Aerosol generating device and system

Abstract

An aerosol-generating system includes an aerosol-generating device (300) and a first article (302) for coupling to the aerosol generating device. The aerosol-generating device comprises a power source (4) and electrical connectors (40) arranged to electrically connect the power source to the first article when the first article is coupled to the device. The aerosol-generating device comprises a switch (312) switchable to a first state by coupling the first article to the device and a controller (316), which is configured to detect whether the switch is in the first state, to select a first heating profile suitable for the first article when it is detected that the switch is in the first state and to control, based on the selected first heating profile, a power applied to the electrical connectors from the power source.

Description

[0001] P01607

[0002] 1

[0003] AEROSOL GENERATNG DEVICE AND SYSTEM FIELD

[0004] The present disclosure relates to an aerosol generating device, a first article for coupling to the device, a second article for coupling to the device, and a system comprising the aerosol generating device and the first article.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] An electronic vapour product (EVP), also known as a vaping apparatus or a vape, is a type of aerosolgenerating system in which an aerosol precursor (e.g. a liquid or gel, which may include a flavouring) is aerosolised by an aerosol-generating unit, such as a heating element or ultrasonic element.

[0007] An aerosol-generating system may be a two-part construction comprising an aerosol-generating device and an article. The article may house the aerosol precursor and the aerosol-generating unit, and the device may include a power source for delivering power to the aerosol-generating unit.

[0008] In some systems, it is possible to couple different types of articles (e.g., including different flavourings) to a single aerosol-generating device.

[0009] It is against this background that the present invention has been developed.

[0010] SUMMARY

[0011] According to a first aspect, the present disclosure provides an aerosol-generating system including: an aerosol-generating device; and, a first article for coupling to the aerosol generating device. The aerosolgenerating device comprises a power source and electrical connectors arranged to electrically connect the power source to the first article when the first article is coupled to the device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a switch switchable to a first state by coupling the first article to the device. The aerosol generating device may further comprise a controller, which may be configured to: detect whether the switch is in the first state; select a first heating profile suitable for the first article when it is detected that the switch is in the first state; and control, based on the selected first heating profile, a power applied to the electrical connectors from the power source.

[0012] In this way, the switch may be used for article identification, and / or for heating profile selection. Because the switch is switchable to the first state by coupling the first article to the device, the risk of user error (e.g., in identifying the article or in selecting an appropriate heating profile) is reduced, and the switch may correspond to a Poka-Yoke element. Additionally, or alternatively, switches may be more resilient and reliable than other article identification or heating profile selection elements (such as those which use optical detectors, for example, which be negatively affected by the presence of dust), and / or

[0013] 0088825322

[0014] switches may be cheaper / simpler to implement / manufacture than other article identification or heating profile selection elements.

[0015] As an example, the aerosol generating device may be an electronic vapour product (EVP) device. The first article may be referred to as a first consumable or a first pod, and may house a first aerosol precursor (e.g., a liquid or a gel, which may include a first flavouring) and a first aerosol generating unit (e.g., a first heating element or first piezoelectric element). The selected first heating profile may be suitable for powering the first aerosol generating unit, for example suitable for vaporising the first aerosol and / or the first flavouring.

[0016] It will be appreciated that the first heating profile may define / indicate a first power to be applied to the electrical connectors. For example, the first heating profile may define / indicate a constant or a timevarying first power to be applied to the electrical connectors. The first heating profile may define a (constant or time-varying) first target temperature for the first heating element of the first article. The first heating profile may comprise a first pre-heating section and a first main heating section.

[0017] In some examples, the switch may have a first state and a second state. The switch may be (e.g., reversibly) switchable between the first state and the second state. The switch may be switchable from the second state to the first state, for example by coupling the first article to the device. In some examples, the first state may be an open (or off) state, and / or the second state may be a closed (or on) state, or vice versa.

[0018] In some examples, the switch may be a mechanical switch. In such examples, switchable may be understood to mean physically moveable. For example, the switch may be physically moveable to the first state (e.g., from the second state) by coupling the first article to the device. The first state may correspond to a first position or first configuration of the switch and / or the second state may correspond to a second position or first configuration of the switch.

[0019] The first article may include a first trigger portion, which may be configured to switch / move the switch to the first state (e.g., from the second state) by coupling the first article to the device. The first trigger portion may be configured to switch / move the switch by physical interaction with the switch. For example, the first trigger portion may be configured to apply a force to the switch to switch / move it to the first state. The first trigger portion may be a surface, e.g. a base surface or a lateral surface of the first article. The first trigger portion may be a protrusion on the first article e.g. a protrusion extending from the base surface or from a lateral surface of the first article. The first trigger portion may correspond to a flat or uniform surface e.g., base surface or lateral surface of the first article.

[0020] The switch may comprise an actuator operable to configure or move the switch into the first state (e.g., from the second state). The first trigger portion may be configured to switch / move the switch by physical interaction with the actuator. For example, the first trigger portion may be configured to apply a force to the actuator to switch / move the switch to the first state upon coupling the first article to the device.

[0021] 0088825323

[0022] Configuring or moving the switch into the first state may comprise forming an electrical connection between electrical contacts of the switch (e.g., when the first state is the closed state), or breaking an electrical connection between electrical contacts of the switch (e.g., when the first state is the open state).

[0023] The mechanical switch may be a latching switch a non-latching switch (which may be biased away from the first state, e.g., into the second state). The actuator may be moveable between a first position and a second position. When the actuator is in the first position, the switch may be in the first state, and / or when the actuator is in the second position, the switch may be in the second state. The actuator may comprise a rocker or a plunger. It will be understood that a rocker may be pivotable between a first position and a second position. When the rocker is in the first position, the switch may be in the first state, and when the rocker is in the second position, the switch may be in the second state. The rocker may be pivotable to an intermediate position, between the first position and the second position. When the rocker is in the intermediate position, the switch may be in the first state or the second state. In some examples, the switch may be a non-contact switch, for example a Hall effect switch. In such examples, when the magnetic flux density at the Hall effect switch is greater than or equal to a threshold, the Hall effect switch may be in the first state, and when the magnetic flux density at the Hall effect switch is less than the threshold, the Hall effect switch may be in the second state, or vice versa. For example, the magnetic flux density at the Hall effect switch may be increased to greater than or equal to the threshold by coupling the first article to the device. The magnetic flux density at the Hall effect switch may be less than the threshold when no article is coupled to the device.

[0024] In these examples, the first trigger portion of the first article may comprise a first magnet. For example, when the first article is coupled to the device the first magnet may cause the magnetic flux density at the Hall effect switch to be greater than or equal to the threshold.

[0025] In some examples, the aerosol generating device may further be for coupling to a second article. In some examples, when the second article is coupled to the device, the switch is in the second state. The controller may be configured to: detect whether the switch is in the second state; select a second heating profile suitable for the second article when it is detected that the switch is in the second state; and / or control, based on the selected second heating profile, a power applied to the electrical connectors from the power source.

[0026] The second article may be referred to as a second consumable or a second pod, and may house a second aerosol precursor (e.g., a liquid or a gel, which may include a second flavouring) and a second aerosol generating unit (e.g., a second heating element or second piezoelectric element). The power source of the device may be for delivering power to the second aerosol generating unit via the electrical connectors. The selected second heating profile may be suitable for powering the second aerosol generating unit e.g. suitable for vaporising the second aerosol precursor and / or second flavouring. It will be appreciated that the second aerosol precursor, second flavour, second aerosol generating unit

[0027] 0088825324

[0028] and / or second heating element may be different from the first aerosol, first flavouring and / or first aerosol generating unit respectively.

[0029] It will further be appreciated that the second heating profile may be different from the first heating profile. The second heating profile may define / indicate a second power to be applied to the electrical connectors. For example, the second heating profile may define / indicate a constant or a time-varying second power to be applied to the electrical connectors. The second heating profile may define a (constant or time-varying) second target temperature for the second heating element of the second article. The second heating profile may comprise a second pre-heating section and a second main heating section. The second power, the second target temperature, the second pre-heating section and / or the second main heating section may be different from the first power, the first target temperature, the first pre-heating section and / or the first main heating section, respectively.

[0030] Therefore, the selected heating profile (the selected first or second heating profile), and the power applied to the electrical connectors may depend on whether the first or second article is coupled to the aerosol-generating device. This may be advantageous, as the first article and the second article may include different aerosol generating units (or heating elements), which may have different power requirements, and / or different flavourings which may be best suited different aerosol generating units (or heating elements).

[0031] In some examples, the switch may be switchable to the second state (e.g., from the first state) by coupling the second article to the device. For example, the switch may be switchable from the second state to the first state by coupling the first article to the device, and switchable from the first state to the second state by coupling the second article to the device.

[0032] The second article may include a second trigger portion, which may be configured to switch / move the switch to the second state by coupling the second article to the device. The second trigger portion may be configured to switch / move the switch by physical interaction with the switch. For example, the second trigger portion may be configured to apply a force to the switch to switch / move it to the first state. The second trigger portion may be a surface, e.g. a base surface or a lateral surface of the second article. The second trigger portion may be a protrusion on the second article e.g. a protrusion extending from the base surface or from a lateral surface of the second article. The second trigger portion may correspond to a flat or uniform surface e.g., base surface or lateral surface of the second article.

[0033] When the switch is a mechanical switch, the switch may be moveable by coupling the second article to the device. For example, the actuator may be operable by coupling the second article to the device to move the switch into the second state (e.g., from the first state). Moving the switch into the second state may comprise breaking an electrical connection between electrical contacts of the switch (e.g., when the second state is the open state), or forming an electrical connection between electrical contacts of the switch (e.g., when the second state is the closed state).

[0034] 008882532P01607

[0035] 5

[0036] In some examples, the switch may be biased away from the first state. For example, the switch may be biased into the second state. Therefore, when no article is coupled to the device, the switch may be in the second state. For example, the actuator may be biased into the second position.

[0037] The switch may be configured to remain unchanged, and / or to remain in the second state, during coupling of the second article to the device.

[0038] In these embodiments, where the actuator is biased into the second state, the second article may comprise a bypass portion configured to inhibit the switch switching to the first state. The bypass portion may be configured to maintain the switch in the second state, for example by avoiding physical interaction with the switch / actuator. For example, the bypass portion may be a cut out or recess in a surface e.g. base surface or a lateral surface of the second article, which may be configured to receive the actuator therein. The bypass portion may correspond to a flat or uniform surface e.g., base surface or lateral surface of the second article.

[0039] In this way, the switch may be used to differentiate between the first article and the second article, and / or to select an appropriate (first or second) heating profile for the (first or second) article coupled to the device. Further, the risk of user error (e.g., in identifying the article or in selecting an appropriate heating profile) may be inhibited.

[0040] When the switch is a Hall effect switch, the magnetic flux density at the Hall effect switch may be less than the threshold when the second article is coupled to the device. In this way, the switch may be configured to remain in the second state (e.g., the off state) during coupling of the second article to the device. The second article may not comprise a magnet for changing the Hall effect switch to the first state (e.g., from the second state). For example, the second article may comprise only non-magnetised material. In some examples, the second article may include a second magnet. The magnet of the second article may be weaker than that of the first article, such that it does not switch the Hall effect switch (e.g., to the first state) when the second article is coupled to the device. When the second article is coupled to the device, the magnetic flux density at the Hall effect switch may be less than the threshold.

[0041] In some examples, the first magnet and / or the second magnet may be for respectively magnetically coupling the first article and / or the second article to the device. The aerosol generating device may comprise a magnet or magnetic material configured to attract the first magnet and / or the second magnet.

[0042] In this way, the coupling of the first / second article to the device may be facilitated and / or may be stronger. Further, the magnet of the first article may be multi-purpose (e.g., may for coupling the article to the device and may be for switching the Hall effect switch to the first state).

[0043] The aerosol generating device may have a device axis, the first article may have a first article axis, and / or the second article may have a second article axis. The device axis and the first / second article

[0044] 008882532P01607

[0045] 6

[0046] axis may be parallel and / or aligned when the first / second article is coupled to the device. The device axis may correspond to a central (e.g., a longitudinal) axis of the device, and / or the first / second article axis may correspond to a central (e.g., a longitudinal) axis of the first / second article. A lateral surface of the first / second article may be understood to mean a surface which extends around the first / second article axis.

[0047] In some examples, the aerosol generating device may comprise a receiving cavity configured to receive (at least a portion of) the first article and / or the second article. In such examples, (at least a portion of) the first / second article may be received in the receiving cavity when the first / second article is coupled to the device.

[0048] For example, the receiving cavity may be defined by one or more perimeter walls upstanding from a cavity base surface. The perimeter wall(s) may extend (e.g., circumferentially) around the receiving cavity and / or the device axis. The cavity base surface may extend transversely to the device axis. In some examples, the switch, for example the actuator of the switch, may be coupled to the cavity base surface or the perimeter wall.

[0049] In some examples, the switch, for example the actuator of the switch, may be located within, or may protrude into receiving cavity. For example, the actuator may extend from / through the perimeter wall. The actuator may extend from / through the cavity base surface. Thus upon insertion of the first article into the receiving cavity, the first trigger portion can physically interact with the actuator to move the switch to the first state. Upon insertion of the second article, either the second trigger portion can either physically interact with the actuator to move the switch to the second state or (where the swich / actuator is biased to the second state) the bypass portion can avoid physical interaction to allow the switch to remain in the second state.

[0050] In examples in which the switch, for example the actuator of the switch, is coupled to perimeter wall, the first trigger portion, the second trigger portion and / or the bypass portion may be located on or proximate to the lateral surface of the first article and / or the second article. In examples in which the switch, for example the actuator of the switch, is coupled to the cavity base surface, the first trigger portion, the second trigger portion and / or the bypass portion may be located on or proximate to the base surface of the first article and / or the second article. The base surface of the first / second article may be understood to mean a surface configured to abut the cavity base surface of the device.

[0051] In some examples, the actuator may be located within a recess (e.g., a recess in the cavity base surface or in the perimeter wall). In such examples, the first trigger portion of the first article may comprise a protrusion positioned to extend into the recess to operate the actuator to switch / move the switch to the first state (e.g., from the second state). The bypass portion of the second article which faces into the recess when the second article is coupled to the device may be uniform / flat / may include no protrusions.

[0052] 008882532P01607

[0053] 7

[0054] In this way, the actuator may be operable by coupling the first article to the device, and / or may not be operable by coupling the second article to the device.

[0055] In some examples, a channel may be defined in the perimeter wall (e.g., in an inner surface of the perimeter wall) which defines the receiving cavity. The channel may be continuous with i.e. open into the receiving cavity. The channel may comprise a receiving portion extending from a top end of the perimeter wall (i.e. proximal an opening into the receiving cavity) towards the cavity base surface (e.g. parallel to the device axis).

[0056] The channel may further comprise a guiding portion extending transversely / circumferentially with respect to the device axis proximal the cavity base surface.

[0057] The receiving portion of the channel may be shaped to receive the first trigger portion e.g. protrusion of the first article therein and to guide it towards the cavity base surface. The guiding portion of the channel may be configured to direct the first trigger portion e.g. protrusion to the actuator (e.g., upon a twisting motion of the first article relative to the device).

[0058] In this way, insertion of the first article into the receiving cavity and actuation of the switch by the first trigger portion may be facilitated.

[0059] In examples in which the actuator of the switch is a rocker, the first trigger portion may be configured to push the rocker into the first position and may comprise a first notch configured to receive (at least a portion of) the rocker in the first position. The second trigger portion may be configured to push the rocker into the second position and may comprise a second notch configured to receive (at least a portion of) the rocker in the second position. In examples in which the rocker is biased into the second position, the second bypass portion may be configured to receive (at least a portion of) the rocker in the second position. In other examples, the bypass portion may be shaped to push the rocker into the intermediate position, in which the switch is in the second state.

[0060] In some examples, the controller may be configured to: identify, based on (or in response to) detecting that the switch is in the first state, the first article; and / or select, based on (or in response to) identifying the first article, the first heating profile. In some examples, the controller may be configured to: identify, based on (or in response to) detecting that the switch is in the second state, the second article; and / or select, based on (or in response to) identifying the second article, the second heating profile. For example, a memory (e.g., in the aerosol-generating device) may store a database in which the first heating profile is associated with the first article and / or the second heating profile is associated with the second article. Selecting the first heating profile may comprise transmitting a request comprising the identified first article to the memory and receiving, from the memory, the first heating profile associated with the identified first article. Selecting the second heating profile may comprise transmitting a request comprising the identified second article to the memory and receiving, from the memory, the second heating profile associated with the identified second article.

[0061] 008882532P01607

[0062] 8

[0063] In this way, the article may be identified before the heating profile is selected, and the identification may be used to select the heating profile. This may facilitate selection of a suitable heating for the article coupled to the device.

[0064] In some examples, the controller may be configured to select, based on (or in response to) detecting that the switch is in the first state, the first heating profile and / or to select, based on (or in response to) detecting that the switch is in the second state, the second heating profile.

[0065] In this way, the state of the switch may be used to select the heating profile, without explicitly identifying the article coupled to the device. The time to select the heating profile and / or the processing to select the heating profile may be reduced.

[0066] In some examples, the controller may be configured to detect whether an article (e.g., the first or second article) is coupled to the device, which may comprise receiving a connection signal from the electrical connectors, the connection signal indicating that the electrical connectors are electrically connected to an article, and in response to receiving the connection signal, determining that an article is coupled to the device. When no connection signal is received, it may be determined that an article is not coupled to the device.

[0067] In some examples power may only be applied to the electrical connectors in response to receiving a user input signal (e.g., a pressure signal from a pressure sensor arranged to detect a “puff” of the user). In this way, the safety of the device may be improved.

[0068] In some examples, the switch and the controller may be within a single electrical circuit. Detecting whether the switch is in the first state (or the second state) may comprise the controller detecting whether the electrical circuit is complete (e.g., indicating that the switch is on / closed) or broken (e.g., indicating that the switch is off / open). For example, the electrical circuit may comprise a voltage source, and detecting whether the electrical circuit is complete or broken may comprise detecting whether a voltage is received from the voltage source.

[0069] In some examples, in addition to the switch (which may be referred to as the first switch), the aerosol generating device may comprise a second switch. The second switch may be as any one embodiment of the (first) switch previously described. The first and second switch may be identical or may be different. The first and second switches may be physically spaced within the receiving cavity of the device.

[0070] In this way, the aerosol generating device may be configured to identify / differentiate between an increased number of (e.g., three or four) different articles, and to select a suitable heating profile for each of these articles.

[0071] In some examples, the second switch may be switchable to the first state by coupling the first article to the device. In other examples, the second switch may be configured to remain unchanged and / or to

[0072] 008882532P01607

[0073] 9

[0074] remain in the second state during coupling of the first article to the device. In some examples, the second switch may be switchable to the second state by coupling the second article to the device. In other examples, the second switch may be configured to remain unchanged and / or to remain in the second state during coupling of the second article to the device.

[0075] In some examples, the aerosol generating device may further be for coupling to a third article and / or a fourth article. Any feature described herein with reference to the first article or the second article may be equally applied to the third article, and / or to the fourth article.

[0076] The first switch and the second switch may together define one or more combination states, for example four combination states (e.g., a first combination state, a second combination state, a third combination state, and a fourth combination state). Each combination state may correspond to a different combination of a state of the first switch (e.g., the first or second state) with a state of the second switch (e.g., the first or second state). As an example, the first combination state may correspond to the first switch being in the first state and the second switch being in the first state, the second combination state may correspond to the first switch being in the second state and the second switch being in the first state, the third combination state may correspond to the first switch being in the second state and the second switch being in the first state, and / or the fourth combination state may correspond to first switch being in the second state and the second switch being in the second state.

[0077] In some examples, the combination of the first switch and the second switch may be in the first combination state when the first article is coupled to the device, in the second combination state when the second article is coupled to the device, in the third combination state when the third article is coupled to the device and / or in the fourth combination state when the fourth article is coupled to the device. In this way, the aerosol generating device can identify / differentiate between an increased number of (e.g., four) different articles.

[0078] In some examples, the combination of the first switch and the second switch may be switchable into the first combination state by coupling the first article to the device, the second combination state by coupling the second article to the device, the third combination state by coupling the third article to the device and / or the fourth combination state by coupling the fourth article to the device. It will be appreciated that the combination (of the first switch and the second switch) being switchable may refer to one or both of the first switch and the second switch being switchable. The combination of the first switch and the second switch may be biased into one of the first combination state, the second combination state, the third combination state or the fourth combination state.

[0079] In this way, the aerosol generating device can identify / differentiate between an increased number of (e.g., four) different articles. Further, the risk of user error (e.g., in identifying the article or in selecting an appropriate heating profile) is inhibited.

[0080] 008882532P01607

[0081] 10

[0082] In some examples, the controller may be configured to: detect whether the combination of the first switch and the second switch is in the first combination state, the second combination state, the third combination state or the fourth combination state; select a first heating profile suitable for the first article when it is detected (or in response to detecting) that the combination is in the first combination state, select a second heating profile suitable for the second article when it is detected (or in response to detecting) that the combination is in the second combination state, select a third heating profile suitable for the third article when it is detected (or in response to detecting) that the combination is in the third combination state, select a fourth heating profile suitable for the fourth article when it is detected (or in response to detecting) that the combination is in the fourth combination state; and, control, based on the selected heating profile, a power applied to the electrical connectors from the power source. Therefore, the controller may be configured to use the detection of the both the state of the first switch and the state of the second switch to select the heating profile. In this way, the aerosol generating device may be configured to identify / differentiate between an increased number of (e.g., four) different articles, and to select a suitable heating profile for each of these articles.

[0083] In some examples, the controller may be configured to: identify, based on (or in response to) detecting that the combination is in the first combination state, the first article; identify, based on (or in response to) detecting that the combination is in the second combination state, the second article; identify, based on (or in response to) detecting that the combination is in the third combination state, the third article; identify, based on (or in response to) detecting that the combination is in the fourth combination state, the fourth article. The controller may be configured to: select, based on (or in response to) identifying the first article, the first heating profile; select, based on (or in response to) identifying the second article, the second heating profile; select, based on (or in response to) identifying the third article, the third heating profile; select, based on (or in response to) identifying the fourth article, the fourth heating profile.

[0084] In this way, the article may be identified before the heating profile is selected, and the identification may be used to select the heating profile. This may facilitate selection of a suitable heating profile for an article coupled to the device.

[0085] It will be appreciated that the power source of the device may include a battery. Suitable batteries may include lithium-based batteries (e.g. lithium-ion and lithium polymer batteries) and nickel-base batteries (e.g. nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride batteries). The battery may be rechargeable via a wired or wireless connection. The power source may, alternatively or in addition, include an external power outlet configured to charge the battery, bypass the battery, or to replace the battery altogether. The power source may be or include another form of charge storage device such as a capacitor.

[0086] The power source of the device may be for delivering power to the first aerosol generating unit and / or the second aerosol generating unit via the electrical connectors when the first article or the second article, respectively, is coupled to the device.

[0087] 008882532P01607

[0088] 11

[0089] It will be appreciated that the first article and / or second article may include electrical connectors for electrically (and optionally mechanically) coupling to the electrical connectors of the device. For example, the electrical connectors of the device may be (e.g., fixedly) coupled to the cavity base surface of the receiving cavity. The electrical connectors of the device may be exposed to the receiving cavity. The electrical connectors of the first / second article may be (e.g., fixedly) coupled to the base surface of the first / second article.

[0090] In this way, the electrical connectors of the device may be electrically connectable to the electrical connectors of the first / second article, and / or the power source may be electrically connectable to the first / second aerosol generating unit via the electrical connectors of the device and the electrical connectors of the first / second article.

[0091] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure provides an aerosol generating device for use in the system according to the first aspect i.e. for coupling to the first article.

[0092] The aerosol-generating device comprises a power source and electrical connectors arranged to electrically connect the power source to the first article when the first article is coupled to the device. The aerosol-generating device may comprise a switch switchable to a first state by coupling the first article to the device. The aerosol generating device may further comprise a controller, which may be configured to: detect whether the switch is in the first state; select a first heating profile suitable for the first article when it is detected that the switch is in the first state; and control, based on the selected first heating profile, a power applied to the electrical connectors from the power source.

[0093] It will be understood that any feature of the aerosol generating device described with reference to the first aspect may be equally applicable to the second aspect.

[0094] According to a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a first article for coupling to the aerosol generating device of the second aspect, or for use in the system of the first aspect. The first article may include a first trigger portion configured to switch the switch to the first state by coupling the first article to the device.

[0095] It will be understood that any feature of the first article described with reference to the first aspect may be equally applicable to the third aspect.

[0096] For example, the first trigger portion may be positioned and shaped to operate an actuator of the switch. The first trigger portion may comprise a protrusion. As another example, the switch may be a Hall effect switch, and the first trigger portion may comprise a first magnet.

[0097] According to a fourth aspect, the present disclosure provides a second article for coupling to the aerosol generating device of the second aspect, or for use in the system of the first aspect. The switch may have a first state and a second state. The second article may include a bypass portion configured to inhibit the second article from switching the switch to the first state (e.g., from the second state). The

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[0100] second article may include a second trigger portion configured to switch the switch to the second state (e.g., from the first state) by coupling the second article to the device.

[0101] It will be understood that any feature of the second article described with reference to the first aspect may be equally applicable to the fourth aspect.

[0102] For example, the bypass portion may be configured, positioned and / or shaped to inhibit contact between the second article and an actuator of the switch.

[0103] According to a fifth aspect, the present disclosure provides a kit comprising: an aerosol generating device according to the second aspect; a first article according to the third aspect; and a second article according to the fourth aspect.

[0104] It will be understood that any feature (e.g., of the device, the first article, or the second article) described with reference to the first aspect may be equally applicable to the third aspect. Further, any feature of the first article described with reference to the third aspect and of the second article described with reference to the fourth aspect may be equally applicable to the fifth aspect.

[0105] The preceding summary is provided for purposes of summarizing some examples to provide a basic understanding of aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, the above-described features should not be construed to narrow the scope of the subject matter described herein in any way. Moreover, the above and / or following examples may be combined in any suitable combination to provide further examples, except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following text and the accompanying figures.

[0106] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0107] Aspects, features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of examples in reference to the appended figures in which like numerals denote like elements.

[0108] Figure 1 shows an example of an aerosol-generating system;

[0109] Figure 2 shows internal components of the aerosol-generating system;

[0110] Figure 3A shows a schematic of an aerosol generating device coupled to a first article.

[0111] Figure 3B shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device coupled to a second article. Figure 4 shows an example of a method carried out by a controller of an aerosol-generating device. Figure 5A shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device and a first article.

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[0114] Figure 5B shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating-device coupled to a first article. Figure 5C shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device and a second article.

[0115] Figure 5D shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device coupled to a second article. Figure 6 shows a perspective side view of an aerosol generating device and a first article.

[0116] Figure 7A shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device and a first article.

[0117] Figure 7B shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating-device coupled to a first article. Figure 7C shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device and a second article.

[0118] Figure 7D shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device coupled to a second article. Figure 8 shows a perspective side view of an aerosol generating device and a first article.

[0119] Figure 9A shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device and a first article.

[0120] Figure 9B shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating-device coupled to a first article. Figure 9C shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device and a second article.

[0121] Figure 9D shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device coupled to a second article. Figure 10 shows a perspective side view of an aerosol generating device and a first article.

[0122] Figure 11 A shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device and a first article.

[0123] Figure 11 B shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating-device coupled to a first article. Figure 11C shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device and a second article.

[0124] Figure 11D shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device coupled to a second article. Figure 12 shows a perspective side view of an aerosol generating device and a first article.

[0125] Figure 13A shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device and a first article.

[0126] Figure 13B shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating-device coupled to a first article. Figure 13C shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device and a second article.

[0127] Figure 13D shows a schematic side view of an aerosol generating device coupled to a second article. Figure 14 shows a perspective side view of an aerosol generating device and a first article.

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[0130] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0131] As used herein, a “controller” may refer to one or more units for processing data, examples of which may include an ASIC, microcontroller, FPGA, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP) capability, state machine or other suitable component. A controller may be configured to execute a computer program, e.g. which may take the form of machine-readable instructions, which may be stored on a non-transitory memory and / or programmable logic. The controller may have various arrangements corresponding to those discussed for the circuitry, e.g. on-board and / or off board the device as part of the system. As used herein, any machine executable instructions, or computer readable media, may be configured to cause a disclosed method to be carried out, e.g. by an aerosol-generating system as disclosed herein, and may therefore be used synonymously with the term method.

[0132] Figure 1 shows an example of an aerosol-generating system 1. In this example, the aerosol-generating system 1 is an electronic vapour product (EVP) configured to produce an aerosol from an aerosolforming material 10 (e.g. a liquid or gel precursor), although it will be appreciated that the invention may be similarly applicable to a heat-not-burn product (HNB) configured to produce an aerosol from heating an aerosol-forming material (e.g. a solid precursor such as tobacco) to a temperature below its combustion temperature.

[0133] The term “aerosol-forming material” refers to a substrate or formulation capable of releasing volatile components that can form an aerosol, e.g. by releasing volatile compounds in the aerosol-forming material. An “aerosol” is a dispersion of solid particles and / or liquid droplets dispersed in a gas. The aerosol may be visible or invisible.

[0134] Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of the internal components of the aerosol-generating system 1. The aerosol-generating system 1 comprises an aerosol-generating unit 2 configured to generate an aerosol from an aerosol-forming material 10 held in a storage portion 3 of the aerosol-generating system 1 (implemented here as a “tank”). In this example, the aerosol-generating unit 2 is a heating system including a heating element 2a although it will be appreciated that an aerosol-generating unit comprising an ultrasonic element, atomiser or similar component may be provided.

[0135] The aerosol-forming material 10 may be referred to as “e-liquid”. Typically, the aerosol-forming material 10 includes a base liquid and optionally nicotine and / or flavourings such that the resulting aerosol contains nicotine and / or flavourings.

[0136] The aerosol-generating system 1 includes a power source 4. In this example, the power source 4 includes a battery 4a configured to supply electrical energy to operate the aerosol-generating unit 2 and other components. The aerosol-generating system 1 may be powered, alternatively or in addition to the battery 4a, by an external power source.

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[0139] The aerosol-generating system 1 includes an aerosol-delivery system 5 for delivery of the aerosol to a user. In this example, the aerosol-delivery system 5 comprises an air inlet 6, a mouthpiece 8, and an air passageway 7 extending therebetween via a region in proximity to the aerosol-generating unit 2. The aerosol-generating unit 2 includes a wick 2b having at least one end that extends into the storage portion 3 and is configured to draw aerosol-forming material 10 out from the storage portion 3. In this example, the heating element 2a is in the form of a heating filament wrapped around a portion of the wick 2b. In this manner, the heating element 2a can heat up the aerosol-forming material 10 drawn out of the storage portion 3 by the wick 2b to produce the aerosol, which is then drawn through the air passageway 7 to the mouthpiece 8. In other examples, the heating element 2a may be a mesh heater, ceramic heater, or other means of generating heat. The heating element 2a may be part of an induction heater having a susceptor configured to produce heat when penetrated by an alternating magnetic field. The aerosol-generating system 1 is a two-part construction comprising an aerosol generating device 20 and an article 30 (alternatively referred to as a “pod” or “cartomizer”) configured to be releasably connected / disconnected by an end user. The device 20 and article 30 are each configured to house respective components of the aerosol-generating system 1.

[0140] In some examples, the article 30 may be configured to be disposed of upon depletion of aerosol-forming material 10 from the storage portion, in which case the article 30 may referred to as a “consumable”. Alternatively, the article 30 may be configured for reuse, such that it is configured to be refillable upon depletion of the aerosol-forming material 10 from the storage portion.

[0141] In this example, the device 20 comprises the power source 4, and the article 30 comprises the aerosolgenerating unit 2 and storage portion 3, although it will be appreciated that the device 20 and article 30 may house any respective set of components. The device 20 and article 30 are configured to physically interlock to secure the article 30 relative to the device 20.

[0142] Upon connection, electrical connectors 40 of the device 20 and article 30 may establish an electrical connection between the device body 20 and the article 30. In this way, electrical power can be supplied from the power source 4 to the aerosol-generating unit 2 (or other components of the article 30) without the article 30 needing to have its own power supply.

[0143] The device 20 may include any one or more of electrical circuitry, a memory, a wireless interface, and one or more other components. The device 20 may include a printed circuit board (PCB) 25 on which components of the electrical circuitry, memory, wireless interface, and other components may be mounted.

[0144] The electrical circuitry may include a controller for controlling one or more operations of the device 20 and article 30, e.g. based on instructions stored in the memory. The wireless interface may be configured to communicate wirelessly with an external (e.g. mobile) device, e.g. via Bluetooth. The other

[0145] 00888253216

[0146] component(s) may include one or more user interface devices configured to convey information to a user, a pressure sensor 15, and / or a charging port 18 (see e.g. figure 2).

[0147] The aerosol-generating system 1 may comprise one or more input and / or output elements. In this example, the aerosol-generating system 1 includes an input element in the form of a pressure sensor 15 arranged to detect a “puff’ of the user, and particularly the resultant change in air pressure, i.e. a vacuum pressure generated by the user. Alternatively, or in addition, the aerosol-generating system 1 may include other means of detecting airflow, such as a flowmeter or microphone. The user can thereby activate the aerosol-generating unit 2 when inhaling through the mouthpiece 8. The aerosol-generating unit 2 creates an aerosol which is carried by the flow through the air passageway 7 and out of the mouthpiece 8.

[0148] The input and / or output elements may form part of a user interface (Ul) of the aerosol-generating system 1. For instance, figure 2 shows an output element in the form of a light (e.g. an LED) 17. The light 17 is configured to convey information to the user regarding the state of the system 1. It will be appreciated that the input element(s) may be provided in various forms, such as touch screens, switches, and sensors, and the output element(s) may be provided in various forms, such as display screens, speakers, or a haptic output generated by a vibration generator.

[0149] Fig. 3A shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device 300 coupled to a first article 302 (which may correspond to the aerosol-generating device 20 and article 30 discussed above with reference to Figs. 1 and 2) to form an EVP aerosol-generating system. Fig. 3B shows a schematic side view of the aerosol-generating device 300 of Fig. 3A coupled to a second article 304 (which may correspond to the article 30 discussed above with reference to Figs. 1 and 2) to form an EVP aerosolgenerating system.

[0150] As shown in Figs. 3A / B, the aerosol-generating device 300 comprises a perimeter wall 306 and a cavity base surface 308 which define a receiving cavity 310 configured to receive the first article 302. Although not shown in Figs. 3A / B, the aerosol-generating device 300 further comprises electrical connectors which are coupled to the cavity base surface 308 and exposed to the receiving cavity 310 to electrically connect to electrical connectors of the first article 302, such that a power source of the device 300 is electrically connected to the first article 302 when the first article 302 is within the receiving cavity 310. The aerosol-generating device 300 further comprises a switch 312, which includes a plunger actuator 314 that extends into the receiving cavity 310. The switch 312 is switchable, via the actuator 314, to a first state (a closed state in this example) from a second state (an open state in this example) which the switch 312 is biased into.

[0151] The aerosol-generating device 300 comprises a controller 316 configured to detect whether the switch 312 is in the first state or the second state. As shown in Fig. 3A, the switch 312 is in the closed state when the first article 302 is coupled to the device 300. This is because the base surface 318 of the first

[0152] 00888253217

[0153] article 302 (which corresponds to a trigger portion of the first article 302) is flat. Therefore, by inserting the first article 302 into the receiving cavity 310, the switch 312 is switchable to the closed state from the open state, because the first article 302 pushes down on the actuator 314 to move the switch 312 into the closed state. As shown in Fig. 3B, the switch 312 is in the open state when the second article 304 is coupled to the device 300. This is because the second article 304 defines a notch 320 (which corresponds to a bypass portion of the second article) positioned to receive the actuator 314 therein when the second article 304 is coupled to the device 300. Therefore, when the second article 304 is coupled to the device 300, the switch 312 remains unchanged in the open state.

[0154] The controller 316 is configured to detect whether the switch 312 is in the closed state or the open state. When the controller 316 detects that the switch 312 is in the closed state, the controller 316 selects a first heating profile suitable for heating the first article 302 and controls the power applied to the electrical connectors from the power source based on the selected first heating profile. When the controller 316 detects that the switch 312 is in the open state, the controller 316 selects a second heating profile suitable for heating the second article 304 and controls the power applied to the electrical connectors from the power source based on the selected second heating profile.

[0155] More detail on the method carried out by the controller 316 is provided in the flow chart shown in Fig.

[0156] 4.

[0157] As shown in Fig. 4, at a first step 421 the controller 316 is configured to detect whether the switch 312 is in the open state or the closed state. If the controller 316 detects that the switch 312 is in the closed state, at a second step 422 the controller 316 identifies the first article 302. Then, at a third step 423, the controller 316 selects a first heating profile, which is associated with the first article 302 (e.g., in a database). On the other hand, if the controller 316 detects that the switch 312 is in the open state, at a fourth step 424, the controller 316 identifies the second article 304. Then, at a fifth step 425, the controller 316 selects a second heating profile, which is associated with the second article 304 (e.g., in a database).

[0158] Although in the example method shown in Fig. 4, the controller 316 is configured to identify the article, in other examples, the controller 316 may be configured to select the first / second heating profile directly from the detected state of the switch 312 (i.e., without identifying the article).

[0159] Figs. 5A-5D show another example of an aerosol-generating device 500 and other examples of first and second articles 502, 504. In more detail, Figs. 5A and 5B shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device 500 respectively uncoupled from and coupled to a first article 502. Figs. 5C and 5D shows a schematic side view of the aerosol-generating device 500 respectively uncoupled from and coupled to a second article 504.

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[0162] The aerosol-generating device 500 and first and second articles 502, 504 share several features in common with those described with reference to Figs. 3A, 3B and 4, which, for conciseness, will not be repeated here.

[0163] The electrical connectors 526 of the device 500 and the electrical connectors 528 of the first / second articles 502, 504 are shown in Figs. 5A-5D.

[0164] The aerosol-generating device 500 comprises a non-latching switch 512. The actuator 514 of the switch 512 is located within a recess 529 in the cavity base surface 508 of the receiving cavity 510. The switch 512 is switchable, via the actuator 514, to a first state (a closed state in this example) from a second state (an open state in this example) which the switch 512 is biased into.

[0165] The switch 512 is in the closed state when the first article 502 is coupled to the device 500. This is because the first article 502 has a protrusion 530 which extends from its base surface 518 and is positioned to extend into the recess 529 to operate the actuator 514 when the first article 502 is inserted into the receiving cavity 510. Therefore, by inserting the first article 502 into the receiving cavity 510, the switch 512 is switchable to the closed state from the open state, because the protrusion 530 pushes down on the actuator 514 to move the switch 512 into the closed state. The protrusion 530 therefore corresponds to a first trigger portion of the first article.

[0166] The switch 512 is in the open state when the second article 504 is coupled to the device 500. This is because the base surface 518 of the second article 504 is flat. Therefore, when the second article 504 is coupled to the device 500, the actuator 514 located within the receiving cavity 510, and therefore the switch 512, remains unchanged. The base surface 518 of the second article therefore corresponds to a bypass portion of the second article.

[0167] Fig. 6 shows a perspective side view of the aerosol-generating device 500 of Figs 5A-D with the first article 502 uncoupled from the device 500.

[0168] Figs. 7A-7D show another example of an aerosol-generating device 700 and other examples of first and second articles 702, 704. In more detail, Figs. 7A and 7B shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device 700 respectively uncoupled from and coupled to a first article 702. Figs. 7C and 7D shows a schematic side view of the aerosol-generating device 700 respectively uncoupled from and coupled to a second article 504.

[0169] The aerosol-generating device 700 and first and second articles 702, 704 share several features in common with those described with reference to Figs. 3A-B, 4, and 5A-D which, for conciseness, will not be repeated here.

[0170] The aerosol-generating device 700 shown in Figs. 7A-D comprises a non-latching switch 712. The actuator 714 of the switch 712 is located within a recess 729 in the perimeter wall 706 of the receiving

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[0173] cavity 710. The switch 712 is switchable, via the actuator 714, to a first state (a closed state in this example) from a second state (an open state in this example) which the switch 712 is biased into. In addition to the recess 729, a channel 732 is defined in the perimeter wall 706, the channel 732 being continuous with the recess 729, and extending from a top end of the perimeter wall 706 to the recess 729. The channel 732 is formed of a receiving portion 732a extending parallel to the longitudinal axis of the device, and a guiding portion 732b extending circumferentially with respect to the longitudinal axis of the device (as labelled in Fig. 8).

[0174] The first article 702 has a protrusion 730 which extends outwards from its lateral surface 734. The first article 702 can be inserted into the receiving cavity 710 by aligning the protrusion 730 of the article with the top end of the channel 732, pushing the first article 702 into the receiving cavity 710, and twisting / rotating the first article 702 (relative to the device 700) such that the protrusion 730 moves along the channel 732 and into contact with the actuator 714.

[0175] The switch 712 is in the closed state when the first article 702 is coupled to the device 700. This is because the protrusion 730 of the first article 702 extends into the recess 729 to operate the actuator 714 when the first article 702 is inserted into the receiving cavity 710. Therefore, by inserting the first article 702 into the receiving cavity 710, the switch 712 is switchable to the closed state from the open state, because the protrusion 730 pushes on the actuator 714 to move the switch 712 into the closed state. The protrusion 730 therefore corresponds to a first trigger portion of the first article.

[0176] The switch 712 is in the open state when the second article 704 is coupled to the device 700. This is because the lateral surface 734 of the second article 704 is uniform with no protrusions. Therefore, when the second article 704 is coupled to the device 700, the actuator 714 located within the receiving cavity 710, and therefore the switch 712, remains unchanged. The lateral surface 734 therefore corresponds to a bypass portion of the second article.

[0177] Fig. 8 shows a perspective side view of the aerosol-generating device 700 of Figs 7A-D with the first article 702 uncoupled from the device 700.

[0178] Figs. 9A-9D show another example of an aerosol-generating device 900 and other examples of first and second articles 902, 904. In more detail, Figs. 9A and 9B shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device 900 respectively uncoupled from and coupled to a first article 902. Figs. 9C and 9D shows a schematic side view of the aerosol-generating device 900 respectively uncoupled from and coupled to a second article 904.

[0179] The aerosol-generating device 900 and first and second articles 902, 904 share several features in common with those described with reference to Figs. 3 to 8 which, for conciseness, will not be repeated here.

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[0182] The aerosol-generating device 900 shown in Figs. 9A-D comprises a switch 912 with a rocker actuator 914 located (at least partially) within a recess 929 in the cavity base surface 908 of the receiving cavity 910. The actuator 914 is pivotable between a first position, in which the switch is in the closed state, and a second position, in which the switch is in the open state. The actuator 914 is biased into the second position. In an intermediate position of the actuator 914 (between the first position and the second position), the switch is in the closed state.

[0183] In the first position, a first portion ofthe actuator 914 extends into the receiving cavity 910, and a second portion ofthe actuator 914 extends into the recess 929. In the second position, a second portion ofthe actuator 914 extends into the receiving cavity 910, and the first portion ofthe actuator 914 extends into the recess 929. Additionally, in an intermediate position ofthe actuator, the actuator 914 lies parallel to the cavity base surface 908 ofthe receiving cavity 910. In this position, the switch is in the closed state. The switch 912 is in the open state when the first article 902 is coupled to the device 900. This is because the first article 902 has a notch 936 in its base surface 918 to receive the first portion of the actuator 914. Therefore, when the first article 902 is coupled to the device 900, the base surface 918 of the article pushes the second portion of the actuator 914 into the recess 929 and the first portion of the actuator 914 is received in the notch 936. Therefore, the base surface ofthe first article corresponds to a first trigger portion ofthe first article.

[0184] The switch 912 is in the open state when the second article 904 is coupled to the device 900. This is because the base surface 918 ofthe second article 904 is flat, having no notches. Therefore, when the second article 904 is coupled to the device 900, the second article 904 pushes on the first portion and the second portion of the actuator 914 with (approximately) equal force, and the actuator 914 lies parallel to the cavity base surface 908 surface ofthe receiving cavity 910. Therefore, the base surface ofthe second article corresponds to a bypass portion ofthe second article.

[0185] Fig. 10 shows a perspective side view of the aerosol-generating device 900 of Figs 9A-9D with the first article 902 uncoupled from the device 900.

[0186] Figs. 11A-11D show another example of an aerosol-generating device 1100 and other examples of first and second articles 1102, 1104. In more detail, Figs. 11A and 11B shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device 1100 respectively uncoupled from and coupled to a first article 1102. Figs.

[0187] 11A and 11D shows a schematic side view of the aerosol-generating device 1100 respectively uncoupled from and coupled to a second article 1104.

[0188] The aerosol-generating device 1100 and first and second articles 1102, 1104 share several features in common with those described with reference to Figs. 9A-9D which, for conciseness, will not be repeated here.

[0189] The aerosol-generating device 1100 of Figs. 11A-D differs from that in Figs. 9A-D in that the actuator 1114 and the recess 1129 are located in the side wall 1106 ofthe receiving cavity. The first article 1102

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[0192] of Figs. 11 A-11 B differs from that of Figs. 9A-9B in that the notch 1136 that is configured to receive the first portion of the actuator 1114 is located in the lateral surface 1134 of the first article, and in that the switch 1112 is biased into the closed state.

[0193] Fig. 12 shows a perspective side view of the aerosol-generating device 1100 of Figs 11 A-11 D with the first article 1102 uncoupled from the device 1100.

[0194] Although in the devices shown in the Figs. 3 and 5 to 11 above, the switch is biased into a second state (specifically an open state) and the switch is configured to remain in the second state during coupling of the second article to the device, in other examples, the switch may be a latching switch which is switchable to the second state (e.g., from the first state) by coupling the second article to the device. Further, although in the devices shown in the Figs. 3 and 5 to 11 above, the switch is a mechanical switch, in other examples, the switch may be a non-contact switch (e.g., a Hall effect switch).

[0195] Figs. 13A-13D show another example of an aerosol-generating device 1300 and other examples of first and second articles 1302, 1304. In more detail, Figs. 13A and 13B shows a schematic side view of an aerosol-generating device 1300 respectively uncoupled from and coupled to a first article 1302. Figs.

[0196] 13C and 13D shows a schematic side view of the aerosol-generating device 1300 respectively uncoupled from and coupled to a second article 1304.

[0197] The aerosol-generating device 1300 and first and second articles 1302, 1304 share several features in common with those described with reference to Figs. 3 to 12 above, which, for conciseness, will not be repeated here.

[0198] The aerosol-generating device 1300 comprises a Hall effect switch 1312 located within the cavity base surface 1308 which defines the receiving cavity 1310. The Hall effect switch 1312 is switchable to a first state (an on state in this example) from a second state (an off state in this example).

[0199] When the magnetic flux density at the Hall effect switch 1312 is less than a threshold, the Hall effect switch 1312 is in the off state, and when the magnetic flux density at the Hall effect switch 1312 is greater than or equal to the threshold, the Hall effect switch 1312 switches to the on state.

[0200] The switch 1312 is in the on state when the first article 1302 is coupled to the device 1300. This is because the first article 1302 has a magnet 1338 located proximate the base surface 1318 of the article. Therefore, by inserting the first article 1302 to the receiving cavity 1310, the switch 1312 is switchable to the on state from the off state, because the magnetic flux density at the Hall effect switch 1312 becomes greater or equal to the threshold. The magnet 1138 therefore corresponds to a first trigger portion of the first article.

[0201] The switch 1312 is in the off state when the second article 1304 is coupled to the device 1300. This is because the second article 1304 does not include a magnet. Therefore, when the second article 1304

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[0204] is inserted into the receiving cavity 1310, the magnetic flux density at the Hall effect swich is below the threshold.

[0205] Although in the above examples, the device includes only a single switch which allows the device to differentiate between two articles (the first and the second article), in other examples the device may include a plurality of switches (e.g., two switches), which may enable the device to differentiate between a greater number of (e.g., three or four) articles.

[0206] It is to be understood that the present disclosure, which includes the specification and claim(s), is not limited by specific construction details or process steps. Rather, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein can be embodied and practiced in various alternative ways without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0207] Unless defined otherwise, scientific and technical terms used herein have their meanings commonly understood by those skilled in the art and that known techniques and procedures may be performed according to conventional methods.

[0208] In the present disclosure, the terms “a” and “an” may mean “one”, “one or more”, “at least one”, and “one or more than one” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Likewise, plural terms shall include the singular unless otherwise required by context.

[0209] In the present disclosure, the term “or” means an inclusive “and / or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or unless the alternatives are mutually exclusive.

[0210] In the present disclosure, the terms “comprising, “having,” “including,” or “containing” (and any forms thereof, such as “comprise” and “comprises,” “have” and “has,” “includes” and “include,” or “contains” and “contain,” respectively) are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0211] Unless stated otherwise, the features of examples disclosed herein, and of the claims, may be integrated together in any suitable arrangement such that combinations of features are not limited by the described forms, particularly the form (e.g. numbering) of example(s), embodiment(s), or dependency of claim(s). This also applies to the phrase “in one example”, “according to an example” and the like, which are merely a stylistic form of wording not to be construed as limiting the features to a separate embodiment. This is to say, a reference to ‘an,’ ‘one,’ or ‘some’ examples(s) may be a reference to any one or more, and / or all examples, or combination(s) thereof, disclosed. Also, similarly, reference to “the” example may not be limited to the immediately preceding embodiment. Further, all references to one or more embodiments or examples are to be construed as non-limiting to the claims. The present disclosure may be better understood in view of the following explanations, wherein the terms used that are separated by “or” may be used interchangeably.

[0212] 008882532

Claims

P0160723CLAIMS1. An aerosol generating device for coupling to a first article, the aerosol generating device comprising:a switch switchable to a first state by coupling the first article to the device;a power source;electrical connectors arranged to electrically connect the power source to the first article when the first article is coupled to the device; and,a controller configured to:detect whether the switch is in the first state;select a first heating profile suitable for the first article when it is detected that the switch is in the first state; and,control, based on the selected first heating profile, a power applied to the electrical connectors from the power source.

2. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1 , wherein the switch is switchable from a second state to the first state by coupling the first article to the device.

3. An aerosol generating device according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the controller is configured to:identify, based on detecting that the switch is in the first state, the first article;select, based on identifying the first article, the first heating profile;4. An aerosol generating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating device is further for coupling to a second article and wherein:the switch is in a second state when the second article is coupled to the device; and, the controller is configured to:detect whether the switch is in the second state;008882532P0160724select a second heating profile suitable for the second article when it is detected that the switch is in the second state; and,control, based on the selected second heating profile, a power applied to the electrical connectors from the power source.

5. An aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein the switch is switchable to the second state by coupling the second article to the device.

6. An aerosol generating device according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the switch is biased into the second state.

7. An aerosol generating device according to any of claims 4 to 6, wherein the second heating profile is different from the first heating profile.

8. An aerosol generating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein:the aerosol generating device comprises a receiving cavity configured to receive the first article, the receiving cavity defined by a perimeter wall upstanding from a cavity base surface; and,an actuator of the switch is coupled to the perimeter wall or the cavity base surface.

9. An aerosol generating device according to claim 8, wherein the actuator is located within a recess in the perimeter wall or the cavity base surface.

10. An aerosol generating device according to claim 9, wherein the actuator protrudes into the receiving cavity.

11. An aerosol generating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating device is an electronic vapour product device.008882532P016072512. A first article for coupling to the aerosol generating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first article includes:a first trigger portion configured to switch the switch to the first state by coupling the first article to the device.

13. A second article for coupling to the aerosol generating device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second article includes:a bypass portion configured to inhibit the second article from switching the switch to the first state.

14. An aerosol generating system comprising:an aerosol generating device according to any of claims 1 to 11 ; and,a first article for coupling to the aerosol generating device.

15. An aerosol generating system according to claim 14, wherein the first article is the first article according to claim 12.008882532

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