A cartridge assembly to monitor level of aerosol generating substrate

Abstract

A cartridge assembly (104) of an aerosol generating device (100) includes a cartridge housing (105) having a proximal end (105a) and a distal end (105b). The cartridge housing (105) includes a storage portion (108) and a connector portion (110). The storage portion (108) is configured to hold an aerosol generating substrate (L). The connector portion (110) is 5 configured to be inserted into a receptacle (112) of a control unit (102) of the aerosol generating device (100). The cartridge housing (105) is having a protruded surface (120) extending towards both the proximal end (105a) and the distal end (105b) of the cartridge housing (105). The protruded surface (120) is being visible in one or more orientations and is configured to display an amount of the aerosol generating substrate (L) present in the storage 0 portion (108), when the cartridge assembly (104) is in engagement with the control unit (102).

Description

A CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLY TO MONITOR LEVEL OF AEROSOL GENERATING SUBSTRATETECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of aerosol generating devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a simple and improved cartridge assembly of an aerosol generating device which facilitates monitoring level of an aerosol generating substrate.BACKGROUND

[0002] Background description includes information that may be useful in understanding the present invention. It is not an admission that any of the information provided herein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically or implicitly referenced as prior art.

[0003] Aerosol generating devices (AGDs) typically operate using a rechargeable battery to heat an aerosol generating substrate to produce an aerosol for inhalation. These devices commonly feature cartridges that hold the aerosol generating substrate. One prevalent issue with these cartridges is the challenge of identifying when the aerosol generating substrate is depleted. This issue arises because users need a clear indicator of when to refill or replace the cartridge to maintain optimal performance.

[0004] Existing aerosol generating devices have limited visibility of content or level of the aerosol generating substrate or aerosol generating liquid (or simply referred to as “liquid” herein the draft) in a cartridge, which leads to uncertainty and inconvenience for users. Without a clear indicator of level of the aerosol generating substrate, the users may discard the cartridge prematurely out of caution, fearing they might run out soon. This leads to potential wastage of the liquid and increased costs for the users. Further, poor visibility of the level of the aerosol generating substrate in the existing design of the aerosol generating devices can make it harder for the users to assess whether cleaning or replacement of the cartridge is required or not, thereby reducing performance and longevity of the device.

[0005] Nevertheless, inadequate visibility of the aerosol liquid levels can pose safety concerns if users inadvertently use the aerosol generating device with insufficient aerosol generating liquid.

[0006] Efforts are underway to address this issue through innovative design solutions. These include integrating transparent or translucent windows, indicators, or sensors into the cartridge design.

[0007] A patent document WO2018048813A1 titled, “Vaporizer apparatus” describes a cartridge for use with a vaporizer apparatus. The cartridge includes a mouthpiece, a heater, and a transparent / translucent tank (fluid reservoir) to hold the vaporizable material, in which the cartridge is flattened and has a window into the tank through the mouthpiece so that the liquid level is visible.

[0008] However, the referred document describes the liquid level visibility formed by a window. The window is formed when the cartridge is inserted into the receptacle between the notch present on the mouthpiece and the receptacle and both the notches meet each other to form the said window. This enables only a limited liquid visibility.

[0009] Another patent document W02022050677A1 titled, “Aerosol delivering device and aerosol generating device including the same” describes an aerosol delivering device including a first cartridge in which a first material for generating an aerosol is accommodated, and a second cartridge rotatably coupled to the first cartridge. The second cartridge is configured to accommodate a second material, and arranged such that an aerosol generated from the first material passes through the second material, and an atomizer that is connected to the first cartridge and configured to generate the aerosol by atomizing the first material and deliver the aerosol to the second cartridge. However, the referred document requires two cartridges to perform the function.

[0010] Yet another patent document WO2021038189A1 titled, “Aerosol provision systems” describes a cartridge for an aerosol provision system. The aerosol provision system includes a cartridge, and a control unit. The system includes a vaporiser for vaporising an aerosolisable material. The cartridge includes an air channel extending from an air inlet for the cartridge to an outlet via an aerosol generation region, and a reservoir for containing aerosolisable material for aerosolising. The cartridge further includes an aerosolisable- material-level observation means for allowing a user to observe a level of aerosolisable material inside the reservoir. However, the referred document describes a portion of the cartridge comprising a window for viewing into the reservoir in which only a section or portion of the reservoir is designed to observe the liquid level of the cartridge. This portion is located on one or combination of sides of the cartridge. The level observation means of these portions is achieved by varying the level of coloration (due to varying levels of aerosol generating liquid concentrations)) of a portion of cartridge in a way that allows this portion ofthe cartridge to be more easily seen through. Hence, the remaining portion of the cartridge has an opaque portion leaving this portion of the cartridge to be a non-observable section.

[0011] Thus, the above referred documents are insufficient in providing maximum visibility of level of the aerosol generating liquid or substrate regardless of orientation of the aerosol generating substrate. Thus, there arises a need for modification in design of the cartridge to address the above said issues.

[0012] There is therefore a need in the art to develop a cost effective and portable aerosol generating device with an enhanced cartridge assembly to monitor level of an aerosol generating substrate or liquid, regardless of orientation of the aerosol generating device.OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0013] Some of the objects of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as listed herein below.

[0014] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a portable aerosol generating device with an enhanced cartridge assembly to monitor level of an aerosol generating substrate or liquid.

[0015] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an enhanced cartridge assembly that can alert a user for refilling or replacement of the cartridge assembly.

[0016] It is another object of the present disclosure to provide an improved cartridge assembly which can facilitate quick assessment of status of the aerosol generating substrate or liquid level without the need of opening or dismantling the aerosol generating device.

[0017] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device which can improve user experience and reduce likelihood of damaging the aerosol generating device.

[0018] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generating device which can reduce risk of under-dosing and over-dosing, by showing the level of the aerosol generating substrate or liquid, during consumption.

[0019] It is yet another object of the present disclosure to provide an aerosol generative device that can be cost-effective.SUMMARY

[0020] Aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to the field of aerosol generating devices. In particular, the present disclosure pertains to a simple and improved cartridgeassembly of an aerosol generating device which facilitate monitoring level of an aerosol generating substrate.

[0021] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the disclosed cartridge assembly of an aerosol generating device includes a cartridge housing having a proximal end and a distal end. The cartridge housing includes a storage portion and a connector portion. The storage portion is configured to hold an aerosol generating substrate. Further, the connector portion is configured to be inserted into a receptacle of a control unit of the aerosol generating device.

[0022] In addition, the cartridge housing is having a protruded surface extending towards both the proximal end and the distal end of the cartridge housing. Further, the protruded surface is being visible in one or more orientations and is configured to display an amount of the aerosol generating substrate present in the storage portion, when the cartridge assembly is in engagement with the control unit of the aerosol generating device.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the protruded surface may have a first surface and a second surface. Each of the first surface and the second surface may include a set of flat surfaces and a curved surface placed in between the set of flat surfaces.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, the curved surface of the first surface may be extending towards the proximal end of the cartridge housing. Further, the curved surface of the second surface may be extending towards the distal end of the cartridge housing.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the second surface of the protruded surface may be configured to contact a groove of the receptacle of the control unit. The connector portion may be inserted into the control unit, thereby the cartridge assembly and the control unit together form a planar surface.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, the protruded surface may extend along an outer circumference of the cartridge housing.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, the receptacle may be configured at a connecting end of the control unit.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the groove may be a U-shaped groove provided at a central portion of a connecting edge of the receptacle.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, each of the first surface and the second surface may form a wavy contour. The second surface of the protruded surface may act as an aperture, when the cartridge assembly is in engagement with the control unit. The curved surface of the second surface may rest over the U-shaped groove of the receptacle of the control unit.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, the cartridge housing may include a mouthpiece portion having a mouthpiece configured to provide a pathway to a user to inhale an aerosol being generated.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, the protruded surface may be any one of: a transparent surface and a translucent surface. The protruded surface may be made of material selected from a group consisting of: a polycarbonate, an acrylic, a glass, and clear plastic blends.

[0032] In another aspect, the present disclosure pertains to an aerosol generating device that includes a control unit, and a cartridge assembly coupled to the control unit. The cartridge assembly includes a cartridge housing having a proximal end and a distal end. The cartridge housing includes a storage portion and a connector portion. The storage portion is configured to hold an aerosol generating substrate. The connector portion is configured to be inserted into a receptacle of a control unit of the aerosol generating device.

[0033] In addition, the cartridge housing having a protruded surface extending towards both the proximal end and the distal end of the cartridge housing.Further, the protruded surface is being visible in one or more orientations and is configured to display an amount of the aerosol generating substrate present in the storage portion, when the cartridge assembly is in engagement with the control unit of the aerosol generating device.

[0034] In one or more embodiments, the protruded surface may have a first surface and a second surface. Each of the first surface and the second surface may include a set of flat surfaces and a curved surface placed in between the set of flat surfaces.

[0035] In one or more embodiments, the curved surface of the first surface may be extending towards the proximal end of the cartridge housing. The curved surface of the second surface may be extending towards the distal end of the cartridge housing.

[0036] In one or more embodiments, the second surface of the protruded surface may be configured to contact a groove of the receptacle of the control unit, when the connector portion is inserted into the control unit, thereby the cartridge assembly and the control unit may together form a planar surface.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the protruded surface may extend along an outer circumference of the cartridge housing.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, the cartridge assembly may be configured to be removably coupled with a receptacle of the control unit. The receptacle may be provided at a connecting end of the control unit.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the groove may be a U-shaped groove provided at a central portion of a connecting edge of the receptacle.

[0040] In one or more embodiments, each of the first surface and the second surface may form a wavy contour. The second surface of the protruded surface may act as an aperture, when the cartridge assembly is in engagement with the control unit. The curved surface of the second surface may rest over the U-shaped groove of the receptacle.

[0041] In one or more embodiments, the cartridge housing may include a mouthpiece portion having a mouthpiece configured to provide a pathway to a user to inhale an aerosol being generated.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, the protruded surface may be any one of: a transparent surface and translucent surface. The protruded surface may be made of material selected from a group consisting of: polycarbonate, acrylic, glass, and clear plastic blends.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0043] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. The diagrams are for illustration only, which thus is not a limitation of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary architecture representing a proposed aerosol generating device with an enhanced cartridge assembly, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. IB illustrates an exemplary architecture representing the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1A, when the cartridge assembly is in engagement with a control unit together forming a planar surface, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 1C, illustrates a side view of the aerosol generating device, when the cartridge assembly is in engagement with the control unit, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a cartridge assembly of the aerosol generating device of FIG. 1A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIGS. 2B, 2C and 2D illustrate different angular views of a cartridge housing of the cartridge assembly of FIG. 2A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIGs. 2E-2F illustrate different orientations of the cartridge assembly of an aerosol generating device, to show visibility of the aerosol generating substrate in vertical and horizontal orientation respectively, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. However, the amount of detail offered is not intended to limit the anticipated variations of embodiments; on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the disclosure.

[0051] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without some of these specific details.

[0052] If the specification states that a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.

[0053] As used in the description herein and throughout the description that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0054] The use of “including”, “comprising” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced items. Further, the use of terms “first”, “second”, and “third”, and the like, herein does not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.

[0055] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and / or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all groups used in the description herein.

[0056] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the embodiments set forth herein. These embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those of ordinary skilled in the art. Moreover, all statements herein reciting embodiments of the invention, as well as specific examples thereof, are intended to encompass both structural and functional equivalents thereof. Additionally, it is intended that such equivalents include both currently known equivalents as well as equivalents developed in the future (i.e., any elements developed that perform the same function, regardless of structure).

[0057] The present disclosure relates to the field of aerosol generating devices. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an improved aerosol generating device with an enhanced cartridge assembly to monitor level of an aerosol generating substrate.

[0058] Existing aerosol generating devices have limited visibility of content or level of an aerosol generating substrate or liquid in a cartridge which causes uncertainty and inconvenience for users. Without a clear indicator of level of the aerosol generating substrate, the users may discard the cartridge prematurely out of caution, fearing they might run out soon. This leads to potential wastage of the liquid and increased costs for the users. Further, poor visibility of the level of the aerosol generating substrate in the existing design of the aerosol generating devices can make it harder for the users to assess whether cleaning or replacement of the cartridge is required or not, thereby reducing performance and longevity of the device.

[0059] To address the aforesaid issues, the proposed aerosol generating devices have been developed with an enhanced cartridge assembly, aiming to maximize visibility of level of aerosol generating substrate to the user, regardless of the orientation of the aerosol generating device.

[0060] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary architecture representing the proposed aerosol generating device 100 with an enhanced cartridge assembly 104, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0061] As illustrated, in an embodiment, referring to FIG. 1A, the proposed aerosol generating device 100 (also referred as device 100 herein) includes a control unit 102, and a cartridge assembly 104. The cartridge assembly 104 includes a cartridge housing 105 having a proximal end 105a and a distal end 105b. The cartridge housing 105 includes a mouthpiece portion 106, a storage portion 108, and a connector portion 110. The cartridge assembly 104 is configured to hold an aerosol generating substrate (L) to be aerosolized. The aerosol generating substrate (L) can include a base mixture of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG) along with the suitable active compounds. The aerosol generating substrate (L)can include, but not limited to: a flavor, an active compound which is derived from natural (e.g. plant alkaloids) and / or synthetic sources, and the like in varying concentrations. The cartridge assembly 104 may be designed for a single use or multiple use.

[0062] Further, the storage portion 108 is configured to store or hold the aerosol generating substrate (L) to be aerosolized. The storage portion 108 includes a protruded surface 120 extending towards both the proximal end 105a and the distal end 105b of the cartridge housing 105. The protruded surface 120 is being visible in one or more orientations and is configured to display quantity or amount of the aerosol generating substrate (L) present in the storage portion 108, when the cartridge assembly 104 is in engagement with the control unit 102 of the aerosol generating device 100. The protruded surface 120 can extend along an outer circumference of the cartridge housing 105. The protruded surface 120 can be a transparent or translucent surface to facilitate easy viewing of the amount of the aerosol generating substrate (L) stored in the cartridge assembly 104. The protruded surface 120 can be made of material selected from but not limited to a group consisting of: a polycarbonate, an acrylic, a glass, and clear plastic blends.

[0063] The protruded surface 120 can have a first surface 122 and a second surface 124. Each of the first surface 122 and the second surface 124 can include a set of flat surfaces 120-1, 120-2 and a curved surface 120-3 placed in between each of the set of flat surfaces 120-1, 120-2. The curved surface 120-3 of the first surface 122 can be extending towards the proximal end 105a of the cartridge housing 105. The curved surface 120-3 of the second surface 124 can be extending towards the distal end 105b of the cartridge housing 105. The curved surface 120-3 of the second surface 124 can fix over a U-shaped groove 112-1 of the receptacle 112, facilitating proper engagement and alignment of the cartridge assembly 104 with the control unit 102.

[0064] FIG. IB illustrates an exemplary architecture representing the aerosol generating device 100, when the cartridge assembly 104 is in engagement with the control unit 102 together forming a planar surface, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0065] Referring to IB, the second surface 124 of the protruded surface 120 can be configured to contact a groove 112-1 of the receptacle 112 of the control unit 102, when the connector portion 110 is inserted into the control unit 102, thereby the cartridge assembly 104 and the control unit 102 together forming a planar surface 107. The groove 112-1 is the U- shaped groove 112-1 of the receptacle 112.

[0066] FIG. 1C, illustrates a side view of the aerosol generating device 100, when the cartridge assembly 104 is in engagement with a control unit 102, in accordance with anembodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 1C, in an assembled position of the aerosol generating device, the cartridge assembly and the control unit provide the planar surface 107.

[0067] Further, each of the first surface 122 and the second surface 124 can form a wavy contour, and the second surface 124 of the protruded surface 120 can act as an aperture when the cartridge assembly 104 is in engagement with the control unit 102.

[0068] In an embodiment, the connector portion 110 is connected to the storage portion 108. The connector portion 110 is configured to be inserted into the receptacle 112 of the control unit 102 of the aerosol generating device 100. The connector portion 110 can include a set of connectors which can attach the cartridge assembly 104 to a power source of the control unit 102. The set of connectors can ensure electrical contact for powering the heating device.

[0069] In an embodiment, the control unit 102 can include the receptacle 112 at a connecting end 102a (not shown in the figure) of the control unit 102. The cartridge assembly 104 can be configured to be removably coupled with the receptacle 112 of the control unit 102. The groove 112-1 can be the U-shaped groove 112-1 provided at a central portion of a connecting edge of the receptacle 112. The curved surface 120-3 of the second surface 124 can rest over the U-shaped groove 112-1 of the receptacle 112.

[0070] In an embodiment, the connector portion 110 can include one or more dimples 114 disposed at any one or both the lateral surfaces and near the distal end 105b of the cartridge housing 105. The one or more dimples 114 can align and engage with one or more dents provided at an interior surface of the receptacle 112 to connect the control unit 102 with the cartridge assembly 104. Further, shape of each of the one or more dimples 114 can be selected from but not limited to a group consisting of: a rectangle, a square, a circle, a triangle, and ellipse.

[0071] In some embodiments, the cartridge assembly 104 can be a refillable tank in the aerosol generating device 100, while in some embodiments, the cartridge assembly 104 can be a disposable cartridge. The cartridge assembly 104 holds the aerosol generating substrate (U), which can include, but are not limited to: a mixture of propylene glycol (PG), a vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings, and active compounds.

[0072] In an embodiment, the mouthpiece portion 106 can include a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece can include an opening to provide a pathway for a user to inhale an aerosol generated by the device 100. The mouthpiece portion 106 can be generally made of an opaque material to maintain aesthetic look of the aerosol generating device 100. In someembodiments, the mouthpiece can also include filters or screens to trap particles or contaminations coming with the airflow.

[0073] In general, the design of the mouthpiece can vary depending on the style and design of the aerosol generating device 100. The design of the mouthpiece can include, but not limited to: a narrow and tube-like structure, a wider structure, a flat structure, and the like. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece can be detachably attached to the cartridge assembly 104 through an attachment mechanism, thus facilitating easy detachment for cleaning or replacement. The attachment mechanism can be any one of but not limited to threaded connection, snap-fit connection, bayonet connection, magnetic connection, press-fit connection, and the like. In one or more embodiments, the mouthpiece can be made of materials which include, but are not limited to a plastic, a metal, a silicone, medical-grade materials, and the like, which are safe for oral contact with the mouth of the user and easy to clean.

[0074] In an embodiment, the cartridge assembly 104 can include a heating device. The heating device can be configured to heat-up and aerosolize the aerosol generating substrate (L). The heating device can include one or more heating elements, and a wick. The wick absorbs the aerosol generating substrate (L) from the storage portion 108 to be aerosolized and thereafter the one or more heating elements aerosolize the aerosol generating substrate (L) to generate the aerosol. The one or more heating elements can be selected from but not limited to a ceramic heating element, a stainless-steel coil, a mesh heating element, a convection heating element, an induction heating element, a Nichrome wire, an Aluminum Block, and the like. Further, material used for the wick may depend upon the aerosol generating substrate (L) to be aerosolized. The material for the wick can be selected from but not limited to Silica, Cotton, Ceramic, metal mesh, Ekowool, Bamboo Fiber, and the like.

[0075] In an embodiment, the aerosol generating device 100 can include at least one sensor which automatically actuates the heating device of the aerosol generating device 100, when the user inhales. In some aerosol generating devices, the at least one sensor, can be replaced by a manual button which is pressed by the user to actuate the aerosol generating device 100.

[0076] In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device 100 can include a Light Emitting Diode (LED) positioned on a housing of the control unit 102. The LED can display a light indicating one or more state of the aerosol generating device 100. The one or more state can include, but are not limited to: a usage state, a charging state, a low battery state, and the like.

[0077] The control unit 102 may include one or more processors (interchangeably referred to as processor, hereinafter). The processor may be implemented as one or moremicroprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, edge or fog microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitries, and / or any devices that process data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the processor may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory of the control unit 102. The memory may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, which may be fetched and executed to actuate the heating device, upon detection of airflow by the at least one sensor, thereby generating the aerosol for inhalation by the user.

[0078] In an embodiment, the memory may comprise any non-transitory storage device including, for example, volatile memory such as Random-Access Memory (RAM), or nonvolatile memory such as Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), flash memory, and the like.

[0079] In an embodiment, the control unit 102 is configured to actuate the heating device, upon detection of airflow by the at least sensor, thereby generating the aerosol for inhalation by the user. The control unit 102 can allow the user to adjust the airflow through the aerosol generating device 100. Thus, the user can customize the aerosolizing experience by controlling the amount of air that mixes with the aerosol as they inhale. The control unit 102 typically involves a ring or dial on the aerosol generating device 100 that can be adjusted to open or close the plurality of airflow channels of the mouthpiece. By adjusting the airflow, users can achieve an easier draw, which can affect heater temperature, aerosol density, and the like parameters.

[0080] In another embodiment, the control unit 102 of the aerosol generating device 100 can include the power source of the aerosol generating device 100. The power source can be a battery, including, without limitation, a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, a lithium polymer battery, Nickel-metal Hydride (NiMH) battery, and the like. The battery provides an electric current required to heat-up the heating device and aerosolize the aerosol generating substrate (L). In another embodiment, the heating device may be connected to the power source. Upon actuation of the aerosol generating device 100, the power source can transmit the electric current through the one or more heating elements, which results in heating-up of the one or more heating elements.

[0081] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of the cartridge assembly 104 of an aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 1A, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIGs. 2B, 2C and 2D illustrate different angular views of a cartridge housing of the cartridge assembly of FIG. 2A, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0082] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, the disclosed cartridge assembly 104 of an aerosol generating device 100 includes a cartridge housing 105 having a proximal end 105a and a distal end 105b. The cartridge housing 105 includes a mouthpiece portion 106, a storage portion 108, and a connector portion 110. The cartridge assembly 104 is configured to hold an aerosol generating substrate (L) to be aerosolized. The mouthpiece portion 106 can include a mouthpiece configured to provide a pathway to a user to inhale the aerosol generated.

[0083] In an embodiment, the storage portion 108 is configured to store or hold the aerosol generating substrate (L) to be aerosolized. Further, the connector portion 110 is connected to the storage portion 108. The connector portion 110 is configured to connect a control unit 102 of the aerosol generating device 100 with the cartridge assembly 104 during engagement. The cartridge housing 105 is having a protruded surface 120 extending towards both the proximal end 105a and the distal end 105b of the cartridge housing 105. Further, the protruded surface 120 is being visible in one or more orientations and is configured to display an amount of the aerosol generating substrate (L) present in the storage portion 108, when the cartridge assembly 104 is in engagement with the control unit 102 of the aerosol generating device 100. The receptacle 112 can be configured at a connecting end 102a (not shown in the figure) of the control unit 102. The protruded surface 120 can extend along an outer circumference of the cartridge housing 105.

[0084] In an embodiment, the protruded surface 120 can have a first surface 122 and a second surface 124. Each of the first surface 122 and the second surface 124 can include a set of flat surfaces 120-1, 120-2 and a curved surface 120-3 placed in between the set of flat surfaces 120-1, 120-2. The curved surface 120-3 of the first surface 122 can be extending towards the proximal end 105a of the cartridge housing 105 and the curved surface 120-3 of the second surface 124 can be extending towards the distal end 105b of the cartridge housing 105.

[0085] The second surface 124 of the protruded surface 120 can be configured to contact the groove 112-1 of the receptacle 112 of the control unit 102, when the connector portion 110 is inserted into the control unit 102, thereby the cartridge assembly 104 and the control unit 102 can together form the planar surface 107. In other words, the second surface 124 of the protruded surface 120 comes to rest against the groove 112-1 of the receptacle 112 of the control unit 102, thereby the cartridge assembly 104 and the control unit 102 together forming the planar surface 107.

[0086] In an embodiment, the groove 112-1 can be the U-shaped groove 112-1 provided at a central portion of a connecting edge of the receptacle 112. In some embodiment, the U- shaped groove 112-1 can be replaced by another shaped groove, depending on shape of the curved surface 120-3 of the second surface 124. Each of the first surface 122 and the second surface 124 can form the wavy contour. The second surface 124 of the protruded surface 120 can act as the aperture when the cartridge assembly 104 is in engagement with the control unit 102. The curved surface 120-3 of the second surface 124 can rest over the U-shaped groove 112-1 of the receptacle 112 of the control unit 102.

[0087] Further, a height (a) of the curved surface 120-3 should be more than or equal to a height (b) of the set of flat surfaces 120-1, 120-2 of the protruded surface 120. The curved surface 120-3 is placed in between each of the set of flat surfaces 120-1, 120-2. In an exemplary embodiment, the height of the flat surface 120-1, 120-2 can be less than or equal to 50 mm. Further, a width of the protruded surface 120 is more than a width of the cartridge assembly 104 or the cartridge housing 105. A difference (c) in the widths of the protruded surface 120 and the cartridge assembly 104 or the cartridge housing 105 should be less than or equal to 10mm.

[0088] The first surface 122 of the protruded surface 120 is shown in FIG. 2C. The first surface 122 can include the set of flat surfaces 120-1, 120-2 and the curved surface 120-3 placed in between the set of flat surfaces 120-1, 120-2 together forming the wavy contour. Referring to FIG. 2D, the second surface 124 of the protruded surface 120 is shown. The second surface 124 can include the set of flat surfaces 120-1, 120-2 and the curved surface 120-3 placed in between the set of flat surfaces 120-1, 120-2 together forming the wavy contour.

[0089] In an embodiment, when the mouthpiece is inserted into the mouthpiece portion 106 of the cartridge housing 105, the mouthpiece is in contact the first surface 122 of the protruded surface 120. In other words, the mouthpiece comes to rest against the first surface 122 of the protruded surface 120. Thereby, the mouthpiece and the cartridge housing 105 forming the planar surface 107. In the proposed cartridge assembly 104, the protruded surface 120 extends along the outer circumference of the cartridge housing 105. Therefore, unlike the conventional aerosol generating devices, the proposed cartridge assembly 104 facilitates maximized visibility of the aerosol generating liquid (E), regardless of the orientation of the aerosol generating device 100, when the cartridge assembly 104 is in engagement with the control unit 102 of the aerosol generating device 100.

[0090] FIGs. 2E-2F illustrate different orientations of the cartridge assembly 104 of an aerosol generating device 100 of FIG. 2A, to show visibility of the aerosol generating substrate (L) in a vertical and a horizontal orientation respectively, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0091] Referring to FIGs. 2E & 2F, the protruded surface 120 on the cartridge assembly 104 can enhance visibility of the aerosol generating substrate (L), regardless of the orientation of the aerosol generating device 100. This improvement contributes to a more intuitive and user- friendly experience, minimizing uncertainty and maximizing the efficiency of the aerosol generating device 100. The wavy contour of the protruded surface 120 can help in providing large view area, even when the aerosol generating device 100 is kept in the horizontal orientation.

[0092] As can be appreciated, the proposed design of the cartridge assembly 104 can facilitate maximized visibility of the aerosol generating substrate (L), regardless of the orientation of the aerosol generating device 100, when the cartridge assembly 104 is in engagement with the aerosol generating device 100, especially during consumption.

[0093] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0094] The present invention provides a portable aerosol generating device with an enhanced cartridge assembly to monitor level of an aerosol generating substrate or liquid in the cartridge without the need of disconnecting it from the device.

[0095] The present invention provides an alert to a user for refdling or replacement of the cartridge assembly.

[0096] The present invention provides an improved cartridge assembly which facilitates quick assessment of status of the liquid level without the need of opening or dismantling the aerosol generating device.

[0097] The present invention provides an aerosol generating device which improves user experience and reduces likelihood of damaging the aerosol generating device.

[0098] The present invention provides an aerosol generating device which reduces risk of under-dosing and over-dosing, by showing the level of the aerosol generating substrate or liquid, during consumption.

[0099] The present invention provides an aerosol generative device that is cost- effective.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A cartridge assembly (104) for an aerosol generating device (100), wherein the cartridge assembly (104) comprising: a cartridge housing (105) having a proximal end (105a) and a distal end (105b), wherein the cartridge housing (105) comprising: a storage portion (108) configured to hold an aerosol generating substrate (L); and a connector portion (110) configured to be inserted into a receptacle (112) of a control unit (102) of the aerosol generating device (100), wherein the cartridge housing (105) having a protruded surface (120) extending towards both the proximal end (105a) and the distal end (105b) of the cartridge housing (105), and wherein the protruded surface (120) being visible in one or more orientations and is configured to display an amount of the aerosol generating substrate (L) present in the storage portion (108), when the cartridge assembly (104) is in engagement with the control unit (102) of the aerosol generating device (100).

2. The cartridge assembly (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the protruded surface (120) having a first surface (122) and a second surface (124), wherein each of the first surface (122) and the second surface (124) comprises a set of flat surfaces (120-1, 120-2) and a curved surface (120-3) placed in between the set of flat surfaces (120-1, 120-2).

3. The cartridge assembly (104) as claimed in claims land 2, wherein the curved surface (120-3) of the first surface (122) is extending towards the proximal end (105a) of the cartridge housing (105) and the curved surface (120-3) of the second surface (124) is extending towards the distal end (105b) of the cartridge housing (105).

4. The cartridge assembly (104) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the second surface (124) of the protruded surface (120) is configured to contact a groove (112-1) of the receptacle (112) of the control unit (102), when the connector portion (110) is inserted into the control unit (102), thereby the cartridge assembly (104) and the control unit (102) together forming a planar surface (107).

5. The cartridge assembly (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the protruded surface (120) extends along an outer circumference of the cartridge housing (105).

6. The cartridge assembly (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the receptacle (112) is configured at a connecting end (102a) of the control unit (102).

7. The cartridge assembly (104) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the groove (112-1) is a U- shaped groove (112-1) provided at a central portion of a connecting edge of the receptacle (112).

8. The cartridge assembly (104) as claimed in claim 2, wherein each of the first surface (122) and the second surface (124) form a wavy contour, and the second surface (124) of the protruded surface (120) acts as an aperture when the cartridge assembly (104) is in engagement with the control unit (102), wherein the curved surface (120-3) of the second surface (124) rests over the U-shaped groove (112-1) of the receptacle (112) of the control unit (102).

9. The cartridge assembly (104) as claimed in claim 1, the cartridge housing (105) comprises a mouthpiece portion (106) having a mouthpiece configured to provide a pathway to a user to inhale an aerosol being generated.

10. The cartridge assembly (104) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the protruded surface (120) is any one of: a transparent surface and a translucent surface, wherein the protruded surface (120) is made of material selected from a group consisting of: a polycarbonate, an acrylic, a glass, and clear plastic blends.

11. An aerosol generating device (100) comprising: a control unit (102); and a cartridge assembly (104) coupled to the control unit (102), wherein the cartridge assembly (104) comprising: a cartridge housing (105) having a proximal end (105a) and a distal end (105b), and comprises a storage portion (108) and a connector portion (110), wherein the storage portion (108) is configured to hold an aerosol generating substrate (L), and the connector portion (110) is configured to be inserted into a receptacle (112) of a control unit (102) of the aerosol generating device (100); wherein the cartridge housing (105) having a protruded surface (120) extending towards both the proximal end (105a) and the distal end (105b) of the cartridge housing (105); and wherein the protruded surface (120) being visible in one or more orientations and is configured to display an amount of the aerosol generating substrate (L) present in the storage portion (108), when the cartridge assembly (104) is in engagement with the control unit (102) of the aerosol generating device (100).

12. The aerosol generating device (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the protruded surface (120) having a first surface (122) and a second surface (124) wherein each of the first surface (122) and the second surface (124) comprises a set of flat surfaces (120-1, 120-2) and a curved surface (120-3) placed in between the set of flat surfaces (120-1, 120-2).

13. The aerosol generating device (100) as claimed in as claimed in claims 11 and 12, wherein the curved surface (120-3) of the first surface (122) is extending towards the proximal end (105a) of the cartridge housing (105) and the curved surface (120-3) of the second surface (124) is extending towards the distal end (105b) of the cartridge housing (105).

14. The aerosol generating device (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the second surface (124) of the protruded surface (120) is configured to contact a groove (112-1) of the receptacle (112) of the control unit (102), when the connector portion (110) is inserted into the control unit (102), thereby the cartridge assembly (104) and the control unit (102) together forming a planar surface (107).

15. The aerosol generating device (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the protruded surface (120) extends along an outer circumference of the cartridge housing (105).

16. The aerosol generating device (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the cartridge assembly (104) is configured to be removably coupled with a receptacle (112) of the control unit (102), wherein the receptacle (112) is provided at a connecting end (102a) of the control unit (102).

17. The aerosol generating device (100) as claimed in claim 14, wherein the groove (112-1) is a U-shaped groove (112-1) provided at a central portion of a connecting edge of the receptacle (112).

18. The aerosol generating device (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein each of the first surface (122) and the second surface (124) form a wavy contour, and the second surface (124) of the protruded surface (120) acts as an aperture when the cartridge assembly (104) is in engagement with the control unit (102), wherein the curved surface (120-3) of the second surface (124) rests over the U-shaped groove (112-1) of the receptacle (112).

19. The aerosol generating device (100) as claimed in claim 11, the cartridge housing (105) comprises a mouthpiece portion (106) having a mouthpiece configured to provide a pathway to a user to inhale an aerosol being generated.

20. The aerosol generating device (100) as claimed in claim 11, wherein the protruded surface (120) is any one of: a transparent surface and translucent surface, wherein the protruded surface (120) is made of material selected from a group consisting of: polycarbonate, acrylic, glass, and clear plastic blends.

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