Heating state indicator and heating method for aerosol generating apparatus

Abstract

To provide an aerosol generating device that takes into account various parameters influencing a heat-up procedure and effectively indicates when the device is ready for use.SOLUTION: An aerosol generating device 1 includes: a heating chamber 2 to hold an aerosol generating medium 5; a heater 6 to heat the heating chamber 2; a temperature measuring means 7 to measure the temperature of the heater or heating chamber; at least one indicator to indicate when the measured temperature has reached a use temperature and / or when an initialization heating time has elapsed; and control circuitry to operate the heater 6 and indicator according to a rule that is stored in a memory 3 and defines an operating process of the heater and indicator. The indicator is operated to indicate when the measured temperature has reached the use temperature and / or when an initialization heating time has elapsed, thereby signaling when the aerosol generating device is ready for use.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an aerosol generating device such as an e-cigarette, a vaporizer, or a non-combustion heating device.

Background Art

[0002] The popularity and use of risk reduction devices or risk modification devices (also known as vaporizers) have grown rapidly in recent years as a help to assist habitual smokers who wish to quit smoking conventional tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, cigars, and rolled tobacco. Instead of relying on the combustion of tobacco, various devices and systems are available that heat aerosolizable substances to release inhalable vapors.

[0003] Generally available risk reduction devices or risk modification devices are heated substrate aerosol generating devices or heat-not-burn devices. This type of device generates an aerosol or vapor by heating an aerosol substrate typically containing moist leaf tobacco or other suitable aerosolizable material to a temperature typically in the range of 150°C to 300°C. By heating rather than burning or igniting the aerosol substrate, an aerosol is released that contains the components desired by the user but does not contain toxic and carcinogenic by-products resulting from combustion and burning. Furthermore, the aerosol produced by heating tobacco or other aerosolizable material typically does not contain the burnt or bitter taste resulting from combustion and burning that can be unpleasant for the user. Thus, the substrate does not require sugars and other additives typically added to such materials to make the smoke and / or vapor more palatable to the user.

[0004] Known aerosol generating devices generally include a heating chamber for receiving a consumable aerosol generating substrate, a power source, and a control circuit for controlling the supply of power from the power source to the heating chamber.

[0005] Different types of aerosol generators have been investigated using the latest technology. For example, PCT Publication No. 2007 / 012007 discloses a method and system for vaporizing a substance, the substance being a tobacco cartridge.

[0006] Another example is shown in PCT Publication No. 2017 / 191176, a brochure that discloses a cartridge for use with an aerosol-generating system comprising a reservoir for storing an aerosol-forming liquid and an inductively heatable element. The cartridge utilizes a capillary element to transport the aerosol-forming liquid from the reservoir to the inductively heatable element, which is configured to heat the transported aerosol-forming liquid and evaporate it. Embodiments of this system use either an aerosol-forming liquid or a non-liquid flavor-releasing medium.

[0007] At a general level, aerosol generators can produce vapor or aerosols by supplying heat to a substance using one of several different approaches. One such approach is an aerosol generator that supplies heat to a detachable body of a so-called "stick" containing tobacco material. In such a device, proximity between the heat source and the body, i.e., the tobacco stick, is usually desirable to maximize the thermal energy transferred from the device's heat source to the aerosol-generating material. To maximize the efficiency of heat transfer, it is ideal for the detachable body to be in contact with the heat source. Examples of such products are commercialized under the trade names Ploom TECH® and Ploom+®, with Ploom TECH® products using a low-temperature heating process and Ploom+® products using a high-temperature heating process.

[0008] Generally, the device comprises a main unit, an oven having a heating chamber for tobacco sticks, electronic means such as a PCB for operating the device, and an energy source such as a battery (whether or not it is rechargeable).

[0009] One of the problems users face when using such devices is the lack of a proper indication of the device's preheating (or heating) status so as to accurately inform the user when the device is ready to use, i.e., ready for vaping.

[0010] The requirements for the heating process can depend on several factors, such as time, battery level, the device's effective temperature (whether it has just been used for vaping or has not been used for a certain period and is currently cooled), ambient temperature (e.g., external ambient temperature), and the specific selection of aerosol-generating product used in the device for vaping. These numerous factors, and the fact that these parameters can change between uses, make it difficult to determine the appropriate heating parameters (e.g., heating duration, temperature, or temperature sequence) to ensure that the aerosol-generating product is heated to the correct temperature and the device is ready for use. In some cases, an aerosol-generating device may mislead the user into believing the device is ready for use, resulting in underheating or overheating of the aerosol-generating consumables and an unsatisfactory user experience. It is also important that the device be initialized to be used as quickly and efficiently as possible to improve the user experience.

[0011] In view of the shortcomings of the latest technologies discussed above, the present invention aims to address at least one of the above problems, among other objectives, in particular to effectively demonstrate when the apparatus is ready for use, taking into account various parameters that affect the heating procedure. [Overview of the Initiative] [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an aerosol generating apparatus is provided, comprising: a heating chamber disposed to hold an aerosol generating medium; a heater disposed to heat the heating chamber when in use; temperature measuring means disposed to measure the temperature of the heater or the heating chamber; at least one indicator configured to indicate when the measured temperature has reached the operating temperature and / or when an initialization heating time has elapsed; and a memory for storing one or more rules, each rule comprising: a memory for defining the operating process of the heater and the indicator; and a control circuit configured to select a rule stored in the memory and to operate the heater and the indicator according to the selected rule, wherein the indicator is operated to indicate when the measured temperature has reached the operating temperature and / or when an initialization heating time has elapsed, thereby indicating that the aerosol generating apparatus is ready for use.

[0013] The aerosol generator stores one or more rules for operating the heater and indicator, allowing it to adapt to changing parameters affecting the heating procedure by selecting the appropriate rule to provide optimal heating of the aerosol generating medium for the current parameters. Furthermore, since the control of both the heater and indicator is managed by rules, it is possible to ensure that the user is accurately notified when the device is ready to use, thus avoiding overheating or underheating of the aerosol generating medium and any associated harmful effects on the user experience. Therefore, when the indicator is activated to indicate that the aerosol generator is ready to use, it is possible to ensure that an optimal user experience is provided. In some embodiments, the control circuit may make the device ready to use only when appropriate conditions are met, for example, when the measured temperature reaches the operating temperature or when the initialization heating time has elapsed.

[0014] The aerosol generating medium may be in the form of a consumable that is heated to release an aerosol. The heating chamber is preferably arranged to receive a tobacco rod (or tobacco stick).

[0015] "Ready to use" means that the aerosol generating medium has reached the necessary duration and temperature for effective aerosol generation. In other words, the aerosol generating medium has reached its operating temperature.

[0016] Activating an indicator to show when the measured temperature has reached the operating temperature and / or when the initialization heating time has elapsed, thereby indicating that the aerosol generator is ready for use, preferably further includes activating the indicator to provide a specific signal associated with the ready-to-use device. For example, the indicator may be activated once or more during the heating period before the measured temperature reaches the operating temperature and / or before the initialization heating time has elapsed, and then activated to provide a different signal indicating that the device is ready for use. For example, a light-emitting indicator may gradually light up during the heating period but light up completely when the measured temperature reaches the operating temperature and / or when the initialization heating time has elapsed and the device is ready for use.

[0017] Preferably, the memory stores a first rule, and the control circuit is configured to operate the heater and indicator according to the first rule, the first rule including operating the heater to heat the heating chamber to the operating temperature during the heating period, and then maintaining the heating chamber at the operating temperature, and operating the indicator to indicate that the device is ready for use after the initial heating time has elapsed, the initial heating time being longer than the heating period. In this way, the indication that the device is ready for use is associated with the initial heating time, i.e., a specific heating duration, rather than with the heater temperature. In certain aerosol-generating media, such as tobacco-based consumables, and in some environments, such as low ambient temperatures, there is a delay between the heater reaching the operating temperature and the aerosol-generating media effectively releasing aerosols. By configuring the device in this way, the aerosol-generating media is held at the operating temperature for a predetermined period of time to ensure that it is ready for use. The initial heating time may be selected based on one or more of the following: a measured initial heating temperature, ambient temperature, a specific aerosol-generating media being heated, or user selection.

[0018] The heating period is the time from the initial heater startup time until the measured temperature reaches the operating temperature. Maintaining the operating temperature means maintaining the operating temperature for the duration of the session, i.e., for a period long enough for the user to substantially exhaust the aerosol-generating medium using the device. The session duration may be, for example, 2 to 10 minutes, more preferably 3 to 6 minutes.

[0019] The initialization time can be the heating duration from the initial heater start time until the indicator turns on to signal that the device is ready for use. The initialization time is preferably 5 to 60 seconds, preferably 15 to 45 seconds, and most preferably about 30 seconds longer than the heating period. In these examples, the heating chamber is preferably arranged to receive consumables comprising tobacco material such as tobacco rods. It has been found that the heating of such consumables is particularly dependent on environmental factors such as ambient temperature.

[0020] Preferably, the first rule includes activating an indicator when the operating temperature has been maintained for a heating period of 10 to 60 seconds to signal that the device is ready for use. In this case, the initial heating time is the heating period plus an additional heating time of 10 to 60 seconds, preferably 20 to 40 seconds. The additional heating time may be selected based on user input, the initial temperature measured by a temperature measuring means, the characteristics of the heater, the ambient temperature measured, and the remaining energy level of the aerosol generator's battery.

[0021] Preferably, the memory also stores a second rule, and the control circuit is further configured to operate the heater and indicator according to the second rule, which includes operating the heater to heat the heating chamber to the operating temperature during the heating period, and then maintaining the heating chamber at the operating temperature, and activating the indicator when the operating temperature is first reached to indicate that the device is ready for use. In this way, the control circuit can select between a first process in which the indicator activates to indicate that the device is ready for use when the measured temperature reaches the operating temperature, and a second process in which the indicator activates after an initialization time has elapsed. This allows the user to choose between a process that indicates the device is ready for use as soon as possible, and a process that performs further heating to provide an optimal experience at the expense of a longer waiting time. Furthermore, the process may be selected based on ambient conditions to ensure that the device is ready for use. Maintaining the operating temperature means maintaining the operating temperature for the duration of the session, for example, long enough for the user to use the device and exhaust the consumables.

[0022] The device preferably further includes a user input that can be operated to instruct a control circuit to select either a first rule or a second rule. The user input may be a switch or a button. Preferably, the first rule is selected by holding down the button for a first duration, and the second rule is selected by holding down the button for a second duration, which are different from the first and second durations. An indicator, such as a vibrator, may be used to inform the user of which rule has been selected. In this way, the user can select a heating mode based on current ambient conditions, such as local temperature, for example, by selecting the first rule when in a colder climate.

[0023] Preferably, one or more rules define the operation process of an indicator in which the indicator is activated when the heating temperature reaches one or more intermediate temperatures between the initial temperature and the operating temperature, and / or when one or more intermediate heating times have elapsed, between the heater start time and the initialization heating time. Preferably, the indicator is configured to generate a different signal when the measured temperature reaches the operating temperature than when the measured temperature reaches one or more intermediate temperatures. Preferably, the indicator is configured to generate a different signal when the initialization time has elapsed than when one or more intermediate heating times have elapsed. In this way, the user can be informed of the progress of the device during the heating process. Intermediate temperatures may be referred to herein as "threshold temperatures". Intermediate heating durations may be referred to as time intervals.

[0024] Preferably, the control circuit is configured to select a rule according to one or more of the following: user input, an initial temperature measured by a temperature measuring means, heater characteristics, a measured ambient temperature, and the remaining energy level of the aerosol generator's battery. In a particular embodiment, the control circuit is configured to select a rule based on both user input and the initial temperature measured by the heater. For example, the control circuit may be configured to select a first or second rule based on user input, and then select a sub-rule that defines the operation of the heater based on the measured initial temperature of the heater. In this way, the user can select which heating mode to use, and the device automatically calibrates the heating of the heating chamber based on the measured initial temperature (which may vary, for example, depending on when the device was last used).

[0025] Preferably, one or more rules include a heating curve that defines the change in heating temperature over time, and the control circuit is configured to select a heating curve and operate the heater to heat the heating chamber according to the selected heating curve. The heating curve may define a target temperature profile, i.e., a target temperature change over time. Preferably, the control circuit is configured to periodically receive measurements from a temperature measuring means in order to control the operation of the heater to follow the selected heating curve. One or more rules may be selected based on an initial temperature to be measured, for example, the heating curve profile may be a function of the initial temperature to be measured received from the temperature measuring means. Additionally, one or more rules may include operating an indicator to provide a signal that changes as the measured heating temperature follows the heating curve. For example, a visual indicator may gradually light up as the heating temperature follows the heating curve. The rules may include operating the indicator as defined by the first or second rule.

[0026] One or more rules comprise a table including a plurality of intermediate temperatures and use temperatures, and the control circuit is preferably configured to operate the heater to heat the heating chamber to each intermediate temperature and use temperature. The control circuit may operate the heater to heat the heating chamber to each intermediate temperature and use temperature in turn. The rule may include operating an indicator to send a signal when each intermediate temperature is reached. For example, the indicator may be a visual indicator, and the control circuit is configured to gradually light the indicator when each intermediate temperature is reached. The rule may include operating the indicator as defined by the first rule or the second rule.

[0027] One or more intermediate temperatures are preferably specified by the control circuit according to the initial temperature measured by the temperature measuring means. In particular, each intermediate temperature may be stored as a function of the measured initial temperature. In this way, the intermediate temperature may be selected to adapt to different ambient temperatures or start temperatures of the heater.

[0028] The aerosol generating device further comprises a battery, the control circuit is configured to measure the power supplied by the battery, and one or more rules each comprise a plurality of heating rates corresponding to the power levels supplied by the battery, and the control circuit is preferably configured to select a heating rate based on the measured value of the power supplied by the battery. The plurality of heating rates may be stored as a function of both the measured power level supplied by the battery and the measured initial temperature. The rule may include operating the indicator as defined by the first rule or the second rule.

[0029] The control circuit is preferably configured to select a rule according to the initial temperature measured by the temperature measuring means. In particular, the operation of the heater may be controlled according to the initial temperature. In this way, the heating process can be adjusted according to the ambient temperature and based on the time when the device was last used (and thus the resulting temperature remaining in the heating chamber).

[0030] Preferably, the indicator comprises one or more of a visual indicator, a tactile indicator, and an auditory indicator. For example, the indicator may be one or more of a vibrator, an optical display, a light-emitting display, and an array of light-emitting diodes.

[0031] The indicator preferably comprises a visual indicator, and the visual indicator preferably comprises a light-emitting indicator that changes color and / or gradually lights up during heating.

[0032] Preferably, the light-emitting indicator changes color and / or gradually lights up when the heating temperature reaches one or more intermediate temperatures that are between the initial temperature and the use temperature, and / or when one or more intermediate heating times that are between the heater start time and the initialization heating time have elapsed.

[0033] Preferably, the light-emitting indicator changes color and / or gradually lights up when one or more intermediate heating times that are between the heater start time and the initialization heating time have elapsed. The light-emitting indicator preferably comprises a plurality of LEDs, and the plurality of LEDs are preferably lit in sequence as the plurality of intermediate heating times elapse. The plurality of heating times preferably extend over a period exceeding 15 seconds. These aspects of the present invention are particularly advantageous when the aerosol generating device is a non-combustion heating device. For example, the heater is arranged to heat the heating chamber to a temperature suitable for releasing vapor without burning the aerosol generating medium. Preferably, the heater is configured to provide controlled heating of the heating chamber, and the heating chamber is heated to a sustained use temperature over an initialization period. In such an embodiment, this may be a sustained period exceeding, for example, 20 seconds, 30 seconds, or 50 seconds, and thus it is particularly important to provide feedback to the user regarding the progress of the initialization heating time.

[0034] The control circuit is preferably configured to operate a light-emitting indicator to emit light of a specific color when the operating temperature is reached and / or the initial heating time has elapsed, and to operate the light-emitting indicator to emit light of a different color from the specific color when one or more intermediate temperatures are reached and / or one or more intermediate heating times have elapsed. For example, the light-emitting indicator may be configured to gradually change color when one or more intermediate temperatures are reached and / or one or more intermediate heating times have elapsed, and to emit light of a specific color when the device is ready for use.

[0035] Preferably, the control circuit is configured to operate the light-emitting indicator so that it fully illuminates when the operating temperature is reached and / or the initial heating time has elapsed, and to gradually partially illuminate the light-emitting indicator when one or more intermediate temperatures are reached and / or one or more intermediate heating times have elapsed. For example, the light-emitting indicator may be controlled to gradually illuminate a portion of the indicator when one or more intermediate temperatures are reached and / or one or more intermediate heating times have elapsed, and to fully illuminate a portion of the indicator to indicate that the device is ready for use.

[0036] In another embodiment of the present invention, a control circuit for an aerosol generator as defined in the appended claims is provided, the control circuit receiving a temperature measurement of a heater or heating chamber from a temperature measuring means, selecting a rule from a memory storing one or more rules that define the operating process of the heater and indicator, and operating the heater and indicator according to the selected rule such that the indicator operates to indicate when the measured temperature has reached the operating temperature and / or when the initialization heating time has elapsed, thereby indicating that the aerosol generator is ready for use.

[0037] A further aspect of the present invention provides a vapor generator preferably comprising a heating chamber arranged to hold a tobacco stick, a heater configured to provide heating to the heating chamber, and a visual indicator for indicating that the heating of the chamber has reached a usable temperature. Of course, the indicator is not limited to the functions described above and may be used for other purposes (e.g., charging the device, device malfunction, vaping progress, device energy level, need for cleaning, etc.) as described herein. In addition, other means may be present, such as a button to turn the device on or off to start the heating process, tactile functions (such as vibration) or sound to inform the user of the status of the device, connection means (such as USB), and communication means (such as an antenna). All of these aspects are described in more detail herein.

[0038] In embodiments, the present invention relates to an aerosol generating apparatus comprising: a heating chamber disposed to hold an aerosol generating medium; a heater disposed to provide heating to the heating chamber when in use; temperature measuring means for measuring the temperature of the heater; and at least one indicator for indicating when the heating of the heater has reached a usable temperature. The apparatus further comprises memory means for including rules for operating the heater; and operating means for selecting at least one rule and operating the heater according to the selected rule, wherein the operating means further identifies the operation of the indicator from the selected rule such that when the usable temperature is reached, at least one indicator intended to indicate that the usable temperature has been reached operates.

[0039] In one embodiment, the rule comprises a curve representing the heater's temperature profile, and the operating means is configured to select one curve based on the heater's characteristics and to specify the operation of the indicator according to the selected curve.

[0040] In one embodiment, the rules include a table containing a plurality of threshold temperatures and operating temperatures, and the operating means is configured to select at least one threshold temperature based on the characteristics of the heater and to specify the operation of the indicator according to the selected threshold temperature.

[0041] In one embodiment, the rules include a table containing multiple time intervals, and the operating means is configured to select one time interval based on the characteristics of the heater and to specify the operation of the indicator according to the selected time interval.

[0042] In one embodiment, the heater characteristic is the starting temperature, which is measured by a temperature measuring means at the start of a vaping session.

[0043] In the embodiment, the rule takes the temperature of the apparatus as a parameter, and the temperature of the apparatus includes the temperature of the heating means.

[0044] In some embodiments, the rules take into account the user's preferences and / or the energy level of the device.

[0045] In one embodiment, the rule comprises a plurality of heating rates, each corresponding to a power level supplied to the heating means, and the operating means is configured to select a heating rate based on a measurement of the power output from the battery of the aerosol generator and to specify the operation of an indicator according to the selected heating rate.

[0046] In the embodiment, the indicator comprises at least a visual indicator and / or a tactile indicator and / or an auditory indicator.

[0047] In some embodiments, the visual means includes a light indicator that changes color and / or gradually illuminates during heating.

[0048] In embodiments, the present invention relates to a control circuit for an aerosol generating apparatus as defined herein, wherein the control circuit operates at least one indicator according to at least one rule selected from a set of rules, the circuit takes at least one parameter into consideration, searches and selects at least one rule, and operates the apparatus according to the selected rule.

[0049] In the embodiment, the parameter includes the initial temperature of the apparatus, preferably the heating means.

[0050] In the embodiment, the parameters include the energy level of the device or the user's personalized parameters.

[0051] The various embodiments of aerosol generating apparatus disclosed above may, of course, utilize any combination of features from any of the other embodiments described above, and these features may be applied to one or more of the corresponding components to provide similar advantages.

[0052] Here, with reference to the attached drawings, several embodiments of the aerosol generating apparatus and heating assembly will be described as examples. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0053] [Figure 1] A cross-sectional view of an aerosol generating apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 2] A figure showing an embodiment of the indicator according to the present invention. [Figure 3] A figure showing an embodiment of the indicator according to the present invention. [Figure 4] A figure showing an embodiment of the indicator according to the present invention. [Figure 5] A figure showing an embodiment of the indicator according to the present invention. [Figure 6] A figure showing an embodiment of the indicator according to the present invention. [Figure 7] A figure showing an embodiment of the curve according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] A figure showing an embodiment of the curve according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] A figure showing an embodiment of the curve according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] A figure showing an example of a heating table according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] A figure showing an example of a heating table according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12]A schematic diagram showing one embodiment of a control circuit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0054] In this specification, the same reference numerals are used, whenever possible, to designate the same elements common to the drawings. Furthermore, the drawings are simplified for illustrative purposes to illustrate the features of the invention and may not be shown to scale.

[0055] Figure 1 shows a schematic diagram of an aerosol generating apparatus according to the present invention. The apparatus comprises a heating chamber 2 arranged to hold an aerosol generating medium 5, a heater 6 arranged to heat the heating chamber 2 when in use, a temperature measuring means (e.g., a temperature sensor such as a thermistor) 7 arranged to measure the temperature of the heater or heating chamber, at least one indicator 11 to 14 configured to indicate when the measured temperature has reached the operating temperature and / or when the initialization heating time has elapsed, a memory 3 each storing one or more rules that define the operating process of the heater and indicator, and a control circuit configured to select a rule stored in the memory 3 and operate the heater 6 and indicators 11 to 14 according to the selected rule, wherein the indicators 11 to 14 operate to indicate when the measured temperature has reached the operating temperature and / or when the initialization heating time has elapsed, thereby indicating that the aerosol generating apparatus is ready for use.

[0056] In particular, the control circuit can select internal memory rules to control both the heater and the indicator, which allows the device to ensure that (1) appropriate heater parameters are selected based on environmental factors such as specific consumables, the last use of the device, and temperature, and (2) the indicator operates to send a signal to the user when the device is ready for use, ensuring that optimal conditions are provided at the start of use. At the same time, this solves the problem that the point at which optimal aerosol generation is provided varies based on a number of parameters such as ambient temperature, time since last use, and specific consumables. The device according to the present invention can therefore take these parameters into account to control the heater temperature and send a signal to the user when the device is ready for use. This allows the device to be used with uniform performance across countries with different climates and different consumables, for example.

[0057] The device is considered ready for use when the aerosol-generating medium has reached the appropriate temperature after sufficient time to generate enough vapor to provide a good user experience. In particular, consumables should be heated sufficiently so that the water inside the consumable evaporates, primarily generating vapor. Before this, much of the vapor generated is water vapor, which does not provide a good user experience. Since the temperature inside the consumable is not directly measured, whether the device is ready for use can be inferred from either or both of (1) the measurement of the heating chamber (or heater) and (2) the duration of heating. Understanding the values ​​of these parameters (1) and (2) allows for reliable identification of when the device is ready for use by providing efficient aerosol generation for specific consumables under specific conditions. These parameters are stored in the device's memory and can be organized by rules automatically selected by the user or based on sensed parameters to control the heater and indicators and signal to the user when the device is ready for use.

[0058] First, with reference to Figure 1, a schematic diagram of the aerosol generating apparatus 1 according to the present invention is shown. The aerosol generating apparatus comprises a heating chamber 2 having a heating means (i.e., a heater) 6, and preferably a temperature measuring means 7 for measuring the temperature of the heating means 6 and / or the heating chamber 2. The apparatus 1 further comprises a PCB 3 for electronic management of the apparatus and its components, and a control circuit including an energy source 4 (e.g., preferably a rechargeable battery). The heating chamber 2 is configured to receive and hold an aerosol generating medium in the form of consumables such as tobacco sticks 5, which may be replaced when consumed. For example, the consumables may be introduced into the heating chamber 2 by manual insertion into the chamber 2. The aerosol generating apparatus in this embodiment further includes a connectivity function 8 (e.g., a USB connector such as USB-B or USB-C) which may be used to charge the energy source 4 and / or to download / upload information such as heating parameters and other data and programs / instructions to the PCB 3.

[0059] The device 1 may also use wireless technology to download / upload information via wireless communication means (such as the antenna 9 shown schematically in Figure 1). The heating means 6 may use induction as an example of a possible technology in one embodiment. The heating means 6 is preferably a thin-film heater arranged to heat the heating chamber. For example, the heating chamber may be a tubular heating chamber configured to receive consumables, and the thin-film heater may be wound circumferentially around the outer surface of the heating chamber.

[0060] All elements are interconnected, for example, by wires via a PCB, to ensure the functionality of the device. This general configuration and its characteristics are applicable to the embodiments described herein, even if none of these elements are specifically identified / illustrated in each embodiment.

[0061] To ensure the production of fresh and high-quality vapor / aerosols, there is a growing demand for devices that allow users to quickly replace used aerosol-generating materials (e.g., tobacco sticks). However, it can often be difficult for consumers to determine when the current aerosol-generating material is depleted and needs to be replaced. One solution is to implement a puff counter, which helps inform the user of the degree to which the aerosol-generating material has been used. However, such puff counters often lack the ability to detect the insertion of a new body of aerosol-generating material, as the coefficient manipulation may not be accurate.

[0062] In some embodiments, if the user of the device wishes to remove the aerosol-generating medium during use, he can simply activate the ejector to expel the aerosol-generating medium from the heating chamber of the device, or remove it manually. This allows for quick and easy removal of the aerosol-generating medium without requiring the user to interact excessively with the device. Using the ejector further avoids the risk of the user having to approach any heated elements. This allows the aerosol-generating medium to be placed in close proximity to or in contact with the heating chamber surface, while simultaneously mitigating some of the problems identified above.

[0063] Aerosol-generating media may be provided in one or more of several different forms. The aerosol-generating media may be a capsule containing an aerosol-generating substance inside a breathable material. Any material enclosing the aerosol-generating substance can be highly breathable and resistant to high temperatures, allowing air to flow through it. Examples of suitable breathable materials include cellulose fibers, paper, cotton, and silk. The breathable material may also function as a filter. Alternatively, the aerosol-generating media may be an aerosol-generating substance wrapped in paper, most preferably a tobacco rod wrapped in paper.

[0064] Alternatively, the medium may be an aerosol-generating material held inside a material that is not breathable but contains appropriate perforations or holes to allow airflow. Alternatively, the medium may be a body that is the aerosol-generating material itself. The body is preferably a mousse or foam of the aerosol-generating material. Alternatively, the medium may be formed in a substantially stick shape, which may have a mouthpiece filter. In such cases, the medium may be a sheet, such as an aerosol-generating material wrapped in paper. Examples and embodiments described herein use such a stick; see reference numeral 5 in the figures. The aerosol-generating medium may preferably be a body containing the aerosol-generating material. The aerosol-generating material may be any suitable material capable of forming an aerosol. The aerosol-generating material may preferably be capable of forming an aerosol when heated. The material may be a solid or semi-solid material. Typically, the material may contain plant-derived materials, and in particular, the material may contain tobacco. Exemplary types of vapor-generating solids include powders, granules, pellets, strands, porous materials, foams, or sheets. Alternatively, the aerosol generating medium may comprise a cartridge or capsule containing a solid, semi-solid, or liquid substance.

[0065] The aerosol-generating substance may preferably contain an aerosol-forming agent. Examples of aerosol-forming agents include polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin or propylene glycol, and mixtures thereof. When an aerosol-forming agent is included, the aerosol-generating substance may typically contain an aerosol-forming agent content between approximately 5% and approximately 50% on a dry weight basis. Preferably, the aerosol-generating substance may contain an aerosol-forming agent content of approximately 15% on a dry weight basis.

[0066] Typically, the main body contains a humectant or tobacco-containing moisture. Preferably, the main body contains one or more of the following: a humectant, tobacco, glycerin, and propylene glycol. Typically, the main body may also contain a certain proportion of vaporizable or aerosolizable liquid (preferably a humectant such as propylene glycol and / or glycerin, but may further include water or other aerosolizable liquids such as ethanol) exceeding 20% ​​by weight. In this context, 100% by weight is equal to the total weight of the liquid and the vaporizable or aerosolizable substance, such as tobacco, a humectant, and / or plant-derived material.

[0067] Examples of aerosol-generating media are shown in the prior art cited above, and these are envisioned within the framework of the present invention, as non-limiting possibilities.

[0068] In one embodiment, the present invention is directed toward specifying the heating time and / or profile of a product / medium, and communicating to the user that the system is ready for use. In practice, for optimal use of the device, it is necessary to inform the user of the heating status so that they can start using the device when appropriate, or to warn the user if the device is not ready for use (or cannot be used). The state of the device (unused for a certain period of time or immediately after use) can also affect the heating process and should therefore be taken into consideration when performing heating operations or steps.

[0069] In some embodiments, the device 1 informs the user of the device's status using indicators 11, 12, 13, and 14 (see Figures 2-6, which show different embodiments). For example, indicators 11, 12, 13, and 14 may be operated to show the temperature of the heating chamber 2 or heater 6, i.e., the current temperature measured by the temperature measuring means 7. In other embodiments, the indicators may be used to show the heating time elapsed since the heater was started. Alternatively, both the measured temperature of the heating chamber and the heating duration may be used to identify when the consumables are sufficiently heated and ready for use.

[0070] The indicators may be visual (e.g., light, LEDs, or a combination thereof, a screen), auditory (e.g., sound, buzzer), tactile / force-sensitive (e.g., vibration), or a combination thereof. The indicators described herein can disclose a wealth of information, such as the heating (or preheating) status, the remaining heating time until the device is ready for use (to draw in steam), the heating rate, and other device-related information (e.g., energy level, cleaning needs). Naturally, these means may be used individually or in combination, and the user may configure this configuration to personalize the product to their preferences. In addition, the system also includes a button 10, for example, to activate it or to activate different functions of the device as described herein.

[0071] For example, in one embodiment, the indicator 11 is a visual indicator for indicating to the user that the steam generator or system 1 is ready to go, for example, to show that the operating heating temperature has been reached to enable vaporization of the aerosol-generating material. For example, it may take the form of a linearly extending display 11 of multiple lighting devices such as LEDs, a longitudinal display screen, or a light bar, for example, but not limited to the designs shown in Figures 2-6. This visual indicator 11 may be positioned parallel to the longitudinal extension axis of the steam generator or system 1. In a modified example, it may be positioned to completely or partially surround or enclose the device 10, for example For example, after the user turns on the vapor generator or system 1, for example, when the user presses button 10, the visual display is controlled to gradually light up more elements, pixels, or surfaces until it reaches a fully illuminated linear visual display, which may indicate that the vapor generator 1 is ready for the user to inhale the vaporized substance after a period of full display (TPD).

[0072] The arrival of a fully illuminated linear display with a full display period TPD can be precisely timed to the moment when the steam generator or system 1 and its heating element are ready for vaporization, i.e., it can be matched to the heating period TPH, or it can be a time selected after the steam generator or system 1 is actually ready, such that TPD > TPH. This can be done by a fixed or variable period for TPD to increase the display surface of the visual display, which can be confirmed by a temperature sensor or ensure that the heating element 2 is ready.

[0073] Furthermore, if several lights are used, they may or may not be the same color. They may or may not change color. For example, they may transmit red light unless the system is ready to use, and then the light may turn green when the system is ready to use. Other colors may be used similarly for the purpose of providing easily understandable information. The light may be formed as bars 11, 12, or as several individual elements 13 (for example, four as in Figure 4). A screen may also be used.

[0074] In embodiments, the device may include at least one indicator (such as an LED) that gradually lights up over a specific time interval (e.g., up to 20 seconds), and optionally provide a vibration to indicate when heating is complete and the device is ready to use (e.g., for steam inhalation). The indicator may change color (e.g., from red to green) or change a series of lights that light up sequentially over time. For example, in Figure 2, System 1 includes a light bar 11 that can gradually light up to indicate the heating state by the same or different colors. For example, the light may start at the bottom of the bar (near the button 10) and then gradually fill the bar 11 as the heating process takes place. When the bar 11 is fully lit, this indicates that the heating process is complete and the device may be used. The color of the bar may be the same or change over time, for example, red at first (at the start of the heating process) and then turn green when fully lit, meaning the device is ready to use. Figure 3 shows another variation in which the indicator 12 has a different shape. The function may be the same as bar 11 in Figure 2, which gradually lights up and / or changes color. However, such embodiments may be inaccurate if the initial temperature of the heating means 6 is not taken into account, because the time interval is fixed and the device may become usable before the indicator shows that it is usable. In such cases, the user may wait longer than necessary, or the device may provide the user with conflicting information.

[0075] In an embodiment of the indicator, for example as shown in Figure 4, the apparatus 1 may include, for example, a row of a specific number (i.e., four) of aligned light indicators 13 (e.g., LEDs) that form a display, the first row of the specific number of LEDs intended to light up at the start of the heating step, and the last row of the specific number of LEDs intended to light up when the heating reaches, for example, the operating (i.e., vaping) temperature of the heating chamber.

[0076] In this embodiment, as in the modified examples, a light indicator that changes color may be used (for example, instead of using several lights, i.e., LEDs), and may be combined with an auditory or physical / tactile signal when a desired temperature is reached. If several lights are used, they may or may not be the same color. They may also or may not change color. For example, they may transmit red light unless the device is ready for use, and the light may turn green when the device is ready for use. In the modified examples, the indicators may be the same or different sizes (e.g., increasing size), the same or different shapes, as shown in the examples.

[0077] In an embodiment, the indicator 14 has a disc shape (rather than a rectangular shape as shown in other figures of this application), as shown in Figure 5, for example. In the modified example shown in Figure 5, the button 10 is located inside the indicator 14, but this is just one example, and the button may be arranged as shown in Figures 2-4, for example. In the modified example shown in Figure 5, the indicator 14 may include an LED that gradually lights up according to the heating state.

[0078] Button 10 may be located as shown in the figure, or elsewhere on the body 1, for example, on the side of the body 1, see reference numeral 10' in Figure 6. In a modified example, the device 1 may have two or more buttons 10, for example, two buttons 10, 10' located at different positions on the body 1 as shown in Figure 6. Many embodiments and combinations are possible within the framework of the present invention, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art.

[0079] Furthermore, in order to overcome the aforementioned problems, it is desirable to improve the functionality of the device, as discussed above, by taking better consideration of its effective state, and to provide accurate information to the user, that is, to provide information on when the device is in a usable state.

[0080] Therefore, the device stores a set of rules used to operate the device in memory (e.g., in PCB3). The set of rules may optimize the operation of the device by taking into account different parameters. For example, it may take into account the initial temperature of the device, preferably the heating means 6, and / or the aerosol generating material 5, and / or some user preferences (rapid heating or moderate heating), etc. Generally, the set of rules used in the framework of the present invention may be a correspondence table between heating time / temperature, and / or a heating curve as a function of the initial starting temperature, and / or a fixed heating rate. According to the present invention, at the start of the heating step, the device preferably measures the starting temperature of the heating means 6, and searches and selects from the correspondence table or curve or rate applied as a function of the measured starting temperature for heating time and / or curve and / or rate, and / or using other parameters in addition to those defined above. This allows the device to operate in a way that provides the user with accurate information about the state of the device, and the indicators operate based on the selected rules.

[0081] The system then determines from the selected heating time and / or curve and / or speed when and how to illuminate the indicators, or how to illuminate the indicators, so that the last indicator intended to indicate the operating temperature (e.g., vaping temperature) illuminates simultaneously with the triggering of a tactile signal (if this indicator means is desired by the user). This determination, monitoring, and operation of the device is preferably performed within the PCB3, for example, via appropriate programming stored in its memory.

[0082] In an embodiment, the device may check the temperature on a time basis (for example, every second, or the time basis may change over time), then calculate the heating rate in the moment and operate an indicator accordingly (for example, by sequentially illuminating LEDs). In this way, the device ensures that all LEDs illuminate simultaneously with the detection of vibration, indicating that the device is ready for use (i.e., for inhaling steam).

[0083] In embodiments, each indicator or a proportion of indicators may be set to correspond to a set temperature such that when a temperature is reached and measured, a corresponding number of indicators or a portion of indicators operate. For example, if the measured temperature is half of the desired temperature, half of the indicators may operate, or only half of a single indicator may operate. Other operations of the indicators may be selected.

[0084] The rules may be adapted to the medium used (semi-solid, solid, or combination), the heating means technique (induction, resistance heating, etc.), and external parameters, such as air or ambient temperature or the temperature of the apparatus, may also be taken into consideration.

[0085] In some embodiments, certain rules may be adjusted to suit certain user preferences. For example, a user might want to use an accelerated heating process to save time, or alternatively, a slower heating process. In such cases, the user may define their preference on the system, and the system then uses the appropriate rules.

[0086] In embodiments, the selection of rules may be imposed by the system itself based on predetermined parameters, such as the energy level state of the system or the stick 5 (cigarette) being used. For example, a dedicated heating rule may be selected for low energy levels. In such cases, rapid heating (e.g., by a high heating rate) may be performed when the energy level is high. Alternatively, slow heating (by a low heating rate) may be selected when the energy level is low. For example, some sticks 5 may require a higher temperature than others, so if the heating time is set to a fixed value, the heating time may be longer or the heating curve may be steeper. Alternatively, if the user wishes to maintain a predetermined heating time, the heating curve may be steeper to reach an appropriate (higher) temperature within the set time. The user may also personalize the rules to suit their preferences and use such rules.

[0087] The rules described above may be set within the system or adaptable to the medium used by the user and / or. In variations, they may be downloadable and / or uploadable to / from a network (such as the Internet) or to / from a dedicated application (e.g., on a smartphone or computer / tablet). For this purpose, the system preferably includes appropriate connectivity means (such as wireless communication like Bluetooth, via antenna 9, via NFC, or hardware such as USB connection 8) with appropriate hardware and / or software on PCB 3. For example, new rules may be made available when a new product is available or as an update. The new product may, in examples, be an aerosol generator or stick 5, or an aerosol generating substance.

[0088] Some consumables require sustained heating until they reach a point where they produce enough vapor to begin use. The heating period and the type of consumable particularly affect the point at which vaping with acceptable characteristics can begin. For example, in cold countries, devices that heat tobacco sticks to produce vapor have been found to require a considerably long initial heating time to evaporate the water and begin producing the target vapor level. In such cases, the measured temperature does not provide a reliable indication of whether the device is ready for use.

[0089] With this in mind, one embodiment of the present invention employs a rule that the heater operates to provide an initial heating phase in which the heater chamber temperature is gradually raised to the operating temperature and then maintained (i.e., maintained for the duration of the vaping session). The indicator operates to provide a signal some time after the operating temperature is reached to indicate that vaping can be started. That is, the indicator operates only to inform the user that vaping can be started after the initial heating time. This initial time can be selected depending on factors such as specific consumables, ambient temperature, and the last use of the device. For tobacco sticks, it has been found that raising the temperature to the operating temperature of 200-250°C (preferably about 230°C) and then maintaining the operating temperature for 10-60 seconds (preferably about 30 seconds) ensures that the tobacco stick produces enough vapor to optimize the user experience.

[0090] Since this initial heating time is more necessary in colder climates or with certain consumables, this embodiment of the device may include an alternative mode in which an indicator operates to signal that the device is ready for use as soon as the heating period is complete, i.e., when the measured temperature equals the operating temperature, or after a predetermined heating period (preferably 10 to 30 seconds, more preferably about 20 seconds) has elapsed. In this way, the user can select the necessary mode depending on the selected ambient conditions and consumables.

[0091] The device may include a button that can be used to select a mode, for example, by holding the button for a shorter duration to select one mode and a longer duration to select a second mode, for example, 1 second to indicate after the heating period (mode 1) and 2 seconds to indicate after the initialization heating period (mode 2). In each case, the indicator may be an LED display that gradually lights up and becomes fully lit when the device is ready for use. Thus, for mode 1, the LED display may gradually light up during the heating period until it becomes fully lit when the measured temperature reaches the operating temperature, and for mode 2, the LED display may gradually light up during the initialization heating period so that it is fully lit only for a certain period after the operating temperature has reached, for example, about 20 to 40 seconds.

[0092] The rules stored in memory can define various different control processes for heaters and indicators. These can be selected by user choice or automatically based on sensed inputs (current measured temperature, sensed consumable type, ambient temperature, etc.) to ensure optimal heater function and accurate indication of the device's ready state.

[0093] Figures 7-10 show curves that may conform to the framework of the present invention. Such curves may be stored, for example, in the memory inside the PCB3 of the device (as part of the operating rules). In particular, these heating curves may define a target heating temperature over time, and the control circuit may be configured to select a heating curve and operate the heater so that the measured temperature tracks the target temperature, i.e., to implement a feedback loop. The heating temperature in each curve may be stored as a function of one or more parameters, such as the initial measured temperature, which may be adjusted based on the current state.

[0094] As a first embodiment, Figure 7 shows a first example of the heating curve C1. The initial temperature Temp0 is the ambient temperature, the functional temperature (i.e., "operating temperature") Temp1 is approximately 230°C, and the heating time t1 may be 20 seconds or less. However, these are just examples, and the temperature may be in the range of, for example, 150°C to 350°C. Also, the heating time may be 20 seconds or less, as mentioned above. These values ​​may also depend on external parameters, such as the charge state of the product or device used to inhale the steam.

[0095] Figure 8 shows a second heating curve that starts at a second initial temperature Temp0, which is higher than the initial temperature in Figure 7. For example, this higher initial temperature may result from the fact that the apparatus has been used recently and the heating means 6 is at a higher temperature than the ambient temperature, but as a result of the apparatus's previous use. In this case, if we follow the heating curve C1 (i.e., the line) in Figure 7, the operating temperature will be shorter than the time t1 in Figure 7, as shown in Figure 8. 1’ It reaches. Heating is t 1’ If not subsequently stopped, the system will reach a higher temperature at t1 that must be avoided. Alternatively, it may be decided to follow another curve C2 that is flatter than C1, reaching the same temperature Temp1, but at a longer time t2.

[0096] Figure 9 shows another heating curve C3 with a non-constant but steep start. This may be selected based on a specific consumable that is best heated by rapid initial heating before reducing the heating rate.

[0097] Figure 10 shows an example of a table having heating times in corresponding curves C4 and C5. For example, the device has four LEDs to indicate the progress of heating (e.g., the device in Figure 4 has four indicators 13), and the LEDs light up in sequence when it is detected that the heater has reached a temperature threshold in the lookup table in Figure 11. The device may start at a relatively low temperature, e.g., 10°C, and take 20 seconds to heat up to a state where steam can be drawn in. The table may include temperature thresholds of 120, 185, 215, and 230°C. In this embodiment, the first LED 13 lights up when the heater 6 reaches 120°C, the second LED 13 lights up when the heater 6 reaches 185°C, the third LED 13 lights up at 215°C, and all four LEDs 13 light up when the heater 6 reaches 230°C. Similarly, vibration or sound may be optionally provided to indicate that the operating temperature has been reached. In the second example of this table, the device starts at a relatively high temperature, e.g., 60°C, if the oven is hot and has not completely cooled from a previous vaping session. In this case, the heating time is shorter, e.g., 18 seconds to heat up to a state where steam can be inhaled. In this case, the table can include 140, 195, 217, and 230°C as thresholds. Then, when heater 6 reaches 140°C, the first LED 13 lights up; when heater 6 reaches 195°C, the second LED 13 lights up; at 215°C, the third LED 13 lights up; and when heater 6 reaches 230°C, all four LEDs 13 light up. Similarly, vibration or sound may be added as tactile indicators. The order of the LEDs may start from the one closest to button 10 in Figure 4. Other orders are, of course, possible depending on the shape of the indicators. This example and the associated tables / curves may be used on other devices, as shown in Figures 2, 3, 5, and 6, and the indicators may be managed in an appropriate manner to show the threshold reached by the device. In this example, the rules created by the tables are used to control the indicators, and the device is adapted to reach the desired temperature in a set time. The values ​​shown in Figure 11 are, of course, examples, and other values ​​are possible and may be used in other tables (e.g., initial temperature, time interval, and temperature to be reached).

[0098] Embodiments using time control are shown in the table in Figure 11. Here, as an example, in the first row, the starting temperature is 10°C, and the indicator may be activated every 5 seconds until the operating temperature is reached, usually after 20 seconds. The time intervals are therefore 5 seconds, 10, 15 seconds, and 20 seconds. The second row shows another example where the initial temperature is 100°C. In this case, the heating time may be 12 seconds, and the interval is every 3 seconds to activate the indicator. Of course, these values ​​are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and other values ​​are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0099] One embodiment of the control circuit 20 is shown in Figure 12. The circuit takes at least one parameter as input and, based on the parameter, is used to select one rule from a set of rules to operate the device, in particular an indicator at the output, as described in detail above.

[0100] Many other rules are possible depending on several parameters (heating temperature, time, initial system temperature, etc.) that are stored within the system and can be selected according to the situation and / or by the user, and the figure only provides a non-limiting example. Other parameters may be the energy level of the device (battery power) or the aerosol-generating material.

[0101] While the present invention is disclosed with reference to certain preferred embodiments, numerous modifications, alterations, and changes to the embodiments described, as well as their equivalents, are possible without departing from the scope and application of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described and is intended to be interpreted in the most broad and reasonable manner according to the language of the appended claims.

[0102] As described above, the indicator provides the user with information regarding the heating process and its status. The indicator may gradually light up as heating occurs and may change color over time. In a variation, the indicator may have one color (e.g., red) at the start of the heating operation and then gradually change to another color (e.g., green) as heating progresses. The indicator may also blink or flicker during the heating process and may keep its end constantly lit when the device is ready for use. There are many different possibilities for signaling the user. As mentioned above, the visual indicator may be combined with tactile or haptic information, or even sound.

[0103] Exemplary embodiments are described to provide an overall understanding of the structure, function, manufacture, and use principles of the systems and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the systems and methods described herein and shown in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and that the scope of the invention is not defined solely by the claims. Features illustrated or described in relation to one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the invention. Many problems with prior art methods and systems are pointed out herein, and the methods and systems disclosed herein may address one or more of these problems. By describing these problems, no acceptance of such knowledge in the art is intended. Those skilled in the art will understand that while certain methods and systems are described herein in relation to exemplary embodiments, the scope of the invention is not so limited. Furthermore, while the invention has been described in relation to several embodiments, many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent or obvious to those skilled in the applicable art. Therefore, this invention is intended to encompass all such substitutions, modifications, equivalents, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of application of this invention.

Claims

1. An aerosol generating apparatus (1), A heating chamber (2) is arranged to hold the aerosol generating medium (5), A heater (6) is arranged to heat the heating chamber (2) when in use, At least a visual indicator (11-14) for indicating when the temperature of the heating chamber has reached the operating temperature, The system comprises at least a control circuit configured to operate the visual indicator according to one or more rules selected from a series of rules, The visual indicator includes a light-emitting indicator that gradually lights up during heating. The control circuit considers at least one parameter, selects one or more rules by referring to them, and operates the aerosol generator according to the selected one or more rules. Aerosol generating apparatus (1).

2. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heating chamber is arranged to hold a tobacco stick.

3. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a temperature measuring means (7) arranged to measure the temperature of the heater or the heating chamber.

4. The control circuit is When the temperature of the heating chamber reaches one or more intermediate temperatures between the initial temperature and the operating temperature, the light-emitting indicator is gradually illuminated. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The control circuit is When the temperature of the heating chamber reaches the operating temperature, the light-emitting indicator is activated to fully illuminate, and When the temperature of the heating chamber reaches one or more intermediate temperatures, the light-emitting indicator is gradually partially illuminated. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 4.

6. The aerosol generator according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the light-emitting indicator is controlled to gradually illuminate a region of the light-emitting indicator when the temperature of the heating chamber reaches one or more intermediate temperatures, and is controlled to fully illuminate the region of the light-emitting indicator to indicate that the aerosol generator is ready for use.

7. The control circuit is When one or more intermediate heating times have elapsed between the heater start time and the initialization heating time which includes a predetermined time from the heater start time, the light-emitting indicator is gradually illuminated. An aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The control circuit is When the aforementioned initialization heating time has elapsed, the light-emitting indicator is activated to fully illuminate, and, When the one or more intermediate heating times have elapsed, the light-emitting indicator is gradually partially illuminated. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7.

9. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the light-emitting indicator includes a plurality of LEDs, and the plurality of LEDs light up sequentially as the one or more intermediate heating times elapse.

10. The aerosol generator according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the light-emitting indicator is controlled to gradually illuminate a region of the light-emitting indicator when one or more intermediate heating times have elapsed, and is controlled to fully illuminate the region of the light-emitting indicator to indicate that the aerosol generator is ready for use.

11. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the period from the heater start time to the completion of all one or more intermediate heating times is greater than 15 seconds.

12. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control circuit further determines the operation of the visual indicator such that at least the visual indicator operates when the operating temperature is reached, based on one or more selected rules.

13. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the at least one parameter includes the temperature of the heater or the heating chamber.

14. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the one or more rules include a table including a plurality of temperature thresholds and the operating temperature, and the control circuit is configured to select at least one temperature threshold based on the characteristics of the heater and to determine the operation of the visual indicator according to the selected temperature threshold.

15. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the one or more rules include a table of multiple time intervals, and the control circuit is configured to select one time interval based on the characteristics of the heater and to determine the operation of the visual indicator according to the selected time interval.

16. The visual indicators (11-14) are configured to indicate when the temperature of the heating chamber has reached the operating temperature. The control circuit operates the visual indicators (11-14) according to one or more selected rules, thereby, The visual indicators (11-14) operate to indicate when the temperature of the heating chamber has reached the operating temperature, thereby signaling that the aerosol generator is ready for use. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

17. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 16, further comprising a user input operable to instruct the control circuit to select a first rule or a second rule.

18. The aforementioned control circuit is The user input and, The measured initial start temperature of the heater and The measured ambient temperature and, The remaining energy level of the battery of the aerosol generator, The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 17, configured to select a rule according to one or more of the following.

19. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the user input includes a plurality of buttons.

20. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the user input includes two buttons located at different positions on the main body of the aerosol generating apparatus.

21. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the user input is arranged separately from the visual indicator.

22. The aerosol generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the visual indicator operates every 5 seconds until the operating temperature is reached.

23. The aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the operating temperature is reached after 20 seconds.

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