An aerosol generation device and a method of operating an aerosol generation device

Abstract

An aerosol generation device comprising: a chamber (110) configured to receive at least part of an aerosol generation consumable (320) via an opening (112) of the chamber; a barrier (120) comprising an electrochromic display (130) for displaying information to a user, the barrier configured to: at least partially extend across the chamber at the opening; and move to permit access to the chamber upon at least part of the consumable being received in the opening.

Description

[0001] An aerosol generation device and a method of operating an aerosol generation device

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generation device, and a method of operating an aerosol generation device. Some embodiments relate to an aerosol generation device comprising a moveable barrier comprising an electrochromic display for displaying information to a user.

[0003] Background

[0004] An aerosol generation device is configured to heat an aerosol precursor material to generate aerosol for inhalation. The aerosol precursor material may be heated in a chamber of the aerosol generation device.

[0005] Some aerosol generation devices comprise an external barrier for the chamber. To allow an aerosol consumable (e.g., comprising the aerosol precursor material) into the chamber, a user may have to manually move the external barrier which is inconvenient to a user. The external barrier may also be prone to damage.

[0006] It is the object of the present invention to overcome one or more of the above referenced problems.

[0007] Summary

[0008] Some, not necessarily all, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an aerosol generation device comprising: a chamber configured to receive at least part of an aerosol generation consumable via an opening of the chamber; a barrier comprising an electrochromic display for displaying information to a user, the barrier configured to: at least partially extend across the chamber at the opening; and move to permit access to the chamber upon at least part of the consumable being received in the opening.

[0009] The barrier being configured to move to permit access to the chamber upon at least part of the consumable being received in the opening means that a user may not have to perform an additional step of manually removing the barrier before inserting the aerosol generation device consumable, thereby improving the user evr'QriQn''Q thQaerosol generation device. The barrier extending at least partially across the chamber at the opening may reduce the amount of debris that enters the chamber. A build-up of debris in the heater can cause odours being emitted from the aerosol generation device thereby reducing the user experience.

[0010] The barrier comprising an electrochromic display for displaying information to a user may provide an enhanced user experience of the aerosol generation device.

[0011] Electrochromic displays have an optical memory effect, meaning that the electrochromic display can maintain its optical state for a period of time without continuous input / supply of electrical power. Advantageously, the aerosol generation device comprising an electrochromic display means that information (e.g., battery status information) can be displayed to a user for a prolonged period of time for increased readability and user experience, without requiring a continuous supply of power. The barrier being an electrochromic display and providing the electrochromic display on the barrier is a space saving measure on the aerosol generation device as it effectively combines together two components of the aerosol generation device in one. That is to say that aerosol generation devices may require displays, but these are typically LEDs, which can be bulky and require space on the device. In addition, LEDs (or similar) require a relatively high amount of electric power and so can be a drain on the battery. In contrast, electrochromic displays require a relatively small amount of electrical power to operate and require less space so can be positioned in non-typical locations on the aerosol generation device, such as the barrier.

[0012] The aerosol generation device may comprise a battery unit; and wherein the electrochromic display may be configured to display status information of the battery unit. This may provide an enhanced user experience of the aerosol generation device.

[0013] The barrier may be located within the chamber. The barrier being located within the chamber may reduce the possibility of the barrier being damaged (e.g., during transmit), for example, versus a barrier that is external to the chamber.

[0014] The barrier may be resiliently biased to restrict access to the chamber. This may provide the benefit of restricting unintentional access to the chamber (e.g., for debris). The chamber may comprise one or more recesses configured to receive at least part of the moved barrier.

[0015] The chamber comprising one or more recesses may ensure that the consumable can still be (properly) received in the chamber during use. This may provide a user with an enhanced user experience.

[0016] The chamber may comprise a guide portion and a heating portion, the guide portion configured to facilitate reception of the consumable in the heating portion. The guide portion being configured in this manner may enable a user to insert a consumable into the heating portion more easily, thereby improving the user experience of the aerosol generation device.

[0017] The barrier may be deformable such that the barrier is configured to move when subject to a threshold insertion pressure from the consumable. This may provide the benefit of restricting unintentional access to the chamber (e.g., for debris).

[0018] The barrier may be configured to deform away from the opening. The barrier being configured in this manner may increase the mechanical robustness of the barrier thereby increasing the number of bending cycles that the barrier can be used for. This also avoids the possibility of part of the barrier being exposed out of the aerosol generation device when the barrier is deformed.

[0019] The barrier may comprise one or more flex sensors to detect deformation of the barrier.

[0020] The flex sensor(s) being configured to detect deformation of the barrier can be used to determine when other functions of the aerosol generation device are required to be performed. The use of flex sensors may therefore be used to provide improved responsiveness of the aerosol generation device.

[0021] The deformable barrier may comprise a plurality of deformable segments. Each segment of the plurality of deformable segments may be distinct from one another. Each segment of the plurality of deformable segments may be regularly spaced from one another. This may provide improved control of the deformation of the barrier. That is to say that each segment may be independently deformable relative to each other, such that they may move relative to one another. In a non-deformed position, the barrier segments may cover the opening (e.g., the barrier segments may tesselate to cover the opening). Each segment may then deform to permit access to the opening.

[0022] The aerosol generation device may comprise a proximity sensor configured to detect receipt and / or removal of the consumable.

[0023] The proximity sensor being configured to detect deformation of the barrier can be used to determine when other functions of the aerosol generation device are required to be performed. The use of the proximity sensor may therefore be used to provide improved responsiveness of the aerosol generation device.

[0024] The aerosol generation device may comprise an actuator configured to move the barrier to permit access to the chamber in response to the proximity sensor detecting receipt of the consumable.

[0025] Some, not necessarily all, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method of operating an aerosol generation device comprising: receiving at least part of an aerosol generation consumable in an opening of a chamber of the device; and upon receiving at least part of the consumable in the opening, moving a barrier, the barrier comprising an electrochromic display for displaying information to a user, to permit access to the chamber.

[0026] The above features may be combined together in various combinations.

[0027] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] Some examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0029] FIG.1 illustrates a schematic of an aerosol generation device;

[0030] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic of some functional components of an example aerosol generation device;

[0031] FIGs 3A and 3B illustrate a cross-sectional view of an example aerosol generation device;

[0032] FIGs 4A to 4D illustrate examples of the electrochromic display of an example aerosol generation device; FIGs 5A and 5B illustrate a cross-sectional view of example aerosol generation device; and

[0033] FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart of a method of operating an example aerosol generation device.

[0034] It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale.

[0035] Detailed Description

[0036] As used herein, the term “aerosol precursor material”, “vapour precursor material” or “vaporizable material” are used synonymously and may refer to a material and / or composition, which may for example comprise nicotine or tobacco and a vaporising agent. The aerosol precursor material is configured to release an aerosol when heated or otherwise mechanically stimulated, such as by vibrations. Tobacco may take the form of various materials such as shredded tobacco, granulated tobacco, tobacco leaf and / or reconstituted tobacco. Nicotine may be in the form of nicotine salts. Suitable vaporising agents include: a polyol such as sorbitol, glycerol, and glycols like propylene glycol or triethylene glycol; a non-polyol such as monohydric alcohols, acids such as lactic acid, glycerol derivatives, esters such as triacetin, triethylene glycol diacetate, triethyl citrate, glycerin or vegetable glycerin. In some examples, the aerosol precursor material is substantially a liquid or a gel that holds or comprises one or more solid particles, such as tobacco particles extracted from tobacco materials or suspended in a solution or gel.

[0037] An aerosol generation device is configured to aerosolise an aerosol precursor material without combustion in order to facilitate delivery of an aerosol to a user. Furthermore, and as is common in the technical field, the terms “vapour” and “aerosol”, and related terms such as “vaporize”, “volatilize” and “aerosolise”, may generally be used interchangeably.

[0038] As used herein, the term “aerosol generation device” is synonymous with “aerosol generating device” or “device” and may include a device configured to heat an aerosol precursor material and deliver an aerosol to a user, typically without combusting the aerosol precursor material. The device may be portable. “Portable” may refer to the device being for use when held by a user. The device may be adapted to generate a variable amount of aerosol, which can be controlled by a user input. As used herein, the term “aerosol” may include a suspension of vaporizable material as one or more of: solid particles; liquid droplets; gas. Said suspension may be in a gas including air. Aerosol herein may generally refer to / include a vapour. Aerosol may include one or more components of the vaporizable material.

[0039] FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic of an aerosol generation device 100. The aerosol generation device 100 comprises a chamber 110 and a barrier 120. The chamber 110 is configured to receive at least part of an aerosol generation consumable (not shown in FIG. 1) via an opening 112 of the chamber 110.

[0040] The barrier 120 comprises an electrochromic display 130 for displaying information to a user. The barrier 120 is configured to at least partially extend across the chamber 110 at the opening 112. The barrier 120 is configured to move to permit access to the chamber 110 upon at least part of the consumable being received in the opening 112. In one example, the barrier 120 is formed (e.g., entirely formed) of the electrochromic display 130. That is to say that the electrochromic display 130 acts as the barrier 120.

[0041] The chamber 110 is configured to receive at least part of an aerosol generation consumable. The consumable may comprise an aerosol precursor material (e.g., to generate aerosol for inhalation). The aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a heater (not shown in FIG. 1) or similar energy provision device to provide energy to the aerosol generation consumable, in use. For example, the heater may be configured to heat the aerosol precursor material while the consumable is received in (e.g., at least partly received in) the chamber 110 of the aerosol generation device 100. Other energy provision devices such as induction heating, electric power provision, may be provided.

[0042] The chamber 110 may be comprise a hole (e.g., within the housing of the aerosol generation device 100). In other words, the chamber 110 may define a hole. The hole may be a blind hole. The hole may be elongate. The hole may be configured (e.g., sized) to receive at least part on an aerosol generation consumable. The hole may be tube-shaped. The hole may be substantially cylindrical in shape.

[0043] The chamber 110 may comprise an opening 112. The opening 112 may be configured (e.g., sized) to receive at least part of an aerosol generation consumable. The opening 112 may be defined (e.g., at least in part) by one or more sidewalls of the chamber 110. The opening 112 may be at the periphery of the chamber 110 and / or the aerosol generation device 100. In other words, the opening 112 may be an open end of the chamber 110.

[0044] In some examples, the chamber 110 comprises a heating portion and a guide portion. The heating portion may be configured to receive at least part of a consumable from the guide portion. The guide portion may have a different internal profile compared with the heating portion to facilitate guiding of the consumable into the heating portion. For example, as described below, the guide portion may be tapered (i.e., flared) outwards with respect to the heating portion. That is to say that the guide portion may have an increased internal cross- sectional dimension compared with the heating portion.

[0045] The chamber 110 may be formed at least in part from a metal (e.g., the heating portion 116 may be metallic).

[0046] In some examples, the guide portion and the heating portion are formed of separate components that are coupled together. In other examples, a single component forms both the guide portion and the heating portion as a contiguous structure.

[0047] In some examples, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise the heater at the heating portion. For example, the heater may be wrapped around (the outside) of the heating portion. In some examples, the barrier 120 may be located at the guide portion (rather than the heating portion). The barrier 120 being located at the guide portion may reduce the barrier’s 120 exposure to heat from the heater thereby improving the durability of the aerosol generation device 100. This will be described in more detail below in relation FIGs 3A and 3B.

[0048] The chamber 110 may comprise one or more recesses (not shown in FIG. 1) configured (e.g., sized) to receive at least part of the moved barrier 120. In some examples, the one or more recesses may be defined by the one or more sidewalls of the chamber 110. The recess may comprise a through hole in a side wall of the chamber 110.

[0049] In the examples shown in Figures 3A to 3D, the recess is formed by the guide portion of the chamber 100 having an increased internal dimension compared with the heating portion. In some examples, the recess may be provided by the chamber 110 being tapered (e.g., funnel- shaped). For example, the chamber 110 may taper (at the guide portion) such that a transverse cross-sectional area of the chamber 110 increases along the taper (thereby allowing a barrier 120 to move into the taper (tapered area)). The chamber 110 may taper outwards in the direction of the opening 112.

[0050] The taper may extend to the opening 112 of the chamber 110. In this example, the taper may be configured to guide a consumable into (un-tapered portion of) the chamber 110.

[0051] In some examples, the cross-sectional area may be round-shaped. For example, the cross- sectional area may be is circular or oval-shaped.

[0052] The one or more recesses may be sized such that the volume of the one or more recesses is greater than the volume of the barrier 120. In other words, the one or more recesses may be configured to completely contain the barrier 120 within the one or more recesses (i.e., such that the barrier 120 does not extend across the chamber 120).

[0053] In other examples, the one or more recesses may be sized such that the volume of the one or more recesses is less than the volume of the barrier 120. In such examples, the one or more recesses may be configured to partially contain the barrier 120 with the one or more recesses. The barrier 120 would therefore extend partly across the chamber 120 (but still allows a consumable to be received within the chamber 110).

[0054] As will be described in more detail in relation to FIGs 5A and 5B, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise means for cleaning the barrier 120. The means for cleaning the barrier 120 may comprise one or more brushes. The one or more brushes may be located in the movement path of the barrier 120 such that when the barrier 120 moves to permit and / or restrict access to the chamber 110, the barrier 120 contacts (e.g., directly contacts) the one or more brushes thereby (automatically) removing debris from the barrier 120. The means for cleaning the barrier 120 (e.g., the one or more brushes) may be located in the recess. In some examples, the means for cleaning the barrier 120 may be located at an entrance of the recess.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 1 , the barrier 120 is configured to at least partially extend across the chamber 110 at the opening 112. The barrier 120 may be an internal and / or an external barrier 120. The barrier 120 may be an internal barrier 120 in examples in which the barrier 120 is internal to the (e.g., the housing of) the aerosol generation device 100.

[0056] The barrier 120 may be an external barrier 120 in examples in which the barrier 120 is external to the (e.g., the housing of) the aerosol generation device 100.

[0057] The barrier 120 may be an internal and external barrier 120 in examples in which the barrier 120 is partly internal and partly external to the (e.g., the housing of) the aerosol generation device 100.

[0058] As shown in FIG.1 , the (internal) barrier 120 may be located within the chamber 110 (e.g., beyond the opening 112 into the chamber 110), but still proximate the opening 112. The barrier 120 may located towards the opening 112. The barrier 120 may be offset (e.g., in the chamber 110) from the opening 112. In other words, defining that the barrier 120 is at the opening 112, it is intended to cover examples in which the barrier 120 is located proximate the opening, but slightly within the chamber 110. In one example, the barrier 120 is an internal barrier located at the opening 112 within 5% of the length along the chamber 110 from the extreme end of the chamber 110.

[0059] The barrier 120 may be located in the guide portion 118 of the chamber 110.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 1 , the barrier 120 is configured to extend across the chamber 110 at the opening 112.

[0061] The barrier 120 extending at least partially across the chamber 110 at the opening 112 may comprise the barrier 120 extending across a (transverse) cross section of the chamber 110. For example, the chamber 110 may be substantially cylindrical in shape. In this example, the transverse cross-section of the chamber 110 is circular. In this example, the longitudinal crosssection of the chamber 110 is rectangular.

[0062] The barrier 120 extending at least partially across the chamber 110 at the opening 112 may comprise the barrier 120 extending across at least half (i.e., 50% or more) of the cross- sectional area of the chamber 110 at the opening 112. The barrier 120 may extend across at least 75% of the cross-sectional area of the chamber 110. The barrier 120 may extend completely across the cross-sectional area of the chamber 110.

[0063] The barrier 120 may be configured to automatically move to permit access to the chamber 110 upon at least part of the consumable being received in the opening. The barrier 120 being configured to automatically move comprises the barrier 120 being deformable and / or an actuator being configured to move the barrier 120 in response to detection of receipt and / or removal of the consumable.

[0064] The barrier 120 may be resiliently biased to restrict access to the chamber 110. In other words, the barrier 120 may be configured to be moved (e.g., due to a force applied to the barrier 120) and return to its original position (i.e., restricting access to the chamber 110). For example, the barrier 120 may be resiliently biased to restrict (e.g., reduce the amount of) debris from collecting in the chamber 110.

[0065] The barrier 120 may be deformable (i.e., the barrier 120 may be configured to change shape). For example, the barrier 120 may be flexible (e.g., the barrier 120 may be a flexible membrane). In other words, barrier 120 may be bendable. For example, the barrier 120 may be deformable such that the barrier 120 is configured to move when subject to a threshold insertion pressure from a consumable (e.g., via a user applying force / pressure to the consumable). The threshold insertion pressure may be the force required to be applied to the barrier 120 to cause the barrier 120 to deform. For example, with reference to FIG. 1 , in use a user may insert a consumable into the opening 112 such that the consumable abuts the barrier 120. Once the consumable is abutting the barrier 120, a user is required to apply the threshold insertion pressure to the consumable (and thereby the barrier 120) to cause the barrier 120 to deform (e.g., and enable the consumable to pass beyond the barrier 120 into the rest of the chamber 110).

[0066] In some examples, the barrier 120 may be configured to bend at a peripheral edge of the barrier 120 (e.g., an edge of the barrier 120 coupled to the chamber 110).

[0067] The deformable barrier 120 may be resiliently biased. For example, once the threshold insertion pressure is no longer applied to the barrier 120, the barrier 120 may return (e.g., recover) to its original position. In some examples, the barrier 120 may be elastic (i.e., elastically deformable).

[0068] In some examples, the barrier 120 may be configured to deform away from the opening 112. For example, with reference to FIG. 1 , upon application of the threshold insertion pressure to an upper surface of the barrier 120, the barrier 120 may be configured to move towards the base of the chamber 110 (i.e., in the direction from the top of the page to the bottom of the page).

[0069] The barrier 120 may comprise one or more flex sensors (configured) to detect deformation of the barrier 120. The one or more flex sensors may be located on an upper surface of the barrier 120. The one or more flex sensors may be located on an underside surface of the barrier 120. Further details of the one or more flex sensors are set out below.

[0070] The deformable barrier 120 may comprise a plurality of deformable segments. Each segment of the plurality of deformable segments may be distinct from one another (i.e., from each of the other segments). Each segment of the plurality of deformable segments may be regularly spaced from one another. Further details regarding the segments are set out below.

[0071] The barrier 120 may comprise the electrochromic display 130. For example, the deformable barrier 120 may be formed by the electrochromic display 130 (e.g., the electrochromic display 130 may be the barrier 120). For example, the barrier 120 may comprise a substrate coupled to the electrochromic display 130 (e.g., the electrochromic display 130 is adhered to a substrate).

[0072] The electrochromic display 130 may be provided using reflective display technology with thin polymers that change colour in response to an electrical input. Advantageously, this provides for enhanced readability under different light conditions. For example, by using an electrochromic display 130, a good reading of the displayed information is easier under strong ambient light, as compared to, for example, LCD, LED or OLED displays. This is particularly advantageous for aerosol generation devices 100, which may frequently be used outdoors.

[0073] The electrochromic display 130 may be transparent and / or translucent. The electrochromic display 130 may be transparent when not in use. Advantageously, this means that the electrochromic display 130 can be implemented on any part of the aerosol generation device 100 (e.g., any part of the barrier 120) and / or on any suitable colour background. This means that the electrochromic display 130 can be provided in the most appropriate position (e.g., of the barrier 120) to enhance the user experience. It also means that the electrochromic display 130 is discreet so that the aesthetics of the aerosol generation device 100 are not compromised by the display.

[0074] The electrochromic display 130 may be flexible (e.g., foldable, bendable). As such, the electrochromic display 130 may be curved around contours of the barrier 120 of the aerosol generation device 100. Advantageously, the flexibility of electrochromic displays means that they can be integrated into any required position on the aerosol generation device 100.

[0075] The electrochromic display 130 may withstand a range of temperatures so is not affected by proximity to an energy provision system or component thereof, for example the heater of the aerosol generation device (e.g., as described above). This advantageously means that the electrochromic display 130 can function reliably when located in the guide portion of the chamber 110. In one example, the electrochromic display 130 has an operating temperature of between -25 to 100 degrees Celsius.

[0076] As described above, the electrochromic display 130 may be configured to display information to a user (e.g., status information of one or more components of the aerosol generation device 100, such as the battery unit). In some examples, the electrochromic display may be configured to display the information in a convenient location on the aerosol generation device 100, thereby enhancing the user experience.

[0077] In some examples, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a plurality of electrochromic displays 130. The electrochromic displays 130 can be provided in small areas on the aerosol generation device 100. In some examples, a first electrochromic display 130 is provided in a different position on the aerosol generation device 100 to a second electrochromic display 130, as appropriate to enhance user experience.

[0078] The electrochromic display 130 may be easily scalable and thin. Advantageously, this means that information can be displayed to a user directly on the aerosol generation device 100 in any part of the housing, without compromising the aesthetics or other operation of the aerosol generation device 100. This is especially important as smaller aerosol generation devices 100 are developed.

[0079] The electrochromic display 130 may be compatible with several substrates that may be used for the housing or other components of the aerosol generation device 100. For example, the electrochromic display 130 can be readily and simply integrated into / onto glass, metal, plastic, fibres and / or textiles. Advantageously, this means that the electrochromic display 130 can be implemented on different types of aerosol generation devices 100.

[0080] As compared to other displays, such as LCD, LED or OLED displays, the electrochromic display 130 may have low energy input requirements and a low energy consumption. The electrochromic display 130 may have an optical memory effect, meaning that it can maintain its optical state for a period of time without continuous input of electrical power. Advantageously, this means that decreased energy input is required as compared to other display types, making the displays and, in turn, the aerosol generation device 100, more efficient. This also means that information can be displayed to a user for a prolonged period of time for increased readability and user experience, without requiring continuous power.

[0081] The electrochromic display 130 may be operable to display information in response to receiving an operational current of less than 10mA. Providing an operation current of less than 10mA means that there is a relatively low power requirement from the battery to power the electrochromic display. Advantageously, less than 2mJ of energy may be required every 15 minutes to maintain full contrast of the display on the electrochromic display 130. This is significantly lower than the energy consumption of an OLED display.

[0082] The electrochromic display 130 may be a simple electrochromic display, configured to display basic information. For example, the electrochromic display 130 may display a specified pattern or simple image. In examples, the electrochromic display 130 may, in part or its entirety, change colour. In examples, the electrochromic display 130 may comprise a plurality of segments arranged in a matrix to display more complex information. The matrix may comprise a plurality of segments arranged in a 3 x 3, or more, matrix. Each segment of the matrix of the electrochromic display 130 may be independently activated. Various control circuitry is envisaged. For example, the electrochromic display 130 may be in the form of a matrix display and the control circuitry comprises a demultiplexer to control each of the input pins of the electrochromic display. In other examples, the control circuitry may comprise direct drive such that each pin has a separate input.

[0083] The electrochromic display 130 may be configured to display the information as one or more symbols. For example, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a plurality of predetermined states of a battery unit. Each of the pre-determined state may be associated with a one or more symbols. In some examples, the pre-determined states may comprise the remaining capacity of the battery unit (e.g., the number of use / aerosol cycles remaining).

[0084] In some examples, due to the optical memory of the electrochromic display 130, the aerosol generation device 100 may provide information to a user when the battery unit is unable to supply power to the electrochromic display 130 (as well as no other power source).

[0085] In some examples, the electrochromic display 130 may be formed (at least in part) from a poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonic acid (PEDOTPSS) material. For example, the electrochromic display 130 may be formed from a PEDOTPSS based (electrochromic) material. The PEDOTPSS material may be one or more of PEDOTPSS, PEDOTPSS and polymer composite(s), and PEDOTPSS and inorganic composite(s). The use of PEDOTPSS material may be advantageous as PEDOTPSS materials comprise sufficient rigidity required for the electrochromic display 130 to be used as at least part of the barrier 120 for thousands of deformation (e.g., bending) cycles.

[0086] The barrier 120 (and the electrochromic display 130) may be located within the chamber 110. The electrochromic display 130 may be arranged such that the electrochromic display 130 is visible to a user via the opening 112 of the chamber 110. For example, the barrier 120 may comprise the electrochromic display 130 on an upper surface of the barrier 120. Additionally, or alternatively, the barrier 120 (and the electrochromic display 130) may be located towards the opening 112 of the chamber 110.

[0087] FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic of some functional components of an example aerosol generation device 100. In addition to the chamber 110, the barrier 120, and the electrochromic display 130, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise one or more of a controller 210, a battery unit 220, a flex sensor 230, a proximity sensor 240, and an actuator 250. In some examples, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise the controller 210, the battery unit 220 and the flex sensor 230. In some examples, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise the controller 210, battery unit 220, the proximity sensor 240 and the actuator 250. In some examples, the aerosol generation device may comprise all the components illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0088] The illustrated components 130, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250 are operationally coupled. Any number of intervening components can exist between them (including no intervening components).

[0089] The controller 210 (i.e. , control circuitry) may comprise a processor 212 and memory 214. The processor 212 may be configured to read from and write to the memory 214. The processor 212 may also comprise an output interface via which data and / or commands are output by the processor 212 and an input interface via which data and / or commands are input to the processor 212.

[0090] The memory 214 may be a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium. The memory 214 may store a computer program comprising computer program instructions (computer program code) that controls the operation of the aerosol generation device 100 when loaded into the processor 212. The computer program instructions, of the computer program, may provide the logic and routines that enables the aerosol generation device 100 to perform the method illustrated in FIG. 6. The processor 212, by reading the memory 214, can load and execute the computer program.

[0091] The memory 214 may store data. The data may include, for example, electrochromic display refresh control information. The electrochromic display refresh control information may indicate the frequency at which power is supplied to the electrochromic display 130. The processor 212 may, for example, be configured to retrieve the data from the memory 214 and cause the battery unit 220 to supply power to the electrochromic display 130 continuously or discontinuously (e.g., at regular intervals and / or in response to a change in status information).

[0092] Although the memory 214 is illustrated as a single component / circuitry it may be implemented as one or more separate components / circuitry some or all of which may be integrated / removable and / or may provide permanent / semi-permanent / dynamic / cached storage.

[0093] Although the processor 212 is illustrated as a single component / circuitry it may be implemented as one or more separate components / circuitry some or all of which may be integrated / removable. The processor 212 may be a single core or multi-core processor.

[0094] As shown by the arrow from the processor 212 to the electrochromic display 130 in FIG. 2, the controller 210 may be configured to transmit data to the electrochromic display 130. The controller 210 may be configured to cause the electrochromic display 130 to display information.

[0095] The aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a battery unit 220 (i.e., a battery module 220 or device battery unit 220).

[0096] The battery unit 220 may be configured to supply power to one or more components of the aerosol generation device 100 (e.g., shown in FIG.2). For example, the battery unit 220 may be configured to supply power to the electrochromic display 130. Additionally, or alternatively, the device battery unit 120 may be configured to supply power to a heater of the aerosol generation device 100. Additionally, or alternatively, the device battery unit 220 may be configured to supply power to one or more other displays / display components (not shown) of the aerosol generation device 100. The one or more other displays may comprise an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display.

[0097] The battery unit 220 may comprise one or more battery cells. One or more of the cells may be configured to convert (e.g., directly convert) chemical energy to electrical energy.

[0098] The battery unit 220 may comprise a rechargeable battery unit 220. The rechargeable battery unit 220 may be recharged via a port (e.g., a USB port) of the aerosol generation device 100. The port may be located at the peripheral (i.e., at a peripheral edge) of the aerosol generation device 100. The port may be located on an underside surface of the peripheral edge.

[0099] The device battery unit 120 may be replaceable and / or removable. As shown by the arrow from the battery unit 220 to the processor 212 in FIG. 2, the controller 210 may be configured to transmit and / or receive data from the battery unit 220. For example, the controller 210 may cause the battery unit 220 to supply power to the electrochromic display 130 (continuously or discontinuously) by transmitting a control signal to the battery unit 220. Additionally, or alternatively, the controller 210 may be configured to receive data from the battery unit 220. The data may comprise performance information of the battery unit 220.

[0100] As shown in FIG. 2, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise one or more flex sensors 230 (i.e. , one or more bend sensors) configured to detect deformation of the barrier 120. For example, the barrier 120 may comprise one or more flex sensors 230 to detect deformation of the barrier.

[0101] The flex sensor 230 may comprise one or more of: a conductive ink based flex sensor, a fibre optic flex sensor, a capacitive flex sensor, and a Velostat flex sensor.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 2, the flex sensor 230 may be configured to detect deformation of the barrier 120. Deformation of the barrier 120 may comprise at least part of the barrier 120 changing shape (e.g., via a user applying a threshold insertion pressure to the barrier 120).

[0103] As shown in FIG. 2 by the arrow from the flex sensor 230 to the processor 212, in some examples, the controller 210 may be configured to receive data from the flex sensor 230. For example, in response to the flex sensor 230 detecting input relating to deformation of the barrier 120, the flex sensor 230 may be configured to transmit a (detection) signal to the controller 210. In response to receiving the detection signal, the controller 210 may be configured to determine whether the detection signal corresponds with deformation of the barrier 120. The controller 210 may be configured to determine a state of the aerosol generation device 100 based on the determination. The controller 210 may be configured to cause the electrochromic display 130 to display status information based on the determined state.

[0104] In some examples, upon the controller 210 determining that the barrier 120 has been deformed, the controller 210 may be configured to cause one or more other functions of the aerosol generation device 100 (e.g., other than the electrochromic display 130 displaying status information). For example, upon the controller 210 determining that the barrier 120 has been deformed, the controller 210 may be configured to cause a heater of the aerosol generation device 100 to activate (e.g., by causing the battery unit 120 to supply power to the heater).

[0105] Additionally, or alternatively, upon the controller 210 determining that the barrier 120 has been deformed, the controller 210 may be configured to cause the aerosol generation device 100 to determine (i.e., verify) the authenticity of the consumable. If the consumable is determined to be authentic, the controller 210 may be configured to cause the electrochromic display 130 to display information that the consumable is authentic (e.g., via a symbol). Additionally, or alternatively, the controller 210 may be configured to cause the heater of the aerosol generation device 100 to activate (e.g., by causing the battery unit 120 to supply power to the heater).

[0106] Although a single flex sensor 230 has been described in FIG. 2, the flex sensor 230 may be implemented as one or more flex sensors 230. For example, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a plurality of flex sensors 230.

[0107] In use, a user may insert a consumable into the opening 112 and apply a force greater than the threshold insertion pressure to the barrier 120 causing the barrier 120 to deform. The flex sensor 230 may detect the deformation of the barrier and transmits a signal to the controller 210. In response to receiving the signal, the controller 210 determines that barrier 120 has been deformed. The controller 210 causes the electrochromic display 130 to display a symbol representative of the barrier 120 being deformed.

[0108] As shown in FIG. 2, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise one or more proximity sensors 240 configured to detect receipt and / or removal of the consumable (e.g., in the opening 112). For example, the chamber 110 may comprise one or more proximity sensors 240 at the opening 112 configured to detect receipt and / or removal of the consumable.

[0109] The proximity sensor 240 may comprise one or more of: a capacitive sensor, an inductive sensor, a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor and a Hall effect sensor.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 2, the proximity sensor 240 may be configured to detect receipt and / or removal of the consumable. Receipt of the consumable may comprise at least part of the being received with the chamber 110 (e.g., at the opening 112). Removal of the consumable may comprise at least part of the being removed from the chamber 110 (e.g., from the opening 112).

[0111] As shown in FIG. 2 by the arrow from the proximity sensor 240 to the processor 212, in some examples, the controller 210 may be configured to receive data from the proximity sensor 240. For example, in response to the proximity sensor 240 detecting input relating to receipt and / or removal of the consumable, the proximity sensor 240 may be configured to transmit a (detection) signal to the controller 210. In response to receiving the detection signal, the controller 210 may be configured to determine whether the detection signal corresponds with receipt and / or removal of a consumable. The controller 210 may be configured to determine a state of the aerosol generation device 100 based on the determination. The controller 210 may be configured to cause the electrochromic display 130 to display status information based on the determined state.

[0112] Although a single proximity sensor 240 has been described in FIG. 2, the proximity sensor 240 may be implemented as one or more proximity sensors 240. For example, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a plurality of proximity sensors 240.

[0113] In use, a user may insert a consumable into the opening 112. The proximity sensor 240 detects the receipt of the consumable in the opening 112 and transmits a signal to the controller 210. In response to receiving the signal, the controller 210 determines that a consumable has been received in the opening 112. The controller 210 causes the electrochromic display 130 to display a symbol representative of a consumable being received in the opening 112.

[0114] The aerosol generation device 100 may comprise an actuator 250 configured to move the barrier 120 to permit access to the chamber 110 in response to the proximity sensor 240 detecting receipt of the consumable.

[0115] The actuator 250 may comprise an electric actuator 250 such as an electromechanical actuator 250 or an electrohydraulic actuator 250.

[0116] As shown in FIG. 2 by the arrow from the actuator 250 to the processor 212, in some examples, the controller 210 may be configured to transmit and / or receive data from the actuator 250. For example, in response to the proximity sensor 240 detecting receipt of the consumable, the controller 210 may be configured to transmit a (actuation) signal to the actuator 250. In response to receiving the actuation signal, the actuator 250 may be configured to actuate (e.g., move) the barrier 120 to permit access to the chamber 110.

[0117] Additionally, or alternatively, in response to the proximity sensor 240 detecting removal of the consumable, the controller 210 may be configured to transmit a (actuation) signal to the actuator 250. In response to receiving the actuation signal, the actuator 250 may be configured to actuate (e.g., move) the barrier 120 to restrict access to the chamber 110.

[0118] In some examples, the actuator 250 may be manually actuated (e.g. by an action from a user). For example, the actuator 250 may comprise a button and / or haptic sensor(s) (not shown). In an example in which the actuator 250 comprises a button, the actuator 250 may be configured such that actuation of the button may cause the actuator 250 to move the barrier 120 to permit and / or restrict access to the chamber 110 in response to the proximity sensor 240 detecting receipt of the consumable.

[0119] Additionally, or alternatively, the controller 210 may be configured to receive data from the actuator 250. The data may comprise performance information of the actuator 250.

[0120] In some examples, the controller 210 may be configured to disable actuation of the barrier 120 via the actuator 250. The controller 210 may be configured to disable actuation permanently and / or for a pre-determined period of time (e.g., 10 seconds). For example, the controller 210 may comprise one or more disabled states (i.e., states in which the controller 210 may disable actuation of the barrier 210) stored in the memory 214. The disabled states may comprise one or more of: the battery unit 220 being depleted (e.g., zero remaining use cycles), the battery unit 220 requires maintenance (e.g., the battery unit 220 needs to be replaced), the heater is dirty (e.g., by debris), the heater is overheating (i.e., above a threshold operating temperature of the heater).

[0121] For example, in use and with reference to FIG. 2, the controller 210 may receive information from the battery unit 220 indicating that the battery unit 220 requires maintenance. The controller 210 may compare the received information with the state(s) in the memory 214 to determine whether the information corresponds with the state(s). Upon determining that the received information does correspond with the state(s), the controller 210 causes the barrier 120 to be disabled (e.g., by disabling the actuator 250). The controller 210 may disable the barrier 120 until the controller 210 determines that the battery unit 120 has been sufficiently re-charged (e.g., re-charged enough to perform at least one more cycle).

[0122] Although a single actuator 250 has been described in FIG. 2, the actuator 250 may be implemented as one or more actuators 250. For example, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a plurality of actuators 250.

[0123] FIGs 3A and 3B illustrate a cross-sectional view of example aerosol generation device 100. In addition to the components shown in figures 1 and 2, the aerosol generation device 100 comprises a heater 310. The heater 310 may be configured to heat a consumable (e.g., aerosol generation consumable comprising tobacco or the like).

[0124] FIG. 3B illustrates a consumable 320 comprising an aerosol precursor material 322 as described above.

[0125] The aerosol generation device 100 shown in FIGs 3A and 3B comprises a deformable barrier 120 (comprising an electrochromic display 130). FIG. 3A shows the aerosol generation device 100 without a consumable 320 received (e.g., inserted) into the chamber 110. FIG. 3B shows the aerosol generation device 100 with the consumable 320 received in the chamber 110.

[0126] The chamber 110 shown in FIGs 3A and 3B comprises a recess 114. As shown in FIGs 3A and 3B, the recess 114 is located in the guide portion 118 of the chamber 110. The recess 114 provides space for the barrier 120 to deform into as the consumable is inserted into the chamber 110. The recess 114 may be tapered outwardly in the direction of the opening 112 (i.e., from the heating portion 116 of the chamber 110). In other words, the recess 114 tapers outwardly in a direction away from the heater 310 and to the opening 112.

[0127] As shown in FIG. 3A, the barrier 120 is resiliently biased to restrict access to the chamber 110. Whilst debris can access the chamber 110 via the gap in the barrier 120, the gap is much smaller than the opening 112 of the chamber 110.

[0128] The barrier 120 is configured to deform away from the opening 112. As shown in FIG. 3B, upon insertion of the consumable 320 into the opening 112 and upon application of a threshold insertion pressure to the barrier 120, the barrier 120 deforms to allow the consumable to enter the rest of the chamber 110. The barrier 120 is received in the recess 114 thereby allowing the consumable 320 to be received in the chamber 110.

[0129] Whilst FIGs 3A-3B illustrate some examples of a chamber 110 comprising a recess 114, it should be understood that other shaped recesses 114 may be used. For example, the recess 114 may comprise a recess that tapers (completely) to the opening 112.

[0130] The barrier 120 may be located sufficiently away from the heating portion 116 such that the electrochromic display is not heated above working limits.

[0131] FIGs 4A to 4D illustrate examples of the barrier 120 of the example aerosol generation devices 100 shown above.

[0132] In some example aerosol generation devices 100, FIGs 4A to 4D show what a user of the aerosol generation device 100 would see when looking into the chamber 110 (via the opening 112).

[0133] Each barrier 120 comprises a plurality of electrochromic displays 130 and a plurality of deformable segments 402, 404, 406, 408. As illustrated by the dashed line(s) in each of FIGs 4A to 4G and the spacing between the segments 402, 404, 406, 408 in FIG 4D, each segment 402, 404, 406, 408 of the plurality of deformable segments 402, 404, 406, 408 are distinct from one another.

[0134] FIG. 4A shows a barrier 120 comprising an electrochromic display 130. The barrier 120 comprises two segments 402A, 402B that are distinct from each other. Each segment 402A, 402B comprises an electrochromic display 130.

[0135] FIG. 4B shows a barrier 120 comprising an electrochromic display 130. The barrier 120 comprises four segments 404A, 404B, 404C, 404D that are distinct from each other. Each segment 404A, 404B, 404C, 404D comprises an electrochromic display 130.

[0136] FIG. 4C shows a barrier 120 comprising an electrochromic display 130. The barrier 120 comprises six segments 406A, 406B, 406C, 406D, 406E, 406F that are distinct from each other. Each segment 406A, 406B, 406C, 406D, 406E, 406F comprises an electrochromic display 130.

[0137] FIG. 4D shows a barrier 120 comprising an electrochromic display 130. The barrier 120 comprises six segments 408A, 408B, 408C, 408D, 408E, 408F that are distinct from each other. Each segment 408A, 408B, 408C, 408D, 408E, 408F comprises an electrochromic display 130. Each segment 408A, 408B, 408C, 408D, 408E, 408F of the plurality of deformable segments 408A, 408B, 408C, 408D, 408E, 408F is regularly spaced from one another. Each segment 408A, 408B, 408C, 408D, 408E, 408F may be configured to bend at the peripheral (e.g., circular) edge of the segment 408A, 408B, 408C, 408D, 408E, 408F (i.e., the portion of the segment 408A, 408B, 408C, 408D, 408E, 408F coupled to the chamber 110).

[0138] FIGs 5A and 5B illustrate a cross-sectional view of example aerosol generation device 100. The aerosol generation device 100 shown in FIGs 3A and 3B comprises a barrier 120 (comprising an electrochromic display 130) configured to move to permit access to the chamber 110 upon at least part of the consumable (not shown in FIGs 5A and 5B) being received in the opening 112. The barrier 120 shown in FIGs 5A and 5B may not be deformable. The chamber 110 comprises a recess having an entrance 502.

[0139] In some examples, the entrance 502 may comprise means for cleaning the barrier 120 as described above.

[0140] FIG. 5A shows the aerosol generation device 100 in which the barrier 120 is at least partially extending across the chamber 110 at the opening 112 thereby restricting access to the chamber 110 (e.g., in a closed configuration). The closed configuration (i.e., the configuration of the device 100 shown in FIG. 5A) may be the default position of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0141] FIG. 5B shows the aerosol generation device 100 in which the barrier 120 has been moved to permit access to the chamber 110 (e.g., an open configuration). The barrier 120 has been moved into the recess via the entrance 502.

[0142] The aerosol generation device 100 shown in FIGs 5A and 5B comprises a proximity sensor 240 and an actuator (as described above). A user may insert a consumable into the opening 112. The proximity sensor 240 may detect the receipt of the consumable in the opening 112 and transmits a signal to the controller 210. In response to receiving the signal, the controller 210 determines that a consumable has been received in the opening 112. In response to the controller 210 determining that the consumable has been received in the opening, the controller 210 may transmit an actuation signal to the actuator 250. In response to receiving the actuation signal, the actuator 250 may be configured to move the barrier 120 to permit access to the chamber 110. The arrow shown in FIGs 5A and 5B illustrates the direction in which the actuator 250 is configured to move the barrier 120. The direction (e.g., the actuation direction) may be orthogonal to an insertion direction of the chamber 110.

[0143] In examples in which the entrance 502 comprises means for cleaning the barrier 120 (e.g., one or more brushes), the barrier 120 moving into recess (via the entrance 502) causes the barrier 120 to contact the means for cleaning the barrier 120 thereby removing debris from the barrier 120.

[0144] Figure 6 illustrates a schematic of a method 600 of operating (e.g., using) an example aerosol generation device 100.

[0145] At block 602, the method 600 comprises receiving at least part of an aerosol generation consumable 320 in an opening 112 of a chamber 110 of the device 100.

[0146] At block 604, the method 600 comprises upon receiving at least part of the consumable 320 in the opening 112, moving a barrier 120, the barrier 120 comprising an electrochromic display 130 for displaying information to a user, to permit access to the chamber 110.

[0147] Although a few example embodiments have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications might be made without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.

[0148] All the features disclosed in this specification, including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. Each feature disclosed in this specification, including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings, may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0149] The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification, including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings, or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. An aerosol generation device comprising: a chamber configured to receive at least part of an aerosol generation consumable via an opening of the chamber; a barrier comprising an electrochromic display for displaying information to a user, the barrier configured to: at least partially extend across the chamber at the opening; and move to permit access to the chamber upon at least part of the consumable being received in the opening.

2. The aerosol generation device of claim 1 , further comprising a battery unit; and wherein the electrochromic display is configured to display status information of the battery unit.

3. The aerosol generation device of claim 1 or 2, wherein the barrier is located within the chamber.

4. The aerosol generation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the barrier is resiliently biased to restrict access to the chamber.

5. The aerosol generation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the chamber comprises one or more recesses configured to receive at least part of the moved barrier.

6. The aerosol generation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the chamber comprises a guide portion and a heating portion, the guide portion configured to facilitate reception of the consumable in the heating portion.

7. The aerosol generation device according to any preceding claim, wherein the barrier is deformable such that the barrier is configured to move when subject to a threshold insertion pressure from the consumable.

8. The aerosol generation device according to claim 7, wherein the barrier is configured to deform away from the opening.

9. The aerosol generation device according to claim 7, or 8, wherein the barrier comprises one or more flex sensors to detect deformation of the barrier.

10. The aerosol generation device according to any of claims 7 to 9, wherein the deformable barrier comprises a plurality of deformable segments.

11. The aerosol generation device according to claim 10, wherein each segment of the plurality of deformable segments are distinct from one another.

12. The aerosol generation device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein each segment of the plurality of deformable segments are regularly spaced from one another.

13. The aerosol generation device according to any preceding claim, further comprising a proximity sensor configured to detect receipt and / or removal of the consumable.

14. The aerosol generation device according to claim 13, further comprising an actuator configured to move the barrier to permit access to the chamber in response to the proximity sensor detecting receipt of the consumable.

15. A method of operating an aerosol generation device comprising: receiving at least part of an aerosol generation consumable in an opening of a chamber of the device; and upon receiving at least part of the consumable in the opening, moving a barrier, the barrier comprising an electrochromic display for displaying information to a user, to permit access to the chamber.

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