into the user's lungs. In certain embodiments, the aerosol-generating device may heat the aerosol-forming substrate to promote the release of volatile compounds. The aerosol-generating device may interact with an aerosol-generating article that includes the aerosol-forming substrate or a cartridge that includes the aerosol-forming substrate. An electrically operated aerosol-generating device may include an atomizer, such as an electric heater, for heating the aerosol-forming substrate to form an aerosol.

[0089] As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol. In certain embodiments, an aerosol-generating article may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate capable of releasing, upon heating, a volatile compound capable of forming an aerosol.

[0090] As used herein, the term "use session" refers to a period of operation of an aerosol generating device having a finite duration. A use session may be initiated by a user action. A use session may terminate after a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the initiation of the use session. A use session may terminate after a monitored parameter reaches a threshold value during the use session. Typically, a use session has a duration that allows a user to enjoy a single user experience. For example, in a particular aerosol generating device, a use session may have a duration that allows a user to consume a single disposable aerosol generating article. After a use session terminates, a further action by the user is required to initiate a subsequent use session.

[0091] As used herein, the term "tactile output unit" refers to an element of an aerosol generating device capable of emitting a tactile indication to a user of the device. The tactile output unit may comprise, for example, a vibration motor or a haptic motor, such as an eccentric rotating mass actuator.

[0092] The present invention is defined in the claims. However, the following provides a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of any other example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0093] Example i 1. An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol generating device being configured to generate the aerosol during a use session, the aerosol generating device comprising a controller configured to monitor the progress of the use session and to control an indicator for displaying the progress of the use session.

[0094] [Example ii] An aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol generating device being configured to generate the aerosol during a use session, the aerosol generating device comprising: a tactile output unit; and a controller configured to control the tactile output unit to indicate the progress of the use session.

[0095] [Example iii] an aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol being configured to generate the aerosol during a use session that progresses through a plurality of successive phases between a use session start and a use session stop; a tactile output unit; a controller; The progression of the use session through the plurality of successive phases is controlled by the controller in response to the monitored parameters; and An aerosol generating device, wherein the controller is configured to control the tactile output unit to emit a different tactile output during each of a plurality of successive phases to indicate the progress of a usage session.

[0096] Example iv The aerosol generating device according to example iii, wherein the monitored parameter is time or a user interaction parameter.

[0097] [Example Ex1] an aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol being configured to generate the aerosol during a use session that progresses through a plurality of successive phases between a use session start and a use session stop; A timer and a tactile output unit; a controller; The progression of the use session through the plurality of successive phases is controlled by the controller in response to timing signals from the timer and in response to signals representative of the monitored user interaction parameters; and An aerosol generating device, wherein the controller is configured to control the tactile output unit to emit a different tactile output during each of a plurality of successive phases to indicate the progress of a usage session.

[0098] [Example Ex2] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the haptic output unit is configured to emit a haptic output representative of a current use session phase in response to a user input.

[0099] [Example Ex3] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the tactile output unit is configured to emit a tactile output representative of a current usage session phase in response to a transition from one of a plurality of consecutive phases to a subsequent one of the plurality of consecutive phases.

[0100] [Example Ex4] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the plurality of successive phases is at least three successive phases.

[0101] [Example Ex5] The aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the plurality of successive phases is at least four successive phases or at least five successive phases.

[0102] [Example Ex6] 10. The aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured such that a usage session has a maximum duration determined by a timer.

[0103] [Example Ex7] An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0104] [Example Ex8] An aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex7, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to detect the presence of an aerosol-generating article.

[0105] [Example Ex9] An aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex7 or Ex8, wherein the use session terminates when the aerosol-generating article is removed from the aerosol generating device.

[0106] [Example Ex10] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the user interaction parameters are indicative of use of the aerosol generating device during a use session.

[0107] [Example Ex11] An aerosol generating device according to example Ex10, configured such that a usage session is terminated when a user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold.

[0108] [Example Ex12] An aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex10 or Ex11, wherein the user interaction parameter indicates that the user has taken a puff during the use session, or wherein the user interaction parameter indicates the volume of aerosol emitted by the aerosol-forming substrate or delivered to the user during the use session.

[0109] [Example Ex13] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a puff counting mechanism for determining the number of puffs taken by the user during a session of use.

[0110] [Example Ex14] An aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex13, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to terminate a use session when the number of puffs taken by the user during the use session reaches a predetermined threshold.

[0111] Example 14A An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, configured to monitor parameters indicative of aerosol generation during operation of the aerosol generating device, analyze the monitored parameters to identify user puffs, wherein a user puff is defined by a puff start and an end, analyze the monitored parameters during the user's puff to calculate a puff volume, the puff volume being the volume of aerosol generated during the user's puff, and use the puff volume as the user interaction parameter.

[0112] [Example Ex15] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein any of the or each of the plurality of successive phases is configured to have a phase duration defined by a phase start and a phase end.

[0113] [Example Ex16] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein any or each of the plurality of successive phases is configured to have a maximum phase duration determined by a timer.

[0114] [Example Ex17] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein any or each of the plurality of successive phases has a phase duration determined by a phase start and a phase end.

[0115] [Example Ex18] An aerosol generating device according to example Ex17, wherein any or each of the plurality of successive phases has a maximum phase duration determined by a timer.

[0116] [Example Ex19] An aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex17 or Ex18, wherein any or each of the plurality of successive phases terminates when the monitored period reaches a predetermined threshold for the phase, unless the phase has terminated earlier.

[0117] [Example Ex20] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein a first phase of the plurality of consecutive phases has a first phase duration defined by a first phase start and a first phase end, and the first phase begins at the start of a use session.

[0118] Example Ex21. An aerosol generating device according to example Ex20, wherein the first phase comprises a heating period during which the heating element increases its temperature from ambient temperature to an operating temperature to generate the aerosol.

[0119] [Example Ex22] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein a first phase of the plurality of consecutive phases is defined by a first phase start and a first phase end and has a first phase duration, the first phase starting at the end of a pre-phase heating period, and the pre-phase heating period starting at a session start.

[0120] [Example Ex23] An aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex22, wherein the heating period before the phase is a heating period during which the heating element increases its temperature from ambient temperature to the operating temperature to generate the aerosol.

[0121] [Example Ex24] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein a second phase of the plurality of consecutive phases has a second phase duration defined by a second phase start and a second phase end, and the second phase starts at the end of the first phase.

[0122] [Example Ex25] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein a third phase of the plurality of consecutive phases has a third phase duration defined by a third phase start and a third phase end, and the third phase starts at the end of the second phase.

[0123] [Example Ex26] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein a fourth phase of the plurality of consecutive phases has a fourth phase duration defined by a fourth phase start and a fourth phase end, and the fourth phase starts at the end of the third phase.

[0124] [Example Ex27] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the usage session ends at the end of the fourth phase.

[0125] [Example Ex28] An aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex1 to Ex26, wherein a fifth phase of the plurality of consecutive phases has a fifth phase duration defined by a fifth phase start and a fifth phase end, and wherein the fifth phase starts at the end of the fourth phase.

[0126] [Example Ex29] An aerosol generating device according to example Ex28, wherein the use session ends at the end of the fifth phase.

[0127] [Example Ex30] An aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex1 to Ex26 and Ex28, wherein a sixth phase of the plurality of consecutive phases has a sixth phase duration defined by a sixth phase start and a sixth phase end, and wherein the sixth phase starts at the end of the fifth phase.

[0128] [Example Ex31] An aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex30, wherein the use session ends at the end of the sixth phase.

[0129] [Example Ex32] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a monitoring facility configured to monitor user interaction parameters indicative of use of the aerosol generating device during a use session.

[0130] [Example Ex33] 10. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the duration of any of the, or each of, a plurality of successive phases is controlled with respect to a user interaction parameter.

[0131] [Example Ex34] 10. The aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the duration of any of the, or each of, a plurality of successive phases is controlled with respect to a user interaction parameter and at least one further parameter.

[0132] [Example Ex35] An aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex34, wherein at least one further parameter is the passage of time determined by a timer.

[0133] [Example Ex36] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the user interaction parameter indicates that the user has taken a puff during the use session.

[0134] [Example Ex37] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the user interaction parameter is indicative of the power supplied to the heating element during a usage session.

[0135] [Example Ex38] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the aerosol generating device comprises a puff counting mechanism for determining the number of puffs taken by the user during a use session, and wherein the duration of any of the, or each of, a plurality of successive phases is controlled with respect to the number of puffs taken by the user during a use session.

[0136] [Example Ex39] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein a usage session is configured to have a maximum usage session duration determined by a timer, and wherein the device is configured to record at least one user interaction parameter during the usage session, and wherein when the value of the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold, any of a plurality of successive phases, or each of the phase durations thereof, has a duration shorter than the maximum phase duration.

[0137] [Example Ex40] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the use session comprises a first phase, a second phase, a third phase, and a fourth phase.

[0138] [Example Ex41] An aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex40, wherein the first phase starts at the start of a use session.

[0139] [Example Ex42] An aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex40 or Ex41, wherein the first phase ends and the second phase begins after the monitored period starting at the monitoring start time reaches a predetermined first phase time threshold or, if the first predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the predetermined first phase time threshold, after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a first predetermined value.

[0140] [Example Ex43. An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples Ex40 to Ex42, wherein the second phase ends and the third phase begins after the monitored time starting at the monitor start time reaches a predetermined second phase time threshold or, if the second predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the predetermined second phase time threshold, after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a second predetermined value.

[0141] [Example Ex44] An aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex40 to Ex43, wherein the third phase ends and the fourth phase begins after the monitored time starting at the monitor start time reaches a predetermined third phase time threshold, or after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a third predetermined value if the third predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the predetermined third phase time threshold.

[0142] [Example Ex45] An aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex40 to Ex44, wherein the fourth phase ends after the monitored time starting at the monitor start time reaches a predetermined fourth phase time threshold, or after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a fourth predetermined value if the fourth predetermined value is reached at a time preceding the predetermined fourth phase time threshold.

[0143] [Example Ex46] The aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex42 to Ex45, wherein the monitoring start time is the session start of a usage session.

[0144] [Example Ex47] An aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex42 to Ex46, wherein the first phase time threshold is a value between 75 seconds and 105 seconds from the start of the session of use.

[0145] [Example Ex48] the recorded user interaction parameters are representative of the number of puffs the user takes during the use session; An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of Examples Ex42 to Ex47, wherein the first predetermined value is 3 puffs or 4 puffs.

[0146] [Example Ex49] An aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex42 to Ex48, wherein the second phase time threshold is a value between 150 seconds and 210 seconds from the start of the session of use.

[0147] [Example Ex50] the recorded user interaction parameters are representative of the number of puffs the user takes during the use session; An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of Examples Ex42 to Ex49, wherein the second predetermined value is 6 puffs or 7 puffs.

[0148] [Example Ex51] An aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex42 to Ex50, wherein the third phase time threshold is a value between 225 seconds and 315 seconds from the start of the session of use.

[0149] [Example Ex52] the recorded user interaction parameters are representative of the number of puffs the user takes during the use session; An aerosol generating apparatus according to any of Examples Ex42 to Ex51, wherein the third predetermined value is 9 puffs or 10 puffs.

[0150] [Example Ex53] An aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex42 to Ex52, wherein the fourth phase time threshold is a value between 300 seconds and 420 seconds from the start of the session of use.

[0151] [Example Ex54] the recorded user interaction parameters are representative of the number of puffs the user takes during the use session; The aerosol generating device according to any of Examples Ex42 to Ex52, wherein the first predetermined value is 12 puffs or 13 puffs.

[0152] [Example Ex55] An aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex42 to Ex54, wherein the use session includes a final phase, which may be a fourth or subsequent phase, and wherein the final phase terminates after the recorded user interaction parameter reaches a final predetermined value after the monitored time that started at the start of the use session reaches a predetermined final phase time threshold, or if the monitored time reaches a final predetermined value before the predetermined final phase time threshold.

[0153] [Example Ex56] 56. An aerosol generating device according to example 55, wherein the final phase has a maximum duration that is shorter than the maximum duration of the preceding phases.

[0154] [Example Ex57] An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein a usage session comprises at least four consecutive phases, and wherein the tactile output unit is configured to emit a different tactile output during each of the at least four consecutive phases.

[0155] [Example Ex58] An aerosol generating device according to example Ex57, wherein during the first phase, the tactile output unit emits an output comprising a first number of vibrations, for example, a first number of vibrations or a buzz sound selected from the list consisting of single vibrations, double vibrations, triple vibrations, and quadruple vibrations.

[0156] [Example Ex59] An aerosol generating device according to example Ex58, wherein during the second phase, the tactile output unit emits an output including a second number of vibrations, for example, a second number of vibrations selected from a list including single vibrations, double vibrations, triple vibrations, and quadruple vibrations, and the tactile output emitted during the second phase is different from the tactile output emitted during the first phase.

[0157] [Example Ex60] An aerosol generating device according to example Ex59, wherein during the third phase, the tactile output unit emits an output including a third number of vibrations, for example, a third number of vibrations selected from a list including single vibrations, double vibrations, triple vibrations, and quadruple vibrations, and the tactile output emitted during the third phase is different from the tactile output emitted during both the first phase and the second phase.

[0158] [Example Ex61] During the fourth phase, the tactile output unit emits an output comprising a fourth number of vibrations, for example, a fourth number of vibrations selected from the list comprising single vibrations, double vibrations, triple vibrations, and quadruple vibrations, and the tactile output emitted during the fourth phase is also different from the tactile output emitted during any of the first phase, the second phase, and the third phase.

[0159] [Example Ex62] The aerosol generating device according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the device comprises a heater.

[0160] [Example Ex63] The aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex62, wherein the heater is an induction heater.

[0161] [Example Ex64] An aerosol generating device according to embodiment Ex62, wherein the heater is a resistance heater.

[0162] [Example Ex64i] An aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex22 to Ex64, wherein power is supplied to the heater to maintain the heater at a predetermined temperature during a session of use.

[0163] [Example 64ii] An aerosol generating device according to any of embodiments Ex62 to Ex64i, wherein power is supplied to the heater to raise the temperature of the heater element to an operating temperature range for generating an aerosol, and the heater element remains within the operating temperature range until the end of the use session.

[0164] [Example 64iii] An aerosol generating device according to any of Examples 62 to Ex64ii, wherein during a use session, power is supplied to the heater both when the user is inhaling and when the user is not inhaling.

[0165] [Example Ex65] An aerosol-generating device according to any preceding embodiment, configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0166] [Example Ex66] An aerosol-generating apparatus according to example Ex65, wherein the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0167] [Example Ex67] An aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device according to any preceding embodiment and an aerosol-generating article configured to be received by the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate.

[0168] [Example Ex68] 1. A method of indicating the progress of a use session of an aerosol generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol generating device comprising: a tactile output unit and a controller; The method is determining a session starting point for a usage session; monitoring a timing signal generated by a timer; monitoring user interaction parameters; determining a progress of the usage session based on the timing signals and the monitored user interaction parameters; and controlling the haptic output unit to emit different haptic outputs to indicate the progress of the usage session.

[0169] [Example Ex69] A method according to example Ex68, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to generate the aerosol during a use session, and the use session progresses through a plurality of successive phases between a use session start and a use session stop, and the method includes a step of controlling a haptic output unit to emit a different haptic output during each of the plurality of successive phases to indicate the progress of the use session.

[0170] [Example Ex70] determining a session starting point for a usage session; determining the progress of the usage session; A method of indicating the progress of a use session according to example Ex68 or Ex69 in an aerosol generating device according to any of examples Ex1 to Ex66, comprising the step of controlling a haptic output unit to emit a haptic output to indicate the progress of the use session.

[0171] [Example Ex71] defining at least four successive phases between session start and session stop; controlling the haptic output unit to emit a different haptic output during each of the successive phases.

[0172] [Example Ex72] an aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol being configured to generate the aerosol during a use session that progresses through a plurality of successive phases between a use session start and a use session stop; A timer and a tactile output unit; a controller; Determine the session start point for the usage session, monitoring the timing signal generated by the timer; monitor user interaction parameters; determining the progress of the usage session based on the timing signals and the monitored user interaction parameters; and An aerosol generating device comprising a computer-readable medium containing instructions for performing a method of controlling a haptic output unit to emit different haptic outputs to indicate the progress of a usage session.

[0173] [Example Ex73] an aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol being configured to generate the aerosol during a use session that progresses through a plurality of successive phases between a use session start and a use session stop; A timer and a tactile output unit; a controller; An aerosol generating device, comprising a computer-readable medium comprising instructions for performing the steps of the method according to any of Examples Ex68 to Ex72.

[0174] Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the figures. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0175] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic top view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional side view of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1 and an aerosol-generating article for use in the device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram providing a schematic view of the various electronic components of the aerosol generating device and their interactions. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in providing a user with an indication of the number of remaining usage sessions. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in displaying to a user the progress of a usage session, where progress is determined by time and puff counts. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in displaying to a user the progress of a usage session, where progress is determined by time and aerosol volume generated. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in providing a user with an indication of the progress of a usage session in response to a status query. [Figure 9-11] 9-11 provide schematic diagrams of exemplary displays that may be provided by a light-emitting indicator to indicate the number of remaining usage sessions. [Figure 12-16] 12-16 provide schematic diagrams of exemplary indications that may be provided by light-emitting indicators relative to the progress of a usage session.

[0176] The aerosol generating device 10 is a handheld aerosol generating device and has an elongated shape defined by a substantially circular, cylindrically shaped housing 20. The aerosol generating device 10 comprises an open cavity 25 located at the proximal end 21 of the housing 20 for receiving an aerosol-generating article 30 comprising an aerosol-forming substrate 31. The aerosol generating device 10 further comprises a battery (not shown) located within the device housing 20, and an electrically operated heater 40 arranged to heat at least the aerosol-forming substrate portion 31 of the aerosol-generating article 30 when the aerosol-generating article 30 is received within the cavity 25.

[0177] The aerosol-generating device is configured to receive a consumable aerosol-generating article 30. The aerosol-generating article 30 is in the form of a cylindrical rod and includes an aerosol-forming substrate 31. The aerosol-forming substrate is a solid aerosol-forming substrate that includes tobacco. The aerosol-generating article 30 further includes a mouthpiece, such as a filter 32, disposed within the cylindrical rod in coaxial alignment with the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating article 30 has a diameter substantially equal to the diameter of the cavity 25 of the device 10 and a length greater than the depth of the cavity 25, such that when the article 30 is received within the cavity 25 of the device 10, the mouthpiece 32 extends outside the cavity 25 and may be withdrawn by the user in the same manner as a conventional cigarette.

[0178] During use, a user inserts the article 30 into the cavity 25 of the aerosol-generating device 10 and turns on the device 10 by pressing the user button 50 to activate the heater 40 to begin a use session. The heater 40 heats the aerosol-forming substrate of the article 30, causing the volatile compounds in the aerosol-forming substrate 31 to be released and atomized to form an aerosol. The user draws on the mouthpiece of the article 30 and inhales the aerosol generated from the heated aerosol-forming substrate. After activation, the temperature of the heater 40 increases from ambient temperature to a predetermined temperature to heat the aerosol-forming substrate. The control electronics of the device 10 provide power to the heater from a battery to maintain the heater's temperature at a substantially constant level as the user puffs on the aerosol-generating article 30. The heater continues to heat the aerosol-generating article until the end of the use session, at which point the heater is turned off and allowed to cool.

[0179] At the end of a usage session, the article 30 is removed from the device 10 for disposal, and the device 10 may be connected to an external power source for charging the device 10 battery.

[0180] The aerosol generating device 10 further includes a light-emitting indicator 60 having a first light-emitting unit 61 and a second light-emitting unit 62. Light emitted from the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 is visible through the housing 20 of the aerosol generating device 10. Both the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 are light-emitting diode (LED) devices capable of emitting light in four colors: white, green, red, and tan. The LEDs may be visible through the housing 20, or the light emitted from the LEDs may be visible to the eye from outside the housing 20 through a light-transmitting channel (e.g., via a waveguide or similar structure). In addition to each being capable of emitting light in a different color, both the first light-emitting unit and the second light-emitting unit have the ability to be independently controlled to be completely off, completely on, or flashing.

[0181] FIG. 4 provides a schematic diagram of the various electronic components of the aerosol generating device and their interactions.

[0182] A controller 420 located within the housing 20 is connected to a battery 410 , a heater 40 , a timer 430 , an accelerometer 440 , a haptic motor 450 , and a light-emitting indicator 60 .

[0183] The battery 410 provides energy to heat the heater 40 and to operate other electrical components. When fully charged, the battery 410 has enough energy to power two complete usage sessions of the aerosol generating device. The battery 410 is a rechargeable battery and can be connected to an external power source to be recharged.

[0184] The heater 40 converts the energy supplied by the battery into heat to heat the aerosol generator sufficiently to form the aerosol. During operation, the controller controls the supply of energy from the battery to maintain the heater at a substantially constant aerosol-generating temperature.

[0185] A timer 430 provides a timing signal to the controller.

[0186] The accelerometer 440 is configured to detect movement of the device. When movement is detected, a signal is sent to the controller, and the controller determines whether the detected movement matches a predetermined pattern or gesture. Thus, a user can interact with the device by moving in specific patterns and gestures.

[0187] Haptic motor 450 generates a haptic output for a user of the device. The haptic motor is configured to emit a haptic output in response to control signals from controller 420.

[0188] The light emitting indicator 60 generates a visual indication for a user. The light emitting indicator is configured to emit a visual indication in response to a control signal from the controller 420.

[0189] The aerosol generating device 10 of this particular embodiment is configured to accept user queries in the form of specific gestures made by a user with the device 10. In response to the user queries, the device 10 is configured to output signals indicating the number of usage sessions remaining before the device's battery needs to be recharged, and also, during a usage session, to output signals indicating the progress of the usage session.

[0190] When fully charged, the battery can provide enough energy for at least one full use session. The battery may provide enough energy for more than one use session (e.g., 20 use sessions). A user may want to know how many use sessions are available before attempting to start a use session.

[0191] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in providing a user with an indication of the number of remaining usage sessions.

[0192] Step 500: When the aerosol generating device is not engaged in a use session, the user picks up the device and moves it in a predetermined gesture.

[0193] Step 510: A movement of the device associated with a predetermined gesture is detected by the accelerometer, which sends a signal to the controller. The predetermined gesture may be, for example, lifting the device and orienting it in a vertical position.

[0194] Step 520: Analyze the signal provided by the accelerometer to determine if the detected gesture is indicative of a battery status query.

[0195] Step 530: If the detected signal is determined to be a battery status query, the controller communicates with the battery to determine the charge level of the battery.

[0196] Step 540: The controller sends a signal to the light emitting indicator 60 to emit an indication of the number of usage sessions remaining.

[0197] Step 550: The light emitting indicator 60 emits a visual signal indicating the number of usage sessions remaining.

[0198] 9-11 provide schematic diagrams of exemplary indications that may be provided by the light-emitting indicator 60 to indicate the number of remaining usage sessions. If the controller determines that the battery has sufficient charge for two usage sessions, the light-emitting indicator emits an indication that two usage sessions remain. For example, the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 may both be illuminated with a white light.

[0199] If the controller determines that the battery has sufficient charge for one usage session, the light-emitting indicator 60 emits an indication that one usage session remains. For example, the first light-emitting unit 61 may both be illuminated with white light and the second light-emitting unit 62 may not be illuminated.

[0200] If the controller determines that the battery has insufficient charge for a use session, the light-emitting indicator 60 emits an indication that no use session is available and that recharging is required. For example, the first light-emitting unit 61 may both be illuminated with a yellow light and the second light-emitting unit 62 may not be lit.

[0201] The aerosol-generating article for use with the device has a finite amount of aerosol-forming substrate, and therefore, the use session must have a finite duration to prevent a user from attempting to generate aerosol when the aerosol-forming substrate is depleted. The use session is configured to have a maximum duration determined by a period from the start of the use session. The use session is also configured to have a duration shorter than the maximum duration if a user interaction parameter recorded during the use session reaches a threshold value before the maximum duration determined by the timer.

[0202] In certain embodiments, the user interaction parameter is the number of puffs taken by the user during a use session, and therefore the aerosol generating device is configured such that each use session has a duration of 6 minutes from the start of the use session, or such that the user takes 14 puffs if 14 puffs are taken within 6 minutes from the start of the use session.

[0203] During a use session, a user may wish to have an indication of their progress through the use session. For example, a user may want to know approximately how many puffs they have left in the use session or approximately how much time is left.

[0204] The controller includes a puff counter to monitor the number of puffs taken during a use session. The number of puffs taken by the user is determined by monitoring the power supplied to the heater during a use session. When the user puffs, the airflow cools the heater, and therefore a greater amount of energy is supplied by the battery to maintain the heater at its operating temperature. Therefore, by monitoring the power supplied by the heater, the controller can determine the number of puffs taken during a use session.

[0205] To monitor progress, a use session is divided into several successive phases, beginning with a first phase initiation when the use session begins and ending with a final phase when the use session ends, with passage from one phase to the next determined by time and number of puffs as well as the use session. As the use session progresses through the successive phases, the controller commands the light-emitting indicators and tactile motors to emit signals indicative of each successive phase. Thus, the user knows the approximate progress of the use session.

[0206] In particular embodiments, a use session may be divided into five consecutive phases for display purposes. Figure 6 illustrates the method steps involved in displaying the progress of a use session to a user.

[0207] Step 600: The user begins a use session by inserting an aerosol-generating article 30 into the cavity 25 of the device 10 and pressing the user button 50.

[0208] Step 605: A timer is started to record the time that has elapsed during the use session, and a puff counter is started to record the number of puffs that have been taken during the use session.

[0209] Step 610: The first phase of a usage session is considered to have begun when the usage session begins.

[0210] During the first phase, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the first phase. One example of such a signal is a first light-emitting unit 61 and a second light-emitting unit 62 both emitting continuous white light, as illustrated in Figure 12.

[0211] During the first phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the first phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting four consecutive buzzes.

[0212] Step 615: The first phase ends and the second phase begins 1.5 minutes after the start of the use session, or after the user has taken three puffs since the start of the use session if three puffs were taken before 1.5 minutes since the start of the use session.

[0213] Step 620: The second phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the first phase ends.

[0214] During the second phase, the controller commands the light-emitting indicators 60 to emit signals indicating that the usage session is in the second phase. One example of such a signal is a first light-emitting unit 61 emitting a continuous white light and a second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a flashing white light, as illustrated in FIG. 13 .

[0215] During the second phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the second phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting three consecutive buzzes.

[0216] Step 625: The second phase ends and the third phase begins after three minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after the user has taken six puffs since the start of the use session if six puffs have been taken before three minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session.

[0217] Step 630: The third phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the second phase ends.

[0218] During the third phase, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the third phase. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a continuous white light, as illustrated in Figure 14.

[0219] During the third phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the third phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting two successive buzzes.

[0220] Step 635: The third phase ends and the fourth phase begins after 4.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after the user has taken 8 puffs since the start of the use session if 8 puffs have been taken before 4.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session.

[0221] Step 640: The fourth phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the third phase ends.

[0222] During the fourth phase, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the fourth phase. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a flashing white light, as illustrated in FIG. 15 .

[0223] During the fourth phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the fourth phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting a single buzz sound.

[0224] Step 645: The fourth phase ends and the fifth phase begins after 5.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after the user has taken 11 puffs since the start of the use session if 11 puffs have been taken before 5.5 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session.

[0225] Step 650: The fifth phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the fourth phase ends.

[0226] During the fifth phase, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the fifth phase. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 emitting a flashing yellow light and the second light-emitting unit 62 not lit, as illustrated in Figure 16.

[0227] Step 655: The fifth phase ends after 6 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session, or after the user has taken 14 puffs since the start of the use session if 14 puffs have been taken before 6 minutes have elapsed since the start of the use session.

[0228] Step 660: At the end of the fifth phase, the use session ends. The heater shuts down and no more aerosol is generated. The user can now remove the aerosol-generating article from the device and, if necessary, recharge the device.

[0229] In a further specific embodiment, the user interaction parameter calculates the volume of aerosol delivered to the user during a use session. Thus, the aerosol generating device is configured such that each use session has a duration of 6 minutes from the start of the use session or has a delivery of a predetermined maximum volume of aerosol if that predetermined volume of aerosol is delivered to the user within 6 minutes from the start of the use session. The predetermined maximum volume of aerosol may be, for example, 660 ml of aerosol.

[0230] During a use session, a user may wish to have an indication of their progress through the use session. For example, a user may want to know approximately how much potentially deliverable aerosol they have left or approximately how much time is left in the use session.

[0231] The controller is configured to detect puffs taken during a use session. A puff start point and a puff end point for each detected puff are determined by monitoring the power supplied to the heater during the use session. As the user takes a puff, the airflow cools the heater, and therefore a greater amount of energy is supplied by the battery to maintain the heater at its operating temperature. Therefore, by monitoring the power supplied by the heater, the controller can determine the start point and end point of puffs taken during a use session. By integrating the monitored power between the detected puff start point and the detected puff end point, a calculated value of the aerosol delivered may be obtained. By summing the calculated values ​​of the aerosol delivered during a use session, a cumulative value of the aerosol delivered during a use session may be obtained.

[0232] To monitor progress, the use session is divided into several consecutive phases, beginning with a first phase initiation when the use session begins and ending with a final phase when the use session ends, with the passage from one phase to the next determined by time and the cumulative volume of aerosol delivered. As the use session progresses through the consecutive phases, the controller commands the light-emitting indicators and tactile motors to emit signals indicative of each consecutive phase. Thus, the user knows the approximate progress of the use session.

[0233] In particular embodiments, a use session may be divided into five consecutive phases for display purposes. Figure 7 illustrates the method steps involved in displaying the progress of a use session to a user.

[0234] Step 700: A user begins a use session by inserting an aerosol-generating article 30 into the cavity 25 of the device 10 and pressing the user button 50.

[0235] Step 705: A timer is started to record the time elapsed during the use session, and the controller is started to identify the puffs taken during the use session and calculate the volume of aerosol delivered during each puff.

[0236] Step 710: The first phase of a usage session is considered to have begun when the usage session begins.

[0237] During the first phase, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the first phase. One example of such a signal is a first light-emitting unit 61 and a second light-emitting unit 62 both emitting continuous white light, as illustrated in Figure 11.

[0238] During the first phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the first phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting four consecutive buzzes.

[0239] Step 715: The first phase ends and the second phase begins 1.5 minutes after the start of the use session, or after the first predetermined volume of aerosol has been delivered since the start of the use session if the first predetermined volume of aerosol was delivered before 1.5 minutes after the start of the use session. The first predetermined volume of aerosol may be, for example, 150 ml.

[0240] Step 720: The second phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the first phase ends.

[0241] During the second phase, the controller commands the light-emitting indicators 60 to emit signals indicating that the usage session is in the second phase. One example of such a signal is a first light-emitting unit 61 emitting a continuous white light and a second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a flashing white light, as illustrated in FIG. 12.

[0242] During the second phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the second phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting three consecutive buzzes.

[0243] Step 725: The second phase ends and the third phase begins three minutes after the start of the use session, or after the second predetermined volume of aerosol has been delivered since the start of the use session if the second predetermined volume of aerosol was delivered before three minutes after the start of the use session. The first predetermined volume of aerosol may be, for example, 300 ml.

[0244] Step 730: The third phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the second phase ends.

[0245] During the third phase, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the third phase. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a continuous white light, as illustrated in Figure 13.

[0246] During the third phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the third phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting two successive buzzes.

[0247] Step 735: The third phase ends, and the fourth phase begins 4.5 minutes after the start of the use session, or after the third predetermined volume of aerosol has been delivered since the start of the use session if the third predetermined volume of aerosol was delivered before 4.5 minutes after the start of the use session. The third predetermined volume of aerosol may be, for example, 450 ml.

[0248] Step 740: The fourth phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the third phase ends.

[0249] During the fourth phase, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the fourth phase. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 and the second light-emitting unit 62 emitting a flashing white light, as illustrated in Figure 14.

[0250] During the fourth phase, the controller commands the haptic motor to emit a haptic signal indicating that the use session is in the fourth phase. One example of such a signal is the haptic motor emitting a single buzz sound.

[0251] Step 745: The fourth phase ends, and the fifth phase begins 5.5 minutes after the start of the use session, or after the fourth predetermined volume of aerosol has been delivered since the start of the use session if the fourth predetermined volume of aerosol was delivered before 5.5 minutes after the start of the use session. The fourth predetermined volume of aerosol may be, for example, 600 ml.

[0252] Step 750: The fifth phase of the usage session is considered to have begun when the fourth phase ends.

[0253] During the fifth phase, the controller commands the light-emitting indicator 60 to emit a signal indicating that the usage session is in the fifth phase. One example of such a signal is the first light-emitting unit 61 emitting a flashing yellow light and the second light-emitting unit 62 not lit, as illustrated in FIG. 15 .

[0254] Step 755: The fifth phase ends and begins six minutes after the start of the use session, or after the fifth predetermined volume of aerosol has been delivered since the start of the use session if the fifth predetermined volume of aerosol was delivered before six minutes after the start of the use session. The fifth predetermined volume of aerosol may be, for example, 660 ml.

[0255] Step 760: At the end of the fifth phase, the use session ends. The heater shuts down and no more aerosol is generated. The user can now remove the aerosol-generating article from the device and, if necessary, recharge the device.

[0256] The indication of the different phases may be provided continuously. For example, the indication from the light-emitting indicator may remain on continuously during a use session. Alternatively, the indication of the different phases may be provided only intermittently, for example, only upon transition from one phase to another. As a further alternative, the indication of the different phases may be provided in response to a status query from the user during a use session.

[0257] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram illustrating the method steps involved in providing a user with an indication of the progress of a usage session in response to a status query.

[0258] Step 800: When the aerosol generating device is engaged in a use session, the user moves the device in a predetermined gesture.

[0259] Step 810: A movement of the device associated with a predetermined gesture is detected by the accelerometer, which sends a signal to the controller. The predetermined gesture may be, for example, two hard taps on the device.

[0260] Step 820: Analyze the signal provided by the accelerometer to determine if the detected gesture is a gesture indicative of a usage session progress query.

[0261] Step 830: If the detected signal is determined to be a usage session progress query, the controller determines the current phase of the usage session.

[0262] Step 840: The controller sends a signal to the lighting unit to emit an indication of the progress of the usage session.

[0263] Step 850: The controller sends signals to the haptic motor to emit an indication of the progress of the usage session.

[0264] The device may be configured so that both the visual and tactile indication signals are automatically emitted as indications of progress. Alternatively, the device may be configured so that the visual indication signals are provided continuously during a use session, while the tactile signals are provided only in response to a query from the user. For example, a tactile signal indicating the progress of use may be emitted only after the user initiates a status query by moving the device in a predetermined gesture. As a further alternative, the device may be configured so that signals related to the progress of a use session are not emitted continuously during use, but only in response to a query from the user. For example, a visual and / or tactile signal indicating the progress of use may be emitted only after the user initiates a status query by moving the device in a predetermined gesture.

Claims

1. an aerosol-generating device for generating an aerosol from an aerosol-forming substrate, the aerosol being configured to generate the aerosol during a use session that progresses through a plurality of successive phases between a use session start and a use session stop; A timer and a tactile output unit; A controller; an accelerometer; the progression of the use session through the plurality of successive phases is controlled by the controller in response to timing signals from the timer and in response to signals representative of monitored user interaction parameters; the accelerometer is configured to detect movements of the aerosol generating device associated with a predetermined gesture and send a signal to the controller; the signal provided by the accelerometer is analyzed to determine whether the detected gesture is a gesture indicative of a usage session progress query, and if the detected gesture is determined to be a gesture indicative of a usage session progress query, the controller is configured to determine a current phase of the usage session and send a signal to the haptic output unit to emit an indication of the progress of the usage session; the controller is configured to control the haptic output unit to emit a different haptic output during each of the plurality of successive phases to indicate progress of the use session. Aerosol generator.

2. 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the tactile output unit is configured to emit a tactile output representative of a current use session phase in response to a user input.

3. 3. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the tactile output unit is configured to emit a tactile output representative of a current usage session phase in response to a transition from one of the plurality of consecutive phases to a subsequent one of the plurality of consecutive phases.

4. 4. The aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of successive phases is at least four successive phases or at least five successive phases.

5. 5. The aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating device is configured such that the usage session has a maximum duration determined by the timer.

6. 6. An aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the user interaction parameters are indicative of use of the aerosol generating device during the use session.

7. 7. The aerosol generating device of claim 6, wherein the usage session is configured to be terminated when the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold.

8. 8. The aerosol generating device of claim 6 or 7, wherein the user interaction parameter indicates that the user has taken a puff during the use session.

9. 9. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein any or each of the plurality of successive phases has a phase duration determined by a phase start and a phase end.

10. 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 9, wherein any or each of the plurality of successive phases has a maximum phase duration determined by a timer.

11. 11. The aerosol generating device of claim 10, wherein the usage session is configured to have a maximum duration determined by a timer and wherein at least one user interaction parameter is recorded during the usage session, and when the value of the user interaction parameter reaches a predetermined threshold, the phase duration of any, or each, of the plurality of consecutive phases has a duration shorter than the maximum phase duration.

12. 12. The aerosol generating device of claim 11, wherein the tactile output unit emits an output during the first phase that includes a first number of vibrations, for example, a first number of vibrations selected from a list including single vibrations, double vibrations, triple vibrations, and quadruple vibrations.

13. 13. The aerosol generating device of claim 12, wherein during the second phase, the tactile output unit emits an output including a second number of vibrations, for example, a second number of vibrations selected from a list including single vibrations, double vibrations, triple vibrations, and quadruple vibrations, and the tactile output emitted during the second phase is different from the tactile output emitted during the first phase.

14. 14. The aerosol generating device of claim 13, wherein during the third phase, the tactile output unit emits an output including a third number of vibrations, for example, a third number of vibrations selected from a list including single vibrations, double vibrations, triple vibrations, and quadruple vibrations, and the tactile output emitted during the third phase is different from the tactile output emitted during both the first phase and the second phase.

15. 15. The aerosol generating device of claim 14, wherein during the fourth phase, the tactile output unit emits an output including a fourth number of vibrations, for example, a fourth number of vibrations selected from a list including single vibrations, double vibrations, triple vibrations, and quadruple vibrations, and the tactile output emitted during the fourth phase is different from the tactile output emitted during any of the first phase, the second phase, and the third phase.

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