Abstract: [en] an aerosol generating device (1) is described. the aerosol generating device includes: a body (10) having an aperture (12) through which a consumable is receivable into the aerosol generating device; a cover (110) moveable along a first direction between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the cover overlays the aperture and in the open position the aperture is exposed; a coupling element having a first end (141) arranged to cooperate with the cover and a second end (142) pivotally attached to the body, such that the coupling element rotates relative to the body as the cover is moved between the closed position and the open position; wherein the coupling element is positioned towards one side of the cover and body such that a plane of rotation of the coupling element is offset from a central plane (2), parallel to the plane of rotation, running through the body and cover. by positioning the coupling element in this manner towards one side of the cover and body it is possible to reduce the size of the cover and associated components, providing a more compact and user friendly device.

[en]     claims   1. an aerosol generating device comprising: a body having an aperture through which a consumable is receivable into the aerosol generating device; a cover moveable along a first direction between a closed position and an open position, wherein in the closed position the cover overlays the aperture and in the open position the aperture is exposed; a coupling element having a first end arranged to cooperate with the cover and a second end pivotally attached to the body, such that the coupling element rotates relative to the body as the cover is moved between the closed position and the open position; wherein the coupling element is positioned towards one side of the cover and body such that a plane of rotation of the coupling element is offset from a central plane, parallel to the plane of rotation, running through the body and cover.
2. the aerosol generating device of claim 1 further comprising a position sensing element for sensing a position of the cover; wherein the position sensing element is positioned adjacent to the coupling element in a direction perpendicular to the plane of rotation of the coupling element.
3. the aerosol generating device of claim 2, wherein the coupling element is positioned on one side of the central plane and the position sensing element is positioned on the other side of the central plane.
4. the aerosol generating device of any preceding claim, wherein the coupling element comprises a biasing element, such that the biasing element applies a biasing force to the cover which biases the cover to at least one of the closed or the open position.
5. the aerosol generating device of any preceding claim, wherein the coupling element comprises a rigid element.
6. the aerosol generating device of claims 4 and 5, wherein the biasing element is positioned around the rigid element.
7. the aerosol generating device of claim 6, wherein the coupling element comprises a traveller positioned around the rigid element and adjacent to the biasing element; wherein the traveller is arranged to move in a direction extending between a first end and a second end of the rigid element as the cover moves between the closed position and the open position, such that the traveller transfers the biasing force between the biasing element and the cover.
8. the aerosol generating device of claim 2, and optionally any of claims 3 to 7, wherein the position sensing element is a magnet and the device further comprises a hall sensor arranged to sense the position of the magnet.
9. the aerosol generating device of claim 8, wherein the hall sensor is positioned on the body of the device such that the hall sensor is closer to the magnet when the cover is in the open position than when the cover is in the closed position.
10. the aerosol generating device of claim 4, and optionally any of claims 5 to 9, wherein the biasing element applies a biasing force to the cover which biases the cover to the closed position and the open position.
11. the aerosol generating device of claim 4, and optionally any of claims 5 to 10, wherein the biasing element deforms in order to apply the biasing force.
12. the aerosol generating device of any preceding claim, wherein the cover is further moveable from the open position to an activation position at which the aerosol generating device is operable to initiate an activation signal.
13. the aerosol generating device of claim 4 and claim 12, wherein the biasing element is arranged to apply the biasing force so as also to bias the cover away from the activation position.
14. the aerosol generating device of any preceding claim, further comprising a guide, wherein a carriage is arranged to move along the guide as the cover moves between the closed position and the open position, the carriage being arranged to interact with the cover, preferably wherein the guide provides an arc- shaped or linear guiding path.
15. the aerosol generating device of claim 4 and claim 14, wherein the biasing element is arranged to apply the biasing force so as to bias the carriage towards a side of the guide, preferably towards a side of the guide away from the body.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generation device includes a power supply module having an power supply; a substrate module having a container for an aerosol substrate; and a heater module configured to detachably engage with the power supply module and having a mouthpiece; a heating element configured to receive power from the power supply and heat the substrate to generate an aerosol; and a receiving means configured to detachably engage with the substrate module and bring the heating element and the substrate together for generating the aerosol. the container of the substrate module is sealed prior to engaging with the heater module. the heater module is configured to break the sealing of the container upon or after engaging with the substrate module. the heater module receiving means is adapted to partly enclose the substrate module when engaged therewith. the power supply module is adapted to partly enclose the heater module when engaged therewith.

[en] 1. an aerosol generation device comprising: a power supply module comprising an electrical power supply;a substrate module comprising a container for an aerosol substrate; anda heater module configured to detachably engage with the power supply module, the heater module comprising: a mouthpiece;a heating element configured to receive power from the electrical power supply and heat the aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol; anda receiving means configured to detachably engage with the substrate module and bring the heating element and the aerosol substrate together for generating the aerosol, wherein: the container of the substrate module is sealed prior to engaging with the heater module, and the heater module is configured to break a sealing of the container upon or after engaging with the substrate module,the receiving means is adapted to partly enclose the substrate module when engaged therewith, andthe power supply module is adapted to partly enclose the heater module when engaged therewith.
2. (canceled)
3. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the heater module or the substrate module comprises a fluid transfer element configured to transfer liquid from the container to the heating element.
4. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the receiving means comprises a closure component arranged to open for receiving the substrate module and to close for aerosol generation.
5. the aerosol generation device according to claim 4, wherein the receiving means is a clam-shell container or a container comprising a housing comprising a recess dimensioned for receiving the aerosol substrate and closed by a closing door.
6. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the sealing of the container comprises a first layer that is not soluble in the aerosol substrate and a second layer that is soluble in the aerosol substrate.
7. the aerosol generation device according to claim 6, wherein the second layer comprises a polysaccharide, starch or protein-based material or biodegradable polyvinylalcohol (pva) film.
8. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the sealing of the container comprises a foil seal layer comprising a moisture barrier.
9. the aerosol generation device according to claim 8, wherein the container and/or the sealing of the container comprises a polymer film comprising a gas barrier and/or a moisture barrier layer or coating and at least one support layer.
10. the aerosol generation device according to claim 9, wherein the gas barrier and/or the moisture barrier layer or coating comprises evoh, pvoh, siox, or natural wax or combinations thereof.
11. the aerosol generation device according to claim 9, wherein the at least one support layer comprises: paper, polylactic acid (pla), poly(glycolic acid) (pga), bio-pet, pbat, polymer(s) of cellulose-derived or starch-derived biodegradable polymers (bps), chitosan or microbially synthesized polyesters.
12. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the receiving means comprises a piercing element configured to pierce or cut the sealing of the container.
13. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the sealing of the container is configured to break upon melting, burning or decomposing upon heating by the heating element and the heating element is configured to melt, burn or decompose the sealing of the container.
14. the aerosol generation device according to claims 6, wherein the heater module is configured to open the sealing of the container upon commencing aerosol generation.
15. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the substrate module is biodegradable or compostable.
16. the aerosol generation device according to claim 15, wherein the container and/or the sealing of the container comprises a polysaccharide, starch or protein-based material, paper, polylactic acid (pla), poly(glycolic acid) (pga), bio-pet, pbat, polymer(s) of cellulose-derived or starch-derived biodegradable polymers (bps), chitosan or microbially synthesized polyesters.
17. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the heating element is detachable from the heater module.
18. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the electrical power supply is detachable from the power supply module.
19. a heater module for an aerosol generation device, the heater module being configured to detachably engage with a power supply module of the aerosol generation device, the heater module comprising: a mouthpiece;a heating element configured to receive power from an electrical power supply of the aerosol generation device and heat an aerosol substrate to generate an aerosol; anda receiving means configured to detachably engage with a substrate module of the aerosol generation device and bring the heating element and an aerosol substrate together for generating an aerosol, wherein: heater module is configured to break a sealing of a container of a substrate module of the aerosol generation device upon or after engaging with the substrate module, andthe receiving means is adapted to partly enclose an substrate module of the aerosol generation device when engaged therewith.
20. a substrate module for an aerosol generation device, the substrate module comprising a container for an aerosol substrate, wherein: the substrate module is configured to detachably engage with a receiving means of a heater module of the aerosol generation device, the receiving means being configured to bring a heating element of the aerosol generation device and the aerosol substrate together for generating the aerosol,the container of the substrate module is sealed prior to engaging with the heater module, and the a sealing of the container is adapted to break upon the substrate module engaging with the heater module, andthe receiving means is adapted to partly enclose the substrate module when engaged therewith.
21. a package comprising: a plurality of the substrate modules according to claim 20; anda cardboard support.


Abstract: [en] the present invention concerns a wicking element (30) for a heating system for an aerosol generating set, the wicking element (30) being manufactured in one single piece by an additive manufacturing technique by forming a plurality of successive porous layers; the plurality of successive porous layers comprising a first porous layer and a second porous layer adjacent to the first porous layer; each of the first and the second porous layers defining a hole pattern comprising a plurality of holes; the hole pattern of the second porous layer being at least partially offset in respect with the hole pattern of the first porous layer so as pairs of facing holes of these porous layers form a flow channel having a transversal area smaller than or equal to the transversal area of each of these holes.

[en] claims 1. a wicking element (30) for a heating system (20) for an aerosol generating set (10), the wicking element (30) being manufactured in one single piece by an additive manufacturing technique by forming a plurality of successive porous layers; the plurality of successive porous layers comprising a first porous layer and a second porous layer adjacent to the first porous layer; each of the first and the second porous layers defining a hole pattern comprising a plurality of holes; the hole pattern of the second porous layer being at least partially offset in respect with the hole pattern of the first porous layer so as pairs of facing holes of these porous layers form a flow channel (50a, 50b, 50c) having a transversal area smaller than or equal to the transversal area of each of these holes.
2. the wicking element (30) according to claim 1, wherein the first porous layer and the second porous layer define substantially the same hole pattern.
3. the wicking element (30) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the holes of the or each hole pattern have a rectangular shape.
4. the wicking element (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the transversal dimensions of the holes of the or each hole pattern are comprised between 10 pm and 150 pm.
5. the wicking element (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the thickness of each porous layer is comprised between 25 pm and 100 pm.
6. the wicking element (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hole pattern of the second porous layer is offset according to at least one direction by an offset value, the offset value being less than the transversal dimension of at least one hole of the first porous layer according to this direction.
7. the wicking element (34) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of successive porous layers comprises n>2 successive porous layers; each of the porous layers defining a hole pattern comprising a plurality of holes; the hole pattern of each porous layer being at least partially offset in respect with the hole pattern of the or each porous layer adjacent to said porous layer so as facing holes of these porous layers form a flow channel (50a, 50b, 50c) having a transversal area less or equal than the transversal area of each of these holes.
8. the wicking element (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, made of ceramic, preferably with substantially 0 percent intrinsic porosity.
9. the wicking element (30) according to any one of the preceding claims, forming a wicking part adapted to transfer an e-liquid and at least one element chosen in the group: - a heat transfer element (40); - a flow passage (42); - a support structure; - an insulation structure.
10. a heating system (20) for an aerosol generating set (10), comprising the wicking element (30) according to any one of the preceding claims.
11. a manufacturing method of the wicking element (30) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising: - forming a first porous layer comprising a plurality of holes according to a hole pattern;- forming a second porous layer comprising a plurality of holes according to a hole pattern at least partially offset in respect with the hole pattern of the first porous layer so as pairs of facing holes of these porous layers form a flow channel (50a, 50b, 50c) having a transversal area less or equal than the transversal area of each of these holes.
12. the manufacturing method according to claim 1 1, further comprising a step of forming a non-porous layer.
13. the manufacturing method according to claim 12, wherein said non-porous layer is designed to form at least one element chosen in the group: - a heat transfer element (40); - a flow passage (42); - a support structure; - an insulation structure. 16
14. the manufacturing method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the additive manufacturing technique used to manufacture the wicking element is a lithography-based ceramic manufacturing technique.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generating device (100) is disclosed comprising an orientation sensor (102) which is configured to detect the orientation of the device, a user interface (104) which is configured to receive user inputs and a controller (106) which is configured to enable or disable the user interface. the controller is configured to enable the user interface to accept user inputs when the detected orientation of the device is determined to be within a predefined orientation range. the controller is further configured to disable the user interface when the detected orientation is determined to be outside of the predefined orientation range.

[en] claims 1. an aerosol generating device, comprising: an orientation sensor configured to detect the orientation of the device; a user interface configured to receive user inputs, wherein the user interface is configured to operate a heating function of the device; and a controller configured to enable the user interface to accept user inputs when the detected orientation of the device is determined to be within a predefined orientation range, and wherein the controller is further configured to disable the user interface when the detected orientation is determined to be outside of the predefined orientation range.
2. an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to enable the user interface to accept user inputs when the detected orientation of the device is determined to be within the predefined orientation range for a predefined time period.
3. an aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the user interface comprises a button.
4. an aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the orientation sensor comprises a gyroscope.
5. an aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the predefined orientation range comprises orientations where the longitudinal axis of the device is confined within a cone defined around a vertical axis.
6. an aerosol generating device according to claim 5, wherein the angle subtended by the cone and the vertical axis is at least 60 degrees, and more preferably at least 80 degrees.
7. an aerosol generating device according to claim 5 or claim 6, further comprising a mouthpiece, and wherein the predefined orientation is where the mouthpiece is pointing upward.
8. an aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the device is configured to receive a consumable for heating.
9. an aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, further comprising an opening, wherein the opening is configured to receive a solid consumable, and wherein the predefined orientation is where the opening is pointing upward.
10. an aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to disable the user interface immediately when the detected orientation is determined to be outside of the predefined orientation range.
11. a method for using an aerosol generating device, comprising: detecting the orientation of the device using an orientation sensor; enabling a user interface to accept user inputs using a controller when the detected orientation of the device is determined to be within a predefined orientation range, the user interface configured to operate a heating function of the device; and disabling the user interface using the controller when the detected orientation is determined to be outside of the predefined orientation range.
12. a computer readable memory medium comprising executable instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform steps comprising: determining the orientation of the device based on data from an orientation sensor; enabling a user interface to accept user inputs using a controller when the detected orientation of the device is determined to be within a predefined orientation range, the user interface configured to operate a heating function of the device; and disabling the user interface using the controller when the detected orientation is determined to be outside of the predefined orientation range.


Abstract: [en] a heater arrangement for an aerosol generating device includes a tubular heating chamber including a cavity arranged to receive an aerosol generating substrate, a layer of insulation wrapped so as to circumferentially surround the heating chamber and an insulation support assembly including a rigid surround arranged around the heating chamber; wherein the insulation support assembly is arranged to engage the heating chamber and the insulation layer to hold the insulation layer in position around the heating chamber. devices utilising such a heating arrangement display improved thermal insulation performance and allow for greater freedom in selecting insulating materials. the heater arrangement is also lower cost compared to conventional insulated heaters, for example those utilising vacuum tubes, as well as being lower weight. the insulation support assembly reduces heat transfer from the heater and also improves ease of assembly.

[en] 1. a heater arrangement for an aerosol generating device, the heater arrangement comprising: a tubular heating chamber comprising a cavity arranged to receive an aerosol generating substrate;a layer of insulation wrapped so as to circumferentially surround the heating chamber;an insulation support assembly comprising a rigid surround arranged around the heating chamber; whereinthe insulation support assembly is arranged to engage the heating chamber and the layer of insulation to hold the layer of insulation in position around the heating chamber.
2. the heater arrangement for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the insulation support assembly is arranged to contact the heating chamber only at one or both ends of the heating chamber to support the rigid surround in position around the heating chamber.
3. the heater arrangement according to claim 2, wherein the insulation support assembly comprises one or more annular supports wherein the one or more annular supports are mounted around an end of the heating chamber and support the rigid surround in position around the heating chamber.
4. the heater arrangement for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the layer of insulation is wrapped around an outer surface of the rigid surround.
5. the heater arrangement for an aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein the rigid surround comprises a frame comprising a plurality of longitudinal struts running along a length of the tubular heating chamber; wherein the layer of insulation is wrapped around an outer surface formed by the longitudinal struts.
6. the heater arrangement of claim 4, wherein the rigid surround comprises a gripping member extending radially outward from the rigid surround, wherein the gripping member is arranged to grip the layer of insulation and hold at least a portion of the layer of insulation in position.
7. the heater arrangement of claim 1, wherein the rigid surround comprises a tubular casing arranged to enclose the tubular heating chamber to form a cylindrical cavity between an outer surface of the heating chamber and an inner surface of the casing, wherein the layer of insulation is held within the cavity.
8. the heater arrangement of claim 7, wherein the cylindrical cavity has a radial thickness between 2 mm and 4 mm.
9. the heater arrangement of claim 7, further comprising an annular support positioned at one end of the tubular heating chamber between the tubular heating chamber and the casing, the annular support extending around a majority of a circumference of the tubular heating chamber.
10. the heater arrangement of claim 9, wherein the annular support comprises a plurality of axial struts extending along an axis of the tubular heating chamber and arranged to hold the heating chamber within the casing.
11. the heater arrangement of claim 1, further comprising a circumferential lip, wherein the insulation support assembly comprises a connection feature arranged to receive the circumferential lip to hold the heating chamber in position.
12. the heater arrangement of claim 7, wherein the tubular casing comprises two semi-cylindrical parts configured to connect along a longitudinal interface to form the tubular casing around the heating chamber.
13. the heater arrangement of claim 7, further comprising a gripping member attached to the outer surface of the heating chamber arranged to grip the layer of insulation and hold at least a portion of the layer of insulation in position.
14. the heater arrangement of claim 13, wherein the gripping member comprises a barbed clamp arranged to attach to the outer surface of the heating chamber below the layer of insulation, the barbed clamp comprising an outward facing barb configured to grip the layer of insulation.
15. the heater arrangement of claim 7, wherein the tubular casing comprises a base surface at least partially enclosing the tubular casing around a closed end of the tubular heating chamber; the tubular casing being arranged to provide a gap between the base surface of the casing and the closed end of the heating chamber.
16. the heater arrangement of claim 15, further comprising insulation provided within the gap between the closed end of the tubular heating chamber and the base surface of the tubular casing.
17. the heater arrangement of claim 15, wherein the base surface of the tubular casing further comprises an opening to allow electrical connections to the heating chamber to pass through.
18. the heater arrangement of claim 17, wherein the base surface is configured such that the opening is directed at an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the heating chamber.
19. the heater arrangement of claim 7, wherein the tubular heating chamber comprises an open end arranged to receive the aerosol generating substrate and an opposing closed end; where the tubular casing comprises a closed end, the closed end comprising a protrusion extending from an inner surface to engage the closed end of the heating chamber.
20. the heater arrangement of claim 19, wherein the closed end of the tubular heating chamber comprises a recess in an outer surface thereof and the protrusion is configured to engage with the recess.
21. the heater arrangement of claim 7, wherein the tubular heating chamber comprises an open end arranged to receive the aerosol generating substrate and an opposing closed end, the heater arrangement further comprising: an end cap support, the end cap support welded to an outer surface of the closed end of the heating chamber and arranged to support the tubular casing in position around the heating chamber.
22. the heater arrangement of claim 20, wherein the end cap support comprises a substantially disk shaped body with a protrusion extending from the body, wherein the protrusion is welded to the outer surface of the closed end of the tubular heating chamber.
23. the heater arrangement of claim 7, wherein the tubular casing is internally coated with a metal heat reflective layer or a metal foil is wound together with the layer of insulation.
24. the heater arrangement of claim 1, wherein the layer of insulation comprises ceramic fibre.
25. the heater arrangement of claim 24, wherein the layer of insulation comprises one or more metal oxides.
26. the heater arrangement of claim 24, wherein the layer of insulation comprises aluminium oxide, silicon oxide and/or zro2.
27. the heater arrangement of claim 1, wherein the layer of insulation comprises an aerogel.
28. the heater arrangement of claim 1, wherein the layer of insulation is a blanket, felt or paper.
29. the heater arrangement of claim 1, wherein the insulation support assembly comprises a non-metal material.
30. the heater arrangement of claim 29, wherein the non-metal material is a heat resistant polymer.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generation device user authentication unit (200) is provided. the user authentication unit comprises a controller (202) and a motion detection component (204), the motion detection component is configured to detect movement of an aerosol generation device comprising the user authentication unit, and the controller configured to perform steps comprising detecting motion information using the motion detection component (s402), determining whether the detected motion information is characteristic of a user (s404), and controlling the user authentication unit to perform a first action when the detected motion information is characteristic of the user (s406).

[en]       claims   1. an aerosol generation device user authentication unit, the user authentication unit comprising a controller and a motion detection component, the motion detection component configured to detect movement of an aerosol generation device comprising the user authentication unit, and the controller configured to perform steps comprising: detecting motion information using the motion detection component; determining whether the detected motion information is characteristic of a user; and controlling the user authentication unit to perform a first action when the detected motion information is characteristic of the user.
2. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of claim 1, wherein determining whether the detected motion information is characteristic of the user comprises: comparing the detected motion information with predetermined motion information stored in memory accessible by the controller; and determining whether the detected motion information matches the predetermined motion information.
3. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of claim 2, wherein determining whether the detected motion information matches the predetermined motion information comprises determining whether the detected motion information is within a predefined tolerance of the predetermined motion information.
4. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the first action comprises controlling the user authentication unit to unlock the aerosol generation device so that an aerosolisation session can be performed.
5. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is further configured to control the user authentication unit to perform a second action when the detected motion information is not characteristic of the user.
6. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of claim 5, wherein the second action comprises indicating, with an indicator, that the aerosol generation device is locked such that an aerosolisation session cannot be performed.
7. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is further configured to perform steps comprising: detecting a secondary authentication input when the detected motion information is not characteristic of the user; and controlling the user authentication unit to unlock the aerosol generation device in response to detecting the secondary authentication input so that an aerosolisation session can be performed.
8. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the detected motion information comprises movements of the motion detection component due to movement of a hand holding an aerosol generation device comprising the user authentication unit.
9. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the controller is further configured to determine the predetermined motion information by: detecting preliminary motion information using the motion detection component; determining characteristic motion information from the detected preliminary motion information; and storing the determined characteristic motion information as the predetermined motion information in memory accessible by the controller.
10. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of claim 9, wherein: detecting the preliminary motion information using the motion detection component comprises detecting a plurality of instances of motion information when a user is holding an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit; and determining the characteristic motion information from the detected preliminary motion information comprises determining one or more common trends in the plurality of instances of motion information.
11. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the motion detection component is configured to detect three-dimensional movement.
12. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the detected motion information comprises one or more of: x-y movement data, y-z movement data, x-z movement data, and movement data as a function of time.
13. an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim.
14. an aerosol generation device user authentication method performed at a user authentication unit of an aerosol generation device, the method comprising: detecting motion information using a motion detection component; determining whether the detected motion information is characteristic of a user; and controlling the user authentication unit to perform a first action when the detected motion information is characteristic of the user.
15. a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions thereon which when executed by one or more processors cause the one or more processors to control an aerosol generation device user authentication unit, wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to perform steps comprising: detecting motion information using a motion detection component; determining whether the detected motion information is characteristic of a user; and controlling the user authentication unit to perform a first action when the detected motion information is characteristic of the user.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generating article includes a wrapper, an aerosol generating substrate positioned in the wrapper to form a rod having a mouth end and a distal end upstream of the mouth end, and an airflow barrier positioned in the wrapper. the airflow barrier includes a deformable capsule which substantially prevents airflow from the distal end to the mouth end when in an undeformed state. the deformable capsule is deformable by a user into a deformed state which permits airflow from the distal end to the mouth end.

[en] 1. an aerosol generating article comprising: a wrapper;an aerosol generating substrate positioned in the wrapper to form a rod having a mouth end and a distal end upstream of the mouth end; andan airflow barrier positioned in the wrapper;the airflow barrier comprising a deformable capsule which substantially prevents airflow from the distal end to the mouth end when in an undeformed state and which is deformable by a user into a deformed state which permits airflow from the distal end to the mouth end.
2. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein, when the deformable capsule is in the undeformed state, the deformable capsule spans an inner cross-section of the wrapper to substantially prevent airflow from the distal end to the mouth end.
3. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the deformable capsule is configured to permit airflow from the distal end to the mouth end between an outer surface of the deformable capsule and an inner surface of the wrapper when the deformable capsule is in the deformed state.
4. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the deformable capsule is configured to be deformed from the undeformed state into the deformed state upon application of a force by a user's fingers.
5. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the deformable capsule is configured to be deformed from the undeformed state into the deformed state upon application of a force greater than 24.5 n.
6. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the deformable capsule is substantially spherical when in the undeformed state.
7. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the deformable capsule is a crushable capsule or a frangible capsule comprising a frangible shell.
8. the aerosol generating article according to claim 7, wherein the deformable capsule contains a flavourant which is released upon deformation of the deformable capsule by a user from the undeformed state into the deformed state.
9. the aerosol generating article according to claim 8, wherein the frangible shell is substantially impermeable when the deformable capsule is in the undeformed state and the flavourant is contained inside the impermeable shell.
10. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the deformable capsule comprises a layer or discrete pieces including a vapour cooling substance.
11. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the deformable capsule is positioned downstream of the aerosol generating substrate.
12. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating article includes further comprising a vapour cooling element positioned in the wrapper downstream of the aerosol generating substrate and the deformable capsule is positioned downstream of the vapour cooling element.
13. the aerosol generating article according to claim 12, wherein the vapour cooling element comprises a hollow paper tube having a thickness which is greater than a thickness of the wrapper.
14. an aerosol generating system comprising: the aerosol generating article according to claim 1; andan aerosol generating device including: a crushing tool configured to allow a user to apply a force to the deformable capsule to permit deformation of the deformable capsule by the user from the undeformed state into the deformed state; and a heater for heating the aerosol generating substrate to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user.
15. the aerosol generating system according to claim 15, wherein the crushing tool comprises a user-operable lever and an associated crushing plate, the user-operable lever is pivotally mounted on a device body of the aerosol generating device and is movable between a first position and a second position, and upon user operation to move the user-operable lever from the first position to the second position, the crushing plate is movable from a retracted position to an advanced position in which the crushing plate compresses the deformable capsule.
16. the aerosol generating article according to claim 10, wherein the vapour cooling substance comprises polylactic acid.
17. the aerosol generating article according to claim 11, wherein the deformable capsule is positioned upstream of the mouth end.


Abstract: [en] a container for consumer goods, such as smoking articles, has an outer housing with a hinged lid that houses an inner package of consumer goods. the inner package has an access opening through which consumer goods can be removed and that is covered by a reclosable flap attached to a first lid panel that is relatively movable to a second lid panel throughout rotation of the lid between lid open and closed positions. the hinged lid is connected to the reclosable flap that is arranged to cover the access opening. the reclosable flap moves relative to the access opening during movement of the hinged lid. the reclosable flap carries an indicium in a manner such that the indicium is not visible when the lid is in the closed position and such that the indicium becomes visible during movement of the hinged lid from the closed position towards the open position.

[en] 1. a container for consumer goods, comprising: an outer housing comprising a box and a hinged lid rotatable between open and closed positions, wherein the hinged lid comprises a first lid panel and a second lid panel, wherein the first lid panel is movable relative to the second lid panel during movement of the hinged lid between the open and closed positions;an inner package of consumer goods within the box comprising an access opening through which consumer goods can be removed and that is provided at least at a portion of top and front walls of the inner package; anda reclosable flap arranged to cover the access opening and attached to the first lid panel;wherein a ratio between a length of the first lid panel to a distance between a top, front edge of the inner package and a top, front edge of the box is at least 0.3.
2. the container of claim 1, wherein the ratio between the length of the first lid panel to the distance between the top, front edge of the inner package and the top, front edge of the box is no more than 0.5.
3. the container of claim 1, wherein the first lid panel is hingedly connected to the second lid panel.
4. the container of claim 1, wherein, in the closed position, the reclosable flap and the inner package are provided next to one another around a periphery of the access opening at a coupling region, the coupling region having a resealable adhesive to releasably affix the inner package and the reclosable flap.
5. the container of claim 1, wherein the first lid panel comprises an edge that is configured to pivotally contact the inner package during movement of the lid between the open and closed positions.
6. the container of claim 1, wherein a ratio between a width of the first lid panel to a width of the second lid panel is between 0.5 and 1.0.
7. the container of claim 1, wherein the first lid panel is an inner lid front panel, and wherein the second lid panel is an outer lid front panel.
8. the container of claim 1, wherein the lid further comprises a third lid panel that is hingedly connected to the box, and wherein a ratio between a length of the first lid panel to a length of the third lid panel is no more than 2.
9. the container of claim 8, wherein the ratio between the length of the first lid panel to the length of the third lid panel is at least 1.2.
10. the container of claim 8, wherein the third lid panel is a lid back panel.
11. a blank for forming the outer housing of the container of claim 1, comprising a box portion and a lid portion, the lid portion comprising a first panel hingedly connected to a second panel, wherein a ratio between a width of the first panel to a width of the second panel is comprised between 0.5 and 1.0.
12. the blank of claim 11, wherein a ratio between a length of the first panel to a length of the second panel is no more than 0.5.
13. the blank of claim 12, wherein a ratio between a length of the first panel to a length of the second panel is at least 0.3.
14. the blank of claim 11, wherein the lid portion further comprises a third panel that is hingedly connected to the box portion, and wherein a ratio between a length of the first panel to a length of the third panel is no more than 2.
15. the blank of claim 14, wherein the ratio between the length of the first panel to the length of the third panel is at least 1.2.


Abstract: [en] the present invention concerns a method (100) for authenticating use of a cartridge with an aerosol generation device comprising a control unit configured to adjust its operation according to operational settings upon receiving a control command; the method (100) comprising the following steps: - associating (110) a cartridge unique identifier with a purchasing user identifier to form purchase information; - storing (120) the purchase information in a distant server; - comparing (140) the purchase information with a request for using, wherein the request for using comprises a cartridge unique identifier and a consuming user identifier; - based on said comparison, generating (145) a control command to control the operation of the aerosol generation device according to this control command.

[en]     claims   1. a method (100) for authenticating use of a cartridge (11) with an aerosol generation device (10), the aerosol generation device (10) comprising a control unit (20) configured to adjust the operation of the aerosol generation device (10) according to operational settings upon receiving a control command; the method (100) comprising the following steps:   - associating (110), by an associating module (45), a cartridge unique identifier of a purchased cartridge with a purchasing user identifier to form purchase information comprising the cartridge unique identifier of the purchased cartridge and the purchasing user identifier;   - storing (120) the purchase information in a distant server (49);   - comparing (140) the purchase information with a request for using, wherein the request for using comprises a cartridge unique identifier of a cartridge to be used and a consuming user identifier;   - based on said comparison, generating (145) a control command to control the operation of the aerosol generation device (10) according to this control command.
2. the method (100) according to claim 1, wherein the associating module (45) is configured to receive the cartridge unique identifier of the purchased cartridge and the purchasing user identifier, wherein the cartridge unique identifier is an identifier uniquely identifies a single cartridge.
3. the method (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cartridge (11) contains tobacco precursor.
4. the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generation device is an electronic cigarette for non-medical use.
5. the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the purchase information is formed automatically without medical constraints.
6. the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the step (110) of associating the cartridge unique identifier with the purchasing user identifier comprises determining the cartridge unique identifier based on scanning information via a scan terminal or user input to initiate a purchase so as to form the purchase information comprising the purchased cartridge unique identifier.
7. the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the purchase information further comprises an aerosol generation device identifier to be associated with the cartridge unique identifier.
8. the method (100) according to claim 7, wherein the request for using further comprising aerosol generation device information; the control command being further generated based on the aerosol generation device information.
9. the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, if while the comparison of the request for using with the purchase information, the request for using matches the purchase information, the control command comprising an unlocking signal and otherwise, the control command comprising a locking signal; said unlocking signal causing normal or adjusted operation of the aerosol generation device (10) with the cartridge (11); said locking signal causing disabling the aerosol generation device (10) to operate with the cartridge (11).
10. the method (100) according to claim 9, wherein the request for using matches the purchase information if the cartridge unique identifier comprised in the request for using corresponds to the cartridge unique identifier comprised in the purchase information and if at least one of the following conditions is fulfilled:   - the consuming user identifier corresponds to the purchasing user identifier;   - the consuming user identifier corresponds to a user of a list of authorized users determined by the purchasing user.
11. the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the request for using further comprises a secondary user identification element; the control command being further generated basing on the secondary user identification element.
12. the method (100) according to claim 11, wherein the secondary user identification element presents a link between the consuming user and the cartridge (11).
13. the method (100) according to claim 12, wherein the secondary user identification element comprises an image of at least a part of the consuming user’s body and at least a part of the cartridge.
14. the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the request for using further comprises a use location; the control command is further generated based on the use location.
15. the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the followings steps:   - generating (130) the request for using the aerosol generation device with the cartridge;   - transmitting (150) to the control unit (20) of the aerosol generation device (10) the control command to control the operation of the aerosol generation device (10) according to this control command.
16. the method (100) according to claim 15, wherein the step of generating (130) the request for using is performed by the aerosol generation device and/or by a mobile device (43) associated to the aerosol generation device (10).
17. the method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cartridge unique identifier comprised in the request for using is determined using identification means; the identification means corresponding to at least one of the elements chosen in the group:   - photo/video camera;   - rf reader;   - optic reader;   - mechanic/electronic contact surfaces.
18. a computer program product comprising software instructions which, when executed by a processor, implement a method (100) according to one of the preceding claims.
19. a system (29) for authenticating use of a cartridge (11) with an aerosol generation device (10), the aerosol generation device (10) comprising a control unit (20) configured to adjust the operation of the aerosol generation device (10) according to operational settings upon receiving a control command; the system (29) comprising means (45, 47) configured to carry out the method according to any one of claims 1 to 17.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generation device (1) comprises a first aerosol generation assembly (2) configured for producing a first aerosol by heating a first aerosol-forming substance, and a second aerosol generation assembly (3) configured for controllably diffusing at least one second aerosol that is a scent into the surroundings, through at least one second aerosol outlet (18).

[en] 1. aerosol generation device (1) comprising i) a first aerosol generation assembly (2) configured for producing a first aerosol by heating a first aerosol-forming substance, and ii) a second aerosol generation assembly (3) configured for diffusing at least one second aerosol into the surroundings of said aerosol generation device (1), wherein said second aerosol generation assembly (3) is configured for controllably diffusing at least one second aerosol that is a scent through at least one second aerosol outlet (18) positioned on said aerosol generation device (1).
2. an aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein said second aerosol generation assembly (3) is configured to automatically activate for diffusing said second aerosol after a chosen or predetermined number of successive user's suctions.
3. an aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein said second aerosol generation assembly (3) is configured to automatically activate for diffusing said second aerosol at the same time as said first aerosol generation assembly (2) or after said first aerosol generation assembly (2) has been activated for diffusing said first aerosol.
4. an aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein said second aerosol generation assembly (3) is configured for being manually activated by said user for diffusing said second aerosol.
5. an aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein it comprises an external casing (15) housing encompassing at least a part of said second aerosol generation assembly (3).
6. an aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein it comprises an external casing (15) to which said second aerosol generation assembly (3) is attached.
7. an aerosol generation device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein said second aerosol generation assembly (3) comprises an exchangeable cartridge (25) comprising at least one second aerosol-forming substance, or an exchangeable cartomizer comprising a cartridge comprising at least one second aerosol-forming substance.
8. an aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said second aerosol generation assembly (3) comprises at least two second aerosol outlets (18), and wherein it comprises a controller (16, 19) arranged for controlling selectively access to said second aerosol outlets (18) to control the diffusion of said second aerosol spatially and/or in intensity into said surroundings.
9. an aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said second aerosol generation assembly (3) comprises at least two different second aerosol-forming substances and at least two second aerosol outlets (18) associated respectively with said second aerosol-forming substances, and wherein it comprises a controller (16, 19) arranged for controlling selectively access to said second aerosol outlets (18) to control diffusion of different second aerosols, generated respectively from said second aerosol-forming substances, into said surroundings.
10. an aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein said second aerosol generation assembly (3) comprises at least one porous material (24) impregnated with a second aerosol-forming substance and arranged for releasing said second aerosol from said impregnated second aerosol-forming substance when it is heated to a temperature greater than a threshold.
11. an aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said first (2) and second (3) aerosol generation assemblies have respectively first (13) and second (26) heaters controlled separately and arranged for heating respectively first and second aerosol-forming substances for generating respectively said first and second aerosols.
12. an aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said first aerosol generation assembly (2) has a heater (13) arranged for heating first and second aerosol-forming substances for generating respectively said first and second aerosols.
13. an aerosol generation device according to claim 12, wherein said heater (13) is arranged for heating said first and second aerosol-forming substances respectively to first and second temperatures.
14. an aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein said second aerosol generation assembly (3) comprises an ultrasonic vibrating element configured to change said second aerosol-forming substance into said second aerosol.
15. an aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein said first aerosol generation assembly (2) comprises a controller (16) arranged for controlling generation of said first and second aerosols, or said first (2) and second (3) aerosol generation assemblies comprise respectively first (16) and second (19) controllers arranged for controlling respectively generation of said first and second aerosols.


Abstract: [en] a handheld vapour generating system comprises a cartridge (4) removably attached to an aerosol generating device (2), the cartridge (4) supplying an aerosol generating liquid to mixing chamber (14) along a fluid flow path (32). a priming pump (30) may be used to drive movement of fluid along the fluid flow path (32) when the system is not being used to generate an aerosol, in order to expel any air that entered the fluid flow path (32) when the cartridge (4) was attached. the priming pump (30) may comprise a combination of a fixed valve (33) and a moving valve (34) within the fluid flow path (32). alternatively, a portion of the fluid flow path (32) may comprise a resiliently compressible tube (100) and the priming pump (30) may first form a constriction (120,134,142) in the tube then compress the tube (100) forward of the constriction (120,134,142) to expel fluid.

[en] - 23 - claims 1. a handheld aerosol generating system comprising: an aerosol generating device (2) containing a mixing chamber (14), in which an aerosol can be generated from an aerosol generating liquid; a cartridge (4) removably attached to the aerosol generating device (2), the cartridge (4) containing a supply of the aerosol generating liquid; a fluid flow path (32) for conducting the aerosol generating liquid in a forward direction from the cartridge (4) to the mixing chamber (14) when the system is being used to generate an aerosol; and a priming pump (30) for selectively driving movement of fluid in the forward direction along the fluid flow path (32) when the system is not being used to generate an aerosol.
2. a vapour generating system according to claim 1, wherein the priming pump (30) comprises: a fixed valve (33) in the fluid flow path (32), which permits fluid to pass therethrough only in the forward direction; and a moving valve (34) in the fluid flow path (32), which permits fluid to pass therethrough only in the forward direction and which is configured to move reciprocally along the fluid flow path (32) relative to the fixed valve (33); wherein the moving valve (34) comprises a magnet (70) and is surrounded by an electromagnetic coil (72), which is operable to drive the movement of the moving valve (34) in at least the forward direction.
3. an aerosol generating system according to claim 2, wherein the moving valve (34) further comprises a return spring (73) that drives the movement of the moving valve (34) in the backward direction.
4. an aerosol generating system according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the fixed valve (33) and the moving valve (34) are ball valves.
5. an aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein: a portion of the fluid flow path (32) comprises a resiliently compressible tube (100); and the priming pump (30) is configured to carry out a first motion that compresses the tube (100) to form a constriction (120,134,142), then to carry out a second motion that further compresses the tube (100) forward of the constriction (120,134,142) to displace the fluid in the forward direction along the fluid flow path (32).
6. an aerosol generating system according to claim 5, wherein the priming pump (30) comprises a first element (140) that is configured to carry out the first motion; and a second element (144) that is configured to be moved independently of the first element (140) to carry out the second motion.
7. an aerosol generating system according to claim 5, wherein the priming pump (30) comprises a single element (104) that is configured carry out the first motion then the second motion.
8. an aerosol generating system according to claim 7, wherein the second motion comprises a pivotal movement of the single element (104).
9. an aerosol generating system according to any of claims 5 to 8, further comprising a button (108) for manual operation of the priming pump (30).
10. a handheld vapour generating system according to any preceding claim, further comprising a liquid transfer element (26) for introducing the aerosol generating liquid from the fluid flow path (32) into the mixing chamber (14), wherein: the aerosol generating device (2) further comprises amovable portion (178) that is capable of movement to expose the liquid transfer element (26) to view while the priming means (30) is in use and is capable of movement to conceal the liquid transfer element (26) from view while the priming means (30) is not in use; the movement to conceal the liquid transfer element (26) is generally parallel to a surface of the liquid transfer element (26); and the movable portion (178) comprises a wiper (190) for wiping aerosol generating liquid from the surface of the liquid transfer element (26) during the movement to conceal the liquid transfer element (26).
11. a handheld vapour generating system according to claim 10, wherein the liquid transfer element (26) is a liquid jet head (82).
12. a method of priming a handheld aerosol generating system, the system comprising: an aerosol generating device (2) containing a mixing chamber (14), in which an aerosol can be generated from an aerosol generating liquid; and a cartridge (4) removably attached to the aerosol generating device (2), the cartridge (4) comprising a reservoir (16) that contains a supply of the aerosol generating liquid; the method comprising, when the system is not being used to generate an aerosol, selectively operating a priming pump (30) to drive movement of fluid along a fluid flow path (32) in a forward direction from the reservoir (16) towards the mixing chamber (14).
13. a method according to claim 12, wherein the priming pump (30) comprises a fixed valve (33) in the fluid flow path (32), which permits fluid to pass therethrough only in the forward direction, and a moving valve (34) in the fluid flow path (32), which permits fluid to pass therethrough only in the forward direction; the moving valve (34) comprising a magnet (70) and being configured to move reciprocally along the fluid flow path (32) relative to the fixed valve (33); the method further comprising operating an electromagnetic coil (72) that surrounds the moving valve (34) to drive the movement of the moving valve (34) in at least the forward direction.
14. a method according to claim 12, comprising operating the priming pump (30) to carry out a first motion that compresses the tube (100) to form a constriction (120,134,142), then to carry out a second motion that further compresses - 26 - the tube (100) forward of the constriction (120,134,142) to displace the fluid in the forward direction along the fluid flow path (32).
15. a method according to claim 12, wherein the aerosol generating device (2) further comprises a liquid transfer element (26) for introducing the aerosol generating liquid from the fluid flow path (32) into the mixing chamber (14); and a movable portion (178) that comprises a wiper (190); the method further comprising: moving the movable portion (178) to expose the liquid transfer element (26) to view while the priming means (30) is in use; and moving the movable portion (178) generally parallel to a surface of the liquid transfer element (26) to conceal the liquid transfer element (26) from view while the priming means (30) is not in use, whereby, during the movement to conceal the liquid transfer element (26), the wiper wipes aerosol generating liquid from the surface of the liquid transfer element (26).


Abstract: [en] a handheld aerosol generating system comprises a cartridge (4) removably attached to an aerosol generating device (2), the cartridge (4) supplying an aerosol generating liquid (31) from a reservoir (16) to mixing chamber (14) along a fluid flow path (32). a vent (15) maintains the interior of the reservoir (16) substantially at ambient pressure during use. the system is primed before use by introducing air at above ambient pressure into the reservoir (16) to drive movement of fluid along the fluid flow path (32) and expel any air that entered the fluid flow path (32) when the cartridge (4) was attached. the priming means (30) may introduce the air through the vent (15) or through a dedicated port (52), optionally via a three-way rotary valve (60). a liquid jet head (82) may be used to deliver aerosol generating liquid (31) into the mixing chamber (14). the device (2) may comprise a movable portion (78) that can be retracted to expose the liquid jet head (82) to view during priming. the movable portion (78) may then wipe the liquid jet head (82) clean as it slides back into place.

[en] - 23 - claims 1. a handheld aerosol generating system comprising: an aerosol generating device (2) containing a mixing chamber (14), in which an aerosol can be generated from an aerosol generating liquid (31); a cartridge (4) removably attached to the aerosol generating device (2), the cartridge (4) comprising a reservoir (16) that contains a supply of the aerosol generating liquid (31); a fluid flow path (32) for conducting the aerosol generating liquid (31) in a forward direction from the reservoir (16) towards the mixing chamber (14) when the system is being used to generate an aerosol; a vent (15,62) for admitting air into the reservoir (16) to replace aerosol generating liquid (31) that is conducted away from the cartridge (4) when the system is being used to generate an aerosol and thereby to maintain the reservoir substantially at ambient pressure when the system is being used to generate an aerosol; and priming means (30) configured to introduce air at above ambient pressure into the reservoir (16) for driving movement of fluid in the forward direction along the fluid flow path (32) to prime the system when the system is not being used to generate an aerosol.
2. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the priming means (30) is configured to introduce the air at above ambient pressure into the reservoir (16) through the vent (15).
3. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 2, further comprising means for moving the priming means (30) to selectively engage or disengage with the vent (15).
4. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 1, further comprising a port (52,63) distinct from the vent (15,62), wherein the priming means (30) is configured to introduce the air at above ambient pressure into the reservoir (16) through the port (52,63).
5. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 4, wherein: the priming means (30) further comprises means (54) for sealing the vent (15) while introducing the air at above ambient pressure into the reservoir (16) through the port (52).
6. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 4, wherein: the aerosol generating device (2) further comprises an air inlet (64) in communication with the reservoir (16); and the priming means (30) further comprises a three-way valve (60) that can selectively couple the air inlet (64) to the vent (62) to admit air at ambient pressure when the system is being used to generate an aerosol or couple the air inlet (64) to the port (63) to introduce the air at above ambient pressure into the reservoir (16) when the system is being primed.
7. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 6, further comprising a cyclically operating pump (46) in communication with the port (63), wherein the three-way valve (60) can further selectively couple the port (63) to the vent (15) to replenish air in the pump (46) during each operating cycle of the pump (46).
8. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the three-way valve (60) is a rotary valve.
9. a handheld aerosol generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the priming means (30) comprises a manual pump (46) for generating the air at above ambient pressure.
10. a handheld aerosol generating system according to any preceding claim, further comprising a liquid transfer element (26) for introducing the aerosol generating liquid (31) from the fluid flow path (32) into the mixing chamber (14).
11. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 10, wherein the liquid transfer element (26) is a liquid jet head (82).
12. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the aerosol generating device (2) further comprises a movable portion (78) that is capable of movement to expose the liquid transfer element (26) to view while the priming means (30) is in use.
13. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 12, wherein: the movable portion (78) of the aerosol generating device (2) is capable of movement to conceal the liquid transfer element (26) from view while the priming means (30) is not in use; the movement to conceal the liquid transfer element (26) is generally parallel to a surface of the liquid transfer element (26); and the movable portion (78) comprises means for wiping aerosol generating liquid (31) from the surface of the liquid transfer element (26) during the movement to conceal the liquid transfer element (26).
14. a method of operating a handheld aerosol generating system, the system comprising: an aerosol generating device (2) containing a mixing chamber (14), in which an aerosol can be generated from an aerosol generating liquid (31); a cartridge (4) removably attached to the aerosol generating device (2), the cartridge (4) comprising a reservoir (16) that contains a supply of the aerosol generating liquid (31); and a vent (15); the method comprising: when the system is not being used to generate an aerosol, operating a priming means (30) to introduce air at above ambient pressure into the reservoir (16), thereby to drive movement of fluid along a fluid flow path (32) in a forward direction from the reservoir (16) towards the mixing chamber (14); and when the system is being used to generate an aerosol, admitting air through the vent (15) into the reservoir (16) to replace aerosol generating liquid (31) that is - 26 - conducted away from the cartridge (4), thereby to maintain the reservoir substantially at ambient pressure.
15. a method according to claim 14, wherein: the handheld aerosol generating system further comprises a liquid transfer element (26) for introducing the aerosol generating liquid (31) from the fluid flow path (32) into the mixing chamber (14); the method further comprising: moving a movable portion (78) of the aerosol generating device (2) to expose the liquid transfer element (26) to view while the priming means (30) is in use; and moving the movable portion (78) of the aerosol generating device (2) generally parallel to a surface of the liquid transfer element (26) to conceal the liquid transfer element (26) from view while the priming means (30) is not in use, whereby wiping means on the movable portion (78) wipe aerosol generating liquid (31) from the surface of the liquid transfer element (26).


Abstract: [en] a handheld aerosol generating system comprises a cartridge (4) removably attached to an aerosol generating device (2), the cartridge (4) supplying an aerosol generating liquid (31) to mixing chamber (14) along a fluid flow path (32). the system is primed before use by reducing the pressure in at least part of the mixing chamber (14) below ambient pressure to draw fluid along the fluid flow path (32) and expel any air that entered the fluid flow path (32) when the cartridge (4) was attached. the said part of the mixing chamber (14) may be isolated from a mouthpiece (10) during the priming operation. a liquid jet head (82) may be used to deliver aerosol generating liquid (31) into the mixing chamber (14).

[en] claims 1. a handheld aerosol generating system comprising: an aerosol generating device (2) containing a mixing chamber (14), in which an aerosol can be generated from an aerosol generating liquid (31); a cartridge (4) removably attached to the aerosol generating device (2), the cartridge (4) comprising a reservoir (16) that contains a supply of the aerosol generating liquid (31); a fluid flow path (32) for conducting the aerosol generating liquid (31) in a forward direction from the reservoir (16) towards the mixing chamber (14) when the system is being used to generate an aerosol; and priming means (35) configured to apply a pressure below ambient pressure to at least a part of the mixing chamber (14), thereby drawing fluid in the forward direction along the fluid flow path (32) when the system is not being used to generate an aerosol.
2. a handheld aerosol generating system according to any preceding claim, further comprising a liquid transfer element (26) for introducing the aerosol generating liquid (31) from the fluid flow path (32) into the said part of the mixing chamber (14).
3. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 2, wherein the liquid transfer element (26) is a liquid jet head (82).
4. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the priming means comprises a suction pump (35) in the aerosol generating device (2).
5. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 4, wherein the aerosol generating device (2) further comprises: a mouthpiece (10); and isolating means (34) capable of selectively placing the said part of the mixing chamber (14) in fluid communication with the mouthpiece (10) when the system is being used to generate an aerosol or isolating the said part of the mixing chamber (14) from the mouthpiece (10) during operation of the priming means (35).
6. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 5, further comprising a movable portion (78) that is capable of movement between a priming position in which the isolating means (34) forms an enclosure about the said part of the mixing chamber (14) and an aerosol generating position in which the isolating means (34) does not form an enclosure about the said part of the mixing chamber (14).
7. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 6, wherein the moveable portion (78) includes the mouthpiece (10).
8. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein: the movement of the movable portion (78) from the priming position to the aerosol generating position is generally parallel to a surface of the liquid transfer element (26); and the movable portion (78) comprises means for wiping aerosol generating liquid (31) from the surface of the liquid transfer element (26).
9. a handheld aerosol generating system according to any of claims 4 to 8, wherein the aerosol generating device (2) further comprises an impeller (76) in fluid communication with the mouthpiece (10), the impeller (76) being coupled to the suction pump (35) to drive the suction pump (35) when a user rotates the impeller (76) by blowing into the mouthpiece (10).
10. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the priming means is a suction pump (35) removably attached to the aerosol generating device (2).
11. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 10, further comprising a mouthpiece (10) removably attached to the aerosol generating device (2), whereby removal of the mouthpiece (10) permits attachment of the suction pump (35).
12. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 11, wherein: attachment of the mouthpiece (10) to the aerosol generating device (2) requires the mouthpiece (10) to move generally parallel to a surface of the liquid transfer element (26); and the mouthpiece (10) comprises means for wiping aerosol generating liquid (31) from the surface of the liquid transfer element (26).
13. a handheld aerosol generating system according to claim 10 or claim 11, wherein: the suction pump (35) is comprised in a priming unit (38) that is removably attached to the aerosol generating device (2); removal of the suction pump (35) from the aerosol generating device (2) requires the priming unit (38) to move generally parallel to a surface of the liquid transfer element (26); and the priming unit (38) further comprises means for wiping aerosol generating liquid (31) from the surface of the liquid transfer element (26).
14. a method of priming a handheld aerosol generating system, the system comprising: an aerosol generating device (2) containing a mixing chamber (14), in which an aerosol can be generated from an aerosol generating liquid (31); and a cartridge (4) removably attached to the aerosol generating device (2), the cartridge (4) comprising a reservoir (16) that contains a supply of the aerosol generating liquid (31); the method comprising, when the system is not being used to generate an aerosol, operating a priming means (35) to apply a pressure below ambient pressure to at least a part of the mixing chamber (14), thereby drawing fluid along a fluid flow path (32) from the reservoir (16) towards the mixing chamber (14).
15. a method according to claim 14, wherein: the aerosol generating device (2) further comprises a mouthpiece (10) that is in fluid communication with the mixing chamber (14) when the system is being used to generate an aerosol; the method further comprising isolating the said part of the mixing chamber (14) from the mouthpiece (10) during operation of the priming means (35).


Abstract: [en] the present invention relates to an aerosol generating product for use in an aerosol generating article. the aerosol generating product is arranged in a filter section of the aerosol generating article and interacts with a vapor flow which is generated in an aerosol generating section of the article. the generated vapor flows along a flowpath from the heated aerosol generating section to the filter section. the aerosol generating product comprises at least one core which modifies the properties of the vapor. the aerosol generating product further comprises at least a first and a second flavoured layers which are coated onto the common core. the first and the second layers are dissolvable by a moisture comprised in the vapor flow one after another thereby modifying the vapor with a first and a second flavouring. the invention relates also to a method for manufacturing such an aerosol generating product.

[en]  surface treatment for tobacco material claims 1. an aerosol generating product (1) for use in an aerosol generating article (2), wherein the aerosol generating product (1) is arranged in a filter section (3) of the aerosol generating article (2) for interacting with a vapor flow (vf) which is generatable in an aerosol generating section (4) of the article, wherein the generated vapor flowing along a flowpath (fp) from the heated aerosol generating section (4) to the filter section (3) during use of the aerosol generating article (2), wherein the aerosol generating product (1) comprises at least one core (5) which modifies the properties of the vapor, characterized in that the aerosol generating product (1) further comprises at least a first (6) and a second (7) flavoured layers which are coated onto the common core (5), wherein the first (6) and the second (7) layers are dissolvable by a moisture comprised in the vapor flow (vf) one after another thereby modifying the vapor with a first and a second flavouring, wherein the first (6) and second (7) flavour layers are separated by a protective layer (8) preventing thereby flavour cross-contamination between the flavour layers and wherein the protective layer (8) is non-flavoured.
2. aerosol generating product (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the protective layer (8) is a sugar-based or starch layer.
3. aerosol generating product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that each coated layer (6, 7, 8) has a thickness between 10 microns and 1000 microns.
4. aerosol generating product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that a plurality of cores (p) is formed of granules (9) of tobacco substrate and/or charcoal(10) being arranged in the filter section (3) or in a cavity section (16) or heated aerosol generating section (4).
5. aerosol generating product (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the plurality of cores (p) comprises an aerosol former (11), wherein the aerosol former(11) comprises at least one of the following ingredients: water, monovalent alcohols, polyvalent alcohols, sugar alcohols, sugars and/or polyvalent alcohol esters.
6. aerosol generating product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plurality of cores (p) comprises a binder (12) such as gums, starch or cellulose derivatives.
7. aerosol generating product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the core (5) or each of the plurality of cores (p) has a maximum dimension or diameter between 100 and 1000 microns.
8. aerosol generating product (1) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the core (5) comprises agglomerated tobacco powder (13) having a median particle diameter (d50) equal to or smaller than 50 microns, preferably equal or smaller than 30 microns.
9. aerosol generating product (1) according to claims 1 - 6, characterized in that the core (5) is a capsule (5a) comprising a breakable shell (14) and an inner flavouring liquid (15), wherein the liquid (15) modifies the vapor with a third flavouring.
10. a method (100) for manufacturing an aerosol generating product (1) for use in an aerosol generating article (2), wherein the aerosol generating product (1) is arranged in a filter section (3) of the aerosol generating article (2) for interacting with a vapor flow (vf) which is generated in an aerosol generating section (4) of the article (2), wherein - 18- the generated vapor flows along a flowpath (fp) from the heated aerosol generating section (4) to the filter section (3), wherein the aerosol generating product (1) comprises at least one core (5) which modifies the properties of the vapor, characterized by coating (101, 102) the at least one core (5) and optionally one or more further cores (p) successively with a first (6) and a second (7) flavoured layers by spraying a first and a second flavours on the core (5), by coating (101, 102, 103) sequentially the at least one core (5) and optionally one or more further cores (p) with the first flavour to provide the first flavoured layer, a flavour-barrier material to provide a protective layer and the second flavour to provide the second flavoured layer. method according to claims 10, characterized by coating the core or the plurality of cores in a rotary cylinder. method according to claim 11, characterized in that the cylinder is rotated at 4 - 7 rpm and / or coating is applied at a temperature between 40 - 50 degrees centigrade


Abstract: [en] a cartridge for an electronic cigarette includes a liquid store arranged to contain a liquid to be vaporized; a vaporization chamber having at least one opening which connects the vaporization chamber to the liquid store; a fluid transfer element held within the opening and extending between the liquid store and vaporization chamber, the fluid transfer element arranged to transfer liquid between the liquid store and vaporization chamber by capillary action; a heating element positioned within the vaporization chamber and arranged to heat a liquid transferred to the vaporization chamber by the fluid transfer element; wherein the cartridge includes an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion which are configured to connect together around the fluid transfer element to form the liquid store, the vaporization chamber and the at least one opening. this provides an improved seal around the fluid transfer element to minimize leakage into the vaporization chamber.

[en] 1. a cartridge for an electronic cigarette comprising: a liquid store arranged to contain a liquid to be vaporized;a vaporization chamber having at least one opening which connects the vaporization chamber to the liquid store;a fluid transfer element held within the at least one opening and arranged to transfer liquid between the liquid store and the vaporization chamber by capillary action;a heating element positioned within the vaporization chamber and arranged to heat a liquid transferred to the vaporization chamber by the fluid transfer element;wherein the cartridge comprises an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion which provide an outer housing of the cartridge and are configured to connect together around the fluid transfer element to form the liquid store and the vaporization chamber.
2. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the upper housing comprises a curved upper supporting surface and the lower housing portion comprises an opposing curved lower supporting surface; wherein the upper and lower supporting surfaces together form the at least one opening holding the fluid transfer element when the upper and lower housing portions are connected together.
3. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the at least one opening comprises two openings which connect the vaporization chamber to the liquid store and the fluid transfer element is elongate with two opposing ends; wherein the elongate fluid transfer element extends across the vaporization chamber with each of the two opposing ends held in one of the two openings, respectively, and in fluid communication with the liquid store.
4. the cartridge according to claim 2, further comprising: an annular seal mounted in each of the at least one openings which connect the vaporization chamber to the liquid store; the annular seal engaged around the fluid transfer element such that liquid is restricted in passing through the respective opening of the at least one opening other than through the fluid transfer element.
5. the cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the curved upper supporting surface comprises an upper seal segment and the curved lower supporting surface comprises a lower seal segment; wherein the upper and lower seal segments together form the annular seal engaged around the fluid transfer element when the upper and lower housing portions are connected.
6. the cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the annular seal comprises an integral annular body and is sleeved on the fluid transfer element; wherein the upper and lower supporting surfaces provide a seating configured to receive the annular seal.
7. the cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the upper and lower supporting surfaces are shaped to form a circumferential groove when the upper and lower housing portions are connected, wherein the circumferential groove is configured to receive the annular seal.
8. the cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the circumferential grooves comprises two circumferential surfaces forming a v-shaped cross-section and the annular seal comprises a rounded profile which meets both of the two circumferential surfaces to provide two circumferential contacts between the annular seal and the seating.
9. the cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the annular seal comprises a substantially cylindrical body with a rounded circumferential protrusion extending radially outward to meet the upper and lower supporting surfaces bounding the at least one openings.
10. the cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the annular seal comprises a substantially cylindrical body with an internal circumferential protrusion extending radially inward to press into the fluid transfer element within the annular seal.
11. the cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the annular seal comprises an elastic deformable material.
12. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein contacting surfaces of the upper housing portion and the lower housing portion when connected define a plane which runs lengthwise through the fluid transfer element.
13. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the lower housing portion comprises air inlets to allow air into the vaporization chamber; wherein the air inlets are provided on a raised portion of a lower internal surface of the vaporization chamber.
14. the cartridge according to claim 13, further comprising a liquid absorbing material provided on the lower internal surface of the vaporization chamber around the raised portions.
15. an electronic cigarette comprising the cartridge according to claim 1 and a power source arranged to provide power to the heating element.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generation device includes an indicator and a controller connectable to a battery and a heater. the heater is configurable to aerosolise a unit of aerosol generating material in an aerosolisation session and the battery is configurable to provide power to the heater for one or more aerosolisation sessions. the controller is configured to measure a charge level of the battery, determine whether the measured charge level is sufficient for only a predetermined number n of aerosolisation sessions by the heater, and to indicate, using the indicator in a first manner, when the measured charge level is sufficient for only n aerosolisation sessions by the heater.

[en] 1. an aerosol generation device comprising an indicator and a controller connectable to a battery and a heater, the heater configurable to aerosolise a unit of aerosol generating material in an aerosolisation session and the battery configurable to provide power to the heater for one or more aerosolisation sessions, wherein the controller is configured to: measure a charge level of the battery;determine whether the measured charge level is sufficient for only a predetermined number n of aerosolisation sessions by the heater; andindicate, using the indicator in a first manner, when the measured charge level is sufficient for only n aerosolisation sessions by the heater.
2. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein, when determining whether the measured charge level is sufficient for only n aerosolisation sessions by the heater, the controller is further configured to: compare the measured charge level to a first predetermined charge level and a second predetermined charge level, wherein the first predetermined charge level corresponds to the battery having a charge level insufficient for n+1 aerosolisation sessions, and the second predetermined charge level corresponds to the battery having a charge level sufficient for n aerosolisation sessions; anddetermine that the measured charge level is sufficient for only n aerosolisation sessions when the measured charge level is less than the first predetermined charge level and greater than or equal to the second predetermined charge level.
3-6. (canceled)
7. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: determine whether the measured charge level is sufficient for at least one full aerosolisation session by the heater; andswitch the heater on automatically in response to determining the charge level of the battery is sufficient for at least one full aerosolisation session by the heater; orswitch the heater on in response to detecting an activation instruction when the charge level of the battery is sufficient for at least one full aerosolization session by the heater.
8. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the indicator comprises at least one light emitting source in the aerosol generation device.
9. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: determine whether the measured charge level of the battery is lower than a charge level required for one full aerosolisation session by the heater; andindicate, using the indicator in a second manner, that the measured charge level is insufficient for an aerosolisation session by the heater in response to determining that the charge level of the battery is lower than a charge level required for one full aerosolization session.
10. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: determine that the measured charge level is lower than a charge level required for one full aerosolisation session by the heater in response to executing one aerosolisation session after determining that the measured charge level is sufficient for only one full aerosolisation session by the heater.
11. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein when measuring the charge level, the controller is configured to: measure a voltage of the battery; andcompare the measured battery voltage to predetermined battery voltages with corresponding predetermined battery charge levels; anddetermine the measured battery charge level based upon a comparison between the measured battery voltage and the predetermined battery voltages and the corresponding predetermined battery charge levels.
12. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the controller is further configured to: determine an available number of aerosolisation sessions that can be sufficiently powered by the battery based upon the measured charge level; andindicate, using the indicator in a third manner, an indication of the available number of aerosolisation sessions that can be sufficiently powered by the battery.
13. an aerosol generation device system comprising the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, and further comprising a battery and a heater.
14. a method of operating an aerosol generation device comprising an indicator and a controller connectable to a battery and a heater, the heater configurable to aerosolise a unit of aerosol generating material in an aerosolisation session and the battery configurable to provide power to the heater for one or more aerosolisation sessions, wherein the method comprises: measuring, by the controller, a charge level of the battery;determining, by the controller, whether the measured charge level is sufficient for only a predetermined number n of aerosolisation sessions by the heater; andindicating, using the indicator in a first manner, when the measured charge level is sufficient for only n aerosolisation sessions by the heater.
15. a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions thereon that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to control an aerosol generation device, wherein the aerosol generation device comprises an indicator and a controller connectable to a battery and a heater, the heater configurable to aerosolise a unit of aerosol generating material in an aerosolisation session and the battery configurable to provide power to the heater for one or more aerosolisation sessions, and wherein the instructions cause the one or more processors to: measure, by the controller, a charge level of the battery;determine, by the controller, whether the measured charge level is sufficient for only a predetermined number n of aerosolisation sessions by the heater; andindicate, using the indicator in a first manner, when the measured charge level is sufficient for only n aerosolisation sessions by the heater.
16. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to: measure the charge level of the battery before each aerosolisation session.
17. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to: measure the charge level of the battery after each aerosolisation session.
18. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to: measure the charge level of the battery when the heater is switched off.
19. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the aerosol generation device further comprises a closable opening through which unit of the aerosol generating material is received, and wherein the controller is configured to: measure the charge level of the battery when determining the closable opening is moved to a closed position.
20. the aerosol generation device of claim 19, wherein when determining the closable opening is moved to the closed position, the controller is further configured to switch off the heater before determining the charge level of the battery.
21. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the aerosol generation device further comprises a closable opening through which unit of the aerosol generating material is received, and wherein the controller is configured to: measure the charge level of the battery when determining the closable opening is moved to an opened position.
22. the aerosol generation device of claim 21, wherein when determining the closable opening is moved to the opened position, the controller is further configured to: initiate a standby mode during which the charge level of the battery is measured; andswitch the heater on, and exit the standby mode, in response to determining that the charge level of the battery is sufficient for at least one full aerosolisation session by the heater.