Removable cover for an aerosol generation device and an aerosol generation device

Abstract

A removable cover (200) for an aerosol generation device (100) comprises an electrochromic display (250) for displaying information to a user. The electrochromic display has a plurality of layers, at least one of which is independently controllable from another of the plurality of layers. An aerosol generation device (100) is provided with the removable cover comprising the electrochromic display, and has a main body (102) for receiving an aerosol generation consumable. The electrochromic display may overlie an LED display (150) provided in the main body and may change colour in response to a characteristic of the device such as a heater status or battery status. The electrochromic display may also display authentication information and may be fixed to the main body with fixing magnets (130, 230).

Description

[0001] Removable cover for an aerosol generation device and an aerosol generation device

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a removable cover for an aerosol generation device and an aerosol generation device comprising the removable cover.

[0003] Background

[0004] An aerosol generation device is configured to heat an aerosol substrate to generate aerosol for inhalation. An aerosol generation device typically includes a display to provide information to a user. Information could relate to, for example, the heating status, battery information or other metrics that inform the user about the aerosol generation device.

[0005] Typically, displays on aerosol generation devices are provided by LCD, LED or OLED display arrangements. However, such display types require a constant power supply to display information and integration into the housing of a device can be challenging due to connection and size requirements. Further, use of aerosol generation devices often takes place outdoors, where strong ambient light could reduce readability of the displays.

[0006] Additionally, is often desired for users to be able to customise their aerosol generation device. Various aerosol generation devices are available which offer various customisation options, for example colours or patterns. Different display options are typically more limited, meaning that the possibility of customisation of the aerosol generation device, while also obtaining information about the device is limited.

[0007] It is the object of the invention to overcome at least some of the above referenced problems, or to provide an alternative approach. In particular, it is the object of the invention to improve the display capabilities and customisation options on a customisable aerosol generation device to enhance the user experience.

[0008] Summary

[0009] According to the present disclosure there is provided a removable cover for an aerosol generation device including the features as set out in the claims. According to a first aspect, there is provided a removable cover for an aerosol generation device, comprising an electrochromic display for displaying information to a user, wherein the electrochromic display comprises a plurality of layers, wherein at least one of the plurality of layers is independently controllable from another one of the plurality of layers.

[0010] As at least one of the plurality of layers is independently controllable from another one of the plurality of layers, more complex information can be displayed.

[0011] A removable cover is provided which allows for users to remove and replace an outer cover for their aerosol generation device. This allows for customisation options which enhances the user experience.

[0012] The electrochromic display has a low power requirement so does not require its own power source. Advantageously, this means that the removable cover is simple and cheaper to manufacture. The electrochromic display also has high readability in strong ambient light so that information is displayed clearly to the user in all lighting conditions.

[0013] The electrochromic display may be integrated into a window in the removable cover. That is to say that there may be an opening in the removable cover through which a user may look. Integrating the electrochromic display in this window is an efficient use of space and provides a simple means for conveying information to a user.

[0014] In one example, each of the plurality of layers is independently controllable. In other examples, pairs of layers are independently controllable from each other. In both of these examples, at least one of the plurality of layers is independently controllable from another one of the plurality of layers.

[0015] The removable cover of the first or second aspect may comprise one or more further electrochromic displays.

[0016] The one or more further electrochromic displays may be independently operable. According to a second aspect, there is provided an aerosol generation device comprising the removable cover according to the first aspect and a main body for receiving an aerosol generation consumable.

[0017] The removable cover can be removed and replaced as desired by a user. The electrochromic display has a low power requirement so does not significantly deplete the power source within the aerosol generation device which is connected to the main body. The electrochromic display can change colour so is highly customisable, while also providing information to a user clearly and reliably. For example, the electrochromic display may display a first colour scheme to represent a first characteristic of the aerosol generation device and a second colour scheme to represent a second characteristic of the aerosol generation device.

[0018] The main body may comprise an LED for displaying information to a user.

[0019] The electrochromic display may overlie the LED.

[0020] Due to the combination of the electrochromic display and an LED, readability of the display is increased. It also means that colour changing LEDs are not required, so is cheaper and less complex to integrate into an aerosol generation device. The combination of electrochromic display and LED means that it is easier to display information of many aspects of the aerosol generation device to a user in a simple way.

[0021] The LED and / or the electrochromic display may be configured to change colour in response to a characteristic of the device to display information to a user.

[0022] The characteristic of the device may relate to a heater status of the device.

[0023] The characteristic of the device may relate to a battery status of the device.

[0024] The LED and / or the electrochromic display may be configured to display authentication information in response to an authentication request.

[0025] The electrochromic display of the first or second aspect may be changeable between an off state and an on state in response to a user input. In the off state, the electrochromic display of the first or second aspect may be transparent.

[0026] In one example, the main body comprises one or more first connectors and the removable cover comprises one or more second connectors that are configured to electrically couple together, in use, wherein electric power is provided to the electrochromic display via the first connectors and second connectors.

[0027] The one or more second connectors may comprise multiple pins.

[0028] The connectors on the main body and removable cover provide a means for providing electric power to the electrochromic display from the battery of the aerosol generation device.

[0029] The removable cover may be configured to attach to the main body with complementary fixing magnets, wherein the removable cover and main body comprise complementary alignment magnets proximate the first connectors and second connectors to facilitate alignment between the first connectors and second connectors.

[0030] The alignment magnets mean that there is an improved chance of a necessary electric connection between the first connectors and second connectors by aligning the removable cover and the main body more accurately.

[0031] The electrochromic display may be changeable between an off state and an on state in response to a user input received by the aerosol generation device.

[0032] The above referenced features may be combined together in various combinations.

[0033] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0034] Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0035] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol generation device; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of an aerosol generation device with a removable cover attached to a main body;

[0036] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the aerosol generation device with the removable cover detached from the main body;

[0037] Figure 4 shows the main body and the releasable cover of the aerosol generation device in plan view;

[0038] Figures 5a and 5b show schematic examples of different arrangement of the second connector to couple with the electrochromic display; and

[0039] Figures 6a and 6b show a different view of the schematic examples of figures 5a and 5b respectively.

[0040] Detailed Description

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] The disclosure generally relates to a removable cover 200 for an aerosol generation device 100. The removable cover 200 has an electrochromic display 202 for displaying information to a user. The disclosure also relates to the aerosol generation device 100 comprising the removable cover 200 and a main body 102 for receiving an aerosol generation consumable.

[0046] In brief overview, and with reference to Figure 1 , an aerosol generation device 100 comprises a main body 102 and a removable cover 200. The removable cover 200 is releasably attached the main body 102. The removable cover 200 covers a portion of the outer surface of the main body 102. The main body 102 houses internal components of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0047] Within the main body 102, the aerosol generation device 100 comprises a battery unit 104 to supply power to the aerosol generation device 100. The aerosol generation device 100 also includes a controller 106, otherwise known as a processor or control unit, that is configured to control operation of the aerosol generation device 100 in use.

[0048] The main body 102 of the aerosol generation device 100 comprises a chamber 108. The chamber 108 is configured to receive an aerosol generation consumable comprising aerosol generation material (not shown). In use, the aerosol generation consumable is received in the chamber 108 in the main body 102. The aerosol generation material may be in a solid form or a liquid form.

[0049] The chamber 108 may be accessible via an opening 110. The opening 110 is an opening in the main body 102 of the aerosol generation device 100. The opening may be closable by a lid 112. The lid 112 forms part of the main body 102. The lid 112 is movable between a first configuration, where the opening 110 to the chamber 108 is covered and a second configuration, where the opening 110 to the chamber 108 is open and accessible. In examples, the lid 112 may comprise a user interface.

[0050] The main body 102 of the aerosol generation device 100 comprises an energy provision system 114, such as a heater configured to heat the consumable. The energy provision system 114 could take any form configured to provide energy to the consumable to generate aerosol from the consumable. For example, it could take the form of a resistive or inductive heater or the like. It may also comprise a wick and coil arrangement configured to absorb liquid aerosol precursor material and generate an aerosol. Other arrangements of the energy provision system 114 and the aerosol generation device 100 are envisaged.

[0051] The aerosol generation device 100 be operable in a number of modes. For example, the aerosol generation device 100 may have an on-mode and an off-mode, and / or a sleep mode and an active mode. The aerosol generation device 100 may be described as being in the active mode when the energy provision system 114 is active. In other words, the active mode may be when a session of use is underway. In examples, the aerosol generation device 100 may have an eco-mode in which energy consumption is lower than in a standard mode. In examples, the aerosol generation device 100 may have a boost mode where energy consumption is higher.

[0052] The modes of the aerosol generation device 100 may be selectable by a user input. For example, the user input may be the opening of the lid 112 of the aerosol generation device 100. In examples, the user input may be the activation of a button or haptic input, for example a double tap of the aerosol generation device 100. In examples, the user input may be an interaction with a user interface on the aerosol generation device 100. In examples, the mode may be selected in response to the insertion of a consumable into the aerosol generation device 100 via the opening 110. Referring to Figures 2 and 3, an aerosol generation device 100 is shown in perspective view. The aerosol generation 100 device comprises a main body 102. The aerosol generation device comprises a removable cover 200.

[0053] The removable cover 200 is attachable to the main body 102. Being attachable means that the removable cover 200 can be attached or detached from the main body 102 by a user of the aerosol generation device 100. In examples, the removable cover 200 can be attached or detached by a user without requiring additional tools. For example, a user may be able to remove the removable cover 200 from the main body 102 by simply pulling it away from the main body.

[0054] The removable cover 200 is shown attached to the main body 102 in Figure 2. In figure 3, the removable cover 200 is shown spaced apart and detached from the main body 102.

[0055] In this example, the main body 102 has a housing 120. The housing 120 has a front surface 122 and a rear surface 124. A side surface 126 extends between the front surface 122 and the rear surface 124. The housing 120 encloses the internal components discussed with reference to Figure 1.

[0056] The front surface 122 comprises an LED 150. The LED 150 is a visual indicator that is configured to display information to a user. The information may comprise one or more of: battery status; remaining number of sessions; device status; heater or energy provision system status. In examples, the information may comprise one or more other metrics such as a need for heater cleaning, battery replacement, optimisation of the heating profile and / or optimisation of the energy usage. In examples, the LED displays authentication information in response to an authentication request, for example whether an authentication request has been allowed or denied. In examples, the LED 150 may be replaced by a different light emitting indicator, for example an LCD or OLED display. The LED 150 or other visual indicator may be elongate. The LED may be a white LED.

[0057] Part of the front surface 122 of the housing 120 is covered by the removable cover 200 when the removable cover 200 is attached to the main body 102. In examples, the entire front surface 122 of the housing may be covered. Advantageously, this means that components on front surface 122 of the main body 102 are suitably covered and protected by the removable cover 200 when it is attached to the main body 102.

[0058] The aerosol generation device 100 may be elongate in plan view. The removable cover 200 may be shaped to correspond to the shape of the main body 102. As such, both the main body 102 and the removable cover are elongate in plan view. Advantageously, this improves the comfort for a user when holding the aerosol generation device.

[0059] The removable cover has a front surface 202 and a rear surface 204. When attached to the main body 102, the front surface 202 provides an external surface of the aerosol generation device. The rear surface 204 is least partially in contact with the front surface 122 of the main body 102. The removable cover may be formed of a polycarbonate, but other materials are envisaged, such as metal, plastics, etc. Advantageously, the removable cover may be replaced or changed for a different removable cover which allows for customisation of the aerosol generation device 100 to enhance user experience.

[0060] The removable cover 200 may be attachable to the main body 102 by fixing magnets. First fixing magnets 130 are provided on the housing 120 of the main body 102. Second fixing magnets 230 are provided on the removable cover 200. The first fixing magnets 130 and the second fixing magnets 230 are complementary. The first fixing magnets 130 and the second fixing magnets 230 may comprise a permanent magnet and a corresponding permanent magnet or ferromagnetic component, or vice versa.

[0061] Two of the first fixing magnets 130 may be provided on the main body 102. The second fixing magnets 230 are positioned on the removable cover so that when the removable cover 200 is attached to the main body 102, the first fixing magnets 130 and the second fixing magnets 230 are aligned. Advantageously, this means that the releasable cover 200 is attached securely to the main body 102. Further, it means that the removable cover 200 is aligned with the main body 102. This lowers the chance for user error when attaching the removable cover 200 to the main body. The first fixing magnets 130 and second fixing magnets 230 also allow for simple and easy removal of the removable cover 200 by a user. In examples, more or less than two pairs of fixing magnets 130, 230 may be provided. In examples, any other suitable fixing means are envisaged. In examples, alternative mechanical fixing means are used, for example a press-fit connection, a snap-fit connection, interlocking means. In examples, a combination of fixing means are used to releasable attach the cover 200 to the main body 102.

[0062] The removable cover 200 may comprise a window 206. The window 206 extends through the thickness of the removable cover 200 from the front surface 202 to the rear surface 204. The window 206 may be elongate and overlies the LED 150 or other visual indicator on the main body 102 when the removable cover 200 is attached to the main body 102.

[0063] An electrochromic display 250 may be integrated into the window 206. In one example, the electrochromic display 250 overlies the LED 150 when the removable cover 200 is attached to the main body 102. As such, light emitted from the LED 150 passes through the electrochromic display 150 to display information to a user. Advantageously, providing an electrochromic display 250 on the removable cover 200 that can be detached from a main body facilitates maintenance, repair and exchange of the electrochromic display 250 when required.

[0064] The electrochromic display 250 is provided using reflective display technology with thin polymers that change colour in response to an electrical input. Advantageously, this provides for enhance readability under different light conditions. For example, by using electrochromic displays, visibility is easier under strong ambient light, as compared to, for example, LCD, LED or OLED displays alone. This is particularly advantageous for tobacco products which may frequently be used outdoors.

[0065] The electrochromic display 250 is changeable between an off state and an on state in response to a user input. The user input may be, for example, activation of a button or haptic input, for example a tap of the removable cover 200. In examples, the user input may be an interaction with a user interface on the aerosol generation device 100, either on the main body 102 or the removal cover 200. In examples, the user input to change the electrochromic display 250 between the off state and the on state may be the same user input to select a mode of the aerosol generation device. In examples, each user input may be separate and distinct. In the on state, the electrochromic display 250 is coloured. The colour of the electrochromic display 250 is not opaque such that the light emitted from the LED 150 can be seen through the window 206. In combination, electrochromic display 250 and the LED 150 can display more complex information to a user.

[0066] The electrochromic display 250 may change colour in response to a characteristic of the aerosol generation device 100. The characteristic of the aerosol generation device 100 may relate to one or more of the heater status, the device status, and / or the battery status. In examples, the electrochromic display 250 changes colour in response to an authentication request. Information relating to the authentication request, i.e. whether the authentication request has been allowed or denied, may be displayed to the user by a colour change in the electrochromic display 250. In examples, the colour of the electrochromic display 250 may indicate a specific characteristic of the aerosol, generation device. For example, a first colour of the electrochromic display 250 may indicate the heater status of the aerosol generation device 100, while a second colour of the electrochromic display 250 may indicate the battery status of the aerosol generation device 100. That is to say, the controller of the aerosol generation device may provide a different electric voltage to the electrochromic display 250 to cause it to change colour depending on the characteristic.

[0067] In the off state, the electrochromic display 250 is transparent. Advantageously, this allows for the LED on the main body 102 to be visible. It also means that the electrochromic displays can be implemented any suitable colour background of the removable cover 200. Advantageously, this also means that the removable cover 200 is compatible with aerosol generation devices that do not comprise the LED 150 on the main body 102, without compromising user experience.

[0068] The electrochromic displays 250 is compatible with a range of substrates that may be used to form the removable cover 200. For example, the electrochromic display 250 can be readily and simply integrated into / onto glass, metal, plastic, fibres and / or textiles. This means that removable cover 200 can be highly customisable to enhance user experience. It also means that the electrochromic display 250 is discreet so that the aesthetics of the aerosol generation device are not compromised.

[0069] In examples, a characteristic of the aerosol generation device 100 may be indicated to the user by an absence of a colour on the electrochromic display 250 in the off state. In examples, the electrochromic display 250 may be in the off state such that light directly from the LED 150 can be seen by a user. This may indicate, for example, battery status of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0070] The electrochromic display 250 is flexible. As such, it can be provided on any suitable part of the removable cover 200 or on any different shape removable cover 200. For example, it can be implemented on a curved removable cover 200 that may be suitable for use with a range of different aerosol generation devices.

[0071] As compared to other displays, such as LCD, LED or OLED displays, the electrochromic display 250 has a low energy input requirements and a low energy consumption. The electrochromic display 250 has an optical memory effect, meaning that it can maintain its optical state for a period of time without continuous input of electrical power. For example, a voltage of between approximately 0.5V and 3V applied for 100mS (e.g. 50 to 300 microwatts) may be sufficient to power the electrochromic display. As the electrochromic display 250 has an optical memory effect, then the display will be visible for a period of time (e.g. upwards of an hour).

[0072] Advantageously, this means that the removable cover 200 does not require its own power supply when attached to the main body. As such, it is simpler and cheaper to manufacture. Further advantageously, decreased energy input is required as compared to other display types, making the displays and, in turn, means that excessive energy in the aerosol generation device 100 is not used for display purposes. 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.

[0073] The optical memory effect of the electrochromic display 250 means that a user who may repeatedly or continuously remove and replace the removable cover 200 will not lose the display if it has been disconnected from the power source for periods of time. This enhances the user experience as the user can be constantly and reliably informed about device information.

[0074] Further, providing a colour changing electrochromic display 250 as opposed to a colour changing LED is cheaper and simpler to integrate into the aerosol generation device 100. Display setting may be chosen by a user and programmed into the aerosol generation device 100 via the controller 106. Advantageously, by providing the colour change on the removable cover, reconfiguration of the aerosol generation device 100 for display settings is not required if the removable cover 200 is removed or replaced.

[0075] With reference to Figure 4, each of the main body 102 and the removable cover 200 may comprise connectors to provide power to the electrochromic display 250. First connectors 140 are provided on the first surface 122 of the main body 102. Second connectors 240 are provided on the rear surface 204 of the removable cover 200.

[0076] The first connectors 140 receive power from the battery unit 104 in the main body 102. When the removable cover 200 is attached to the main body 102, the second connectors 240 are aligned with the first connectors 140. Power is transferred from the first connectors 140 to the second connectors 240. The second connector 240 comprises multiple pins 262 which are connected to, and provide power to, the electrochromic display.

[0077] In examples, a simple electrochromic display 250 is provided with minimal pins 262, for example one or two pins 262. This provides for the electrochromic display 250 to change colour across the whole display. Advantageously, such an arrangement is simple to integrate into the removable cover 250. It is also durable and reliable so less likely to be damaged if the removable cover 250 is removed and replaced often by a user.

[0078] In examples, the electrochromic display 250 may display a gradient of colour. A gradient on the electrochromic display 250 may advantageously display information to a user relating to a characteristic of the device and may change as the characteristic changes.

[0079] In one example, the gradient may be provided by the electrochromic display 250 as the default setting. That is to say that there may just be a single electrochromic display segment that is predisposed to have a gradient of colour across the length of the segment (e.g., by having a variation in the number of layers across the length - more layers at one side compared with the other). In one example, the gradient may be provided by having different thickness of layers across the length of the electrochromic display segment. That is, the thicker region of the segment would have a darker colour and so a gradient of colour can be provided in a single segment. The output from the multiple layers may combine together to form a gradient across the length of the electrochromic display 250. In some examples, the multiple layers may be formed of different colours and so the output may be a combination of these colours across the length of the display.

[0080] The multiple layers may be integrated together. Separate positive pins may be provided to each layer of electrochromic display 250, but a single common negative pin may be applied to each layer (e.g. as shown in figures 5b and 6b). In this way, each layer is independently controllable from the other layers. More complex patterns may be displayed on the electrochromic display formed of a plurality of layers. In one example, a first layer may be powered to display a pattern and a second layer may be transparent (or vice-versa). The voltages provided to each layer can be controlled to selectively provide a different level of transparency (or transmittance) for the layers. For example, when a 0V is applied, the layers may be substantially transparent. As voltage is increased, so does the brightness of the colour of the layer. A first voltage may be applied to a first layer 250a and a second voltage may be applied to a second layer 250b, and so on. The first voltage may be 0.5V, for example, and the second voltage may be 1 , for example. For example, in Figures 5b and 6b a first positive pin 262a is coupled to a first layer and a second positive pin 262b is coupled to a second layer and so on. A common negative pin 264 is coupled to both layers. In one example, the electrochromic display 250 is formed of two layers.

[0081] As the example described above, one or more of the layers may be preconfigured to display a gradient of colour, in use. The direction of the colour gradients may be different for each layer. That is, the direction may be opposite to one another.

[0082] In one example, the first layer may be configured to display a first colour and the second layer may be configured to display a second colour. The voltages provided to each layer can be controlled to selectively provide a combination of these colours. For example, increasing a voltage to a first layer will mean that the colour of the first layer is more predominant in the final colour.

[0083] The multiple layers may be made of a plurality of pairs of layers as shown in figure 6a. In this example, layers 250a and 250b form a first pair and layers 250c and 250d form a second pair. Each pair of layers may be configured to display a different colour from the other pairs of layers. A first layer of the pair of layers may have a gradient of colour in a first direction and the second layer may have a gradient of colour in a second, opposite, direction. Again, each layer would require a separate positive pin connection, but a common negative pin connection could be provided across all layers. This example is shown in figures 5a and 6a in which a first positive pin 262a supplies electric power to the first pair of layers 250a and 250b and a second positive pin 262b provides electric power to the second pair of layers 250c and 250d. A single common negative pin 264 may provide electric power to all pairs of layers. In all examples, the negative pin 264 may be simply grounded (i.e. set at 0V). In this case, one pair of layers is independently controllable from another pair of layers. There may be more than two pairs of layers, with each pair of layers receiving power from a different positive pin.

[0084] The different pairs of layers may be configured to show different colours or show different information to a user, in use. If two layers display the same colour, the gradient may be customisable by changing the voltage level on each layer. The hue or tone of visible colour may be controlled if two layers with two colours are both powered. The colour saturation of each layer can be changed by adjusting the voltage provided, and mixing two can result in more colour varieties provided to a user. In the examples shown, at least one layer is independently controllable from the other layers.

[0085] The level of transparency of each layer may be a function of voltage applied. That is, if a brighter pattern is required then more voltage can be applied. If a dimmer pattern is required, then the voltage applied can be reduced. If the layers have different colours, then the overall combination of resultant colour from the different layers can be selectively controlled by the voltage applied.

[0086] In one example, the level of voltage applied to the electrochromic display 250 (via the pins 262) could be controlled by user input. For example, a user may input information using an input (e.g. button) on the aerosol generation device 100.

[0087] In some examples, the user may provide a haptic based input to the aerosol generation device to control the voltage provided to the electrochromic display 250. In one example, the aerosol generation device 100 may include one or more capacitive sensors and / or accelerometers to detect a gesture of a user, such as taping or swiping. Alternatively or in addition, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise an accelerometer to sense user gestures such as vibrating / shaking, number of shakings, strength of shaking and the voltage provided to the electrochromic display 250 is based on the received input. For example, a stronger shake would result in a higher level of brightness.

[0088] Alternatively, the user may connect a mobile phone with the aerosol generation device 100 and control the level of voltage based on an input provided to the mobile phone, for example, by using an app on the mobile phone. Using a mobile phone may provide the user with more control to be able to adjust the electrochromic display 250. For example, there may be a greater number of pre-programmed levels that they may use for the electrochromic display 250.

[0089] The controller 106 may be configured to determine the electrochromic display 250 response based on the received user inputs. The controller 106 may be configured to control the voltage provided to the layers of the electrochromic display 205. The controller 106 may provide voltage to the layers based on one or more of user input, a characteristic of the device (e.g a heater status of the device, or a battery status of the device), a detected characteristic of a consumable inserted into the device (e.g. authentication information in response to an authentication request).

[0090] The main body 102 and the removable cover 200 have first alignment magnets 132 and second alignment magnets 232 respectively. The alignment magnets 132, 232 are identical to the fixing magnets 130, 230. The first alignment magnets 132 are provided proximate the first connectors 140. The second alignment magnets 232 are provided proximate the second connectors 240 on the rear surface 204 of the removable cover 200. Advantageously, the alignment magnets 132, 232 ensure that the second connectors 240 are accurately aligned with the first connectors 140 when the removable cover 200 is attached to the main body. This ensures a reliable connection so that the power is transferred to the electrochromic display 250. Advantageously, contact between the first connectors 140 and second connectors 240 is not required to be strong since the electrochromic display 250 has low power requirements.

[0091] In examples, more than one electrochromic display 250 may be provided. Each additional electrochromic display 250 may be independently operable. In examples, more than one electrochromic display 250 may be aligned with the LED to provide information of different characteristics of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0092] 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.

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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

CLAIMS1 . A removable cover for an aerosol generation device, comprising an electrochromic display for displaying information to a user, wherein the electrochromic display comprises a plurality of layers, wherein at least one of the plurality of layers is independently controllable from another one of the plurality of layers.

2. The removable cover of claim 1 , wherein electrochromic display is integrated into a window in the removable cover.

3. The removable cover of claim 1 or 2, comprising one or more further electrochromic displays, which are independently operable.

4. An aerosol generation device comprising: the removable cover according to any preceding claim; and a main body for receiving an aerosol generation consumable.

5. The aerosol generation device of claim 4, wherein the main body comprises an LED for displaying information to a user.

6. The aerosol generation device of claim 5, wherein the electrochromic display overlies the LED.

7. The aerosol generation device of any of claims 4 to 6, wherein the LED and / or the electrochromic display is configured to change colour in response to a characteristic of the device to display information to a user.

8. The aerosol generation device of claim 7, wherein the characteristic of the device relates to a heater status of the device, or a battery status of the device.

9. The aerosol generation device of any of claims 4 to 8, wherein the LED and / or the electrochromic display is configured to display authentication information in response to an authentication request.10 The aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 4 to 9, wherein the main body comprises one or more first connectors and the removable cover comprises one or more second connectors that are configured to electrically couple together, in use, wherein electric power is provided to the electrochromic display via the first connectors and second connectors.

11. The aerosol generation device according to claim 10, wherein the one or more second connectors comprise multiple pins.

12. The aerosol generation device of any of claims 4 to 11 , wherein the removable cover is configured to attach to the main body with complementary fixing magnets, wherein the removable cover and main body comprise complementary alignment magnets proximate the first connectors and second connectors to facilitate alignment between the first connectors and second connectors.

13. The aerosol generation device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrochromic display is changeable between an off state and an on state in response to a user input received by the aerosol generation device.

14. The aerosol generation device of claim 13, wherein, in the off state, the electrochromic display is transparent.

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