阅读说明：本技术 表面更改的气溶胶生成系统 (Surface modified aerosol-generating system ) 是由 G·坎皮特利 于 2018-11-21 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种气溶胶生成系统包括气溶胶生成制品(100),所述气溶胶生成制品包括制品壳体(110)和设置在所述壳体中的气溶胶形成基材(300)。所述系统还包括气溶胶生成装置(200),所述气溶胶生成装置包括壳体(210),所述壳体限定容纳器(220),所述容纳器被配置为接纳所述制品。所述装置还包括控制电子器件(250),所述控制电子器件设置在所述壳体中并且包括传感器(260),所述传感器可操作地耦合到所述控制电子器件并且被配置为当所述制品被接纳在容纳器中时检测所述装置或所述制品的状态。此外,所述系统包括形状更改元件(270),所述形状更改元件设置在所述制品壳体和所述装置壳体中的至少一个上或至少一个中。所述形状更改元件响应于所述传感器检测到的所述装置或所述制品的所述状态而更改形状,以导致所述装置或所述制品的外部表面的形状发生充分更改,以向用户提供触觉反馈。(An aerosol-generating system comprises an aerosol-generating article (100) comprising an article housing (110) and an aerosol-forming substrate (300) disposed in the housing. The system further comprises an aerosol-generating device (200) comprising a housing (210) defining a receptacle (220) configured to receive the article. The apparatus further includes control electronics (250) disposed in the housing and including a sensor (260) operatively coupled to the control electronics and configured to detect a state of the apparatus or the article when the article is received in the receptacle. Further, the system includes a shape-altering element (270) disposed on or in at least one of the article housing and the device housing. The shape-altering element alters shape in response to the state of the device or the article detected by the sensor to cause a shape of an exterior surface of the device or the article to alter sufficiently to provide tactile feedback to a user.)

1. An aerosol-generating system comprising:

an aerosol-generating article having:

an article housing; and

an aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the article housing; and

an apparatus, the apparatus having:

a device housing defining a receptacle configured to receive the aerosol-generating article;

control electronics disposed in the device housing; and

a sensor operably coupled to the control electronics and configured to detect a state of the apparatus or the article when the article is received in the receptacle,

wherein the system further comprises a shape-altering element disposed on or in at least one of the article housing and the device housing, wherein the control electronics are operably coupled to the shape-altering element and configured to cause the shape-altering element to alter a shape in response to the state of the device or the article detected by the sensor,

wherein the shape alteration of the shape altering element causes a shape of an exterior surface of the device or the article to be altered sufficiently to provide tactile feedback to a user.

2. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 1, wherein the shape-altering element comprises a shape-altering material.

3. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 2, wherein the shape altering material comprises a piezoelectric material.

4. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 2, wherein the shape-altering material comprises a shape memory alloy.

5. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 2, wherein the shape-altering material comprises a foam comprising gas bubbles.

6. An aerosol-generating system according to any of claims 4 to 5, wherein the shape-altering element comprises a resistive element operatively coupled to the control electronics, wherein the resistive element is in thermal proximity to the shape memory alloy or the foam.

7. An aerosol-generating system according to claim 2, wherein the shape-altering material comprises an electroactive polymer.

8. An aerosol-generating system according to any of claims 2 to 7, wherein the shape-altering element comprises a movable portion operably coupled to the shape-altering material, wherein the alteration of the shape-altering material causes the movable portion to move.

9. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of the article housing and the device housing comprises a substrate layer and an outer layer on the substrate layer, and wherein the shape-altering element is between the outer layer and the substrate layer.

10. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the control electronics are operatively coupled to a heating element of the device or the article, and wherein the control electronics are configured to cause the heating element to heat the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-generating article is received in the receptacle.

11. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device comprises a plurality of shape altering elements and wherein the plurality of shape altering elements are operably coupled to the control electronics by a multiplexer.

12. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the shape altering element alters one or more of: a global shape of the exterior surface of at least one of the article and the device; a local shape of the exterior surface of at least one of the article and the device; and a surface roughness of the surface of at least one of the article and the device.

13. An aerosol-generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a parameter of the aerosol-generating article, and wherein the control electronics are configured to cause the shape-altering element to adapt to a certain shape based on the detected parameter of the aerosol-generating article.

14. An aerosol-generating system according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a power source, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a charge of the power source, and wherein the control electronics are configured to cause the shape-altering element to adapt to a shape based on the sensed charge.

15. An aerosol-generating device comprising:

a housing defining a receptacle configured to receive an aerosol-generating article;

control electronics disposed in the housing; and

a sensor operably coupled to the control electronics and configured to detect a state of the apparatus or the article when the article is received in the receptacle,

wherein the system further comprises a shape-altering element disposed on or in the housing, wherein the control electronics are operatively coupled to the shape-altering element and configured to cause the shape-altering element to alter a shape in response to the state of the device or the article detected by the sensor,

wherein the shape alteration of the shape altering element causes an exterior surface of the device to alter shape sufficient to provide tactile feedback to a user.

16. An aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device, the article comprising:

a housing;

an aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the housing; and

a shape-altering element disposed on or in the housing, wherein the shape-altering element is operably coupled to control electronics of an aerosol-generating device to cause the shape-altering element to alter a shape,

wherein the shape alteration of the shape altering element causes an exterior surface of the article to alter shape sufficient to provide tactile feedback to a user.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to aerosol-generating systems comprising an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article associated with the aerosol-generating device, and in particular to devices and articles comprising a surface having a shape that is altered in response to a parameter associated with the device or article.

Background

Disclosure of Invention

In various aspects of the invention, there is provided an aerosol-generating system comprising at least one of an aerosol-generating device and an aerosol-generating article associated with the aerosol-generating device, the aerosol-generating article having an external surface capable of altering shape in response to a detected state of the aerosol-generating device or the aerosol-generating article associated with the device. Accordingly, there is also provided an aerosol-generating device having an external surface capable of altering shape in response to a detected state of the aerosol-generating device or an aerosol-generating article associated with the device. An aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device is also provided, wherein the article has an exterior surface capable of altering shape in response to a detected state of the aerosol-generating article or an aerosol-generating device associated with the article. The shape alteration of the shape altering element may cause a sufficient alteration of a shape of at least one of an exterior surface of the device and an exterior surface of the article to provide tactile feedback to the user. Typically, the shape-altering element alters the shape of an exterior surface of at least one of a housing of the device and a housing of the article.

Any shape change that a user touches the device or feels that the device can detect is sufficient to provide tactile feedback to the user.

The article comprises an article housing and an aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the article housing. The device comprises a device housing defining a receptacle configured to receive an aerosol-generating article. The device also includes control electronics disposed in the device housing. The apparatus also includes a sensor operatively coupled to the control electronics and configured to detect a condition of the apparatus or the article received in the receptacle. In addition, at least one of the device and the article includes a shape-altering element disposed on or in the housing. The control electronics are operatively coupled to the shape-altering element and configured to cause the shape-altering element to alter the shape in response to the state of the device or article detected by the sensor. The shape alteration or resulting shape of the exterior surface of at least one of the device and the article may provide information to a user of the device regarding the status of the device or an article associated with the device (such as an article received in the receptacle).

Various aspects or embodiments of the aerosol-generating devices described herein may provide one or more advantages over currently available or previously described devices that provide information regarding the status of the device or an aerosol-generating article associated with the device. For example, by altering the shape of the exterior surface of the device, rather than providing a purely visual cue as with an LED or LCD, the user may be notified of the status of the device or associated article through tactile feedback without having to look at the article. By altering the shape of the exterior surface of the device, rather than a vibratory or audible cue, the user is not inconvenienced by repeated potentially unwanted signals of the state of the device or associated article.

Various aspects or embodiments of the aerosol-generating articles described herein may provide one or more advantages over currently available or previously described articles that provide information about the state of the article. For example, by altering the shape of the external surface of the aerosol-generating article, the article may provide information about the state of the article, such as the amount of aerosol-forming substrate remaining in the article or the number of puffs taken on the article.

Any suitable aerosol-generating device may comprise a shape-altering element for altering the shape of an external or outer surface of the device to provide information to a user about the state of the aerosol-generating device or associated aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device may be configured for use with any suitable aerosol-generating article, such as a cartridge comprising a liquid substrate, a cartridge comprising a solid substrate, a cartridge comprising a gel substrate, or a cartridge comprising a powder substrate. For example, the device may be an electronic cigarette type device, a heated non-burning type device, or the like. The device may be similar to that of Philips Morris InternationalAerosol generating device, such as a Philip Morriss International

OrA pack of articles containing an aerosol-forming substrate comprising tobacco.An aerosol-generating device is provided

OrThe aerosol-forming substrate of the article is heated to a degree sufficient to generate an aerosol from the substrate without burning the substrate. The device may be similar to

An e-cigarette, which may be used with any suitable cartridge containing e-liquid, or may be similar to that of Philip Morris International

A system comprising a cartridge containing an electronic liquid.

Similarly, any suitable aerosol-generating article may comprise a shape-altering element for altering the shape of an external or outer surface of the article to provide information to a user about the state of the aerosol-generating article or an aerosol-generating device associated with the article. The aerosol-generating article may be any suitable aerosol-generating article, such as a cartridge comprising a liquid substrate, a cartridge comprising a solid substrate, a cartridge comprising a gel substrate, or a cartridge comprising a powder substrate. The aerosol-generating article may be configured for use with any suitable aerosol-generating device.

Regardless of the type of aerosol-generating device or aerosol-generating article, the shape-altering element may alter the shape in response to any suitable state of the aerosol-generating device or associated aerosol-generating article. For example, the shape-altering element may alter the shape in response to a change in the charge (state of charge) of the power source of the device, the type of aerosol-generating article received in the receptacle of the device, the amount of aerosol generated during use of the device, and the like.

The shape altering element may alter the shape of the external surface of the aerosol-generating device or the external surface of the aerosol-generating article in any suitable manner. For example, the shape-altering element may affect a global alteration of the shape of the surface of the device or article, may affect a local alteration of the shape of the surface of the device or article, may affect the texture of the surface of the device or article, and so forth.

The shape altering element may be disposed on an outer surface of the article housing or an outer surface of the device housing.

The shape alteration of the exterior surface may provide a tactile cue to the user as to the state of the device or associated aerosol-generating article. In some cases, the change in shape may also provide a visual cue to the user. Thus, in some cases, a user may view the device to identify the status, or may feel the device to identify the status, whichever is more convenient for the user at a given time.

The aerosol-generating system may comprise any suitable shape-altering element. The shape-altering element may comprise a shape-altering material. Any suitable shape modifying material may be used. For example, the shape-altering material may include a piezoelectric material, a shape memory alloy, a foam containing gas bubbles, an electroactive polymer, or the like. For example, piezoelectric materials and electroactive polymers may change shape when a current or voltage is applied and return to their original shape when the current or voltage is no longer applied. Shape memory alloys and foams containing gas bubbles can change shape when heat or cold is applied and can return to their original shape when returned to ambient temperature.

Any suitable piezoelectric material may be used as the shape-altering material. For example, piezoelectric crystals, ceramics, biomaterials, etc. may be used. Examples of piezoelectric materials that can be used include: quartz; lump aluminophosphate ore (AlPO)₄) (ii) a Sucrose; rochelle salt, topaz tourmaline mineral; lead titanate (PbTiO)₃) (ii) a Rakesai (La)₃Ga₅SiO₁₄) (ii) a Gallium phosphate single crystal (GaPO)₄) (ii) a Lithium niobate (LiNbO)₃) (ii) a Lithium tantalate (LiTaO)₃) (ii) a Barium titanate (BaTiO)₃) (ii) a Lead zirconate titanate (Pb [ ZrxTi [)_1-x]O₃Wherein x is more than or equal to 0 and less than or equal to 1); potassium nitrate (KNbO)₃) (ii) a Sodium tungstate (Na)₂WO₃)；Ba₂NaNb₅O₅；Pb₂KNb₅O₁₅(ii) a Zinc oxide (ZnO) -wurtzite structure; bismuth ferrite (BiFeO 3); sodium niobate NaNbO₃(ii) a Bismuth titanate Bi₄Ti₃O₁₂(ii) a Sodium bismuth titanate (NaBi (TiO)₃)₂) (ii) a Bulk or nanostructured semiconductor crystals having non-central symmetry, such as group III-V and group II-VI materials; polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF); and organic nanostructures such as self-assembled diphenylalanine peptide nanotubes and the like. In some embodiments, the volume of the piezoelectric material expands upon application of a current or voltage, and the volume of the piezoelectric material may return to a reduced original volume when no current or voltage is applied.

Any suitable electroactive polymer may be used as the shape-altering material. The electroactive polymer may change shape in response to the application of a current or voltage and return to its original shape when the current or voltage is no longer applied. Examples of electroactive polymers include dielectric electroactive polymers and ionic electroactive polymers. Examples of dielectrically electroactive polymers include ferroelectric polymers, electrostrictive graft polymers, and liquid crystal polymers. Examples of the ionic electroactive polymer include a conductive polymer, an ionic polymer-metal complex, and a stimulus-responsive gel.

The device may be configured in any suitable manner to apply an electric current or voltage to the piezoelectric material or electroactive polymer. For example, the shape-altering element may comprise two electrodes, between which a piezoelectric material or an electroactive polymer may be placed. The electrodes may be operatively coupled to the control electronics of the apparatus to control whether, how, and when a voltage may be applied to the electrodes to affect shape modification of the piezoelectric material or electroactive polymer. In some implementations, the current may be applied directly to a shape-altering material, such as a piezoelectric material, to affect the shape alteration. Where the aerosol-generating article comprises a shape-altering element, the article and the device may comprise complementary electrical contacts arranged to connect to electrically connect the piezoelectric material or electroactive polymer to a power source of the device when the aerosol-generating article is received by the device.

Any suitable shape memory alloy may be used as the shape-altering material. In some embodiments, the shape memory metal is a two-way shape memory alloy. Two-way shape memory alloys are materials that can take two different shapes: a shape at a lower temperature; and another shape at a higher temperature. The shape of the two-way shape memory alloy may depend on temperature, meaning that a change in temperature will cause a change in the shape of the alloy. The temperature within the temperature range at which the shape memory alloy changes shape is referred to as the transformation temperature of the alloy. There is hysteresis associated with this phase transition. The magnitude of the hysteresis varies from alloy system to alloy system, with typical values ranging from 20 ℃ to 40 ℃. The transition temperature may be adjusted according to the kind of alloy used, and may be selected from-100 ℃ to 100 ℃. In some embodiments, the shape memory alloy has a transition temperature in the range of about 40 ℃ to about 70 ℃.

Suitable shape memory alloys include noble metal-based shape memory alloys, Cu-based shape memory alloys, Fe-based shape memory alloys, Ni-Ti-based shape memory alloys, and the like. In some embodiments, the shape modifying material comprises a titanium-nickel-copper (TiNiCu) shape memory alloy that can exhibit good fatigue properties, allowing one million, ten million, or more shape transformation cycles to be performed.

Any suitable foam containing gas bubbles may be used as the shape-altering material. When heated, the volume of the foam may expand, and when cooled to ambient temperature, the volume of the foam may return to its original volume. The foam may be an airtight foam. The foam may be air tight so that air bubbles may remain in the foam, or the foam may be placed in a flexible air tight package. The bubbles may be air or any other suitable gas that readily expands when heated. The foam may comprise any suitable material, such as polyurethane.

The shape-altering element may include a heating element for heating the shape memory alloy or foam to cause the shape memory alloy of the foam to alter shape or expand. The shape memory alloy or foam may be placed in contact with or proximate to the heating element.

The heating element may comprise, for example, a resistance wire or mesh. The shape memory alloy or foam may be on a resistive substrate that is used as a heating element. The heating element may be operatively coupled to the control electronics of the device to control whether, to what extent, and when the heating element is heated, thereby causing the shape or volume of the shape memory alloy or foam to be altered.

In some embodiments, the electrical current may be applied directly to a shape-altering material, such as a shape memory alloy, which may act as a resistor and may be heated by the joule effect. This heating may affect the shape change of the shape changing material.

Activating the shape-altering element by applying heat may result in a rapid change in shape. However, after the application of heat is stopped, heat loss may occur for a longer period of time as the heat is transferred to, for example, the external environment. This may be useful when using shape memory alloys that do not change shape until the transition temperature is reached. A small or minimal amount of energy may be applied to heat the shape memory alloy to a temperature above the transition temperature, and the resulting shape may be retained for a relatively long period of time until the heat is dissipated. Thus, expanded shape modification can be achieved with less or minimal energy input.

The shape modifying element or a portion thereof may be located on or in the housing. In some embodiments, the shape-altering element is located between the base layer and the outer layer of the shell. The base layer may provide structural rigidity to the shell. The outer layer may be sufficiently flexible to accommodate the change in shape of the shape changing element as it changes shape. The outer layer may retain the shape-altering element. The outer layer may provide or help provide an airtight barrier to the foam with the bubbles. The outer layer may be a coating layer disposed on the base layer. The outer layer may be elastic and may be biased toward a retracted state. The outer layer may act as a heat shield to prevent excessive heat transfer from the resistive element, e.g., the shape altering element, to a user touching the housing. In some embodiments, the housing includes an additional layer of insulation between the base layer and the outer layer. The thermal insulation layer may also conduct heat over a large area to facilitate cooling of the shape modifying element when the heating element is no longer activated.

The housing may include any suitable substrate layer. For example, the base layer of the housing may be formed from any suitable metallic material, rigid plastic material, or combination thereof. Examples of suitable metallic materials include stainless steel, aluminum, and the like. Examples of suitable rigid plastic materials include high density polyethylene, polycarbonate, polyamide, polypropylene, and the like.

The housing may include any suitable exterior layer. In some embodiments, the substrate layer is an exterior layer of the shell. Examples of suitable outer layers, if present, include rubbers, thermoplastic elastomers, thermoplastic vulcanizates, plastic polyurethane elastomers, and flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC). For example, the outer layer may comprise polyurethane, low density polyethylene,Thermoplastic vulcanizates, silicones, PVC containing plasticizers, polyethylene propylene diene, and the like.

Any suitable material may be used in the optional insulating layer. Suitable materials include thermally conductive polymer materials and metal foils. Examples of thermally conductive polymer materials may include polymers containing graphite fibers or metal particles as additives. Examples of suitable metal foils include aluminum, copper, and tin foils.

The shape modifying element may comprise a movable portion. In some embodiments, the movable portion may not change shape, but move when the shape changing material changes shape. The movable portion may be disposed on or operatively coupled to the shape altering material such that the movable portion moves when the shape altering material alters the shape. The movable portion may be shaped and sized to provide visual or tactile cues to the user. The movable portion may have a circular, triangular, square or other suitably shaped surface. In some cases, the movable portion may have a surface in the shape of a letter, word, or symbol. The movable portions may correspond to points of the braille alphabet. The braille alphabet uses 2 columns of 3 or 4 pins each. The movable portion may be located between the base layer and the outer layer of the article and the housing of the device. The movable portion may be formed of any suitable material. For example, the movable portion may be formed of rigid plastic, metal, or a combination thereof.

The housing of the aerosol-generating device may define a receptacle for receiving an aerosol-generating article. The receptacle is sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of a suitable aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating article may comprise a container configured to be received by the receptacle of the housing and may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the container.

Any suitable container may be used. In some embodiments where the aerosol-forming substrate is a solid substrate, the container may comprise a wrapper around the aerosol-forming substrate. For example, the wrapper may comprise plug wrap, cigarette paper, and the like. In some embodiments where the aerosol-forming substrate is a liquid substrate, the container may comprise a plastic or metal housing to contain the liquid.

Information about one or both of the aerosol-generating article and the aerosol-forming substrate in the article may be included in an element disposed in, on or around the container. For example, an RFID tag may be placed on the container, or a circuit containing electrical contacts may be provided on the container. The aerosol-generating device may comprise, for example, an RFID reader or electrical contacts in the receptacle for electrical connection with contacts of the container. The RFID reader or electrical contacts may be operatively coupled to control electronics of the aerosol-generating device to receive information about one or both of the aerosol-generating article and the aerosol-forming substrate in the article. The sensor may comprise an RFID reader or an electrical contact.

The housing of the aerosol-generating device may define a device interior within which at least one of the control electronics and the power source may be disposed.

The control electronics may be provided in any suitable form and may, for example, comprise a controller or a memory and controller. The controller may include one or more of the following: an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) state machine, a digital signal processor, a gate array, a microprocessor, or a comparable discrete or integrated logic Circuit. The control electronics may include a memory containing instructions that cause one or more components of the circuit to implement functions or aspects of the control electronics. The functions attributable to the control electronics in the present disclosure may be embodied as one or more of software, firmware, and hardware. The control electronics may be operatively coupled to a power source.

The aerosol-generating device may comprise any suitable power source. For example, the power source of the aerosol-generating device may be a battery or a battery pack. The battery or power supply unit may be rechargeable, removable and replaceable or of a more nature. Any suitable battery may be used.

The control electronics may be configured to regulate the power supply. The power may be provided to the shape-altering element or an appropriate portion of the shape-altering element in any suitable manner (e.g., in the form of a current or voltage differential) to cause the shape-altering element to alter the shape of at least one of the article and the device. If the system includes a plurality of shape-altering elements, the shape-altering elements, or a portion thereof, may be coupled to the control electronics through a multiplexer. The use of a multiplexer may simplify the structure of the device by avoiding the need to extend a separate wire the entire distance of each shape-altering element or a portion thereof.

The control electronics and power supply may also control the basic operation of the aerosol-generating device. For example, if the aerosol-generating device is operated by heating the aerosol-forming substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the control electronics may be operatively coupled to the heating element to control the heating of the aerosol-forming substrate. The apparatus or article may include a resistive heating element operatively coupled to control electronics and a power source. In some embodiments, the device may comprise an induction heating coil for inductively heating susceptor material in contact with or in proximity to the aerosol-forming substrate.

The control electronics may comprise a communication module or suitable circuitry for communicating with an external device such as a computer or smartphone. The communication may be wireless or wired. At least a portion of the control of the shape-altering element may be programmable by a user of the external device. For example, the manner in which the shape-altering element alters the shape of the device may be controlled by a user. The user programs the control electronics to associate a particular shape change with a parameter of the device or associated article, allowing the user to personalize the shape change notification. The manufacturer of the device may develop an application program that can be run on the external device to allow the external device to interact with and optionally program the control electronics as appropriate or desired.

The control electronics may be operably coupled to one or more sensors configured to detect a state of the device or an aerosol-generating article associated with the device. The control electronics can activate the shape-altering element to alter a shape of at least one of an exterior surface of a housing of the apparatus and an exterior surface of a housing of the article in response to the state detected by the sensor. The aerosol-generating device may comprise any suitable number and type of sensors to identify the status of the device. The type of sensor employed may vary depending on the state of the device to be detected or the associated aerosol-generating article.

For example, the device may include a sensor configured to detect the charge or state of charge of a battery or other suitable power source disposed in the housing. Any suitable sensor may be used to detect the charge of the battery. For example, the battery level sensor may include an ammeter, voltmeter, ohmmeter, and the like.

The device may comprise a sensor for detecting a parameter associated with the aerosol-generating article. For example, the type of aerosol-generating article, the brand of aerosol-generating article, the odour of materials in the aerosol-generating article, the amount of remaining aerosol-forming substrate, etc. may be detected. The device may obtain information about the aerosol-generating article in any suitable manner. For example, when the cartridge is received in a receptacle defined by the housing of the device, a direct electrical connection between the control electronics of the device and the aerosol-generating article may be formed with the cartridge. Information about the article may be transmitted to the control electronics through a direct electrical connection. For example, the interior of the receptacle and the exterior of the aerosol-generating article may include contacts for directly electrically connecting the control electronics of the device to the article. In some embodiments, information about the article may be wirelessly transmitted to the device. In some embodiments, the wireless transmission range is limited such that only information from an article received by the apparatus is transmitted to the apparatus relative to an article generally proximate to the device. In some examples, the aerosol-generating article comprises an RFID tag and the device comprises an RFID reader.

In some embodiments, the sensor may comprise any suitable optical sensor for detecting a visible indicator, such as a barcode, disposed on an exterior surface of the aerosol-generating article. The sensor may be arranged to detect a visible indicator on the article when the article is received in the receptacle of the device.

The device may include a sensor configured to detect any suitable operating parameter of the device. For example, the amount of aerosol or particulate matter produced while the device is in use can be monitored. Any suitable sensor may be used. For example, the sensor may comprise any suitable optical sensor for detecting aerosol or particulate matter concentrations by, for example, light scattering or light absorption. In some embodiments, the concentration of aerosol or particulate matter generated during use of the device may be detected using a sensor configured to measure capacitance or resistance across a channel through which the aerosol or particulate matter flows.

In another aspect of the invention, there is provided an aerosol-generating device comprising: a housing defining a receptacle configured to receive an aerosol-generating article; control electronics disposed in the housing; and a sensor operatively coupled to the control electronics. The sensor is configured to detect a condition of the device or the article when the article is received in the receptacle. The system also includes a shape-altering element disposed on or in the housing, wherein the control electronics are operatively coupled to the shape-altering element and configured to cause the shape-altering element to alter the shape in response to the state of the device or article detected by the sensor.

In another aspect of the present invention there is provided an aerosol-generating article for use with an aerosol-generating device, the article comprising: a housing; an aerosol-forming substrate disposed in the housing; and a shape-modifying element disposed on or in the housing. The shape-altering element is operatively coupled to control electronics of the aerosol-generating device to cause the shape-altering element to alter the shape.

Any feature described above in relation to one aspect may also be applicable to other aspects of the invention.

Drawings

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which depict one or more aspects described in the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that other aspects not depicted in the drawings fall within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Like numbers used in the figures refer to like parts, steps, etc. It should be understood, however, that the use of a number to refer to a component in a given figure is not intended to limit the component in another figure labeled with the same number. Additionally, the use of different numbers in different figures to refer to components is not intended to indicate that the different numbered components cannot be the same or similar to other numbered components. The drawings are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation. The schematic diagrams presented in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating device and article that may be used according to the invention

Figure 2A is a schematic cross-sectional view of a broken away portion of an aerosol-generating device and associated aerosol-generating article and a cap that may be used according to the present invention.

Fig. 2B-2C are schematic perspective views of an example of the aerosol-generating system shown in fig. 2A. Fig. 2B shows the attached portion and the removed cover. Figure 2C shows a system in which the lid is secured in place.

Fig. 3A-3B are schematic cross-sectional views of aerosol-generating devices having a shape-altering element in an inactivated state (fig. 3A) and an activated state (fig. 3B).

Fig. 4A-4B are schematic block diagrams of aerosol-generating devices having a shape-altering element in an inactivated state (fig. 4A) and an activated state (fig. 4B).

Fig. 5A-5B are schematic block diagrams of aerosol-generating devices having a shape-altering element in an inactivated state (fig. 5A) and an activated state (fig. 5B).

Fig. 6A to 6B are schematic cross-sectional views of a housing and a portion of a shape modifying element disposed in the housing. In fig. 6A, the shape changing element is in an unactivated state. In fig. 6B, the shape changing element is in an activated state.

Fig. 7A-7B are schematic top plan views of embodiments of a portion of the housing depicted in fig. 6A-6B. Fig. 7A corresponds to fig. 6A, wherein the shape changing element is in an unactivated state. Fig. 7B corresponds to fig. 6B, wherein the shape changing element is in an activated state.

Fig. 8A-8B are schematic cross-sectional views of an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an associated aerosol-generating article having a shape-altering element in an inactivated state (fig. 8A) and an activated state (fig. 8B).

Figure 9 is a schematic block diagram of an aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device and an associated aerosol-generating article having a shape-altering element in an unactivated state.

Detailed Description

Figure 1 shows a system comprising an aerosol-generating device 200 and an associated aerosol-generating article 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The device 200 comprises a housing 210 defining a receptacle 220 configured to receive the aerosol-generating article 100. Device 200 also includes an elongated heating element 230 that extends into receptacle 220. The heating element 230 may comprise a resistive heating element. The receptacle 220 has an open end through which the aerosol-generating article 100 may be inserted. The receptacle 220 has a closed end against which the aerosol-generating article 100 may abut when inserted into the receptacle 220. In addition, the device 200 includes a power supply 240 and control electronics 250 disposed inside the housing 210. The power supply 240 and control electronics 250 cooperate to control the heating of the heating element 230. Preferably, the control electronics 250 are configured to heat the heating element to a degree sufficient to cause an aerosol to be generated by an aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-generating article for use with the device 200 without burning the substrate.

The aerosol-generating article 100 comprises a housing 110 in which an aerosol-forming substrate 300 is housed. The housing 110 may be, for example, a wrapper, such as a plug wrap or cigarette paper. The aerosol-generating article 100 may comprise a filter 140, such as a cellulose diacetate tow for cigarette or other suitable filter, at the mouth end 102 downstream of the aerosol-forming substrate 300. When the article 100 is inserted in the receptacle 220 of the device 200, the end 104 of the article 100 opposite the mouth end 102 may contact the closed end of the receptacle 220.

The user may insert the mouth end 102 of the article 100 in his or her mouth and inhale against the article 100, which causes air to flow through the article 100. The aerosol-forming substrate 300 is heated by the heating element 230 of the device 200. As the user inhales against the mouth end 102 of the article 100, air passes through the heated substrate 300 and aerosol generated from the substrate is entrained in the air being inhaled through the article 100. Aerosols entrained in the air being inhaled by the article 100 are delivered through the mouth end 102 of the article 100 for delivery to the user by inhalation.

Fig. 2A to 2C show a system comprising an aerosol-generating device 200 and an associated aerosol-generating article 100 according to another embodiment of the invention. The device 200 comprises a first portion 10, a vaporizing unit 20 and a cover 40. In this embodiment, the aerosol-generating article 100 is in the form of a capsule comprising a housing 310 defining a reservoir in which the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 300 may be stored.

The first portion 10 is releasably connected to the vaporizing unit 20. The vaporizing unit 20 is releasably connected to the aerosol-generating article 100. A lid 40 may be disposed over the vaporization unit 20 and the aerosol-generating article (capsule) 100. The cover 40 may be fixed in a position relative to the vaporizing unit 20 and the aerosol-generating article 100. In some examples (not depicted), components of the vaporization unit may be included in the aerosol-generating article 100, and the system does not include a separate vaporization unit.

The first part 10 includes a housing 130 defining an interior in which a power supply 240 and control electronics 250 are disposed. Control electronics 250 are electrically coupled to power supply 240. Electrical conductors 140 from the control electronics 250 may be connected to contacts (not shown) exposed through, located on, or formed by the housing 130.

The vaporizing unit 20 includes a housing 245 in which the liquid transfer element 215 and the heating element 225 are disposed. The liquid transfer element 215 is thermally coupled to the heating element 225. Electrical conductors 235 electrically couple heating element 225 to electrical contacts (not shown) exposed through, on, or formed by housing 245. When the vaporizing unit 20 is connected to the first portion 10 (e.g., as shown in fig. 2B), the heating element 225 is electrically coupled with the control electronics 250 and the power source 240 via the electrical conductors 235 of the vaporizing unit 20, the electrical conductors 140 of the first portion 10, and the electrical connections between the contacts (not shown) of the first portion 10 and the second portion 20.

The aerosol-generating article 100 may be connected to the vaporizing unit 20, for example, by a snap fit, an interference fit, or any other suitable connection. When the aerosol-generating article 100 is connected to the vaporizing unit 20, the reservoir or aerosol-forming substrate 300 may be immediately arranged, or subsequently joined, in fluid communication with the liquid transfer element 215. For example, in this embodiment, the aerosol-generating article 100 comprises valves 399 which are configured to be closed when the vaporizing unit and the capsule are not connected and are configured to be open when the vaporizing unit and the capsule are connected. The valve 399 is aligned with a distal opening in the aerosol-generating article 100 and a proximal opening (not shown) in the vaporizing unit 20, such that when the valve 399 is open, the liquid aerosol-forming substrate 300 in the reservoir is in communication with the liquid transfer element 215.

Also shown in fig. 2A is a channel for the air or aerosol flow. The vaporizing unit 20 includes one or more inlets 244 (two shown) in the housing 245 that communicate with the passage 218 extending to the proximal end of the vaporizing unit. The central passage 315 extends through the aerosol-generating article 100 and communicates with the passage 218 of the vaporizing unit 20 when the vaporizing unit 20 and the aerosol-generating article 100 are connected. The cover 40 includes a central passage 415. When the cap 40 is disposed over the article 100, the central passage 415 of the cap 40 is in communication with the central passage 315 of the aerosol-generating article 100.

The cover 40 includes a housing 410 defining a recess 416 configured to be disposed over the vaporizing unit 20 and the article 100. The cover 40 may be held in place in any suitable manner, such as a threaded engagement, a snap-fit engagement, an interference fit engagement, a magnetic engagement, etc. (engagement not shown) with any one or more of the first portion 10, the vaporizing unit 20, or the article 100.

Fig. 2B-2C show schematic perspective views of the aerosol-generating device 200 depicted in fig. 2A and the associated aerosol-generating article 100. The apparatus 200 shown in fig. 2B to 2C includes a first portion 10, a vaporizing unit 20, and a cover 40. These portions are generally as described with respect to fig. 2A. In some examples (not depicted), components of the vaporization unit may be included in the aerosol-generating article, and the system will not include a separate vaporization unit.

The connected system extends from the mouth end 102 to the distal end 103. The housing of the aerosol-generating article 100 defines an opening 35 which communicates with a passage through the length of the article 100. The passage defines a portion of an aerosol flow path through the system. The housing of the vaporizing unit 20 defines an inlet 244 that communicates with a passage through the vaporizing unit 20. The passage through the vaporizing unit 20 communicates with the passage through the aerosol-generating article 100. The cover 40 (which is configured to cover the vaporizing unit 20 and the aerosol-generating article 100) includes a housing 410 having sidewalls that define an inlet 44 that communicates with the inlet 244 of the vaporizing unit 20 when the cover 40 is secured in place relative to the rest of the system. The housing 410 of the cap 40 also defines a mouth end opening 45 which communicates with the passage through the aerosol-generating article 100. Thus, when a user inhales against the mouth end 102, air enters the inlet 44 of the cap 40 and then enters the inlet 244 of the vaporisation unit 20, flows through the channels in the vaporisation unit 20, through the channels in the aerosol-generating article 100, through the opening 35 at the proximal end of the article 100, and through the mouth end opening 45.

The first part 10 of the aerosol-generating system depicted in fig. 2B-2C comprises a button 15 which can be pressed to activate and optionally deactivate the system. The push button 15 is coupled to a switch of the control electronics.

Also shown in the system depicted in fig. 2B, the housing 130 of the first portion 10 defines an edge 12 at the proximal end. When the cover 40 is secured in place over the vaporizing unit 20 and the article 100, the distal end of the cover 40 abuts the rim 12. The housing 410 of the cap 40 and the housing 130 of the first part 10 together form a housing of the aerosol-generating device 200.

The device 200 depicted in fig. 1 and 2A-2C is merely an example of an aerosol-generating device that may be employed in accordance with the teachings presented herein. The teachings presented herein also apply to any other suitable aerosol-generating device, including devices configured for use with aerosol-generating articles that include a powder substrate or a gel substrate.

Referring now to fig. 3A-3B and 4A-4B, an exemplary non-specific aerosol-generating device 200 is depicted in schematic form. The device 200 comprises a housing 210 defining a receptacle 220 configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The housing 210 also defines an interior within which the control electronics 250 and the power supply 240 are disposed. The apparatus 200 further comprises a sensor 260 and a shape-altering element 270 configured to alter the shape when activated by the control electronics 250. The shape modifying element 270 is arranged to modify the shape of the device. The control electronics 250 are operatively coupled to the power source 240, the sensor 260, and the shape-altering element 270. The sensor 260 is configured to detect a state of the device 200 or an aerosol-generating article associated with the device 200; for example, when the article is disposed in the receptacle 220. The control electronics 250 are configured to allow power from the power source 240 to be provided to the shape-altering element 270 to activate the shape-altering element 270 when the sensor 260 detects a predetermined condition. Activation of the shape-altering element 270 causes the external shape of the device 200 to be altered. For example, compare fig. 3B, (where the shape altering element 270 is activated) with fig. 3A (where the shape altering element 270 is not activated). Similarly, for example, compare fig. 4B, (where the shape altering element 270 is activated) with fig. 4A (where the shape altering element 270 is not activated). In the depicted embodiment, activation of the shape-altering element 270 or a portion thereof (such as application of a current, voltage differential) causes the volume of the shape-altering element 270 or a portion thereof to increase, which causes the shape of the device 200 to be altered. The shape-altering element 270 of the device of fig. 3A and 3B is arranged to deform the housing 210 along a portion of the length of the device 200, around the entire circumference of the device 200, to alter the external shape of the device 200. The shape-altering element 270 of the device of fig. 4A and 4B is arranged on one particular side of the device 200 to alter the external shape of the device when the shape-altering element is activated.

The device 200 may include more than one sensor 260 positioned and configured to detect a state of the device. For example, the sensor 260 may be operatively coupled to the power supply 240 to measure the amount of power of the power supply. The sensor 260 may be operatively coupled to the aerosol-generating article when the article is inserted into the receptacle 220 of the device. The sensor 260 may be positioned and configured to detect the amount or concentration of aerosol or particles flowing through the mouth end of the device 200.

Fig. 5A-5B illustrate another non-specific aerosol-generating device 200. Similar to the device depicted in fig. 3A-3B and 4A-4B, the device 200 depicted in fig. 5A-5B includes a housing 210 defining a receptacle 220 configured to receive an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The housing 210 also defines an interior within which the control electronics 250 and the power supply 240 are disposed. The apparatus 200 also includes a sensor 260 configured to detect a status of the apparatus 200 or an article associated with the apparatus 200, such as when the article is received in the receptacle 220.

The apparatus 200 depicted in fig. 5A-5B includes a plurality of shape altering elements 270 configured to alter the shape of the apparatus 200 when activated. The control electronics 250 are operatively coupled to each of the power source 240, the sensor 260, and the shape-altering element 270. In this embodiment, the control electronics 250 are coupled to the shape-altering element 270 through a multiplexer 280.

The control electronics 250 are configured to allow power from the power source 240 to activate one or more of the plurality of shape altering elements 270 when the sensor 260 detects a predetermined condition. Activation of the shape-altering element 270 causes the external shape of the device 200 to be altered. For example, compare fig. 5B (where some of the shape altering elements 270 are activated) with fig. 5A (where none of the shape altering elements 270 are activated).

As shown in fig. 5B, each shape modifying element 270 may be independently controlled by the control electronics 250. The shape-altering elements 270 may be the same, or may be different. In some cases, such as where a shape-altering element employing a two-way shape memory alloy is employed, activation of the shape-altering element may result in full activation. In other cases, the amount of activation (e.g., application of heat) may result in partial activation of the shape-altering element. For example, application of less than full heating of the bubble-containing foam may result in less than full activation (e.g., partial activation) of the element, such that the element affects the shape modification of the device 200 to a lesser extent than the full shape modification that may occur at maximum activation, as determined, for example, by instructions programmed in the control electronics 250.

Fig. 6A-6B illustrate an embodiment of a portion of a housing 210 of an aerosol-generating device. The housing 210 includes a structural base layer 212 and an outer layer 214 that is sufficiently flexible to accommodate the shape modification of the shape modifying element 270 positioned between the base layer 212 and the outer layer 214. The depicted shape-altering element 270 includes a heating element 272, such as a resistive wire mesh, which may be operatively coupled to control electronics and a power source by suitable electrical connections (not shown). The shape modifying element 270 also includes a thermally responsive shape modifying material 274 disposed on the heating element 272 and includes a movable portion 276 disposed on the shape modifying material 274. Application of an electrical current to the heating element 272 causes an increase in the temperature of the heating element 272, thereby increasing the temperature of the shape altering material 274, which causes the shape of the shape altering material 274 to be altered, thereby causing the movable portion 276 to move. In the depicted embodiment, upon activation, the volume of the shape altering material 274 increases, which causes the movable portion 276 to move past the original outer edge of the outer layer 214 of the housing, forming a bulge 216 or distinct feature on the outer surface that is detectable by touch or visually, as shown in fig. 6B.

Fig. 7A and 7B show schematic top plan views of embodiments of a portion of the housing 210 depicted in fig. 6A and 6B, respectively. As shown in fig. 7A, when the shape-altering element is not activated, the surface of the housing 210 has no apparent external features. However, when the shape-altering element is activated, the exterior surface of the housing 210 may alter the shape to expose a feature 216 having the properties of the shape-altering element (such as the shape of the movable portion).

Although the embodiment depicted in fig. 6A-6B includes a movable portion 276, shape modification of the device may be accomplished by a shape modifying element 270 that is free of the movable portion 276. For example, the shape modification of the shape modifying material 274 itself may be sufficient to modify the shape of the housing 210. However, the use of movable portion 276 may allow for more consistent changes in the shape of the device and may provide for more complex changes, such as the appearance of words, letters, or symbols. That is, the top surface of the shape modifying element may provide words, letters, or symbols, and the shape modification of the shape modifying element may allow the words, letters, or symbols to appear or disappear depending on the state of the device.

In some embodiments including a plurality of shape altering elements 270, each of the shape altering elements 270 may include an end or movable portion that shapes and alters the outer shape of the device 200 in the form of a letter or number when the shape altering element is activated. In these embodiments, activation of the different ones of the shape altering elements 270 may result in different words or numbers being formed in the exterior face of the device. In other words, words or numbers may be raised or lowered in the surface of the device 200 by the activated shape-altering element 270. Such words or numbers may be used to convey information to the user, such as the charge of the power source, whether the aerosol-generating article is received in the receptacle 220, or the type or brand of aerosol-generating article received in the receptacle 220.

Referring now to fig. 8A-8B and fig. 9, an exemplary non-specific aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device 200 and an article 100 is depicted in schematic form. The device 200 comprises a housing 210 defining a receptacle 220 configured to receive an aerosol-generating article 100 comprising an aerosol-forming substrate. The device housing 210 also defines an interior within which the control electronics 250 and the power supply 240 are disposed. The apparatus 200 also includes a sensor 260 configured to detect a state of the apparatus 200 or article 100.

The aerosol-generating article 100 comprises a housing 110 and a shape altering element 170. The shape-altering element 170 is configured to electrically couple with the control electronics 250 of the apparatus 200 when the article 100 is inserted into the receptacle 220. For example, article 100 may include one or more electrical contacts (not shown) exposed through article housing 110 that may couple with one or more electrical contacts (not shown) exposed through an interior surface of receptacle 220 when article 100 is received by receptacle 220. Contacts (not shown) of the article 100 may be electrically coupled to the shape altering elements 170. The shape-altering element 170 of the article 100 is configured to alter a shape when activated by the control electronics 250. The shape modifying element 270 is arranged to modify the shape of the article 100.

The control electronics 250 are operatively coupled to the power source 240, the sensor 260, and the shape-altering element 170. The sensor 260 is configured to detect a state of the device 200 or the aerosol-generating article 100 when the article 100 is disposed in the receptacle 220. The control electronics 250 are configured to allow power from the power source 240 to be provided to the shape-altering element 170 to activate the shape-altering element 170 when the sensor 260 detects a predetermined condition. Activation of the shape-altering element 170 causes the exterior shape of the article 100 to be altered. For example, compare fig. 9B, (where the shape altering element 170 is activated) with fig. 8A (where the shape altering element 170 is not activated). In the depicted embodiment, activation of the shape-altering element 170 or a portion thereof (such as application of an electrical current, a voltage differential), causes an increase in volume of the shape-altering element 170 or a portion thereof, which causes the shape of the article 100 to be altered. The shape-altering element 170 of the article 100 of fig. 8A and 8B is arranged to deform the shell 110 along a portion of the length of the article 100, around the entire circumference of the article 100, to alter the external shape of the article 100.

The apparatus 200 may include more than one sensor 260 positioned and configured to detect a state of the apparatus 200 or article 100. For example, the sensor 260 may be operatively coupled to the article 100 to monitor the amount of aerosol-forming substrate remaining in the article or the number of puffs taken on the article 100.

All scientific and technical terms used herein have the meanings commonly used in the art unless otherwise indicated. The definitions provided herein are to facilitate understanding of certain terms used frequently herein.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" encompass embodiments having plural referents, unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the term "or" is generally employed in its sense including "and/or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, "having," "comprising," "including," and the like are used in their open sense and generally mean "including (but not limited to)". It is understood that "consisting essentially of … …", "consisting of … …", and the like are included in the "comprising" and the like.

The words "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the invention that may provide certain benefits under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the disclosure, including the claims.

Any directions mentioned herein, such as "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," and other directions or orientations described herein for clarity and brevity are not intended to limit the actual device or system. The devices and systems described herein can be used in a variety of directions and orientations.

The embodiments illustrated above are not limiting. Other embodiments consistent with the above embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.