Identification component for aerosol generating devices - Patent Application 20070122997

Abstract

The present invention relates to an identification component (10) for an aerosol generating device (18), the identification component including a ring-shaped body (12), a customizable surface (14), and a connecting means (30) for reversibly connecting the identification component to the aerosol generating device. The present invention also relates to aerosol generating devices and aerosol generating systems comprising such an identification component.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an identification component for an aerosol generating device. The identification component includes a ring-shaped body, a customizable surface, and a connecting means for reversibly connecting the identification component to the aerosol generating device. [Background technology]

[0002] Today, consumers own multiple electronic and non-electronic devices. These devices can play an important role in consumers' daily lives. Since then, there has been an evolving trend in which users want to personalize the appearance of their devices.

[0003] Such customization is not merely aesthetic in nature. Customization also helps to make a consumer's device easier to identify and allows the consumer to distinguish the device from other consumers' devices. Providing a device with a customized appearance allows such a device to be easily and efficiently identified.

[0004] It would be desirable to provide a customizable identification component configured for reversible attachment to an aerosol generating device.

[0005] Furthermore, it would be desirable to provide a customizable identification component where customization can be achieved without substantial structural modification by the user.

[0006] It would further be desirable to provide an aerosol generating device with simple, rapid, and reversible customization capabilities so that the aerosol generating device can be easily reset to its initial state.

[0007] It would further be desirable to provide a system that includes an aerosol generating device, a customizable identification component, and a removal tool, where the removal tool is incorporated into a portion of or an accessory to the aerosol generating device. Summary of the Invention

[0008] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an identification component for an aerosol generating device, the identification component comprising a ring-shaped body and a customizable surface, the identification component further comprising connecting means for reversibly connecting the identification component to the aerosol generating device.

[0009] A customizable surface allows the user to tailor the aesthetics of the aerosol generating device. At the same time, a customizable surface allows the user to easily identify and distinguish the aerosol generating device from other consumer devices. Thus, the ability to customize the aerosol generating device can enhance the user experience and foster a user's relationship with the aerosol generating device.

[0010] The identification component may be used with any type of aerosol-generating device. As used herein, "aerosol-generating device" refers to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device may be a device that interacts with the aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device may be a holder. The aerosol-generating device may be an electrically heated aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a housing, an electrical circuit, a power source, a heating chamber, and a heating element. The housing may define a cavity that comprises the heating chamber and the heating element. The heating element may be part of the aerosol-generating article.

[0011] The aerosol generating device is preferably a portable or handheld device that is comfortable to hold between the fingers of one hand. The device may be substantially cylindrical in shape and may have a length of 30 to 150 millimeters. Preferably, the maximum diameter of the device is 5 to 30 millimeters.

[0012] The housing of the aerosol generating device may be elongated. The housing may comprise any suitable material or combination of materials. Examples of suitable materials include metals, alloys, plastics, or composites containing one or more of these materials, or thermoplastics suitable for food or pharmaceutical applications, such as polypropylene, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), or polyethylene. Preferably, the material is lightweight and not brittle.

[0013] The housing may comprise a mouthpiece. The housing may comprise at least one air inlet. The housing may comprise two or more air inlets. The mouthpiece may comprise at least one air inlet and at least one air outlet. The mouthpiece may comprise two or more air inlets. One or more of the air inlets may reduce the temperature of the aerosol before it is delivered to the user and may also reduce the concentration of the aerosol before it is delivered to the user.

[0014] As used herein, the term "mouthpiece" refers to the portion of the aerosol-generating device that is closest to the user's mouth during a puff.

[0015] The aerosol-generating device may include a sensor for activating the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may include a user interface for activating the aerosol-generating device, such as a button for initiating heating of the aerosol-generating device, or a display for indicating the status of the aerosol-generating device or the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0016] As used herein, the term "user experience" refers to the act of consuming an aerosol-generating article. The user experience may include one or more successive puffs. The user experience also includes the time between puffs.

[0017] The customizable surface of the identification component may have a personalized appearance. The customizable surface of the identification component may have an individual coloring, engraving, pattern, or coating, or may be customized in any other way. Ready-to-use identification components provided with customized surfaces may be made available to users. Furthermore, the identification component may be provided with a surface that can be customized by the user themselves or based on the user's preferences.

[0018] The identification component may form part of the housing of the aerosol generating device. In an aerosol generating device including a housing defining a cavity with a heating chamber, the identification component may be used as a cover attached to an end face of the housing. In an aerosol generating device including a housing defining a cavity with a heating chamber having an open end for insertion of an aerosol-generating article, the identification component may be used as an upper ring attached to an inlet portion of the heating chamber. The identification component may be a ring-shaped component configured to be attached to the open end of the heating chamber of an aerosol generating device.

[0019] The end surface of the housing is a highly visible part of the aerosol generating device and is therefore suitable for customization purposes. This part of the housing is clearly visible, especially during puffing. Furthermore, the opening of the heating chamber of the aerosol generating device is directed toward the user during the user experience. Therefore, and for this reason, this end surface of the housing is a highly visible part that is often within the user's field of view and is therefore suitable for use for customization purposes.

[0020] Any type of suitable connection means can be used for attaching and detaching the identification component. The connection means can be a threaded connection, a form-fit connection, or a bayonet-type connection. These types of connection means can be easily applied by the user without requiring the application of significant force.

[0021] The connecting means may be configured to generate haptic feedback, acoustic feedback, or both haptic and acoustic feedback upon closure. In this manner, the connecting means may provide confirmation that the locked position of the identification component has been reached. Such confirmation may facilitate handling of the device while reassuring the user about the correct handling of the device.

[0022] The identification component may be easily removable, for example by hand. The identification component may also be removed using a removal tool. If a removal tool is used, the identification component may further comprise coupling means configured to cooperate with such a removal tool to attach and detach the identification component from the aerosol generating device.

[0023] The coupling means may be configured to allow the removal tool to transmit torque onto the identification component. To this end, the coupling means may include a recess having a non-circular contour. This recess having a non-circular contour may be configured to cooperate with a corresponding contour on the removal tool. In particular, when the identification component is an upper ring of a housing of an aerosol generating device, the through-hole defined by this upper ring may be configured to have a non-circular contour. Preferably, such non-circular contour defines an opening large enough to allow insertion of the aerosol-generating article.

[0024] In principle, any non-circular profile can be used for the coupling means. Symmetrical (rotationally symmetrical or mirror symmetrical) profiles may be preferred, for example, to facilitate alignment between the identification component and a tool for attaching or detaching the identification component. Pentagonal or hexagonal profiles may be particularly suitable. The profile may be polygonal. The corners of the polygonal profile may be rounded. The non-circular profile may be a three-, four-, or five-lobed profile. These profiles may define an opening large enough to allow insertion of the aerosol-generating article, while at the same time allowing engagement of a removal tool that facilitates detachment and attachment of the identification component.

[0025] In embodiments in which the identification component forms part of the housing of the aerosol generating device, the identification component may include a sealing member for establishing a sealed connection of the identification component to the housing. The sealing member may be a resilient sealing member. The sealing member may be a sealing ring. The sealing ring may be provided between the housing and the identification component. The sealing ring may be provided in a circumferential recess of the identification component, the recess being provided adjacent to the contact area between the identification component and the housing. In an uncompressed state, the resilient sealing ring may have dimensions slightly larger than the circumferential recess in which it is located. Upon connection of the identification component to the housing, the sealing ring is compressed and sealingly fills the gap between the identification component and the housing.

[0026] The identification component may further comprise an attachment means. Such attachment means may be useful for temporarily securing the aerosol generating device comprising the identification component to any suitable support. For example, the attachment means may be used to attach the aerosol generating device to a piece of clothing of a user. For this purpose, the identification component may be configured as a pen clip.

[0027] The identification component may be configured to be flush with the outer surface when not used for connection. Such a design may be particularly advantageous when the aerosol generating device is inserted into a charger, where the attachment means does not interfere with inserting the aerosol generating device into the charger. Such a design may also be advantageous when the aerosol generating device may be stored in a user's pocket between use experiences.

[0028] The identification component may also include an attachment means having a loop that can be used to attach a strap so that the aerosol generating device can be carried around the user's neck.

[0029] The loop of the attachment means may also be used to attach a personal identification item thereon, which may be a strap, a charm or a tag.

[0030] The body of the identification component may have an outer surface with a non-circular cross-section. The body of the identification component may have an outer surface with an elliptical, polygonal, five-lobed, or hexagonal cross-section. The body of the identification component may have an outer surface with a cross-section having a shape that corresponds to the symmetry of the contour of the recess of the coupling means of the identification component.

[0031] Providing an identification component with a non-circular body may be convenient when the housing of the aerosol generation device has a circular cross-section. In such cases, the non-circular shape of the body of the identification component may prevent the aerosol generation device from rolling off when positioned on a surface that is not perfectly flat.

[0032] Preferably, at least a portion of the outer surface of the body of the identification component extends around the periphery of the housing of the aerosol generation device to which the identification component is attached, as this configuration most effectively prevents unintentional rotational movement of the aerosol generation device.

[0033] The present invention is also directed to an aerosol generating device including a reversibly connectable identification component as described herein. The aerosol generating device may include a connecting portion configured to cooperate with the connecting means of the identification component. If the identification component has a threaded connecting portion, the aerosol generating device is provided with a corresponding threaded connection. If haptic feedback, acoustic feedback, or haptic and acoustic feedback is generated upon closure of the identification component, the connecting portion of the aerosol generating device may include a structural element that cooperates with a corresponding structure on the identification component to generate such feedback.

[0034] The aerosol generating device may include a housing defining a cavity extending from a proximal end of the housing. One or more air inlets may be formed in the proximal end of the housing. The identification component may be configured to be attached to the proximal end of the housing and may be configured to adjust the cross-sectional flow area of ​​the one or more air inlets formed in the proximal end of the housing. Such a design may allow a user to adjust the airflow according to personal needs and preferences, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0035] The identification component may comprise two ring-shaped portions, at least one of which is rotatably mounted relative to the other ring-shaped portion, such that the two ring-shaped portions may be rotatably mounted relative to each other.

[0036] The cross-sectional flow area of ​​the one or more air inlets can be adjusted by rotation of the rotatably mounted ring-shaped portion. The two portions can be coaxially arranged. Each of the two portions can define a through hole having a non-circular cross-section.

[0037] The two portions may each define a through-hole having the same non-circular cross-section. The two portions may be rotated so that they are in the same orientation. When the two ring-shaped portions of the identification component are in the same orientation, the flow cross-sectional area of ​​one or more air inlets may be maximized. The two portions may be rotated so that they are in an offset relative orientation. When the two ring-shaped portions of the identification component are rotationally offset from each other, the flow cross-sectional area of ​​one or more air inlets may be minimized.

[0038] The two sections may be rotated to resume any intermediate orientation. By selecting any intermediate rotational position, the flow cross-sectional area of ​​one or more air inlets may be adjusted to a particular user's preference.

[0039] The first ring-shaped portion of the identification component may be configured to include a connecting means for connecting the identification component to the aerosol generation device. The second ring-shaped portion of the identification component may be rotatably mounted on the first ring-shaped portion. Rotating the second ring-shaped portion relative to the first ring-shaped portion may adjust the adjustment of the cross-sectional air flow path.

[0040] A rotation mechanism may be provided to allow for adjusting the angle of rotation between the two rotatably mounted portions of the identification component. Such a rotation mechanism may ensure that the adjustment of the angle of rotation between the two ring-shaped portions of the identification component can be reliably and repeatably adjusted.

[0041] The present invention is also directed to a system comprising an aerosol generating device having a reversibly connectable identification component as described herein, and a removal tool for attaching and removing the identification component from the aerosol generating device.

[0042] The removal tool may include a contoured structure that corresponds, at least in part, to the non-circular contour of the recess of the coupling means of the reversibly connectable identification component.

[0043] The removal tool may be formed as a male or protruding structure that can be inserted into a recess in the coupling means of the reversibly connectable identification component.

[0044] The removal tool may be part of or fixed to the attachment of the aerosol generation system.

[0045] The aerosol generation system may include an attachment in the form of a cap for closing the open end of the cavity in the housing of the aerosol generation device. The cap may have an outer shape corresponding to the outer shape of the housing of the aerosol generation device. The removal tool may be provided as a male profile protruding from the inner surface of the cap. The inner surface of the cap is the surface that faces the aerosol generation device when the cap is attached to the aerosol generation device. If the housing of the aerosol generation device has a circular outer shape, the cap may have a corresponding circular shape, and the male profile may protrude from the circular inner surface of the cap.

[0046] To remove the identification element from the aerosol generating device housing, a cap is attached to the aerosol generating device. For this purpose, the protruding male contour of the cap is inserted into the recess of the coupling means of the identification element. The cap is then rotated to transfer torque onto the identification element, thereby removing the identification element from the aerosol generating device housing. When the device is not in use, the cap can simultaneously be used as a cover to protect the cavity of the aerosol generating device housing from damage and the ingress of dust or debris.

[0047] The aerosol generating device may also include additional accessories, such as a charging cable. The removal tool may be part of the charging cable or may be connected to the charging cable. The removal tool may be attached to a strip connected to the charging cable. The removal tool may be part of the plug of the charging cable. Because charging cables are typically required accessories for electronic aerosol generating devices, providing a removal tool as part of such required accessories does not increase the number of individual components of the aerosol generating system. Thus, a user needs to carry fewer components to ensure full functionality of the aerosol generating system.

[0048] The charging cable may also include a component carrying a female coupling element that can be used to attach the cap to the aerosol generating device when it is removed therefrom. In this way, the cap may be connected to a part of the aerosol generating system at any time. In this way, the risk of losing the cap may be reduced.

[0049] Typically, charging cables have plugs on both ends. When one plug of the charging cable is provided with a removal tool, the other plug of the charging cable may have a corresponding female coupling element. When the charging cable is not in use, the cable may be rolled up, and the plug with the removal tool may be coupled to the plug with the female coupling element. By coupling the two plugs, the charging cable can be maintained in a rolled up configuration when not being used for charging.

[0050] An aerosol generating system is a combination of an aerosol generating device, one or more aerosol generating articles for use with the aerosol generating device, and one or more accessories. The aerosol generating system may include additional components, such as a charging unit for recharging an on-board power supply in an electrically operated or electric aerosol generating device.

[0051] The user may purchase additional identification elements. The user may change the identification elements according to personal preference. To hold the identification elements in place, the package may comprise a tray on which a male coupling element is provided. In the package, the identification elements may be coupled to the male coupling elements. The male coupling elements may be configured to be removable from the tray so that the male coupling elements can then be used as a removal tool. For this purpose, the tray may be provided with a scoring line so that the male coupling elements can be removed from the tray.

[0052] Below is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples, any one or more features of which may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0053] Example 1: An identification component of an aerosol generating device, the identification component comprising a ring-shaped body, a customizable surface, and a connecting means for reversibly connecting the identification component to the aerosol generating device. Example 2: 10. The identification component of example 1, wherein the identification component forms part of the housing of the aerosol generating device. Example 3: 3. The identification component of any one of Examples 1-2, wherein the identification component is an upper ring of the housing of the aerosol generating device. Example 4: 4. The identification component of any of Examples 1-3, wherein the customizable surface can include a personalized appearance, including one or more of an individual coloring, engraving, pattern, or coating. Example 5: The identification component of any of Examples 1-4, wherein the connection means can be a threaded connection, a form-fit connection, or a bayonet-type connection. Example 6: The identification component of any of Examples 1-5, wherein the connecting means can be configured to generate haptic feedback upon closure to confirm the locked position of the identification component. Example 7: 7. The identification component of any of Examples 1-6, further comprising coupling means configured to cooperate with a removal tool for attaching and removing the identification component from the aerosol generating device. Example 8: 8. The identification component of example 7, wherein the coupling means is configured to allow the removal tool to transmit torque to the identification component. Example 9: The identification component of example 7 or 8, wherein the coupling means comprises a recess having a non-circular contour configured to cooperate with a mating contour of the removal tool. Example 10: 10. The identification component of example 9, wherein the non-circular contour is a polygonal contour, in particular a five-lobed contour or a hexagonal contour. Example 11: The identification component of any of Examples 1-10, wherein the identification component can be a ring-shaped component configured to be attached to an open end of a heated chamber of an aerosol generating device. Example 12: The identification component of any of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the identification component can comprise a sealing member, particularly a resilient sealing member. Example 13: The identification component of any of Examples 1-12, further comprising an attachment means. Example 14: 14. The identification component of example 13, wherein the attachment means is configured to be flush with the exterior surface when not used for connection. Example 15: 15. The identification component of example 13 or 14, wherein the attachment means is configured as a pen clip. Example 16: The identification component of any of Examples 13-15, wherein the attachment means can include a loop. Example 17: 17. The identification component of example 16, wherein the loop of the attachment means is configured to connect a personal identification item thereon. Example 18: 18. The identification component of any of Examples 16 or 17, wherein the personal identification item is a lanyard, amulet, or tag. Example 19: The identification component of any of Examples 1-18, wherein the body of the identification component has an outer surface with a non-circular cross-section. Example 20: 20. The identification component of any of Examples 1-19, wherein the body of the identification component has an outer surface with an elliptical, polygonal, five-lobed, or hexagonal cross-section. Example 21: 21. The identification component of any of Examples 9-20, wherein the body of the identification component has an outer surface with a cross-section having a shape corresponding to the symmetry of the contour of the recess of the coupling means of the identification component. Example 22: An identification component according to any one of Examples 1 to 21, wherein at least a portion of the outer surface of the body of the identification component extends over the outer periphery of the housing of the aerosol generating device to which the identification component is attached. Example 23: An aerosol generating device comprising a reversibly connectable identification component according to any one of Examples 1 to 22. Example 24: 24. The aerosol generating device of Example 23, comprising a connecting portion configured to cooperate with the connecting means of the identification component. Example 25: An aerosol generating device as described in either Example 23 or 24, comprising a housing defining a cavity extending from the proximal end of the housing, wherein the identification component is configured to be attached to the proximal end of the housing, or wherein more air intake ports are formed at the proximal end of the housing and the identification component is configured to adjust the flow cross-sectional area of ​​one or more air intake ports. Example 26: 26. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 25, wherein the identification component comprises two ring-shaped portions, at least one of the ring-shaped portions being rotatably mounted relative to the other ring-shaped portion. Example 27: 27. An aerosol generating device as described in Example 26, wherein the flow cross-sectional area of ​​one or more air inlets is adjusted by rotation of a rotatably mounted ring-shaped portion. Example 28: 28. An aerosol generating device as described in either of Examples 26 or 27, wherein both of the two portions are arranged coaxially and each defines a through hole having a non-circular cross section. Example 29: An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 26 to 28, wherein the flow cross-sectional area of ​​one or more air intake ports is maximized when the two ring-shaped portions of the identification component are in the same orientation, and the flow cross-sectional area of ​​one or more air intake ports is minimized when the two ring-shaped portions of the identification component are rotationally offset from each other. Example 30: An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 26 to 29, wherein a first ring-shaped portion of the identification component is configured to include a connecting means, and a second ring-shaped portion of the identification component is rotatably mounted on the first ring-shaped portion. Example 31: An aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 26 to 30, wherein the rotation mechanism allows for adjusting the angle of rotation between two rotatably mounted portions of the identification component. Example 32: A system comprising an aerosol generating device described in any of Examples 23 to 31 having a reversibly connectable identification component described in any of Examples 1 to 22, and a removal tool for attaching and removing the identification component from the aerosol generating device. Example 33: 33. The system of example 32, wherein the removal tool comprises a structure having a contour corresponding to the non-circular contour of the recess of the coupling means. Example 34: The system of example 32 or 33, wherein the removal tool is part of or secured to another accessory of the aerosol generation device / system. Example 35: The system of any of Examples 32-34, wherein the removal tool is included in a cap for closing / protecting the heating chamber. Example 36: A system described in any of Examples 32 to 35, wherein the removal tool is attached to a charging cable for the aerosol generating device. Example 37: A system as described in Example 36, wherein a removal tool is attached to a first connector of a charging cable for the aerosol generating device and a corresponding structure is provided on a second connector of the charging cable, so that the removal tool can also be used to maintain the charging cable in a rolled-up configuration.

[0054] Features described with respect to one embodiment may equally apply to other embodiments of the invention.

[0055] The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0056] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows the proximal end of an aerosol generating device having an identification component. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows an identification component having a bayonet connection means. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a cap-shaped removal tool for the identification component. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a further embodiment of a removal tool for an identification component. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows the sales packaging for the identification component. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows an identification component having a first attachment means. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 shows an identification component having a second attachment means. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows an identification component having a non-circular outer cross section. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows an identification component having two ring-shaped portions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0057] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of an identification component 10 of an aerosol generating device 18. The top portion of FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of the identification component 10. The identification component 10 has an essentially ring-shaped body 12 and a customizable surface 14. The ring-shaped body 12 defines a central through-hole 16 having a non-circular cross-section. The through-hole 16 has a five-lobed cross-section.

[0058] The bottom view of Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an identification component 10 attached to the proximal end of an aerosol generation device 18. The aerosol generation device 18 includes a housing 20 defining a cavity 22 having a heating chamber 24. The cavity 22 has an open end 26 for insertion of an aerosol-generating article. The open end 26 includes a connecting portion 28 to which the identification component 10 can be attached. In this embodiment, the identification component 10 is used as an upper ring that is attached to the connecting portion 28 at the open end 26 of the heating chamber 24 of the aerosol generation device 18. In this embodiment, the identification component 10 essentially forms part of the housing of the aerosol generation device 18. The identification component 10 forms the proximal end face of the elongated housing of the aerosol generation device 18.

[0059] Connection means 30 is provided for reversibly attaching the identification component 10 to the aerosol generation device 18. In this embodiment, the connection means 30 is a bayonet connection. The bayonet connection is established between a connection portion 28 of the aerosol generation device 18 and a connection portion 32 of the identification component 10. The identification component 10 can be easily attached to the aerosol generation device 18 with only 120 degrees of relative rotation.

[0060] The identification component 10 includes an internal sealing member 38. The sealing member 38 is provided as a ring-shaped element that is located within a circumferential recess of the identification component 10. The sealing member 38 creates a tight bond between the identification component and the open end 26 of the heating chamber 24. The use of the sealing member 38 can prevent leakage. The sealing member 38 can be slightly compressed during installation, which can provide a better haptic sensation to the user during installation and removal of the identification component 10.

[0061] The connecting means 30 is further illustrated with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2a shows a side view and a bottom perspective view of the ring-shaped identification component 10. In the bottom perspective view of the ring-shaped identification component 10, the connecting portion 32 of the identification component 10 is visible. The connecting portion 32 comprises three protrusions 34 and three recesses 36. The protrusions 34 and recesses 36 are arranged in alternating order around the circumference of the connecting portion 32 of the identification component 10.

[0062] 2B shows a side view and a top view of connecting portion 28 at open end 26 of heating chamber 24 of aerosol generation device 18. Connecting portion 28 includes a base 40 and three recessed elements 42. Recessed elements 42 are configured to allow downward sliding of protrusion 34 of identification element 10. Connecting portion 28 further includes portion 44 and portion 46 configured to lock identification component 10 when rotated.

[0063] 2C shows a perspective view illustrating the operating principle of the bayonet connection means 30 between the identification component 10 and the connecting portion 28 of the aerosol generation device 18. As shown in the lower part of FIG. 2C, the identification component 10 is placed on the connecting portion 28 so that the recessed element 42 of the connecting portion 28 is aligned with and received by the protrusion 34 of the connecting portion 32 of the identification component 10. The identification component 10 is then rotated clockwise until the protrusion 34 engages with portions 44 and 46 of the connecting portion 28. Portion 44 has a tapered end that facilitates sliding of the protrusion 34 between the base 40 and the protruding portions 44 and 46.

[0064] When the protrusion 34 fully engages the protruding portion 46, a bayonet connection 30 between the connection portion 28 of the aerosol generating device 18 and the connection portion 32 of the identification component 10 is established.

[0065] As seen in the bottom view of FIG. 2C , protruding portion 44 extends slightly below protruding portion 46. Thus, when protrusion 34 reaches protruding portion 46, protrusion 34 snaps upward against protruding portion 46. This creates a slight click that serves as haptic feedback, notifying the user that identification component 10 is in the locked position. This haptic feedback may be augmented by compressive sealing member 38 (not shown in FIG. 2 ). Furthermore, because protruding portion 44 extends slightly below protruding portion 46, unintentional return of identification component 10 to the separated configuration is prevented.

[0066] A removal tool 50 may be used to intentionally remove the identification component 10. An embodiment of the removal tool 50 is shown in Figure 3. The removal tool 50 is provided in the form of a cap. The cap has a body 52 that is essentially cylindrical in shape and has a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the housing of the aerosol generation device 18.

[0067] In its interior portion, the cap has a protruding element 54 having a shape corresponding to the shape of the non-circular cross section of the central through-hole 16 of the identification component 10 .

[0068] To remove the identification component 10 from the aerosol generating device 18 , a cap is placed over the identification component 10 such that the protruding or male element 54 is inserted into the central through-hole 16 of the identification component 10 .

[0069] The cap is then rotated, thereby transferring a rotational motion onto the identification component 10. The cap is rotated until the bayonet connection 30 between the identification component 10 and the aerosol generation device 18 is separated. The identification component 10 can then be removed from the aerosol generation device 18.

[0070] To attach the identification component 10 to the aerosol generation device 18, the process is essentially reversed. The cap is re-placed over the identification component 10. The identification component 10 is then placed over the aerosol generation device 18 and rotated to establish the bayonet connection 30.

[0071] The cap has an overall diameter corresponding to the diameter of the housing of the aerosol generating device 18. The cap may be used to cover the heating chamber when the aerosol generating device 18 is not in use. In this way, the heating chamber is advantageously protected from the intrusion of debris or obstructions that may damage the internal structure or components of the heating chamber 24.

[0072] 4 illustrates a further additional option for providing the removal tool 60. In the embodiment of FIG. 4A, the male component of the removal tool 60 is provided as a protruding element 64 on a first end plug 66 of a charging cable 62 of the aerosol generating device 18. The charging cable 62 is a necessary accessory to an aerosol generation system that includes an electrically operated aerosol generating device 18. By providing the removal tool 60 as part of such a charging cable 62, the user is required to carry fewer items to ensure full functionality of the aerosol generating system.

[0073] The removal tool 60 does not necessarily have to be provided on one of the plugs 66 of the charging cable 62 of the aerosol generating system. Instead, the protruding elements 64 may also be provided on a strip 68 attached to the charging cable 62. Such an embodiment is shown in Figure 4B. Also, in this embodiment, the risk of losing the removal tool 60 is significantly reduced.

[0074] 4C , the charging cable may additionally include a female element 70 on a second plug 67 having essentially the same shape as the non-circular recess 12 of the identification component 10 and configured to mate with the protruding element 64 of the first plug 66. The female element 70 and the male element 64 may be configured to establish a pressure-fit type connection. When the removal tool 60 is not being used, the two plugs 66, 67 of the charging cable 62 may be connected to each other, thereby maintaining the charging cable 62 in a rolled-up configuration in a rapid and efficient manner.

[0075] It is envisioned that a user may be able to purchase additional identification elements 10 to customize the aerosol generating device 18. To this end, the identification elements 10 may be sold in packages 74, as shown in FIG. 5 . The identification elements 10 may be arranged within the packages 74 in a single line-up package tray 76. The tray 76 may be used to maintain the identification elements 10 in a desired position within the package 74. To this end, the tray 76 may include a protruding element 78 having a non-circular cross-section corresponding to the shape of the recess 12 of the identification element 10. The identification element 10 may be removed from the protruding element 78 and attached to the aerosol generating device 18.

[0076] The protruding component 78 may also be used as an additional removal tool 80. To this end, the tray 76 includes a pre-cut line 82 extending around the protruding component 78. The protruding component 78, including the portion of the tray within the pre-cut line 82, may be removed from the remainder of the tray 76. Once removed, the protruding component 78 may be used as an attachment or removal tool 80 for the identification component 10. In this way, the protruding component 78 may be used simultaneously to maintain the identification component 10 in a desired position within the package 74 and as an attachment and removal tool 80 for the identification component 10 after purchase.

[0077] 6 shows an identification component 10 including an attachment means 90 in the form of a pen clip. The pen clip includes a base element 92 and an arm 94 that extend parallel to the housing 20 of the aerosol generating device 18. With this attachment means 90, the aerosol generating device 18 may be temporarily attached to, for example, a user's shirt pocket.

[0078] 7 shows an identification component 10 including an attachment means 90 that includes a loop 96. The loop 96 allows for the attachment of a strap 98. The strap 98 can be used to further personalize the identification component 10 and the aerosol generating device 18, respectively. The strap 98 can also be used to hang the aerosol generating device 18 around a user's neck during or during a user experience.

[0079] Figure 8 shows an identification component 10 having a non-circular outer cross-section. In Figure 8, the identification component 10 has a hexagonal outer cross-section. Corners 100 of the hexagonal outer surface of the identification component 10 extend onto the cylindrical outer surface of the housing 20 of the aerosol generation device 18. In this manner, the identification component 10 can help prevent the aerosol generation device 18 from rolling off a non-flat surface.

[0080] FIG. 9 shows an enlarged view of the opening to the heating chamber 24 formed at the proximal end of the aerosol generation device 18. The ring-shaped identification component 10 is attached to the housing 20 (not shown) at the open end of the heating chamber 24. The heating chamber 24 is configured to receive a cylindrical aerosol-generating article. A plurality of air inlets 102 are formed around the periphery of the heating chamber 24. The identification component 10 includes two ring-shaped portions 104, 106, each defining a central through-hole 16 having a non-circular cross-section, allowing a user to adjust the airflow through the air inlet 102 of the aerosol generation device 18. To this end, the two ring-shaped portions 104, 106 are configured to be rotatable relative to each other, as indicated by the circular arrows in FIG. 9.

[0081] 9 shows the two ring-shaped portions 104, 106 in a first configuration in which the two ring-shaped portions 104, 106 are in the same orientation. The ring-shaped portions 104, 106 are rotated to fully expose the air inlet 102 of the heating chamber 24 of the aerosol generation device 18. In this configuration, the cross-sectional flow area of ​​the air inlet 102 is maximized.

[0082] 9, the two ring-shaped portions 104, 106 are shown in a second configuration, in which the two ring-shaped portions 104, 106 are in a fully offset rotational orientation. The ring-shaped portions 104, 106 are rotated so that the air inlet 102 of the heating chamber 24 of the aerosol generation device 18 is partially covered. In this configuration, the cross-sectional flow area of ​​the air inlet 102 is minimized.

[0083] The degree of coverage of the air inlet 102 may be adjusted by the user by selecting any intermediate rotational orientation of the two ring-shaped portions 104 , 106 of the identification component 10 .

Claims

1. 1. An identification component for an aerosol generating device, the identification component comprising: - a ring-shaped body, - Customizable surfaces, - connecting means for reversibly connecting said discrimination component to said aerosol generating device; - coupling means configured to cooperate with a removal tool for attaching and detaching the identification component from the aerosol generating device; Including, the identification component is a ring-shaped component configured to be attached to an open end of a heating chamber of the aerosol generating device; the coupling means being a through hole having a non-circular contour configured to cooperate with a corresponding contour on the removal tool; The identification component is an upper ring of a housing of the aerosol generating device, the upper ring defining the through-hole.

2. The identification component of claim 1 , wherein the customizable surface comprises a personalized appearance including one or more of an individual color, engraving, pattern, or coating.

3. 3. An identification component according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connection means is a threaded connection, a form-fit connection or a bayonet-type connection.

4. An identification component according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the connection means is configured to generate haptic feedback upon closure to confirm the locked position of the identification component.

5. An identification component according to any preceding claim, wherein the coupling means is configured to allow the removal tool to transmit torque to the identification component.

6. The identification component of any preceding claim, wherein the identification component comprises a sealing member.

7. An aerosol generating device comprising a reversibly connectable identification component according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. 8. The aerosol generating device of claim 7, comprising a connecting portion configured to cooperate with the connecting means of the identification component.

9. 9. An aerosol generating device as described in either claim 7 or 8, comprising a housing defining a cavity extending from a proximal end of the housing, the identification component configured to be attached to the proximal end of the housing, one or more air intake ports formed in the proximal end of the housing, and the identification component configured to adjust the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the one or more air intake ports.

10. the identification component includes two ring-shaped portions, at least one of the ring-shaped portions being rotatably mounted relative to the other ring-shaped portion; 10. The aerosol generating device of claim 9, wherein the flow cross-sectional area of ​​the one or more air inlets is adjusted by rotation of the rotatably mounted ring-shaped portion.

11. A system comprising an aerosol generating device described in any one of claims 7 to 10 having a reversibly connectable identification component described in any one of claims 1 to 6, and a removal tool for attaching and removing the identification component from the aerosol generating device.

12. The system of claim 11 , wherein the removal tool comprises a structure having a contour corresponding to the non-circular contour of the recess of the coupling means.

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