Hybrid aerosol-generating device

Abstract

The invention relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising a housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit and a second aerosol-generating unit, and a mouthpiece. The first aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate, and the second aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The mouthpiece is configured to selectively activate one or both of the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit. The invention also relates to a method of operating an aerosol-generating device.

Description

[0001] New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0002] -1-

[0003] HYBRID AEROSOL-GENERATING DEVICE

[0004] The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating device and a corresponding method.

[0005] It is known to provide an aerosol-generating device for generating an inhalable vapor. Such devices may heat aerosol-forming substrate to a temperature at which one or more components of the aerosol-forming substrate are volatilised without burning the aerosolforming substrate. Aerosol-forming substrate may be provided as part of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may have a rod shape for insertion of the aerosolgenerating article into a cavity, such as a heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device. A heating element may be arranged in or around the heating chamber for heating the aerosolforming substrate once the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the heating chamber of the aerosol-generating device.

[0006] Another type of aerosol-generating system is an electrically operated vaporizer comprising a device portion, a cartridge portion holding a supply of liquid aerosol-forming substrate held in a liquid storage portion, and an electrically operated vaporiser. The vaporiser typically comprises a coil of heater wire wound around an elongate wick soaked in the liquid aerosol-forming substrate held in the liquid storage portion. Upon application of an electric current, the heating wire evaporates the e-liquid comprised in the wick.

[0007] In either system the evaporated components of the aerosol-forming substrate are mixed with ambient air to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0008] Hybrid devices are known, which allow for the vaporization of liquid and solid aerosolforming substrate at the same time. These hybrid devices may comprise a cartridge containing a wicking material that holds liquid aerosol-forming substrate. A heating element in contact with the wicking material heats the liquid to create vapor. Such hybrid devices may comprise a further heating chamber designed to receive a solid aerosol-forming substance like a tobacco stick, which is heated either resistively or inductively within the chamber.

[0009] It would be desirable to have a hybrid aerosol-generating device with increased usability. It would be desirable to have a hybrid aerosol-generating device that allows the user to easily switch between the various aerosol delivery methods.

[0010] According to an embodiment of the invention there is provided an aerosol-generating device, which may comprise a housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit and a second aerosol-generating unit, and a mouthpiece. The first aerosol-generating unit may be configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The second aerosol-generating unit may be configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0011] -2- mouthpiece may be configured to selectively activate one or both of the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit.

[0012] According to an embodiment of the invention there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising a housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit and a second aerosolgenerating unit, and a mouthpiece. The first aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The second aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The mouthpiece is configured to selectively activate one or both of the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit.

[0013] As used herein, the terms ‘proximal’, ‘distal’, ‘downstream’ and ‘upstream’ are used to describe the relative positions of components, or portions of components of the aerosolgenerating device in relation to the direction in which a user draws on the aerosol-generating device during use thereof.

[0014] As used herein, the term ‘aerosol-forming substrate’ relates to a substrate capable of releasing one or more volatile compounds that can form an aerosol. Such volatile compounds may be released by heating the aerosol-forming substrate. An aerosol-forming substrate may conveniently be part of an aerosol-generating article or smoking article.

[0015] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a mouthpiece at a proximal end through which in use an aerosol exits the aerosol-generating device and is delivered to a user. In use, a user draws on the mouthpiece of the aerosol-generating device in order to inhale an aerosol generated by the aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a distal end opposed to the proximal end. The proximal end of the aerosol-generating device may also be referred to as the downstream end and the distal end of the aerosol-generating device may also be referred to as the upstream end. Components, or portions of components of the aerosol-generating device may be described as being upstream or downstream of one another based on their relative positions between the proximal or downstream end and the distal or upstream end of the aerosol-generating device.

[0016] As used herein, an ‘aerosol-generating device’ relates to a device that interacts with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol. The device may be an electrically heated smoking device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a housing, electric circuitry, a power supply, a first aerosol-generating unit and a second aerosol-generating unit. Each of the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit may comprise a heating element.

[0017] The aerosol-generating device of the present invention is arranged to heat the aerosolforming substrate to a temperature below a combustion temperature of the aerosol-forming New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0018] -3- substrate, but at or above a temperature at which one or more volatile compounds of the aerosol-forming substrate are released to form an inhalable aerosol.

[0019] The aerosol-generating device may comprise electric circuitry. The electric circuitry may comprise a microprocessor, which may be a programmable microprocessor. The microprocessor may be part of a controller. The electric circuitry may comprise further electronic components. The electric circuitry may be configured to regulate a supply of power to the heating element. Power may be supplied to the heating element continuously following activation of the aerosol-generating device or may be supplied intermittently, such as on a puff- by-puff basis. The power may be supplied to the heating element in the form of pulses of electrical current. The electric circuitry may be configured to monitor the electrical resistance of the heating element, and preferably to control the supply of power to the heating element dependent on the electrical resistance of the heating element.

[0020] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a power supply, typically a battery, within a main body of the aerosol-generating device. In one embodiment, the power supply is a Lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the power supply may be a Nickel-metal hydride battery, a Nickel cadmium battery, or a Lithium based battery, for example a Lithium-Cobalt, a Lithium- Iron-Phosphate, Lithium Titanate or a Lithium-Polymer battery. As an alternative, the power supply may be another form of charge storage device such as a capacitor. The power supply may require recharging and may have a capacity that enables to store enough energy for one or more usage experiences; for example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to continuously generate aerosol for a period of around six minutes or for a period of a multiple of six minutes. In another example, the power supply may have sufficient capacity to provide a predetermined number of puffs or discrete activations of the heating element.

[0021] The first aerosol-generating unit may be configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate. For this purpose, the first aerosol-generating unit may comprise a first cavity for receiving the solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0022] The aerosol-forming substrate may be a generally solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise both solid and liquid components. The aerosolforming substrate may comprise a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavour compounds which are released from the substrate upon heating. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a non-tobacco material. The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise an aerosol former that facilitates the formation of a dense and stable aerosol. Examples of suitable aerosol formers are glycerine and propylene glycol.

[0023] The aerosol-generating substrate preferably comprises homogenised tobacco material, an aerosol-former and water. Providing homogenised tobacco material may improve aerosol generation, the nicotine content and the flavour profile of the aerosol generated during New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0024] -4- heating of the aerosol-generating article. Specifically, the process of making homogenised tobacco involves grinding tobacco leaf, which more effectively enables the release of nicotine and flavours upon heating.

[0025] The solid aerosol-forming substrate may be part of or comprised in an aerosolgenerating article. Such aerosol-generating articles may also be referred to as heat sticks. Such aerosol-generating articles may be provided in the form of cylindrical rods and may largely resemble a conventional cigarette.

[0026] The cavity of the aerosol-generating device may have an open end into which the aerosol-generating article is inserted. The open end may be a proximal end. The cavity may have a closed end opposite the open end. The closed end may be the base of the cavity. The closed end may be closed except for the provision of air apertures arranged in the base. The base of the cavity may be flat. The base of the cavity may be circular. The base of the cavity may be arranged upstream of the cavity. The open end may be arranged downstream of the cavity. The cavity may have an elongate extension. The cavity may have a longitudinal central axis. A longitudinal direction may be the direction extending between the open and closed ends along the longitudinal central axis. The longitudinal central axis of the cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating device.

[0027] The first aerosol-generating unit may comprise a heating arrangement for heating the solid aerosol-forming substrate received in the first cavity.

[0028] The cavity may be configured as a heating chamber. The cavity may have a cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a hollow cylindrical shape. The cavity may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the aerosol-generating article to be received in the cavity. The cavity may have a circular cross-section. The cavity may have an elliptical or rectangular crosssection. The cavity may have an inner diameter corresponding to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

[0029] The first aerosol-generating unit may define a first airflow path from an air inlet via an airflow channel into and through the first cavity towards an outlet of the first cavity and towards the mouthpiece. Ambient air may be drawn into the aerosol-generating device, into the cavity and towards the user through the airflow channel. Downstream of the cavity, a mouthpiece may be arranged. The airflow channel may extend through the mouthpiece.

[0030] In any of the aspects of the disclosure, the heating element may comprise an electrically resistive material. Suitable electrically resistive materials include but are not limited to: semiconductors such as doped ceramics, electrically "conductive" ceramics (such as, for example, molybdenum disilicide), carbon, graphite, metals, metal alloys and composite materials made of a ceramic material and a metallic material. Such composite materials may comprise doped or undoped ceramics. Examples of suitable doped ceramics include doped New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0031] -5- silicon carbides. Examples of suitable metals include titanium, zirconium, tantalum platinum, gold and silver. Examples of suitable metal alloys include stainless steel, nickel-, cobalt-, chromium-, aluminium-, titanium-, zirconium-, hafnium-, niobium-, molybdenum-, tantalum-, tungsten-, tin-, gallium-, manganese-, gold- and iron-containing alloys, and super-alloys based on nickel, iron, cobalt, stainless steel, Timetai® and iron-manganese-aluminium based alloys. In composite materials, the electrically resistive material may optionally be embedded in, encapsulated or coated with an insulating material or vice-versa, depending on the kinetics of energy transfer and the external physicochemical properties required.

[0032] As described, in any of the aspects of the disclosure, the heating element may be part of an aerosol-generating device.

[0033] The first aerosol-generating unit of the aerosol-generating device may comprise an internal heating element or an external heating element, or both internal and external heating elements, where "internal" and "external" refer to the aerosol-forming substrate. An internal heating element may take any suitable form. For example, an internal heating element may take the form of a heating blade. Alternatively, the internal heater may take the form of a casing or substrate having different electro-conductive portions, or an electrically resistive metallic tube. Alternatively, the internal heating element may be one or more heating needles or rods that run through the center of the aerosol-forming substrate.

[0034] An external heating element may take any suitable form. For example, an external heating element may take the form of one or more flexible heating foils on a dielectric substrate, such as polyimide. The flexible heating foils can be shaped to conform to the perimeter of the substrate receiving cavity. Alternatively, an external heating element may take the form of a metallic grid or grids, a flexible printed circuit board, a molded interconnect device (MID), ceramic heater, flexible carbon fibre heater or may be formed using a coating technique, such as plasma vapour deposition on a suitable shaped substrate. An external heating element may also be formed using a metal having a defined relationship between temperature and resistivity. In such an exemplary device, the metal may be formed as a track between two layers of suitable insulating materials. An external heating element formed in this manner may be used to both heat and monitor the temperature of the external heating element during operation.

[0035] As an alternative to an electrically resistive heating element, the heating arrangement may be configured as an induction heating arrangement. The induction heating arrangement may comprise an induction coil and a susceptor. In general, a susceptor is a material that is capable of generating heat, when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. The heat transfer may be mainly by conduction of heat. Such a transfer of heat is best, if the susceptor is in close thermal contact with the aerosol-forming substrate. New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0036] -6-

[0037] The second aerosol-generating unit may be configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The second aerosol-generating unit may comprise a vaporization unit for vaporizing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0038] The second aerosol-generating unit may comprise a second cavity configured for receiving the liquid aerosol-forming substrate. The liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be provided in a cartridge. Providing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate in a cartridge may make handling of the device easier for the user. In particular, the user may only require to handle the cartridge, and the user may not be required to come into contact with the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0039] The cartridge may comprise a plurality of elements. The cartridge may comprise one or more of a liquid storage portion, a wicking material and a heating arrangement.

[0040] The vaporization unit may comprise a coil of heater wire wound around an elongate wick soaked in the liquid aerosol-forming substrate held in the liquid storage portion.

[0041] The vaporization unit may employ a so-called wick-and-coil arrangement. In these systems a part of a capillary wick extends into a liquid storage portion containing liquid aerosolforming substrate to be volatilized. Another part of the wick is wound with a coil of a heating wire. Upon application of an electric current, the heating wire evaporates the liquid substrate comprised in the wick.

[0042] The second aerosol-generating unit may define a second airflow path from an air inlet via an airflow channel into and through the second cavity towards an outlet of the second cavity and towards the mouthpiece. Ambient air may be drawn into the aerosol-generating device, into the cavity and towards the user through the airflow channel. Downstream of the cavity, the mouthpiece may be arranged. The airflow channel may extend through the mouthpiece.

[0043] The mouthpiece of the aerosol-generating device may comprise a mouthpiece inlet at a distal end to be mounted to the housing and a mouthpiece outlet provided at the proximal end. The mouthpiece may define an aerosol passage from the mouthpiece inlet to the mouthpiece outlet.

[0044] The inlet of the mouthpiece may be configured to be positioned in fluid connection with the outlet of the cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit. The inlet of the mouthpiece may be configured to be positioned in fluid connection with the outlet of the cavity of the second aerosol-generating unit. The inlet of the mouthpiece may be configured to be positioned in fluid connection with the outlet of the cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit and with the outlet of the cavity of the second aerosol-generating unit.

[0045] The mouthpiece may be configured to be mounted in a first position. In the first position, the inlet of the mouthpiece may be positioned in fluid connection with the outlet of the cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit. In this position, an aerosol generated by the first aerosol- New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0046] -7- generating unit is guided through the mouthpiece and is delivered for inhalation at the outlet of the mouthpiece. At the same time, in this position, an airflow from the cavity of the second aerosol-generating unit towards the mouthpiece is blocked.

[0047] The mouthpiece may be configured to be mounted in a second position. In the second position, the inlet of the mouthpiece may be positioned in fluid connection with the outlet of the cavity of the second aerosol-generating unit. In this position, an aerosol generated by the second aerosol-generating unit is guided through the mouthpiece and is delivered for inhalation at the outlet of the mouthpiece. At the same time, in this position, an airflow from the cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit towards the mouthpiece is blocked.

[0048] The mouthpiece may be configured to be mounted in a third position. In the third position, the inlet of the mouthpiece is positioned in fluid connection with the outlets of each of the cavities of the first aerosol-generating unit and of the second aerosol-generating unit. In this position an aerosol generated by the first and by the second aerosol-generating unit is guided through the mouthpiece and is delivered for inhalation at the outlet of the mouthpiece.

[0049] The mouthpiece may be configured to be rotatably mounted to the housing. The mouthpiece may further be configured to be rotatable to assume one of the first, second or third positions. By mounting the mouthpiece rotatably, the user may be able to conveniently adjust the positions of the mouthpiece. Moreover, the user can in this way readily select which of the aerosol-generating units is connected to the mouthpiece such that a generated aerosol can be made available to the consumer. Thus, in such embodiments, a user may select the desired mode of operation of the aerosol-generating device in a very convenient way by a simple rotation of the mouthpiece.

[0050] The outlet of the cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit may be located in a first half of the proximal end face of the housing of the aerosol-generating device. The outlet of the cavity of the second aerosol-generating unit may be located in a second half of the proximal end face of the housing of the aerosol-generating device. The outlets of the cavities of the first and second aerosol-generating units may have any desired cross section. The outlets of the cavities of the first and second aerosol-generating units may have the same cross-sectional shape. The outlets of the cavities of the first and second aerosol-generating units may have a circular cross-sectional shape.

[0051] The distal end of the mouthpiece that is to be mounted to the proximal end of the housing may have an inlet in the form of an opening having a semi-circular shape. When the mouthpiece is mounted to the housing, the semi-circular opening may be placed in a first position in which the semi-circular opening of the inlet coincides with the first half of the proximal end face of the housing of the aerosol-generating device. In this configuration, only the outlet end of the cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit may be in fluid communication New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0052] -8- with the inlet of the mouthpiece. The remaining part of the distal end of the mouthpiece seals the outlet end of the cavity of the second aerosol-generating unit.

[0053] Similarly, when the mouthpiece is mounted to the housing, the semi-circular opening may be placed in a second position in which the semi-circular opening of the inlet coincides with the second half of the proximal end face of the housing of the aerosol-generating device. In this configuration, only the outlet end of the cavity of the second aerosol-generating unit may be in fluid communication with the semi-circular inlet opening of the mouthpiece. The remaining part of the distal end of the mouthpiece seals the outlet end of the cavity of the first aerosolgenerating unit.

[0054] The mouthpiece may further be positioned in any intermediate position. The mouthpiece may be configured to be rotatable to assume any intermediate position, in which each of the outlets of the cavities of the first and the second aerosol-generating units are at least partly overlapping with the inlet opening of the mouthpiece, so that aerosol generated by either of the aerosol-generating units may be guided through the mouthpiece and may be delivered to the user.

[0055] The mouthpiece may be configured to be detachably mounted to the housing. The mouthpiece may be mounted to the housing using a coupling mechanism. The coupling mechanism may include a peripheral latch or a magnetic coupling. Configuring the mouthpiece detachable may facilitate removal of the mouthpiece for inserting, removing or replacing a consumable from one of the cavities of the first and / or second aerosol-generating units.

[0056] For enabling a rotatable connection with the housing, the distal end of the mouthpiece may include a peripheral latch designed to fit into a corresponding groove formed at the proximal end of the housing. The connection may be established by manually snapping the peripheral latch into the groove. Alternatively, a ball-and-socket joint, a threaded interface, or a magnetic coupling could be employed in this regard.

[0057] The coupling mechanism may include a peripheral latch or a magnetic coupling.

[0058] Alternatively, a plurality of mouthpieces may be provided. The mouthpieces may be interchangeably used and mounted to the housing of the aerosol-generating device. Each mouthpiece may be configured to establish or to prevent airflow through the cavities of the aerosol-generating units.

[0059] A first mouthpiece may be configured to establish airflow only through the cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit. A second mouthpiece may be configured to establish airflow only through the cavity of the second aerosol-generating unit. A third mouthpiece may be configured to establish airflow through the cavities of both, the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit. New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0060] -9-

[0061] Thus, by choosing one of the above-mentioned mouthpieces, a desired operational mode of the aerosol-generating device may be selected. By using a plurality of mouthpieces, versatile usage options are offered in a single device.

[0062] The housing may be made from plastics or polymers. Suitable materials include polycarbonate and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Suitable materials also include metals such as stainless steel and aluminium alloy as well as composites.

[0063] The mouthpiece may be made from plastics or polymers. Suitable materials include polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The mouthpiece may be made from metals like stainless steel and aluminum alloy. Suitable materials further include food-grade silicone, polypropylene, Delrin (Acetal), and borosilicate glass.

[0064] Between the housing and the mouthpiece there may be provided electrical contacts. The electrical contacts may be used to connect the power supply of the aerosol generating device, with the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol generating unit. The electrical contacts may be arranged to form an electrical swich.

[0065] The electrical contacts may be arranged such that when the mouthpiece is in the first position, an electrical connection is established between the power supply and the first aerosolgenerating unit. At the same time no electrical connection is established between the power supply and the second aerosol-generating unit. Thus, when the mouthpiece is in the first position, only the heating arrangement of the first aerosol-generating unit is supplied with electrical power. Accordingly, an aerosol may be generated by the first aerosol-generating unit and, since in this configuration the cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit is fluidly connected to the mouthpiece inlet, the generated aerosol is at the same time delivered to the consumer.

[0066] Similarly, the electrical contacts may be arranged such that when the mouthpiece is in the second position, an electrical connection is established between the power supply and the second aerosol-generating unit. In this position, no electrical connection is established between the power supply and the first aerosol-generating unit. Thus, when the mouthpiece is in the second position, the heating arrangement of the second aerosol-generating unit is supplied with electrical power. Accordingly, an aerosol may be generated by the second aerosol-generating unit and, since in this configuration the cavity of the second aerosolgenerating unit is fluidly connected to the mouthpiece inlet, the generated aerosol is at the same time delivered to the consumer.

[0067] The electrical contacts may further be arranged such that when the mouthpiece is in the third position, an electrical connection is established between the power supply and both of the first and second aerosol-generating units. Thus, when the mouthpiece is in the third New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0068] -10- position, the heating arrangement of the first aerosol-generating unit and the heating arrangement of the second aerosol-generating unit are supplied with electrical power. Accordingly, an aerosol may be generated by both aerosol-generating units. Since in this configuration the cavity of both aerosol-generating units is fluidly connected to the mouthpiece inlet, the aerosol generated in either of the aerosol-generating units may be delivered to the consumer.

[0069] If a plurality of mouthpieces is used, each of the mouthpieces may be provided with electrical contacts. The electrical contacts may be configured such that electrical power may be provided to the heating arrangement of the respective aerosol-generating unit through which an airflow is established.

[0070] If the first mouthpiece is used, which may be configured to establish airflow only through the cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit, the electrical contacts of the first mouthpiece may be configured such that electrical power may be provided to the heating arrangement of the first aerosol-generating unit.

[0071] If the second mouthpiece is used, which may be configured to establish airflow only through the cavity of the second aerosol-generating unit, the electrical contacts of the first mouthpiece may be configured such that electrical power may be provided to the heating arrangement of the second aerosol-generating unit.

[0072] If the third mouthpiece is used, which may be configured to establish airflow through the cavities of the first and the second aerosol-generating unit, the electrical contacts of the third mouthpiece may be configured such that electrical power may be provided to the heating arrangements of both, the first and the second aerosol-generating unit.

[0073] The aerosol-generating device may further comprise sealing elements that are provided between the proximal end of the housing and the distal end of the mouthpiece. In particular, the sealing elements may be provided to create an airtight seal for the airflow path from the cavities of the housing to the airflow passage of the mouthpiece. By providing sealing elements between the housing and the mouthpiece undesired airflow leakage from the airflow path can be avoided or at least significantly reduced. Sealing elements are particularly advantageous, when a rotatably mounted mouthpiece is used. In order to allow the mouthpiece to be rotatable, the connection between the mouthpiece and the housing requires at least a certain amount of interspace. Such spacing may be sufficient to allow undesirable aerosol leakage.

[0074] The sealing elements may be made from rubbers or elastomer. Suitable materials include nitrile rubber (NBR), silicone rubber, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM), or fluorinated polymers like viton. New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0075] -11-

[0076] The aerosol-generating device may comprise a locking mechanism for securing and aligning the mouthpiece in each of the usage positions. The locking mechanism may be configured to prevent inadvertent re-adjustment of the mouthpiece. Suitable locking mechanisms may include a spring-loaded ball detent system, a ratchet-and-pawl mechanism, a magnetic locking and a twist-and-lock design.

[0077] In a spring-loaded ball detent system, a spring may push a ball into a notch or recess at each position. The spring-loaded ball mechanism may be provided on the housing or at the mouthpiece and may push the ball into a notch or recess provided at the respective counterpart element.

[0078] A ratchet-and-pawl mechanism may be configured to allow for unidirectional movement of the mouthpiece with respect to the housing. In addition, the ratchet-and-pawl mechanism may be configured to lock the mouthpiece at specific points, each corresponding to one of the usage positions.

[0079] Magnetic locking systems may use magnets to align and releasably hold the mouthpiece in a desired position.

[0080] In a twist-and-lock design the user may twist the mouthpiece to align with grooves or markers which are configured to securely lock the mouthpiece in one of the desired use positions.

[0081] In order to indicate to the user which operational mode is selected by the mouthpiece, the mouthpiece may comprise a visual indicator. The visual indicator may be used to inform user on selected mode of operation. The visual indicator may be a mechanical or an electronic indicator. Electronic indicators may include light sources, such as LEDs or similar.

[0082] The present invention also relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising an elongate housing having a first end and a second end. The elongate housing may comprise a first aerosol-generating unit at a first end, and a second aerosol-generating unit at the second end. The first aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate, and the second aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0083] Such aerosol-generating device with a dual-ended structure may also provide increased convenience to the user. The user may insert a solid aerosol forming substrate in a cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit at a first end of the aerosol-generating device and use the device to generate an aerosol from this solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0084] The user may also insert a liquid aerosol forming substrate in a cavity of the second aerosol-generating unit at the second end of the aerosol-generating device and use the device to generate an aerosol from this liquid aerosol-forming substrate. New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0085] -12-

[0086] Thus, by providing an aerosol-generating device with such dual-ended structure, a user may use the same aerosol-generating device for different use experiences. By inserting a HNB article in the cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit the aerosol-generating device may be used as a conventional HNB device. By inserting a cartridge comprising liquid substrate in the cavity of the second aerosol-generating unit the aerosol-generating device may be used as a conventional vaping device.

[0087] The first and the second aerosol-generating units may be configured as described above. For selectively activating one of the two aerosol-generating units, there may be provided a switch. The user may operate the switch in order to activate the first aerosolgenerating unit or the second aerosol-generating unit.

[0088] Alternatively, or in addition the electric circuitry located within the housing may include an orientation sensor. An orientation sensor may be suitable to detect the upright orientation of the housing. The electric circuitry may thereby automatically detect which of the aerosolgenerating units is pointing upward. The electric circuitry may further automatically activate operation of the aerosol-generating unit that is oriented to point upward. It is assumed that the user is about to use the aerosol-generating unit that is pointing upwards and to the user.

[0089] The present invention also relates to an aerosol-generating device comprising a housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit at a proximal end. The first aerosolgenerating unit may be configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol-generating device may further comprise a second aerosol-generating unit configured to be detachably connected to the proximal end of the housing. The second aerosol-generating unit may be configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosolforming substrate.

[0090] At the proximal end of the housing a first aerosol-generating unit may be provided. The first aerosol-generating unit may comprise a cavity which may be configured for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising solid aerosol-generating substrate. The cavity may be configured as a heating chamber specifically designed for a HNB article.

[0091] The second aerosol generating unit may be provided as a detachable module. The detachable module may be configured for removable mounting to the proximal end of the housing of the aerosol-generating device. By providing the second aerosol generating unit as a detachable module, a user may use a single aerosol-generating device for different use experiences. When the module comprising the second aerosol-generating unit is attached, a user may insert a cartridge comprising liquid substrate in the cavity of the second aerosolgenerating unit and the aerosol-generating device may be used as a conventional vaping device. New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0092] -13-

[0093] By removing the second aerosol-generating unit the cavity of the first aerosolgenerating unit may be exposed, making the aerosol-generating device ready for being used for consumption of a HNB article. When the module comprising the second aerosol-generating unit is removed, a user may insert a HNB article in the cavity of the first aerosol-generating unit and the aerosol-generating device may be used as a conventional HNB device.

[0094] The aerosol-generating device may comprise mechanical connection means to removably attach the cartridge to the housing. Any mechanical connection means may be used for mounting the cartridge to the housing. Providing mechanical connection means may facilitate attachment and removal of the second aerosol-generating unit and may enhance user convenience.

[0095] The aerosol-generating device may further comprise electrical connection means to electrically connect the second aerosol generating unit in the cartridge to electric circuitry in the housing. The electrical connection means may enable electrical connection of the second aerosol-generating unit to the power supply of the aerosol-generating device.

[0096] The aerosol-generating device may further be configured such that upon connection of the cartridge to the housing, the first aerosol-generating unit is disabled. The electrical connection means may be used to transfer power from the power supply to the second aerosolgenerating means. In this case, the electric circuit may be designed to detect the connection status of the second aerosol-generating unit by recognizing the closure of an electrical circuit when the second aerosol-generating unit is attached.

[0097] Thus, when the second aerosol-generating unit is mounted to the housing, the electric circuitry of the aerosol-generating device may be configured to prevent power being supplied to the first aerosol-generating unit. By disabling the first aerosol-generating unit, safety of operation of the aerosol-generating device is enhanced. Further, operating the first aerosolgenerating unit although this unit is not ready for operation, may represent an unnecessary waste of energy and may therefore be undesirable.

[0098] The present invention may also relate to a method of operating an aerosol-generating device. The method may comprise providing a housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit and a second aerosol-generating unit, and a mouthpiece. The first aerosol-generating unit may be configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The second aerosol-generating unit may be configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosolforming substrate. The mouthpiece may be used to selectively activate one or both of the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit.

[0099] As discussed above in more detail, the mouthpiece may be configured to be rotatably mounted to the housing of the aerosol-generating device. By mounting the mouthpiece rotatably, the user may be able to conveniently adjust the positions of the mouthpiece. New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0100] -14-

[0101] Moreover, the user can in this way readily select which of the aerosol-generating units is connected to the mouthpiece such that a generated aerosol can be made available to the consumer. Thus, in such embodiments, a user may select the desired mode of operation of the aerosol-generating device in a very convenient way by a simple rotation of the mouthpiece.

[0102] The present invention allows users to seamlessly switch between various operational modes of aerosol-generating devices, such as heat-not-burn modes, vaping modes and hybrid modes without requiring the user to use multiple devices. The invention further allows to reduce cost for the consumer by eliminating the necessity of additional devices.

[0103] Finally, the design of the device as described herein is user-friendly, with an easy-to- adjust mouthpiece, making operation straightforward.

[0104] User experience is enhanced since the user is provided with a chance to choose between isolated or combined aerosol consumption and to adjust the device to different user preferences.

[0105] Below, there is provided a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples. Any one or more of the features of these examples may be combined with any one or more features of another example, embodiment, or aspect described herein.

[0106] Example 1 : An aerosol-generating device comprising: a housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit and a second aerosol-generating unit, and a mouthpiece, wherein the first aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate, and wherein the second aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the mouthpiece is configured to selectively activate one or both of the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit.

[0107] Example 2: The aerosol-generating device according to example 1 , wherein the first aerosol-generating unit comprises a first cavity for receiving the solid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0108] Example 3: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the first aerosol-generating unit comprises a heating arrangement for heating the solid aerosol-forming substrate received in the first cavity.

[0109] Example 4: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the solid aerosol-forming substrate is part of an aerosol-generating article. New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0110] -15-

[0111] Example 5: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the first cavity corresponds to the cross- sectional shape of the aerosol-generating article.

[0112] Example 6: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the first aerosol-generating unit defines a first airflow path from an air inlet through the first cavity towards an outlet of the first cavity and towards the mouthpiece.

[0113] Example 7: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the second aerosol-generating unit comprises a vaporization unit for vaporizing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0114] Example 8: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be provided in a cartridge.

[0115] Example 9: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the cartridge comprises one or more of a liquid storage portion, a wicking material, and a heating assembly.

[0116] Example 10: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the second cavity is configured to receive the cartridge.

[0117] Example 11 : The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the second aerosol-generating unit defines a second airflow path from an air inlet through the second cavity towards an outlet of the second cavity and towards the mouthpiece.

[0118] Example 12: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein each of the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit comprise a heating assembly.

[0119] Example 13: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the mouthpiece comprises a mouthpiece inlet at a distal end to be mounted to the housing, and a mouthpiece outlet provided at the proximal end.

[0120] Example 14: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the mouthpiece defines an aerosol passage from the mouthpiece inlet to the mouthpiece outlet.

[0121] Example 15: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the inlet of the mouthpiece is configured to be positioned in fluid connection with one or both of the outlets of the first cavity or the second cavity.

[0122] Example 16: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the mouthpiece is configured to assume one of at least three positions, a first position in which an airflow from the first cavity to the mouthpiece is established, while an airflow through the second cavity is blocked, a second position in which an airflow from the New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0123] -16- second cavity to the mouthpiece is established, while an airflow through the first cavity is blocked, and a third position in which an airflow from the first cavity and from the second cavity to the mouthpiece is established.

[0124] Example 17: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the mouthpiece is rotatably mounted to the housing.

[0125] Example 18: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the mouthpiece is configured to be rotatable to assume one of the first, second or third positions.

[0126] Example 19: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein by rotation of the mouthpiece a mode of operation of the aerosol-generating device can be selected.

[0127] Example 20: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein between the housing and the mouthpiece electrical contacts are provided, and wherein depending on the position of the mouthpiece, electrical power is supplied either to the first aerosol-generating unit or to the second aerosol-generating unit or to the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit.

[0128] Example 21 : The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein sealing elements are provided between the first cavity and the second cavity and the mouthpiece.

[0129] Example 22: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, further comprising a locking mechanism for securing and aligning the mouthpiece in each of the positions.

[0130] Example 23: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to prevent inadvertent re-adjustment of the mouthpiece.

[0131] Example 24: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the mouthpiece comprises a visual indicator to inform user on selected mode of operation.

[0132] Example 25: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein the mouthpiece may be detachable.

[0133] Example 26: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein a plurality of, in particular three mouthpieces, is provided, wherein each mouthpiece is configured to allow one of the operation modes.

[0134] Example 27: The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding examples, wherein a mouthpiece is mounted to the housing using a coupling mechanism, such as a peripheral latch or a magnetic coupling. New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0135] -17-

[0136] Example 28: An aerosol-generating device comprising: an elongate housing having a first end and a second end, the elongate housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit at a first end, and a second aerosol-generating unit at the second end, and a mouthpiece, wherein the first aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate, and wherein the second aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0137] Example 29: The aerosol-generating device according to example 28, wherein the device comprises a switch for selectively activating one of the aerosol-generating units.

[0138] Example 30: The aerosol-generating device according to example 28, wherein the device comprises an orientation sensor to activate the aerosol-generating unit pointing upwards.

[0139] Example 31 : An aerosol-generating device comprising: a housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit at a proximal end, wherein the first aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate, and wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a second aerosol-generating unit configured to be detachably connected to the proximal end of the housing, wherein the second aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

[0140] Example 32: The aerosol-generating device according to example 31 , wherein the second aerosol generating unit is provided in the form of a cartridge.

[0141] Example 33: The aerosol-generating device according to example 32, wherein the device comprises mechanical connection means to secure the cartridge at the housing.

[0142] Example 34: The aerosol-generating device according to example 32, wherein the device comprises electrical connection means to electrically connect the second aerosol generating unit in the cartridge to electric circuitry in the housing.

[0143] Example 35: The aerosol-generating device according to example 32, wherein upon connection of the cartridge to the housing, the first aerosol-generating unit is disabled.

[0144] Example 36: A method of operating an aerosol-generating device comprising the steps of:

[0145] Providing a housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit and a second aerosolgenerating unit, and a mouthpiece, New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0146] -18- wherein the first aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate, and wherein the second aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, selectively activating one or both of the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit by the mouthpiece.

[0147] Features described in relation to one embodiment may equally be applied to other embodiments of the invention.

[0148] The invention will be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0149] Fig. 1 shows an aerosol-generating device comprising two aerosol-generating units,

[0150] Fig. 2 shows cross-sectional views of the interface between the housing and the mouthpiece,

[0151] Fig. 3 shows side views of the interface between the housing and the mouthpiece, Fig. 4 shows an aerosol-generating device comprising a dual-sided setup, and Fig. 5 shows an aerosol-generating device with a detachable second aerosolgenerating unit.

[0152] Fig. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating device 10 comprising an elongated housing 12 with an air inlet 13 and a mouthpiece 14 defining an air outlet 15. In the housing there is provided a power supply 16, which in this case is a rechargeable battery. The battery is in electrical communication with electric circuitry comprising a controller 18.

[0153] The aerosol-generating device further comprises a first aerosol-generating unit 20 and a second aerosol-generating unit 30.

[0154] The first aerosol-generating unit 20 comprises a cylindrical cavity 22 that is configured for receiving an aerosol-generating article comprising solid aerosol-forming substrate. The cavity 22 of the first aerosol-generating unit 20 is configured as a heating chamber. The first aerosol-generating unit 20 comprises a heating arrangement in the form of an external resistive heating element 24. The controller is configured to supply electrical power to the resistive heating element 24 upon activation of the first aerosol-generating unit. At the bottom of cavity 22 there is an opening 26 that is in fluid connection with the air inlet 13 of the aerosolgenerating device 10. If the first aerosol-generating unit 20 is activated for aerosol-generation, fresh ambient air from the air inlet 13 is guided via air flow passage 19 towards and through the cavity 22. New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0155] -19-

[0156] The second aerosol-generating unit 30 also comprises a cylindrical cavity 32. Cavity 32 is configured to receive a cartridge 36 comprising a liquid storage portion 38 for housing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 40. The liquid storage portion has a tubular shape defining a central airflow passage 42. The cartridge further comprises a heating arrangement for evaporation of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 40. For this purpose, the cartridge comprises a wick-and-coil arrangement. A wick 44 wound with an electrically resistive heating wire 46 is provided in the airflow passage 42. The free ends of the wick extend into the liquid storage portion and are thus in contact with the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 40 provided in the liquid storage portion 38.

[0157] If the second aerosol-generating unit 30 is activated for aerosol-generation, fresh ambient air from the air inlet 13 is guided via air flow passage 19 towards cavity 32. The fresh air is guided through the airflow passage and past the heated wick 44. Vaporized components of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 40 are entrained and mixed with the fresh ambient air, generating an inhalable aerosol. The aerosol is further guided through the outlet of cavity 32 and through an airflow passage 56 of the mouthpiece 14.

[0158] The mouthpiece 14 is rotatably mounted to the housing 12 via mechanical connection means (not shown in Fig. 1). The mouthpiece 14 comprises a mouthpiece inlet 54, the outlet 15 and an airflow passage 56 therebetween. The rotatable mouthpiece 14 may be positioned in at least three positions in which the mouthpiece inlet 54 is in fluid connection with either the outlet of the cavity 22 of the first aerosol-generating unit 20, or with the outlet of the cavity 32 of the second aerosol-generating unit 30, or with the outlets of both cavities 22, 32. In the configuration depicted in Fig. 1 the mouthpiece inlet 54 is in fluid communication with the outlet of the cavity 32 of the second aerosol-generating unit 30, such that an aerosol generated by the second aerosol-generating unit 30 may be guided via the mouthpiece 14 to the user.

[0159] Between the distal end surface 50 of the mouthpiece 14 and the proximal end surface 48 of the housing 12 there are provided sealing elements 52. The sealing elements 52 are provided to form an airtight seal for the airflow path from the cavities 22, 32 of the housing 12 to the airflow passage 56 of the mouthpiece 14.

[0160] In the top left view of Fig. 2 a cross-sectional view of the distal end face 50 of the mouthpiece 14 is depicted. The mouthpiece inlet 54 at the distal end surface 50 of the mouthpiece 14 is configured as a semi-circular opening. The other half of the distal end surface 50 of the mouthpiece 14 is configured as a solid wall portion 60 and serves to close or partially close one or both of the cavities 22, 32.

[0161] In dashed lines the mouthpiece outlet 54 at the proximal end of the mouthpiece 14 is indicated. The mouthpiece outlet 54 has a circular cross-section and is located centrally at the mouthpiece 14. New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0162] -20-

[0163] In the top right view of Fig. 2 a cross-sectional view of the proximal end surface 48 of the housing 12 of the aerosol-generating device 10 is depicted. The outlets of the cavities 22, 32 of the first and the second aerosol-generating units 20, 30 are each provided with a circular cross-section. Further, the outlet of cavity 22 is located in one half of the proximal end surface 48 of the housing 12, while the outlet of cavity 32 is located in the other half of the proximal end surface 48 of the housing 12.

[0164] The three lower views of Fig. 2 schematically depict the interface between the mouthpiece 14 and the proximal end surface 48 of the housing 12, when the mouthpiece 14 is attached to the housing 12.

[0165] In the lower left view of Fig. 2 the mouthpiece 14 is attached in a position such that the semi-circular opening of the mouthpiece inlet 54 is superposed to the half of the proximal end surface 48 of the housing 12 comprising the outlet of the cavity 32 of the second aerosolgenerating unit 30. The solid wall portion 60 completely covers the outlet of the cavity 22 of the first aerosol-generating unit 20. In this position the mouthpiece inlet 54 is in fluid communication with the outlet of the cavity 32 of the second aerosol-generating unit 30, only. Aerosol generated in the second aerosol-generating unit 30 may be inhaled by a user at the mouthpiece outlet 15.

[0166] In the lower right view of Fig. 2 the mouthpiece 14 is attached in a position such that the semi-circular opening of the mouthpiece inlet 54 is superposed to the half of the proximal end surface 48 of the housing 12 comprising the outlet of the cavity 22 of the first aerosolgenerating unit 20. The solid wall portion 60 completely covers the outlet of the cavity 32 of the second aerosol-generating unit 30. In this position the mouthpiece inlet 54 is in fluid communication with the outlet of the cavity 22 of the first aerosol-generating unit 20, only. Aerosol generated in the first aerosol-generating unit 20 may be inhaled by a user at the mouthpiece outlet 15.

[0167] In the lower middle view of Fig. 2 the mouthpiece 14 is attached in a position such that the semi-circular opening of the mouthpiece inlet 54 is rotated by 90 degrees, such that the mouthpiece inlet 54 is superposed to both cavities 22, 32. Aerosol generated in the first aerosol-generating unit 20 and in the second aerosol-generating unit 30 may both be received in the mouthpiece 14 and may be inhaled by a user at the mouthpiece outlet 15.

[0168] The side views of Fig. 3 correspond to the three views of Fig. 2. In the lower left view of Fig. 3 the mouthpiece 14 is attached in a position such that the semi-circular opening of the mouthpiece inlet 54 is superposed to the half of the proximal end surface 48 of the housing 12 comprising the outlet of the cavity 32 of the second aerosol-generating unit 30. The solid wall portion 60 completely covers the outlet of the cavity 22 of the first aerosol-generating unit 20. New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0169] -21-

[0170] In the lower right view of Fig. 2 the mouthpiece 14 is attached in a position such that the semi-circular opening of the mouthpiece inlet 54 is superposed to the half of the proximal end surface 48 of the housing 12 comprising the outlet of the cavity 22 of the first aerosolgenerating unit 20. The solid wall portion 60 completely covers the outlet of the cavity 32 of the second aerosol-generating unit 30.

[0171] In the lower middle view of Fig. 2 the mouthpiece 14 is attached in a position such that the semi-circular opening of the mouthpiece inlet 54 is rotated by 90 degrees, such that the mouthpiece inlet 54 is superposed to both cavities 22, 32.

[0172] An electrical conductive element 62 is located at the distal end face 50 of the mouthpiece 14. The electrical conductive element 62 couples with corresponding pairs of electrical contacts 64, 66, 68 provided at the proximal end face 48 of the housing 12. The electrical conductive element 62 and the corresponding electrical contacts 64, 66, 68 act as an electrical switch. As the mouthpiece 14 rotates between the three positions indicated in Figs. 2 and 3, the electrically conductive element 62 couples with the corresponding pair of electrical contacts 64, 66, 68, such that electrical contact is made in dependence of the rotary position of the mouthpiece.

[0173] In the left view of Fig. 3 the conductive element 62 connects a pair of electrical contacts 64. These contacts 64 allow the power supply 16 to deliver electrical power to the heating arrangement of the second aerosol-generating unit 30.

[0174] In the right view of Fig. 3 the conductive element 62 connects a pair of electrical contacts 68. These contacts allow the power supply 16 to deliver electrical power to the heating arrangement of the first aerosol-generating unit 30.

[0175] In the middle view of Fig. 3 the conductive element 62 connects a pair of electrical contacts 66. These contacts allow the power supply to deliver electrical power to the heating arrangements of both, the first and the second aerosol-generating unit 20, 30.

[0176] In Fig. 4 an aerosol aerosol-generating device 10 comprising an elongate housing 12 having a dual-ended design is depicted. The elongate housing 12 has a first end 70 and a second end 72. The elongate housing 12 comprises a first aerosol-generating unit 20 at the first end 70, and a second aerosol-generating unit 30 at the second end 72. The aerosol generating units are largely configured as in the embodiment of Fig.1.

[0177] The first aerosol-generating unit 20 is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate. The first aerosol-generating unit 20 comprises a cylindrical cavity 22 that is configured for receiving an aerosol-generating article 74 comprising solid aerosolforming substrate. The cavity 22 of the first aerosol-generating unit 20 is configured as a heating chamber. The first aerosol-generating unit 20 comprises a heating arrangement in the form of an external resistive heating element 24. The controller 18 is configured to supply New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0178] -22- electrical power from the power supply 16 to the resistive heating element 24 upon activation of the first aerosol-generating unit.

[0179] The second aerosol-generating unit 30 also comprises a cylindrical cavity 32. Cavity 32 is configured to receive a cartridge 36 comprising a liquid storage portion 38 for housing a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 40. The liquid storage portion has a tubular shape defining a central airflow passage 42. The cartridge further comprises a heating arrangement for evaporation of the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 40. For this purpose, the cartridge comprises a wick-and-coil arrangement. A wick 44 wound with an electrically resistive heating wire 46 is provided in the airflow passage 42. The free ends of the wick 46 extend into the liquid storage portion 38 and are thus in contact with the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 40 provided in the liquid storage portion 38.

[0180] In this embodiment a switch (not shown) may be provided, which is to be operated by the user in order to activate one of the two aerosol-generating units 20, 30. Alternatively the controller 18 may comprise an orientation sensor. The orientation sensor is configured to detect the upright orientation of the housing 12. The electric circuitry may further be configured to detect, which of the aerosol-generating units is pointing upwards and towards the user. Upon detection of a user taking a puff, the upright directed aerosol-generating unit, in this case the first aerosol-generating unit 20 is powered for generating an aerosol.

[0181] Fig. 5 depicts an aerosol-generating device 10 comprising a housing 12 comprising a first aerosol-generating unit 20 at a proximal end. The first aerosol-generating unit 20 may be configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate comprised in an aerosol-generating article 74. The aerosol-generating device 10 may further comprise a second aerosol-generating unit 30 configured to be detachably connected to the proximal end 28 of the housing. The second aerosol-generating unit 30 may be configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate 40.

[0182] At the proximal end of the housing a first aerosol-generating unit 20 is provided. The first aerosol-generating unit 20 comprises a cavity 22 which may be configured for receiving an aerosol-generating article 74 comprising solid aerosol-generating substrate. The cavity 22 is configured as a heating chamber specifically designed for a HNB article.

[0183] The second aerosol generating unit 30 is provided as a detachable module. The detachable module is configured for removable mounting to the proximal end 28 of the housing 12 of the aerosol-generating device 10.

[0184] By removing the second aerosol-generating unit 30 the cavity 22 of the first aerosolgenerating unit 20 is exposed, making the aerosol-generating device 10 ready for being used for consumption of a HNB article 74. When the module comprising the second aerosolgenerating unit 30 is removed, a user may insert a HNB article 74 in the cavity 22 of the first New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT

[0185] -23- aerosol-generating unit 20 and the aerosol-generating device 10 may be used as a conventional HNB device.

[0186] The aerosol-generating device 10 comprises mechanical connection means (not shown) to removably attach the module comprising the second aerosol-generating unit 30 to the housing 12.

[0187] The aerosol-generating device further comprises electrical connection means (not shown) to electrically connect the second aerosol generating unit 30 to the electric circuitry and the power supply 16 in the housing 12.

[0188] The aerosol-generating device 10 is further configured such that upon connection of the detachable module to the housing 12, the first aerosol-generating unit 20 is disabled. Thereby the aerosol-generating device 10 is efficiently configured to prevent power being inadvertently supplied to the first aerosol-generating unit 20. Thereby safety of operation of the aerosol-generating device 10 is enhanced.

Claims

New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT-24-CLAIMS1 . An aerosol-generating device comprising: a housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit and a second aerosol-generating unit, and a mouthpiece, wherein the first aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate, and wherein the second aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, wherein the mouthpiece is configured to selectively activate one or both of the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit.

2. The aerosol-generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the first aerosolgenerating unit comprises a first cavity for receiving the solid aerosol-forming substrate.

3. The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first aerosol-generating unit comprises a heating arrangement for heating the solid aerosol-forming substrate received in the first cavity.

4. The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second aerosol-generating unit comprises a vaporization unit for vaporizing the liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

5. The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be provided in a cartridge.

6. The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cartridge comprises one or more of a liquid storage portion, a wicking material, and a heating assembly.

7. The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second cavity is configured to receive the cartridge.New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT-25-8. The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit comprise a heating assembly.

9. The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mouthpiece is configured to assume one of at least three positions, a first position in which an airflow from the first cavity to the mouthpiece is established, while an airflow through the second cavity is blocked, a second position in which an airflow from the second cavity to the mouthpiece is established, while an airflow through the first cavity is blocked, and a third position in which an airflow from the first cavity and from the second cavity to the mouthpiece is established.

10. The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein between the housing and the mouthpiece electrical contacts are provided, and wherein depending on the position of the mouthpiece, electrical power is supplied either to the first aerosol-generating unit or to the second aerosol-generating unit or to the first aerosolgenerating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit.11 . The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a plurality of, in particular three mouthpieces, is provided, wherein each mouthpiece is configured to allow one of the operation modes.

12. The aerosol-generating device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a mouthpiece is mounted to the housing using a coupling mechanism, such as a peripheral latch or a magnetic coupling.

13. An aerosol-generating device comprising: an elongate housing having a first end and a second end, the elongate housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit at a first end, and a second aerosol-generating unit at the second end, and a mouthpiece, wherein the first aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate, and wherein the second aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.New PCT Patent Application September 1 , 2025 Philip Morris Products S.A. 46071 -PCT-26-14. An aerosol-generating device comprising: a housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit at a proximal end, wherein the first aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate, and wherein the aerosol-generating device comprises a second aerosol-generating unit configured to be detachably connected to the proximal end of the housing, wherein the second aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate.

15. A method of operating an aerosol-generating device comprising the steps of: providing a housing comprising a first aerosol-generating unit and a second aerosolgenerating unit, and a mouthpiece, wherein the first aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a solid aerosol-forming substrate, and wherein the second aerosol-generating unit is configured to generate an aerosol using a liquid aerosol-forming substrate, selectively activating one or both of the first aerosol-generating unit and the second aerosol-generating unit by the mouthpiece.

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