Aerosol generation consumable and aerosol generation device

Abstract

An aerosol generation consumable (200) comprises solid aerosol precursor material and an electrochromic display (210) for displaying information of the aerosol generation consumable. An aerosol generation device (100) for receiving the aerosol generation consumable comprises one or more terminals (150, 152) configured to provide electrical power to the electrochromic display of the aerosol generation consumable. The device may also have one or more sensors (160, 162) configured to capture the information from the electrochromic display after the provision of electric power.

Description

[0001] Aerosol generation consumable and aerosol generation device

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generation consumable and an aerosol generation device. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to aerosol generation consumables comprising electrochromic displays for displaying information of the aerosol generation consumable.

[0003] Background

[0004] An aerosol generation device is configured to heat an aerosol precursor material (aerosol substrate) in an aerosol generation consumable to generate aerosol for inhalation.

[0005] It is important to ensure that suitable consumables are being used with the aerosol generation device to avoid damage to the device. It is therefore advantageous to authenticate consumables that are inserted into device prior to commencing a session of use. However, it is desired that use of an aerosol generation device is simple and intuitive so that it is accessible and easy for users. Extra steps that may be required to be performed by a user to authenticate their consumables before use may negatively impact the user experience. Additionally, the components for aiding with the authentication should not negatively impact on the consumable design by being overly visible to users.

[0006] It is also beneficial for sessions of use to be customised, for example by changing the heating profile and length of a session of use, to enhance the user experience for different types of consumables.

[0007] Summary

[0008] According to the present disclosure there is provided an aerosol generation device and an aerosol generation consumable including the features as set out in the claims.

[0009] According to a first aspect, there is provided an aerosol generation consumable, comprising a solid aerosol precursor material and an electrochromic display for displaying information of the aerosol generation consumable. Electrochromic displays are easy to integrate into the aerosol generation consumable. Advantageously, this means that information can be located on a suitable part of the consumable to display information to be captured by an aerosol generation device. In turn, captured information can determine information about the consumable so that appropriate authentication takes place. In some cases, the captured information may be used to apply tailored heating profiles and session lengths to that type of consumable. This reduces the likelihood of damage to a device and may enhance the user experience.

[0010] The aerosol generation consumable may comprise one or more terminals of the electrochromic display, wherein the one or more terminals is configured to receive electrical power from an aerosol generation device, in use.

[0011] The electrochromic display has low energy requirements and so can maintain its optical state without a continuous input of power. As such, the use of electrochromic displays on the consumable does not substantially drain the battery of an aerosol generation device.

[0012] The electrochromic display may be configured to: display information in response to receiving a pulse of voltage from the device terminals; and maintain the information on the electrochromic display for a period of time after the voltage has been removed. A single pulse of voltage (e.g. pulse of electric current / electric power) is sufficient for the electrochromic display to be active for a period of time after the electric voltage has been removed.

[0013] In response to the electrical power being received, the electrochromic display may be configured to display information.

[0014] Information may relate to an authentication status of the consumable, which will reduce the likelihood of damage to a device by use of unsuitable consumables. Information may additionally or alternatively relate to information about the consumable so that suitable heating profiles may be applied during use which optimises a user’s experience.

[0015] The electrochromic display may be on a distal end of the consumable, wherein the electrochromic display has one or more ventilation holes. By positioning an electrochromic display on a distal end of a consumable, and providing ventilation holes, airflow through an aerosol generation consumable will not be impacted. As such, implementing the electrochromic display into the consumable is discrete and does not negatively affect the user experience.

[0016] The aerosol generation consumable may comprise a wrapper, wherein the electrochromic display is printed on the wrapper.

[0017] By printing an electrochromic display onto a wrapper of the aerosol generation consumable, the electrochromic display can be integrated cost effectively and simply. It is therefore easy to integrate the electrochromic display anywhere on the consumable as required, in order to provide appropriate information on the electrochromic display.

[0018] In one example, information of the aerosol generation consumable comprises one or more of: identification information, an authentication status of the consumable, or a consumable type. This data may be used by the aerosol generation device to change its operation based on the data.

[0019] The information may be displayed as: a pattern, a simple image, a colour change, or a matrix of segments. That is, the information may be displayed to a user in one of several different ways.

[0020] According to a second aspect, there is provided an aerosol generation device for receiving an aerosol generation consumable of the first aspect, comprising one or more terminals configured to provide electrical power to an electrochromic display of an aerosol generation consumable.

[0021] Electrical power from the device is provided to the electrochromic display so that it can display information of the aerosol generation consumable. The electrochromic display requires a small power input and can maintain its optical state without a continuous input of power so does not substantially impact the battery of the aerosol generation device. In turn, this to optimise battery life of the aerosol generation device while providing information about the consumable so that the user experience is enhanced. The device and consumable operate together to reduce the number of false positives / false negatives during an authentication process and may perform stick recognition, identification and authentication of a consumable.

[0022] The device may comprise one or more sensors configured to capture information from the electrochromic display after the provision of electrical power to the electrochromic display.

[0023] By using one or more sensors, information of the aerosol generation consumable can be captured by the device. Sensors may be micro cameras or other types of sensors. These may be small, easy to implement, discreet and robust to ensure information form consumable is captured accurately.

[0024] The one or more sensors may comprise a first sensor configured to: capture information relating to first information of the electrochromic display after the provision of electrical power to the electrochromic display; and capture information relating to second information of the electrochromic display after a predetermined period of time.

[0025] The sensors may be configured to capture and, in examples, compare information to accurately determine status or information about the consumable.

[0026] The aerosol generation device may comprise a barrier movable between: a first configuration in which access to a chamber of the aerosol generation device by the consumable is restricted; and a second configuration in which access to a chamber of the aerosol generation device by the consumable is permitted wherein the barrier is configured to move from the first configuration to the second configuration based on the second information and first information.

[0027] The barrier may restrict access to chamber so that heating cannot begin until the consumable has been authenticated. Advantageously, this reduces likelihood of damage to the device by the use of unsuitable consumables.

[0028] The one or more sensors may be located at a distal end of a chamber and configured to sense the first and second information on a distal end of the consumable. At the distal end of the chamber of the aerosol generation device, the sensors may be positioned away from energy source of the device. This may reduce likelihood of damage to sensors so that the capturing of information is accurate.

[0029] The one or more sensors may comprise: a first sensor configured to capture information relating to first information of the electrochromic display at a first time; and a second sensor configured to capture information relating to second information of the electrochromic display at a second time.

[0030] More than one sensor may be configured to capture information in order to accurately and effectively determine information of the aerosol generation device.

[0031] The second sensor may be configured to capture information relating to second information in response to the consumable being located in a threshold position in the aerosol generation device.

[0032] A second sensor may capture information to apply specific heating profiles depending on information about the consumable. This may enhance user experience.

[0033] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of operating an aerosol generation device, comprising: inserting an aerosol generation consumable into the aerosol generation device, the aerosol generation consumable comprising a solid aerosol precursor material; providing electric power to an electrochromic display of the aerosol generation consumable; and displaying information on the electrochromic display of the aerosol generation consumable in response to the provision of electric power.

[0034] The electrochromic display on the aerosol generation consumable is provided with power from the device when it is inserted into the device. This means that no additional steps are required by the user so enable the display of information on the aerosol generation consumable.

[0035] The method of operating an aerosol generation device may comprise: capturing information relating to first information of the electrochromic display; and capturing information relating to second information of the electrochromic display wherein the second information is captured: after a predetermined period of time after the provision of electric power to the electrochromic display; or in response to the consumable being located in a threshold position in the aerosol generation device.

[0036] The method may comprise capturing first and second information of the aerosol generation consumable. This means that information such as the authentication status of the consumable and further information on consumable type and requirements may be captured to reduce the likelihood of damage to the device and to enable a personalised user experience.

[0037] The method of operating an aerosol generation device may comprise controlling operation of the aerosol generation device based on the captured information.

[0038] Information on consumable type and requirements may be captured so that operation of the device is customised based on that information. This may enable a personalised experience where sessions of use to be customised, for example by changing the heating profile and length of a session of use, to enhance the user experience for different types of consumables.

[0039] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0040] Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] Figure 1 shows a schematic drawing of an aerosol generation consumable;

[0042] Figure 2 shows a schematic drawing of an aerosol generation device;

[0043] Figure 3 shows an example of a chamber of an aerosol generation device with an aerosol generation consumable;

[0044] Figure 4 shows the example of Figure 3 of the chamber of an aerosol generation device with an aerosol generation consumable in a predetermined position;

[0045] Figure 5 shows an example of a chamber of an aerosol generation device with an aerosol generation consumable; Figure 6a shows an example of a chamber of an aerosol generation device with an aerosol generation consumable;

[0046] Figure 6b shows the distal end of an example of an aerosol generation consumable; and

[0047] Figure 7 schematically shows a method of operating an aerosol generation device.

[0048] Detailed Description

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] The disclosure generally relates to an aerosol generation consumable 200 that comprises an electrochromic display 210 for displaying information of the aerosol generation consumable 200. The information may be identification information.

[0053] The disclosure also generally relates to an aerosol generation device 100 for receiving the aerosol generation consumable 200. The aerosol generation device 100 has, among other features, one or more device terminals 150, 152 configured to provide electrical power to the electrochromic display 210 of the aerosol generation consumable 200.

[0054] Referring to Figure 1 , the aerosol generation consumable 200 may be arranged as a longitudinal stick with a mouth end 212 and a distal end 214. The aerosol generation consumable 200 may contain aerosol precursor material 206.

[0055] The aerosol generation consumable 200 may be formed of a number of sections arranged longitudinally within an outer wrapper 216. The outer wrapper 216 may be formed of paper (e.g. wrapping paper). Proximate the mouth end 212, the aerosol generation consumable 200 may comprise a filter section 202. The filter section 202 comprises filtration material. Adjacent to the filter section 202 may be a cooling section 204. The cooling section 204 comprises cooling material or may be a tube with empty space. Adjacent to the cooling section 204, the aerosol precursor material 206 may be provided. Adjacent to the aerosol precursor material 206, a plug section 208 may be provided. The plug section 208 may be provided to filter any potential foreign bodies to avoid those from passing through the consumable 200. The front plug 208 may comprise cellulose acetate, polylactic acid, natural pulp / fiber or the like.

[0056] In examples, the sections of the aerosol generation consumable 200 may be arranged in a different order within the outer wrapper 216, or even with different components. In use, aerosol is generated and provided to the user via an airflow path through the consumable 200. The aerosol generation consumable 200 may comprise airflow openings between the sections to allow for airflow to flow therebetween. In examples, the consumable 200 may take a different form. For example, the consumable 200 may be substantially flat or have a different cross-sectional shape. In examples, the aerosol generation consumable 200 may comprise aerosol generation material 206 in a container.

[0057] The aerosol generation consumable 200 comprises an electrochromic display 210. The electrochromic display 210 may be provided on the outer wrapper 216 of the aerosol generation consumable 200. The electrochromic display 210 may be printed on the outer wrapper 216. Advantageously, a printed electrochromic display 210 is highly suitable for cost-effective implementation due to the flexibility and low tooling costs associated with the process. In addition, the provision of the electrochromic display 210 on a paper wrapper limits negative environmental impacts. In one example, the paper wrapper comprises a cellulose nanofibril paper.

[0058] In examples, an electrochromic display 210 may be provided directly on one or more of the sections of the aerosol generation consumable 200. In examples, the electrochromic display 210 may be provided on an external surface of the container that may comprise aerosol generation material 206.

[0059] The electrochromic display 210 may be provided on the plug section 208 of the aerosol generation consumable 200. Advantageously, this means that the electrochromic display 210 is provided at the distal end 214 of the aerosol generation consumable 200. In use, this may mean that the electrochromic display 210 is positioned away from an energy source in the device 100, which reduces the temperatures to which the electrochromic display 210 may be subjected. In examples, the electrochromic display 210 may be provided in any alternative region of the aerosol generation consumable 200.

[0060] The electrochromic display 210 may be a simple electrochromic display, configured to display basic information. For example, the electrochromic display 210 may display a specified pattern or simple image. In examples, the electrochromic display 210 may, in part or its entirety, change colour. In examples, the electrochromic display 210 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 210 may be independently controllable by the controller. Various control circuitry is envisaged. For example, the electrochromic display 210 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.

[0061] The electrochromic display 210 may be part of an electrochromic display assembly. The electrochromic display assembly may comprise one or more consumable terminals 250, 252 of the electrochromic display 210. The consumable terminals 250, 252 transfer power to the electrochromic display 210. In examples where the electrochromic display 210 is provided on the outer wrapper 216 of the aerosol generation consumable 200, the consumable terminals 250, 252 and / or the electrochromic display 210 may be printed directly on the outer wrapper 216. Advantageously, this means that the consumable terminals are simple and cheap to incorporate into an aerosol generation consumable 200. The consumable terminals may comprise a positive terminal 250 and a negative terminal 252. In examples, terminal 250 may be negative and terminal 252 may be positive.

[0062] The consumable terminals 250, 252 may be provided as electrically conductive lines around the whole circumference of the aerosol generation consumable 200. Advantageously, this means that the consumable terminals 250, 252 are more likely to contact device terminals 150, 152, as will be described, such that accurate rotational alignment is not required. In examples, the consumable terminals 250, 252 may be provided as strips, points or markings of different arrangements.

[0063] With reference to Figure 2, the aerosol generation device 100 comprises a housing 102. Within the housing 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.

[0064] The aerosol generation device 100 comprises a chamber 108. The chamber 108 is configured to receive the aerosol generation consumable 200 comprising aerosol precursor material 206. In use, the aerosol generation consumable 200 is received in the chamber 108 in the housing 102. The aerosol precursor material 206 is in a solid form within a consumable 200. Providing displays on a solid aerosol precursor material is atypical, but enabled by the use of an electrochromic display. The aerosol generation consumable 200 may be for a Heat-not-Burn (HnB) device. The aerosol generation consumable 200 may comprise a tobacco stick.

[0065] The chamber 108 has a proximal end 107. This may be referred to as the mouth end of the chamber 108. The chamber 108 has a distal end 109. In use, the distal end 214 of the aerosol generation consumable 200 is received in the distal end 109 of the chamber 108.

[0066] The chamber 108 may be accessible via an opening 110 at the proximal end 107. The opening 110 is an opening in the housing 102 of the aerosol generation device 100. The opening may be closable by a lid 112. The lid 112 forms part of the housing 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. In examples, moving of the lid 112 from the first configuration to the second configuration may activate the device 100.

[0067] The aerosol generation device 100 may also comprise 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 200. For example, it could take the form of a resistive or inductive heater or the like. Other arrangements of the energy provision system 114 and the aerosol generation device 100 are envisaged.

[0068] 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. In examples, the aerosol generation device 100 may have a cleaning mode. 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 mode may be selected in response to the insertion of a consumable into the aerosol generation device 100 via the opening 110. Alternatively, the modes of the aerosol generation device 100 may relate to the information displayed on the electrochromic display 210 of the aerosol generation article, as will be described.

[0069] The aerosol generation device 100 comprises device terminals 150, 152. The terminals are configured to provide electrical power to the electrochromic display 210 on the aerosol generation consumable. In examples, a single device terminal or more than two device terminals may be provided.

[0070] Referring to Figure 2, the device terminals 150, 152 are positive and negative terminals respectively. The device terminals 150, 152 are provided on opposing sides within the chamber 108 of the aerosol generation device 100. In examples, the device terminals 150, 152 may be arranged anywhere within the chamber 108, provided that contact with the consumable terminals 250, 252 may be facilitated when a consumable 200 is inserted into the chamber 108. In examples, the device terminals 150, 152 are configured to supply power / voltage when the device 100 is in the on-mode or an active mode. In one example, the device terminals 150, 152 are longitudinally offset with respect to each other such that they contact different consumable terminals 250, 252, which may also be longitudinally offset with respect to one another by the same amount.

[0071] Referring to Figure 3, the chamber 108 of a device 100 and a consumable 200 is shown. The consumable 200 is partially inserted into the chamber 108.

[0072] In use, when no consumable 200 is inserted into the chamber 108, power may not be supplied at the device terminals 150, 152. Advantageously, this means that power is not being consumed unnecessarily at the device terminals 150, 152.

[0073] As the consumable 200 is inserted into the chamber 108, a trigger signal may be generated. In response to the trigger signal, power may be supplied to the device terminals 150, 152. In examples, power may continue to be supplied to the device terminals 150, 152 for a predetermined time, until a change in trigger signal is detected, and / or until sufficient power has been transferred to the consumable terminals 250, 252 of a consumable 200.

[0074] In examples, the trigger signal may be generated in response to detecting that the lid 112 has been moved to the second configuration, where the opening 100 to the chamber 108 is accessible. In examples, the trigger signal may be generated in response to ambient light being detected by the device 100. In examples, the trigger signal may be generated in response to an infrared proximity sensor in the device detecting that the chamber 108 is accessible or accessed. For example, if the chamber 108 is open, the infrared proximity sensor may detect that the chamber 108 is accessible. In response, power may be supplied to the device terminals 150 for a predetermined time, or until the chamber 108 is accessed or closed. In examples, the trigger signal may be generated in response to a capacitive (touch) sensor detecting that the device is being held by a user.

[0075] In this manner, the controller 106 does not need to constantly supply power to the device terminals 150, 152 but rather can selectively provide power to the device terminals 150, 152 upon receiving a trigger signal as described above.

[0076] In use, as a consumable 200 is inserted into the device 100 and passes into the chamber 108, the consumable terminals 250, 252 may contact the device terminals 150, 152. Electrical power is supplied to the device terminals 150, 152 as described above (e.g., a trigger signal prompts the controller 106 to provide power to the device terminals 150, 152). As the consumable terminals 250, 252 contact the device terminals 150, 152, power is transferred from the device terminals 150, 152 to the consumable terminals 250, 252. In response to receiving electrical power from the device terminals 150, 152, the electrochromic display 210 is powered and displays information.

[0077] The electrochromic display 210 may be operable to display information to a user in response to receiving an operational current of less than 10mA via the consumable terminals 250, 252. Advantageously, providing an operation current of less than 10mA means that there is a relatively low energy consumption from the battery to power the electrochromic display 210. Advantageously, less than 2mJ of energy may be required to maintain full contrast of the electrochromic display 210 in the powered state. Even less energy may be required to power the electrochromic display 210 for a time sufficient to determine information using a second sensor 162.

[0078] The electrochromic display 210 may be configured to display information in response to receiving a single pulse of voltage (e.g. a single pulse of electric power) from the device terminals 150, 152. The electrochromic display 210 is configured to maintain the information on the display for a period of time after the voltage has been removed, i.e. , after the consumable terminals 250, 252 are not contacting the device terminals 150, 152. In other words, as the consumable is inserted into the chamber 108 and the consumable terminals 250, 252 contact the respective device terminals 150, 152, an electric pulse of power may be provided to the electrochromic display 210. As an example, a single pulse of 3V for 100 milliseconds may be sufficient to activate the electrochromic display 210 for over an hour. In examples, between 50 to 500 microwatts of electric power may be delivered in the pulse. The displayed information will slowly fade over that time.

[0079] The electrochromic display 210 has an optical memory effect, meaning that it can maintain its optical states for a period of time without continuous input of electrical power. Advantageously, this means that a constant supply of energy is not required to display information on the electrochromic display 210. It means that a small amount of power input is sufficient to maintain the electrochromic display on the aerosol generation consumable 200 to display information about the aerosol generation device prior to, or during, a session of use. Further advantageously, there is a lower energy consumption as compared to other display types, meaning that excess energy from the device 100 is not required. In examples, more than one electrochromic display 210 may be provided on the consumable 200.

[0080] Electrochromic displays 210 may be implemented on any background colour, and are ideal for outdoor readability due to a light-absorbing mode. The electrochromic displays may be foldable to conform to a shape of the consumable, as required. The electrochromic displays may also have a very low refresh rate, which reduces the draw on the battery.

[0081] The aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a first sensor 160 at the proximal end 107 of the chamber 108. The aerosol generation device 100 may optionally or alternatively comprise a second sensor 162. The second sensor 162 may be spaced apart from the first sensor 160. The second sensor 162 may be located at the distal end of the chamber 108. Each of the sensors may comprise a microcamera. In examples, one or both of the sensors may be a different type of sensor, for example an optical sensor or an RGB sensor.

[0082] In some examples, in response to electric power being provided to the consumable terminals 250, 252, the first sensor 160 may be configured to capture first information from the electrochromic display 210 after the provision of electrical power to the electrochromic display 210.

[0083] In examples where the first sensor 160 comprises a microcamera, the first sensor 160 may take a photo of the information displayed on the electrochromic display 210. In examples, the controller 106 may process captured information. In examples, the first sensor 160 is configured to capture information of the electrochromic display 210 immediately after the power has been supplied, and so the display 210 would not have changed the information displayed from before the electric power being applied. That is, the first sensor 160 may be configured to capture an initial default information provided by the electrochromic display (e.g., possible blank).

[0084] In examples, the first sensor 160 may detect initial information displayed on the electrochromic display 210 (which, as described above, may be blank). The first sensor 160 may detect first information of the aerosol generation consumable 200. In examples, the first sensor 160 may determine an initial authentication status of the aerosol generation consumable 200. For example, the first sensor 160 may detect an expected background colour or type on the electrochromic display 210. This may be, for example, the initial information provided by the electrochromic display 210 in its initial state before the information displayed has changed in response to the provision of electric power. The first sensor 160 may determine that the aerosol generation consumable 200 is present and pass to the second authentication step.

[0085] Whilst authentication has been referred to here, the process is equally applicable to consumable identification.

[0086] In examples, the first sensor 160 may alternatively detect an unexpected background on the consumable, for example the first sensor 160 may detect that the electrochromic display 210 is not displaying the expected information. This may indicate that the aerosol generation consumable 200 is not genuine. In response, the aerosol generation device 100 may not be operable. In examples, an absence of expected information detected by the first sensor 160 may indicate that the electrochromic display could not be detected, for example if a user has inserted a foreign body when the device 100 is not in cleaning mode. In response, the aerosol generation device 100 may not be operable.

[0087] For example, the consumable 200 may comprise an electrochromic display with a white background. The electrochromic display 210 may be configured to turn blue after electric power has been provided (but not immediately). As such, in the example described above, the first sensor 160 would detect an initial state of the consumable 200, e.g., the white background. If the initial state corresponds with the expected initial state, which may be determined by the controller 106, then the authentication process may proceed to the next authentication step.

[0088] The next authentication step may either take place at the first sensor 160 after a predetermined period of time or at a second sensor (located in a different position to the first sensor) after a predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the next authentication step may take place at the second sensor 162 once the consumable 200 has been inserted to a predetermined threshold within the chamber 108. These examples are described in more detail below.

[0089] The second sensor 162 may detect second information of the electrochromic display. In examples, the second sensor 162 is configured to detect a specific pattern on the electrochromic display 210. The second sensor 162 may be configured to capture information on the electrochromic display 210 after a predetermined time. For example, the second sensor 162 may be configured to capture information 0.5s after the first sensor 160 has captured information. In examples, the second sensor 162 may be configured to capture information more or less than 0.5s after the first sensor 160. In other words, the first sensor 160 may be configured to capture and / or detect information on the electrochromic display 210 at a first time. The second sensor 162 may be configured to capture and / or detect information on the electrochromic display at a second time. The first time and the second time may be separated by a predetermined time, for example 0.5s. In examples, and as shown in Figure 4, the second sensor 162 may be configured detect information in response to the aerosol generation consumable being located in a threshold position in the chamber 108. In examples, the second sensor 162 may be configured to detect information in response to an indication that the distal end 214 of aerosol generation consumable 200 is in contact with the distal end 109 of the chamber 108.

[0090] In the example described above of the electrochromic display 210 being initially white, but turning blue in response to the provision of the electric power, the second sensor 162 detects the second information. If the second information received relates to the electrochromic display 210 being blue, then the consumable is authenticated. If the second information relates to the electrochromic display 210 not being blue, then the consumable 200 would not be authenticated. Instead of colour changes, the electrochromic display 210 may be configured to display an image, number, pattern, code etc. in response to the electric power being provided.

[0091] In examples, if the second sensor 162 detects one of a plurality of expected patterns, the aerosol generation device 100 chooses a heating profile or appropriate session mode based on pattern. In examples, parameters of a session of use, for example the duration of the session, the heating temperature or the mode of use may be altered in response the second sensor 162 detecting an expected pattern.

[0092] In embodiments, and as shown in Figure 5, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise the first sensor 160 only.

[0093] The first sensor 160 may be configured to capture information relating to first information of the electrochromic display 210 in response to the electrical power being supplied to the electrochromic display 210 from the device terminals 150, 152. In response to the first information, the electrochromic display 210 may determine an authentication status of the aerosol generation consumable 200, as described with respect to Figures 3 and 4. That is, the first sensor 160 may determine if an initial state of the display 210 corresponds to an expected initial display. In other words, prior to the time that the electrochromic display 210 has had time to change in response to the provision of electric power, the first sensor 160 captures first information corresponding to the initial state of the electrochromic display 210. The first sensor 160 may be further considered to capture information relating to second information of the electrochromic display 210. The second information may be captured after a predetermined period of time, for example 0.1s. In examples, the predetermined period of time may be more than 0.1s. That is, the second information is configured to capture information after the electrochromic display 210 may have changed in response to the electric power being provided. The second information may relate to type of aerosol generation consumable 200 such that a suitable heating profile or session or mode can be applied during use of the aerosol generation device 100.

[0094] In examples, the first information of the electrochromic display 210 may be a first colour density of the electrochromic display 210. The second information of the electrochromic display 210 may be a second colour density of the electrochromic display 210. Based on given thresholds, for example an allowed colour density difference, the device 100 may determine the authentication status of the aerosol generation consumable 200. If the first information matches the second information, then the consumable 200 would not be authentic as it wouldn’t have changed in response to the receipt of electric power. An authenticated consumable would have changed state between the first information being captured and the second information being captured in an expected way. That is, an image, number, pattern or the like may be appear or the colour of the electrochromic display 210 may change.

[0095] As shown in Figure 5, the chamber 108 of the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise a barrier 170. The barrier 170 is movable between a first configuration in which access to the chamber 108 of the aerosol generation device 100 by the consumable 200 is restricted and a second configuration in which access to the chamber 108 of the aerosol generation device 100 by the consumable 200 is permitted.

[0096] In examples, the trigger signal, in response to which power may be supplied to the device terminals 150, 152, may be generated upon detecting that a consumable 200 is in contact with the barrier 170 in the first configuration.

[0097] The barrier 170 may be in the first configuration when the aerosol generation consumable 200 is initially partially inserted into the chamber 108. The position of the barrier 170 in the first configuration may be arranged such that, when the consumable is partially inserted into the chamber 108, the consumable terminals 250, 252 are in contact with the device terminals 150, 152 to activate the electrochromic display 210. During the time where the first sensor 160 captures first and second information of the electrochromic display 210, the barrier 170 may be in the first configuration such that access to the chamber 108 is restricted. Once the authentication status of the aerosol generation consumable 200 is determined, and is positive, the barrier 170 may move to the second configuration. As such, the aerosol generation consumable 200 may be inserted fully into the chamber 108. The aerosol generation consumable 200 being inserted fully into the chamber 108 means that the distal end 214 of the consumable 200 is substantially at the distal end 109 of the chamber 108. If the consumable 200 is determined to not be authentic, then the barrier 170 may remain in the first configuration to prevent full access of the consumable 200 to the chamber 108. In this example, only a single sensor is required that may capture both the first information and second information (e.g., take two images).

[0098] In embodiments, and as shown in Figure 6a, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise the first sensor 160 only. The first sensor 160 may be positioned at a distal end 109 of the chamber. In examples, the aerosol generation device 100 may comprise the first sensor 160 positioned at the distal end 109 of the chamber 108.

[0099] The device terminals 150, 152 may be positioned at the distal end 109 of the chamber. As such, power is provided to the electrochromic display 210 only when the aerosol generation consumable 200 is fully inserted into the chamber 108.

[0100] Referring to Figure 6b, the aerosol generation consumable 200 may comprise the electrochromic display 210 at its distal end 214. In examples, the electrochromic display 210 may be integrated at the bottom surface of the plug section 208 of the aerosol generation consumable 200. Integration into the plug section 208 may advantageously ensure that foreign bodies that may be released from the electrochromic display 210 are filtered during a session of use. The electrochromic display 210 may be provided with ventilation holes 270 therein to allow for airflow through the electrochromic display.

[0101] In this embodiment, the first sensor 160 may be configured to capture first and second information of the electrochromic display 210 at a time interval, as described with respect to the first sensor 160 in Figure 5. Referring to Figure 7, a method 300 of operating an aerosol generation device 100 is schematically shown.

[0102] At step 301 , an aerosol generation consumable 200 is inserted into a chamber 108 of the aerosol generation device 100. A trigger signal may be generated. In response to the trigger signal, power may be supplied to the device terminals 150, 152. The trigger signal may be generated in response to one or more of: the lid 112 being moved to the second configuration, a consumable 200 being in contact with a barrier 170 in the chamber 108; ambient light being detected by the device 100; an infrared proximity sensor detecting that the chamber 108 is accessible; or a capacitive (touch) sensor detecting that a user is holding the device 100. In other words, the trigger signal may be generated in response to a user initiating the process of inserting the consumable 200 into the chamber 108.

[0103] At step 302, electrical power is provided to the to the electrochromic display 210 of the aerosol generation consumable 200. The electrical power may be provided from the device 100 via the device terminals 150, 152 to the consumable terminals 250, 252.

[0104] At step 303, a first sensor 160 of the aerosol generation device 100 captures information that is displayed on the electrochromic display 210. The information may relate to first information of the of the electrochromic display 210. That is, the first sensor 160 may capture an initial state of the display 210. In some examples, the first sensor 160 is configured to capture information immediately after the electric power has been provided, but before the display 210 has changed from the initial state.

[0105] At step 304, either the first sensor 160 or second sensor 162 captures information relating to second information of the electrochromic display 210. In examples, the step 305 may occur at a predetermined time after step 304, or in response to the aerosol generation consumable 200 being in a predetermined position in the chamber 108 of the device 100.

[0106] At step 305, operation of the aerosol generation device 100 is based on the captured information. For example, an authentication status of the aerosol generation consumable 200 may be determined such that the device 100 is operable in one of any appropriate modes of operation. 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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. An aerosol generation consumable, comprising: solid aerosol precursor material; and an electrochromic display for displaying information of the aerosol generation consumable.

2. The aerosol generation consumable according to claim 1 , wherein the aerosol generation consumable comprises one or more terminals of the electrochromic display, wherein the one or more terminals is configured to receive electrical power from an aerosol generation device, in use.

3. The aerosol generation consumable according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, in response to the electrical power being received, the electrochromic display is configured to display information.

4. The aerosol generation consumable according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrochromic display is on a distal end of the consumable, wherein the electrochromic display has one or more ventilation holes.

5. The aerosol generation consumable according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the aerosol generation consumable comprises a wrapper, wherein the electrochromic display is printed on the wrapper.

6. The aerosol generation consumable according to any of the previous claims, wherein information of the aerosol generation consumable comprises one or more of: identification information, an authentication status of the consumable, or a consumable type.

7. The aerosol generation consumable according to any of the previous claims, wherein the information is displayed as: a pattern, a simple image, a colour change, or a matrix of segments.

8. An aerosol generation device for receiving an aerosol generation consumable of any one of the preceding claims, comprising: one or more terminals configured to provide electrical power to an electrochromic display of an aerosol generation consumable.

9. The aerosol generation device according to claim 8, wherein the electrochromic display is configured to: display information in response to receiving a pulse of voltage from the device terminals; and maintain the information on the electrochromic display for a period of time after the voltage has been removed.

10. The aerosol generation device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the device comprises one or more sensors configured to capture information from the electrochromic display after the provision of electrical power to the electrochromic display.

11. The aerosol generation device according to claim 10, wherein the one or more sensors comprises a first sensor configured to: capture information relating to first information of the electrochromic display after the provision of electrical power to the electrochromic display; and capture information relating to second information of the electrochromic display after a predetermined period of time.

12. The aerosol generation device according to claim 11 , comprising a barrier movable between: a first configuration in which access to a chamber of the aerosol generation device by the consumable is restricted; and a second configuration in which access to a chamber of the aerosol generation device by the consumable is permitted, wherein the barrier is configured to move from the first configuration to the second configuration based on the second information and first information.

13. The aerosol generation device according to claim 11 , wherein the one or more sensors is located at a distal end of a chamber and configured to sense the first and second information on a distal end of the consumable.

14. The aerosol generation device according to claim 10, wherein the one or more sensors comprises: a first sensor configured to capture information relating to first information of the electrochromic display at a first time; and a second sensor configured to capture information relating to second information of the electrochromic display at a second time.

15. The aerosol generation device according to claim 14, wherein the second sensor is configured to capture information relating to second information in response to the consumable being located in a threshold position in the aerosol generation device.

16. A method of operating an aerosol generation device, comprising: inserting an aerosol generation consumable into the aerosol generation device, the aerosol generation consumable comprising a solid aerosol precursor material; providing electric power to an electrochromic display of the aerosol generation consumable; and displaying information on the electrochromic display of the aerosol generation consumable in response to the provision of electric power.

17. The method of operating an aerosol generation device according to claim 16, comprising: capturing information relating to first information of the electrochromic display; and capturing information relating to second information of the electrochromic display, wherein the second information is captured: after a predetermined period of time after the provision of electric power to the electrochromic display; or in response to the consumable being located in a threshold position in the aerosol generation device.

18. The method of operating an aerosol generation device according to claim 17, comprising: controlling operation of the aerosol generation device based on the captured information.

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