Abstract: [en] an aerosol generation device comprises a chamber, a housing and a cover. the chamber is adapted to receive a consumable. the housing contains the chamber and comprises an opening through which the consumable can be removed from the chamber. the cover is configured to move between an open position where the opening of the housing is exposed and a closed position where the opening of the housing is closed. the aerosol generation device is adapted to generate an inhalable vapor from the consumable. the cover comprises one or more dislodging elements adapted to dislodge the consumable such that, when the cover moves from the closed position to the open position: an attachment is weakened between the chamber and the consumable, and the consumable is partially ejected from the chamber without becoming attached to the cover.

[en] 1. an aerosol generation device comprising: a chamber adapted to receive a consumable;a housing containing the chamber and comprising an opening through which the consumable can be removed from the chamber; anda cover configured to move between an open position in which the opening of the housing is exposed and a closed position in which the opening of the housing is closed;wherein the aerosol generation device is adapted to generate an inhalable vapor from the consumable, andwherein the cover comprises one or more dislodging elements adapted to dislodge the consumable such that, when the cover moves from the closed position to the open position: an attachment is weakened between the chamber and the consumable, andthe consumable is partially ejected from the chamber without becoming attached to the cover.
2. an aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the attachment comprises at least one of: (a) friction between the consumable and the chamber; and (b) a bond formed between the consumable and the chamber when the consumable is heated in the chamber.
3. an aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol generation device is configured such that a new consumable can be inserted through the opening when the cover is in the open position, and the aerosol generation device is configured such that a user may operate the aerosol generation device to generate and inhale the inhalable vapor from the consumable when the cover is in the closed position.
4. an aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more dislodging elements comprise two or more dislodging elements.
5. an aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein each of the one or more dislodging elements is adapted to engage with a flange part of the consumable.
6. an aerosol generation device according to claim 5, wherein each of the one or more dislodging elements is a snap-fit connector.
7. an aerosol generation device according to claim 6, wherein the one or more dislodging elements each comprise an engagement member configured to move substantially perpendicular to a direction of motion of the cover so as to form a snap-fit connection.
8. an aerosol generation device according to claim 7, wherein the engagement member is a resilient member.
9. an aerosol generation device according to claim 5, wherein the cover comprises a resilient seal arranged such that, when the cover is in the closed position, the resilient seal contacts the flange part of the consumable.
10. an aerosol generation device according to claim 9, wherein the aerosol generation device comprises a sensor arranged to detect when the cover is pressed against the housing, and wherein the resilient seal is arranged to bias the cover away from the housing.
11. an aerosol generation device according to claim 10, further comprising control circuitry configured to control the aerosol generation device to start generation of the inhalable vapor when the sensor detects that the cover is pressed against the housing.
12. an aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the cover is attached to the housing when the cover is in the open position.
13. an aerosol generation device according to claim 12, wherein the cover is attached to the housing by a hinge.
14. an aerosol generation device according to claim 13, wherein the hinge comprises a detent axle configured such that the cover is stable at each of the open position and the closed position.
15. an aerosol generation device according to claim 13, wherein the hinge comprises a torsion spring, wherein the cover or the housing includes a magnet, wherein the torsion spring is configured to bias the cover towards the open position, and wherein the magnet is configured to hold the cover in the closed position.
16. an aerosol generation device according to claim 13, wherein a first dislodging element of the one or more dislodging elements is arranged such that, when the first dislodging element dislodges the consumable, the consumable is located between the first dislodging element and the hinge.
17. an aerosol generation device according to claim 13, wherein the aerosol generation device is elongate along a longitudinal direction, and wherein the hinge is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
18. an aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the cover comprises a mouthpiece and a flow channel through which the inhalable vapor can flow.
19. an aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the housing comprises an abutting surface against which the cover can abut, the abutting surface comprising the opening, and wherein the chamber is recessed within the housing relative to the abutting surface.
20. an aerosol generation device according to claim 19, wherein the one or more dislodging elements are arranged to extend through the opening when the cover is in the closed position.


Abstract: [en] an electronic cigarette includes an external housing and display unit configured to receive user input and display operational status of the electronic cigarette. the external housing includes an aperture for receiving the display unit. a sensor is integrated into the display unit to detect user characteristics. a controller of the electronic cigarette is configured to retrieve information from the sensor and control the operation of the electronic cigarette.

[en] 1. an electronic cigarette, comprising: an external housing;a sensor configured to detect a characteristic from a user;a display unit located in an aperture of the external housing and configured to receive user input and display operational status of the electronic cigarette, wherein the sensor is integrated into the display unit.
2. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein a display of the display unit comprises a plurality of layers, where a first layer of the plurality of layers is configured to sense an input from a user and activate the sensor.
3. the electronic cigarette according to claim 2, wherein a second layer of the plurality of layers is an input area of the sensor.
4. the electronic cigarette according to claim 3, wherein the second layer is activated based on activation of the first layer.
5. the electronic cigarette according to claim 3, wherein the first layer and the second layer are superposed.
6. the electronic cigarette according to claim 3, wherein the second layer is a pixeled layer and wherein the first layer defines a reading zone of the pixeled second layer.
7. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a movement or position in space of the electronic cigarette.
8. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is a biometric sensor.
9. the electronic cigarette according to claim 8, wherein the sensor is an optical sensor.
10. the electronic cigarette according to claim 8, wherein the sensor is a fingerprint reader.
11. the electronic cigarette according to claim 8, wherein the sensor is a heart rate sensor.
12. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, further comprising an additional sensor located on the external housing of the electronic cigarette.
13. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the external housing comprises an electrically conductive material and is connected to a circuit configured to register a heartbeat of a user.
14. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, further comprising a controller configured to retrieve information from the sensor and control operation of the electronic cigarette.
15. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the display unit is provided as an exterior surface comprising at least one electronic component.
16. the electronic cigarette according to claim 15, wherein the exterior surface is a top surface on an insert of the electronic cigarette.


Abstract: [en] the invention concerns an aerosol generating consumable (14) comprising:- a flavouring portion (24) configured to generate a flavoured aerosol;- a cartomizer portion (26) configured to generate an aerosol vapour;- an airflow path (28) comprising an upstream part extending through the cartomizer portion (26) and a downstream part extending through the flavouring portion (24).the cartomizer portion (26) comprises a reservoir (54) storing an aerosol vapour precursor and a cartomizer heater (56) configured to heat the aerosol vapour precursor to form the aerosol vapour and release it into the upstream part of the airflow path (28).the flavouring portion (24) comprises a storage portion (36) storing a flavoured aerosol precursor under pressure, and a releasing mechanism (38) configured to release the flavoured aerosol precursor from the storage portion (36) to form the flavoured aerosol in a mouthpiece section (34).the flavouring portion (24) further comprises a flavouring heater (40) arranged in the mouthpiece section (24) and configured to heat the flavoured aerosol.

[en] 1. an aerosol generating consumable (14) comprising: - a flavouring portion (24) configured to generate a flavoured aerosol;- a cartomizer portion (26) configured to generate an aerosol vapour;- an airflow path (28) comprising an upstream part extending through the cartomizer portion (26) and a downstream part extending through the flavouring portion (24); the cartomizer portion (26) comprising a reservoir (54) storing an aerosol vapour precursor and a cartomizer heater (56) configured to heat the aerosol vapour precursor to form the aerosol vapour and release it into the upstream part of the airflow path (28); the flavouring portion (24) comprising a storage portion (36) storing a flavoured aerosol precursor under pressure, and a releasing mechanism (38) configured to release the flavoured aerosol precursor from the storage portion (36) to form the flavoured aerosol in a mouthpiece section (34); the flavouring portion (24) further comprising a flavouring heater (40) arranged in the mouthpiece section (24) and configured to heat the flavoured aerosol.
2. the aerosol generating consumable (14) according to claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece section (34) is in fluid communication with the downstream part of the airflow path (26).
3. the aerosol generating consumable (14) according to claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece section (34) is integrated into the downstream part of the airflow path (26).
4. the aerosol generating consumable (14) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the releasing mechanism (38) comprises a metering valve (41) opening and closing the storage portion (36), and an expansion chamber (42) arranged between the metering valve (41) and the mouthpiece section (34).
5. the aerosol generating consumable (14) according to claim 4, wherein the releasing mechanism (38) further comprises an actuator (44) configured to cause opening of the metering valve (41).
6. the aerosol generating consumable (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flavouring portion (24) is mounted on the cartomizer portion (26), the cartomizer portion (26) is configured to be mounted on an aerosol generating device (12).
7. the aerosol generating consumable (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cartomizer portion (26) comprises a pair of contacts (60) designed to connect the cartomizer heater (56) to an external electric circuitry (20).
8. the aerosol generating consumable (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flavouring portion (24) comprises a pair of contacts (50) to connect the flavouring heater (40) to an external electric circuitry (20).
9. the aerosol generating consumable (14) according to claim 7 and 8, wherein the cartomizer portion (26) further comprises an internal circuit (52) designed to connect said pair of contacts (50) of the flavouring portion (24) to the external electric circuitry (20).
10. the aerosol generating consumable (14) according to claim 9, wherein said pair of contacts (60) of the cartomizer portion (26) is further designed to connect the internal circuit (52) to the external circuitry (20).
11. the aerosol generating consumable (14) according to claim 9, wherein the cartomizer portion (26) further comprises another pair of contacts (62) different from said pair of contacts (60) and designed to connect the internal circuit (52) to the external circuitry (20).
12. the aerosol generating consumable (14) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cartomizer heater (56) comprises a wick (58) in fluid communication with the reservoir (54) and a heating element wound around the wick (58).
13. an aerosol generating set (10), comprising: - an aerosol generating consumable (14) according to any one of the preceding claims;- an aerosol generating device (12) configured to operate with the aerosol generating consumable (14) and comprising a control module (22) configured to control powering of the cartomizer heater (56) and the flavouring heater (40).


Abstract: [en] an aerosol-generating material holder includes a first portion made of heat conductive material and a second portion, preferably made of heat conductive material, wherein the first portion is configured to be receivable by a heating element of a heating device and the second portion is configured for receiving a charge of aerosol-generating material to be heated by the heating element to generate an aerosol. an aerosol-generating article including the holder is also provided.

[en] 1. an aerosol-generating material holder, comprising a first portion made of heat conductive material and a second portion the first portion being configured to be receivable by a heating element of a heating device and the second portion being configured for receiving a charge of aerosol-generating material to be heated by the heating element to generate an aerosol, wherein the first portion comprises at least one guiding member at a free end or on a free edge thereof to automatically guide insertion of the heating element into the first portion without deformation of the heating element.
2. the holder according to claim 1, wherein a sheathing component and/or a slit opening is further provided to the first portion of the holder for accepting the heating element of the heating device.
3. the holder according to claim 1, further comprising a connecting component connecting the first portion and the second portion, wherein the connecting component is arranged such that the first portion is rotatable with respect to the second portion.
4. the holder according to claim 1, wherein the first portion comprises mating members configured such that the holder can be inserted into the heating device in a mating contact with the heating element without deformation thereof or of the first portion.
5. the holder according to claim 1, wherein the at least one guiding member comprises an inclined surface arranged to guide the heating element into the first portion by sliding during insertion.
6. the holder according to claim 5, wherein the at least one guiding member has a conical or frustoconical shape.
7. the holder according to claim 1, wherein the second portion is air permeable.
8. the holder according to claim 7, wherein the second portion comprises at least one perforation, each of the at least one perforation having an opening area of at least 0.03 mm2.
9. the holder according to claim 1, wherein the first portion and at least part of the second portion contacting the first portion are made of metal.
10. the holder according to claim 1, wherein heat insulating material is arranged to dampen heat conducted from the first portion to the second portion.
11. the holder according to claim 1, wherein the first portion of the holder is provided in form of a tuning fork, configured to be receivable in mating engagement with a heating surface of a heating element of a heating device.
12. the holder of claim 11, wherein the tuning fork comprises a first branch and a second branch symmetrically arranged about a longitudinal plan of symmetry of the first portion.
13. the holder of claim 12, wherein said first and second branches are flexible in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal plan of symmetry.
14. an aerosol-generating article, comprising the holder according to claim 1 and a charge of aerosol-generating material arranged in the second portion of the holder.
15. the aerosol-generating article according to claim 14, further comprising a filter connected to an outlet of the second portion of the holder.
16. the holder according to claim 1, wherein the second portion is made of heat conductive material.
17. the holder according to claim 7, wherein the second portion comprises at least one perforation, each of the at least one perforation having an opening area of between 0.125 mm2 and 10 mm2.
18. the holder according to claim 7, wherein the second portion comprises at least one perforation, each of the at least one perforation having an opening area of between 0.196 mm2 and 5 mm2.
19. the holder according to claim 1, wherein the metal is brass, copper, bronze, aluminium, zinc, titanium or a combination thereof, an alloy made of two or more metals, or a composite material comprising a metal material and a non-metal material.


Abstract: [en] a cartridge (30) for use with an aerosol generating system (10) includes a reservoir (32) for storing an aerosol-forming liquid (34) and an induction heatable element (36). the cartridge (30) employs a capillary element (38) to convey the aerosol-forming liquid (34) from the reservoir (32) to the induction heatable element (36) and the induction heatable element (36) is arranged to heat the conveyed aerosol-forming liquid to vaporise it.

[en] 1. a cartridge for use with an aerosol generating system, the cartridge comprising: a reservoir for storing an aerosol-forming liquid;an induction heatable element; anda capillary element for conveying the aerosol-forming liquid from the reservoir to the induction heatable element, the induction heatable element being arranged to heat the conveyed aerosol-forming liquid to vaporise it.
2. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the capillary element has a first end in contact with the aerosol-forming liquid in the reservoir and an opposite second end arranged to transfer the conveyed aerosol-forming liquid onto the induction heatable element.
3. the cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the second end of the capillary element contacts the induction heatable element and is shaped to define an outlet which enables the conveyed liquid to be transferred from the second end onto the induction heatable element.
4. the cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the second end of the capillary element is located adjacent to, but spaced apart from, the induction heatable element.
5. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the capillary element is selected from the group consisting of a capillary tube and a capillary wick.
6. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge includes a plurality of said capillary elements for conveying the aerosol-forming liquid from the reservoir to the induction heatable element.
7. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the capillary element contacts the induction heatable element.
8. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the capillary element is located adjacent to, but spaced apart from, the induction heatable element.
9. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the capillary element comprises a porous body.
10. the cartridge according to claim 9, wherein the porous body includes mineral wool.
11. the cartridge according to claim 9, wherein the porous body includes a porous ceramic material.
12. the cartridge according to claim 9, wherein the induction heatable element is encapsulated by the porous body.
13. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the induction heatable element comprises a substantially circular disc or a ring.
14. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge further comprises: a second reservoir for storing a second aerosol-forming liquid which differs in composition from the aerosol-forming liquid;a second induction heatable element; anda second capillary element for conveying the second aerosol-forming liquid from the second reservoir to the second induction heatable element, the second induction heatable element being arranged to heat the conveyed second aerosol-forming liquid to vaporise it.
15. the cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the induction heatable elements are arranged to be heated to different temperatures by the aerosol generating system.
16. the cartridge according to claim 15, wherein the induction heatable elements are formed of different materials and/or have different dimensions.
17. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge further comprises a non-liquid flavour-release medium and a further induction heatable element arranged to heat the non-liquid flavour-release medium.
18. the cartridge according to claim 17, wherein the non-liquid flavour-release medium is adhered to a surface of the further induction heatable element.
19. the cartridge according to claim 17, wherein the non-liquid flavour-release medium is packed around the further induction heatable element.
20. the cartridge according to claim 17, wherein the cartridge includes one or more further capillary elements for conveying the aerosol-forming liquid from the reservoir to the non-liquid flavour-release medium.
21. the cartridge according to claim 20, wherein each of the one or more further capillary element is selected from the group consisting of a capillary tube and a capillary wick.
22. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge comprises a housing in which the reservoir is located, the housing having one or more air inlets through which ambient air can flow into the housing and a mouthpiece defining an outlet through which an aerosol can be inhaled by a user.
23. an aerosol generating system comprising: a cartridge according to claim 1 and an induction heating arrangement arranged to inductively heat the induction heatable element.
24. the aerosol generating system according to claim 23, wherein the induction heating arrangement comprises an induction coil.
25. the aerosol generating system according to claim 23, wherein the aerosol generating system comprises a body in which the induction heating arrangement is accommodated and a cavity formed in the body in which the cartridge is removably inserted.
26. the aerosol generating system according to claim 23, further including a capsule comprising: a shell containing a non-liquid flavour-release medium;an induction heatable element disposed inside the shell and arranged to heat the non-liquid flavour-release medium;at least part of the shell comprising an air permeable material.
27. the aerosol generating system according to claim 23, further including a subsidiary induction heatable element arranged to be heated by the induction heating arrangement; wherein at least part of the subsidiary induction heatable element is accessible to enable the temperature of the subsidiary induction heatable element to be directly measured, and wherein a predetermined relationship between the temperature of the subsidiary induction heatable element and the temperature of the induction heatable element enables the temperature of the induction heatable element to be determined indirectly.
28. an aerosol generating system comprising: an induction heating arrangement arranged to inductively heat at least one induction heatable element and thereby heat one or more of an aerosol-forming liquid and a non-liquid flavour-release medium; anda subsidiary induction heatable element arranged to be heated by the induction heating arrangement;wherein at least part of the subsidiary induction heatable element is accessible to enable the temperature of the subsidiary induction heatable element to be directly measured, and wherein a predetermined relationship between the temperature of the subsidiary induction heatable element and the temperature of the at least one induction heatable element enables the temperature of the at least one induction heatable element to be determined indirectly.
29. a method for determining the temperature of at least one induction heatable element in an aerosol generating system comprising an induction heating arrangement arranged to inductively heat the at least one induction heatable element and thereby heat one or more of an aerosol-forming liquid and a non-liquid flavour-release medium, and a subsidiary induction heatable element arranged to be heated by the induction heating arrangement, at least part of the subsidiary induction heatable element being accessible, the method comprising: directly measuring the temperature of the accessible part of the subsidiary induction heatable element and determining the temperature of the at least one induction heatable element based on a predetermined relationship between the temperature of the subsidiary induction heatable element and the temperature of the at least one induction heatable element.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generation device (1) comprises: - an aerosol generation unit (2) arranged for transforming an aerosol- forming substance (4) mixed with air into an aerosol that may be inhaled by a user through successive draws, and - an air flow channel (3) having an inner surface (17), at least one inlet (10) and an outlet (11), allowing air, sucked by the user, to pass through and to be mixed with the aerosol-forming substance (4), and comprising at least one area having an inner section and comprising at least one flexible baffle (18) extending from the inner surface (17) on a part of the inner section and configured during a draw for deflecting when the draw pressure in this area exceeds a predetermined threshold to reduce a pressure drop between sub-areas located upstream and downstream of this area.

[en]     claims   1. aerosol generation device (1) comprising: i) an aerosol generation unit (2) arranged for transforming an aerosol-forming substance (4) mixed with air into an aerosol that may be inhaled by a user through successive draws, and ii) an air flow channel (3) having an inner surface (17), at least one inlet (10) and an outlet (11), and allowing air, sucked by said user, to pass through a vaporization area (3a) and to be mixed with said aerosol-forming substance, wherein said air flow channel (3) comprises at least one area (17a) having an inner cross-section (d1) and comprising at least one flexible baffle (18) extending from said inner surface (17) and operable to reduce said inner cross-section of said area to a minimum cross- sectional area (d2), said at least one flexible baffle (18) configured during a draw for deflecting to increase said minimum cross-sectional area (d2) to an increased cross-sectional area (d3) when the draw pressure in said area exceeds a predetermined threshold to reduce a pressure drop between sub-areas located upstream and downstream of said area, wherein deflection of said at least one flexible baffle (18) is operable to increase a mean free air flow path between the at least one inlet (10) and the outlet (11).
2. aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the or each flexible baffle (18) is configured for having a deflection that varies with a difference between the draw pressure in said area and said predetermined threshold.
3. aerosol generation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the or each flexible baffle (18) extends in a direction perpendicular to an extension axis of said airflow channel area.
4. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to   3, wherein the or each flexible baffle (18) is configured for deflecting in a direction of an extension axis (22) of said air flow channel area.
5. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said air flow channel (3) comprises at least two first sub-parts   (20-1, 20-2) each comprising an inlet (10) and a second sub-part (21) communicating with said first sub-parts (20-1, 20-2) and comprising said outlet (11).
6. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to   5, wherein said air flow channel (3) comprises at least two areas (17a) each comprising at least one flexible baffle (18).
7. aerosol generation device according to the combination of claims 5 and 6, wherein each airflow channel area (17a) belongs to one of said first sub-parts (20-1, 20-2).
8. aerosol generation device according to the combination of claims 5 and 6, wherein each airflow channel area (17a) belongs to said second sub-part (21).
9. aerosol generation device according to the combination of claims 5 and 6, wherein each of said first (20-1, 20-2) and second (21) sub-parts comprises at least one airflow channel area (17a).
10. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 6 to   9, wherein at least two successive flexible baffles (18) extend from opposite parts of said inner surface (17) and belong to successive air flow channel areas (17a) separated therebetween by a chosen distance.
11. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to   10, wherein at least one air flow channel area (17a) comprises two flexible baffles (18) arranged opposite to each other with a passage therebetween to allow air to pass through.
12. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one airflow channel area (17a) comprises a plurality of flexible baffles (18) together defining the minimum cross-sectional area (d2) when undeflected and operable to deflect to together define the increased cross-sectional area (d3).
13. aerosol generation device according to claim 12, wherein each of said plurality of flexible baffles comprises a curved surface having a convex side presented towards said inlet (10).
14. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one flexible baffle defines a spiral surface.
15. aerosol generation device according to any preceding claim, wherein said aerosol generation device (1) constitutes an electronic cigarette.


Abstract: [en] a method of fabricating a thin film heater includes a first step of etching a metal sheet from two opposing sides to provide a planar heating element; and a second step of attaching the heating element to a flexible electrically insulating backing film. the method allows for the fabrication of a thin film heater which provides more uniform heating and allows for greater range of selection of the properties of the flexible electrically insulating backing film and the parameters of the etching process. a heater assembly and an aerosol generating device incorporating the thin film are also described.

[en] 1. a method of fabricating a thin film heater comprising: etching a metal sheet from two opposing sides to provide a planar heating element; andattaching the planar heating element to a flexible electrically insulating backing film.
2. the method of claim 1, wherein the etching step comprises photoetching the metal sheet.
3. the method of claim 1, wherein the planar heating element is attached to a surface of the flexible electrically insulating backing film using an adhesive.
4. the method of claim 1, wherein the etching step comprises etching the metal sheet to provide two or more connected heating elements.
5. the method of claim 1, wherein the etching step comprises etching the metal sheet to provide two or more connected heating elements supported within a support frame.
6. the method of claim 4, further comprising: detaching each of the two or more connected heating elements and attaching each of the two or more connected heating elements to a corresponding piece of the flexible electrically insulating backing film.
7. the method of claim 4, wherein the attaching step includes attaching the two or more connected heating elements to a common flexible electrically insulating backing film; andfurther comprising cutting the common flexible electrically insulating backing film between the two or more heating elements to provide multiple assemblies comprising a single heater element attached to a flexible backing film.
8. the method of claim 1, wherein the etching step comprises etching the metal sheet to form a-the planar heating element comprising: a heater track which follows a circuitous path covering a heating area within a plane of the planar heating element; andtwo extended contact legs for connection to a power source.
9. the method of claim 8, wherein a length of the two extended contact legs is substantially equal to or greater than dimensions of the heating area.
10. the method of claim 8, further comprising: attaching a second flexible film layer so as to enclose the heater track between the flexible electrically insulating backing film and the second flexible film layer.
11. the method of claim 10, wherein the second flexible film layer comprises a heat shrink material.
12. the method of claim 1, wherein the flexible electrically insulating backing film comprises polyimide.
13. the method of claim 1, wherein the flexible electrically insulating backing film comprises ptfe.
14. the method of claim 1, wherein the flexible electrically insulating backing film has a thickness of less than 50 micro m.
15. a thin film heater fabricated by the method of claim 1.


Abstract: [en] a heating chamber assembly for an aerosol generation device, the heating chamber assembly comprising: a tubular heating chamber configured to receive an aerosol generation substrate and one or more heating units; and the one or more heating units, wherein each heating unit comprises: an elongate support configured to extend along the tubular heating chamber, the elongate support having a convex surface configured to protrude inward from a side wall of the tubular heating chamber, to form a rib protrusion; and a heating element secured to the elongate support.

[en]       claims   1. a heating chamber assembly for an aerosol generation device, the heating chamber assembly comprising: a tubular heating chamber configured to receive an aerosol generation substrate and one or more heating units; and the one or more heating units, wherein each heating unit comprises: an elongate support configured to extend along the tubular heating chamber, the elongate support having a convex surface configured to protrude inward from a side wall of the tubular heating chamber; and a heating element secured to the convex surface of the elongate support, wherein: for each of the one or more heating units, the side wall of the tubular heating chamber comprises an elongate slot configured to receive the heating unit and to allow the elongate support to protrude into the tubular heating chamber to form a rib protrusion, or for each of the one or more heating units, the side wall of the tubular heating chamber comprises a rib protrusion on an inner surface and a corresponding recess on an outer surface, wherein the convex surface is configured to conform with the recess and the heating unit is configured to transmit heat into the heating chamber through the side wall.
2. a heating chamber assembly according to claim 1, wherein the heating element is secured to the convex surface of the elongate support.
3. a heating chamber assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the tubular heating chamber has an opening and extends along an axis from the opening, and the elongate support of each heating unit is configured to extend along the axis of the tubular heating chamber.
4. a heating chamber assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the side wall of the tubular heating chamber comprises the elongate slot and the one or more heating units each comprise a stopping member configured to prevent the heating unit from passing entirely through the slot.
5. a heating chamber assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the side wall of the tubular heating chamber comprises the rib protrusion on the inner surface and the corresponding recess on the outer surface, and the protrusion and recess are formed by stamping.
6. a heating chamber assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the convex surface follows a smooth curve, preferably an arc of a circle.
7. a heating chamber assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the heating element is a thin film heater.
8. a heating chamber assembly according to any of the preceding claim, wherein the support is made of heat conductive material.
9. a heating chamber assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the heating unit comprises a wrap around the heating element and the support.
10. a heating chamber assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the one or more heating units are secured by a sleeve or wrap arranged around an outer surface of the side wall.
11. a heating chamber according to claim 10, wherein the sleeve or wrap comprises an insulator or is surrounded by an insulator.
12. a heating chamber assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein a plurality of the heating units are arranged symmetrically around a center of the tubular heating chamber.
13. an aerosol generation device comprising a heating chamber assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the one or more heating units comprises a first heating unit and a second heating unit, and the aerosol generation device comprises control circuitry independently connected to the first heating unit and to the second heating unit.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generation device (1) comprises: - an aerosol generation unit (3) comprising a casing (7), arranged for receiving a consumable (2) comprising an aerosol-forming substance (8) through an opening (9), and arranged for transforming this aerosol-forming substance (8) into an aerosol, - a sensor (4) arranged for detecting information representative of this consumable (2) when it is located in its sensing range, - an occluding element (5) moveable between a closed position occluding the opening (9) and an open position authorizing access to the casing (7), and - a controller (6) arranged, when the detected information is representative of a consumable (2) adapted to the aerosol generation unit (3), for triggering positioning of the occluding element (5) into its open position to allow introduction of the consumable (2) into the casing (7), and for controlling working of the aerosol generation unit (3) according to the detected information.

[en]       claims   1. aerosol generation device (1) comprising: i) an aerosol generation unit (3) comprising a casing (7), arranged for receiving a consumable (2) comprising an aerosol-forming substance (8) through an opening (9), and arranged for transforming said aerosol-forming substance (8) into an aerosol that may be inhaled by a user, and ii) an occluding element (5) moveable between a closed position occluding said opening (9) and an open position authorizing access to said casing (7), wherein the aerosol generation device (1) further comprises:   - a radar sensor (4) arranged for detecting at least one information representative of said consumable (2) when said consumable (2) is located in a sensing range, and   - a controller (6) arranged, when said detected information is representative of a consumable (2) adapted to said aerosol generation unit (3), for triggering positioning of said occluding element (5) into its open position to allow introduction of said consumable (2) into said casing (7), and/or for controlling working of said aerosol generation unit (3) according to said detected information.
2. aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein said detected information is representative of a physical characteristic of the consumable (2).
3. aerosol generation device according to claim 2, wherein the physical characteristic comprises one or more of a consumable surface profile, a consumable density profile, a consumable shape, a consumable size, and a thickness of a paper surrounding said aerosol forming substance (8).
4. aerosol generation device according to any preceding claim, wherein said radar sensor (4) uses a frequency comprised between 1 mhz and 300 ghz.
5. aerosol generating device according to claim 4, wherein said radar sensor operates at around 60ghz, and said detected information is a time series of frequency and amplitude values.
6. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein said controller (6) is arranged for analyzing said detected information to determine at least one property of said consumable (2), then for determining if said consumable (2) corresponding to each determined property is adapted to said aerosol generation unit (3), and in the affirmative for controlling working of said aerosol generation unit (2) according to said determined property.
7. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein the aerosol generation device (1) comprises a communication interface (18) arranged for transferring said determined information to a communication equipment (19) configured to analyze said detected information to determine at least one property of said consumable (2), then to determine if said consumable (2) corresponding to each determined property is adapted to said aerosol generation unit (3), and in the affirmative to transfer said determined property to said communication interface (18), and wherein said controller (6) is arranged for controlling working of said aerosol generation unit (2) according to said determined property.
8. aerosol generation device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the determined property comprises one of more of an authenticity, a composition, a flavor, a brand, a tobacco variety, a type of interaction with said aerosol generation unit (3), an advertising to be delivered to a communication equipment of said user, and delivering of digital goods to said user.
9. aerosol generation device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said controller (6) is arranged for controlling a pre-heating of said casing (7) by said aerosol generation unit (3) once said occluding element (5) is positioned in its open position.
10. aerosol generation device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generation device (1) constitutes an electronic cigarette.
11. a method of operating an aerosol generation device according to any one of the preceding claims, the method comprising:   - detecting, using the radar sensor, at least one information representative of said consumable (2) when said consumable (2) is located in a sensing range,   - determining a physical characteristic of said consumable (2) using said detected information, and   - when said detected information is representative of a consumable (2) adapted to said aerosol generation unit (3), for triggering positioning of said occluding element (5) into its open position to allow introduction of said consumable (2) into said casing (7), and/or for controlling working of said aerosol generation unit (3) according to said detected information.
12. the method of operating an aerosol generation device according to claim 11, wherein determining a physical characteristic of said consumable (2) using said detected information comprises determining a density profile of an aerosol-forming substance (8) comprised in said consumable (2) using pattern recognition.
13. a method of manufacturing a consumable for use with an aerosol generation device (1) of any one of claims 1-11, the method comprising controlling a density profile of an aerosol-forming substance (8) comprised in said consumable (2) such that the density profile is indicative of at least one property of the consumable (2).
14. the method of manufacturing a consumable according to claim 13, wherein the at least one property comprises one of more of an authenticity, a composition, a flavor, a brand, a tobacco variety, a type of interaction with said aerosol generation unit (3), an advertising to be delivered to a communication equipment of said user, and delivering of digital goods to said user.
15. a consumable for use in an aerosol generation device (1) of any one of claims 1-11, the consumable comprising an aerosol-forming substance (8) having a controlled density profile, said density profile being indicative of at least one property of the consumable (2).


Abstract: [en] a method of estimating and indicating a depletion level of the consumable in an aerosol generation device having a processor, a memory and a status indicator includes the step of generating and storing on the memory usage data on a usage of the aerosol generation device by a user. the usage data is read from the memory and a depletion level, preferably in remaining number of puffs on the consumable is calculated based on the usage data. the calculated depletion level of the consumable and/or whether the consumable has been consumed is signaled is signaled to the status indicator.

[en] 1. a method of estimating and indicating a depletion level of a consumable in an aerosol generation device having a processor, a memory and a status indicator, the method comprising the steps of: generating and storing on the memory usage data on a usage of the aerosol generation device by a user;reading the usage data from the memory and calculating a depletion level based on the usage data; andsignaling the calculated depletion level of the consumable and/or whether the consumable has been consumed to the status indicator,wherein the usage data comprises puff records and event records, andwherein the method further comprises the step of grouping the puff records in sessions based on the event records.
2. the method according to claim 1, wherein the depletion level is calculated in response to a detection of an insertion of a consumable.
3. the method according to claim 1, wherein the usage data comprises at least one of: a number of puffs per consumable, parameters on an airflow of puffs a frequency of puffs, a duration and/or a frequency of usage sessions, or a time of a session.
4. the method according to claim 1, wherein the puff records include at least one of: parameters on an airflow of puffs or a time stamp.
5. the method according to claim 1, wherein the event records include at least one of: a type of event, a type of consumable, a consumable identification number, or a time stamp.
6. the method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of receiving a profile for a type of inserted consumable and calculating a remaining number of puffs additionally based on the type of inserted consumable.
7. the method according to claim 1, wherein the calculation of the depletion level is based on an average number of puffs on previous consumables.
8. the method according to claim 1, wherein the depletion level is calculated or re-calculated based on usage data in response to an activation of the aerosol generation device.
9. the method according to claim 8, wherein the calculation or the re-calculation is based on a time and/or usage data on the immediately preceding session.
10. the method according to claim 1, wherein the depletion level is calculated or re-calculated based on usage data periodically or in response to a detection of a puff, wherein the calculation or the re-calculation uses usage data on the current session.
11. the method according to claim 10, wherein the calculation or the re-calculation compares the usage data to the usage data on past sessions.
12. the method according to claim 1, wherein the depletion level is calculated or re-calculated by calculating a depletion puff number and reducing the depletion puff number by a number of detected puffs after an insertion of the consumable.
13. the method according to claim 1, wherein the step of generating includes generating the usage data with the help of at least one of: a puff sensor, a consumable replacement detector a consumable recognition unit for detecting an identification tag of the consumable, or a user input interface.
14. the method according to one of the preceding claims 1, wherein the depletion level is indicated to a user with a display.
15. control circuitry comprising a processor and memory, wherein the control circuitry is configured to execute the method according to claim 1.
16. an aerosol generation device having a processor, a memory and a status indicator, and being configured to perform the method according to claim 1, and to indicate the calculated depletion level of the consumable and/or whether the consumable has been consumed by means of the status indicator.
17. the method according to claim 1, wherein the depletion level is a remaining number of puffs on the consumable.
18. the method according to claim 3, wherein the parameters on the airflow of puffs include volume, duration and/or strength.
19. the method according to claim 1, wherein the step of generating includes generating the usage data with the help of at least one of: a consumable replacement detector, including an ejection sensor (251) and/or an insertion sensor.
20. the method according to claim 14, wherein the display is a bargraph, a speaker, or a vibrator.


Abstract: [en] the invention concerns an aerosol generating device (10) comprising: - an atomizer configured to generate aerosol from a vaporizable material; - an airflow path (30) configured to conduct an airflow between an air inlet (31) and an air outlet (32) and comprising an upstream portion (41) extending between the air inlet (31) and the atomizer (26), and a downstream portion (42) extending between the atomizer (26) and the air outlet (32); - a heater arranged in the airflow path (30) and being separated from the atomizer (26); - a temperature sensor (48) arranged in the downstream portion (42) of the airflow path (30) and configured to generate temperature measurements relative to the temperature of the airflow passing through this portion (42); - a microcontroller (24) configured to operate the heater, according to said temperature measurements.

[en]       14   claims   1. an aerosol generating device (10; 110) comprising:   - an atomizer (26; 126) configured to generate aerosol from a vaporizable material using an ultrasonic mesh or an inkjet technology;   - an airflow path (30; 130) configured to conduct an airflow between an air inlet (31; 131-1, 131-2) and an air outlet (32; 132), the airflow path (30; 130) in fluid communication with the atomizer (26; 126) and comprising an upstream portion (41; 141-1, 141 -2) extending between the air inlet (31; 131-1, 131-2) and the atomizer (26; 126), and a downstream portion (42; 142) extending between the atomizer (26; 126) and the air outlet (32; 132);   - a heater (54) arranged in the airflow path (30; 130) and being separated from the atomizer (26; 126);   - a temperature sensor (48; 148) arranged in the downstream portion (42; 142) of the airflow path (30; 130) and configured to generate temperature measurements relative to the temperature of the airflow passing through this portion (42; 142);   - a microcontroller (24) configured to operate the heater (54), according to said temperature measurements.
2. the aerosol generating device (10; 110) according to claim 1, wherein the microcontroller (24) is configured to operate the heater (54) to achieve a target temperature of the airflow passing through the downstream portion (42; 142) of the airflow path (30; 130).
3. the aerosol generating device (10; 110) according to claim 2, wherein the microcontroller (24) is configured to compare the temperature measurements with the target temperature, and operate the heater (54) further to this comparison.
4. the aerosol generating device (10; 110) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a mouthpiece (34), the air outlet (32; 132) being arranged in the mouthpiece (34).
5. the aerosol generating device (10; 110) according to claim 4, wherein the temperature sensor (48; 148) is adjacent to the mouthpiece (34). 15
6. the aerosol generating device (10; 110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heater (54) is arranged in the upstream portion (41; 141-1, 141 -2) of the airflow path (30; 130).
7. the aerosol generating device (10; 110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heater (54) is connected to a battery (22) of the device through the microcontroller (24).
8. the aerosol generating device (10; 110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the airflow path (30; 130) further comprises a heating part formed by an insulated block (52), the heater (54) being arranged inside the insulated block (52).
9. the aerosol generating device (10; 110) according to claim 8, wherein the insulated block (52) is made from ceramic.
10. the aerosol generating device (10; 110) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the heater (54) comprises a coil, the airflow path (30; 130) passing through the coil.
11. the aerosol generating device (110) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising at least two heaters (54); at least a part of the airflow path (130) comprising two branches (141 -1, 141 -2), each heater (54) being arranged in a respective branch (141-1, 141-2) of the airflow path (130) and being operable by the microcontroller (24).
12. the aerosol generating device (10; 110) according to any one of the preceding claims taken in combination with claim 2, wherein the target temperature is set by a user.
13. the aerosol generating device (10; 110) according to claim 12, wherein the target temperature is set by the user using an external device connected to the aerosol generating device (10; 110).


Abstract: [en] a heating chamber for an aerosol generation device includes an open first end through which a substrate carrier including aerosol substrate is insertable along a length of the heating chamber. the heating chamber further includes a side wall, and a plurality of thermal engagement elements for contacting and providing heat to the substrate carrier. the heating chamber further includes a plurality of gripping elements, spaced apart from the thermal engagement elements along a length of the side wall, each gripping element extending inwardly from the interior surface of the side wall into the interior volume at a different location around the side wall, wherein the gripping elements are located closer to the open first end than the thermal engagement elements.

[en] 1. a heating chamber for an aerosol generation device, the heating chamber comprising: an open first end through which a substrate carrier including aerosol substrate is insertable in a direction along a length of the heating chamber;a side wall defining an interior volume of the heating chamber;a plurality of thermal engagement elements for contacting and providing heat to the substrate carrier, each of the plurality of thermal engagement elements extending inwardly from an interior surface of the side wall into the interior volume at a different location around the side wall; anda plurality of gripping elements, spaced apart from the plurality of thermal engagement elements along a length of the side wall, each of the plurality of gripping elements extending inwardly from the interior surface of the side wall into the interior volume at a different location around the side wall; wherein the plurality of gripping elements are located closer to the open first end than the thermal engagement elements.
2. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of thermal engagement elements comprise a deformed portion of the side wall.
3. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein the side wall has a substantially constant thickness.
4. the heating chamber according to claim 3, wherein the substantially constant thickness is lower than 1.2 mm.
5. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein the side wall is formed of metal.
6. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of thermal engagement elements comprise an embossed portion of the side wall.
7. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein the heating chamber has a central axis along which the substrate carrier is insertable; wherein the plurality of gripping elements each have an innermost portion for gripping the substrate carrier located a first radial distance from the central axis; and the plurality of thermal engagement elements each have an innermost portion for contacting the substrate carrier located a second radial distance from the central axis; the first radial distance being larger than the second radial distance.
8. the heating chamber according to claim 7, wherein the first radial distance is at least 0.05 mm larger than the second radial distance.
9. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of thermal engagement elements and the plurality of gripping elements are formed as a single integral part of the side wall.
10. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of thermal engagement elements have a different profile in a plane parallel to the length of the heating chamber from a profile of the plurality of gripping elements in a plane parallel to the length of the heating chamber.
11. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of thermal engagement elements have the same shape as one another.
12. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of gripping elements have the same shape as one another.
13. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein a total number of the plurality of thermal engagement elements is the same as a total number of the plurality of gripping elements.
14. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of thermal engagement elements extend a first distance along the length of the side wall and the plurality of gripping elements extend a second distance along the length of the side wall, wherein the first distance is greater than the second distance.
15. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of gripping elements has a pointed or rounded profile projecting inwardly into the interior volume.
16. the heating chamber according to claim 1, further comprising a heat generator arranged to provide heat to the substrate carrier.
17. the heating chamber according to claim 16, wherein the heat generator is located so as to extend a fifth distance along the side wall such that at least part of the heat generator is located adjacent to at least part of a portion of the side wall corresponding to a location of the plurality of thermal engagement elements.
18. the heating chamber according to claim 17, wherein the heat generator is located such that the heat generator is not located adjacent to any part of a portion of the side wall corresponding to a location of the plurality of gripping elements.
19. the heating chamber according to claim 1, further comprising a bottom at a second end of the side wall, opposite the open first end.
20. the heating chamber according to claim 1, further comprising a substrate carrier, the substrate carrier having a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is positioned further from the open first end than the second portion when the substrate carrier is inserted into the heating chamber, and wherein the first portion includes an aerosol substrate.
21. the heating chamber according to claim 20, wherein the plurality of thermal engagement elements are arranged to contact the first portion of the substrate carrier.
22. the heating chamber according to claim 20, wherein the plurality of gripping elements are arranged to grip the second portion of the substrate carrier.
23. the heating chamber according to claim 20, wherein the second portion does not contain aerosol substrate.
24. an aerosol generation device comprising: an electrical power source;the heating chamber according to claim 1;a heat generator arranged to supply heat to the heating chamber;control circuitry configured to control a supply of electrical power from the electrical power source to the heat generator; andan outer housing enclosing the electrical power source, the heating chamber), the heat generator, and the control circuitry, wherein the outer housing has an aperture formed therein for accessing the interior volume of the heating chamber.
25. the heating chamber according to claim 7, wherein the first radial distance is between 0.1 and 0.5 mm larger than the second radial distance.
26. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of gripping elements has a pointed profile projecting inwardly into the interior volume, wherein the pointed profile is triangular.
27. the heating chamber according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of gripping elements has a rounded profile projecting inwardly into the interior volume, wherein the rounded profile is a portion of a sphere.


Abstract: [en] a cartridge for an electronic cigarette comprises a liquid store and a vaporizer. the vaporizer includes at least one heating element and an absorbing structure. the absorbing structure has at least one channel fluidically connected to the liquid store by a supply conduit. the at least one channel is open in a direction perpendicular to a capillary flow direction within the at least one channel, and the at least one channel is configured to conduct liquid from the liquid store to the at least one heating element.

[en] 1. a cartridge for an electronic cigarette, comprising: a liquid store; anda vaporizer,the vaporizer including at least one heating element and an absorbing structure, the absorbing structure having at least one channel fluidically connected to the liquid store by a supply conduit, the at least one channel being open in a direction perpendicular to a capillary flow direction within the at least one channel,wherein the at least one channel is configured to conduct a liquid from the liquid store to the at least one heating element;wherein the absorbing structure is divided into a plurality of segments, and wherein each segment of the plurality of segments comprises a respective channel of the at least one channel and each segment is thermally coupled to a respective heating element; andwherein the plurality of segments are equally-dimensioned and are joined at a location where the supply conduit is fluidically connected to an opening through which the liquid from the liquid store is received and transferred to each channel of the at least one channel, the plurality of segments radiating outwardly from the location.
2. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the absorbing structure is thermally conductive.
3. the cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising a control circuitry arranged at least partially in the vaporizer; the control circuitry being configured to individually control each heating element of the at least one heating element.
4. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the absorbing structure is defined on a substrate, and wherein the at least one channel is formed on a first side of the substrate.
5. the cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the at least one heating element is formed on a second side of the substrate, the second side opposing the first side.
6. the cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the substrate comprises a porous ceramic material.
7. the cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the at least one heating element is arranged on the first side of the substrate.
8. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the vaporizer has a planar shape.
9. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the at least one heating element is shaped as a track and is aligned with the at least one channel.
10. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein a bottom of the at least one channel is coated.
11. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the supply conduit is configured to draw and transfer the liquid by capillary action into at the least one channel.
12. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the vaporizer further comprises a pair of electrical contacts, each electrical contact of the pair of electrical contacts being arranged adjacent to a respective side of said at least one channel, wherein the electrical contacts of the pair of electrical contacts form part of an electrical control circuit when the cartridge is arranged in the electronic cigarette, andwherein the electrical contacts are configured to establish a closed circuit and enable a supply of power to the at least one heating element only when the liquid is present in the at least one channel.
13. the cartridge according to claim 12, further comprising a first electrical power circuit connected to the electrical contacts and a second electrical power circuit connected to the at least one heating element.
14. the cartridge according to claim 13, wherein at least one electrical terminal of the first electrical power circuit is arranged on an outer circumference of the cartridge.
15. the cartridge according to claim 14, wherein the electrical contacts and the second electrical power circuit have a common negative terminal.
16. an electronic cigarette comprising: a cartridge seating,a power supply unit, anda control circuitry,wherein the cartridge seating comprises a first pair of electrical terminals configured to power at least one heating element and a second pair of electrical terminals configured to establish at least one control circuit,wherein the control circuitry includes a controller configured to detect an electrical parameter of the at least one control circuit and to control a supply of power to the at least one heating element such that the power is supplied to the at least one heating element only when the detected electrical parameter is within a predefined parameter range.
17. a method of manufacturing a vaporizer for a cartridge for an electronic cigarette, comprising the steps of: providing a planar substrate having recesses defining channels,positioning a pair of electrical contacts at respective predetermined positions in relation to the channels,depositing at least one resistive heating element onto the planar substrate.
18. the method according to claim 17, wherein the heater is deposited in the recesses.
19. the cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the at least one heating element is arranged at a bottom portion of the at least one channel.
20. the cartridge according to claim 10, wherein the bottom of the at least one channel is coated by an impervious coating.


Abstract: [en] an electrically operated aerosol generation system has a replaceable atomizer. the system includes a housing and an atomizer that can be received within a bore in a grasp ring of the housing. a power supply unit can be connected to the housing. a reservoir contains vaporizable liquid which can be supplied to the atomizer. a mouthpiece assembly is provided and can be actuated relative to the housing in order to separate and eject the atomizer from the housing when the power supply unit is removed.

[en] 1. an electrically operated aerosol generation system, comprising: a housing;an atomizer that can be received by the housing;a reservoir configured to supply vaporisable liquid to the atomizer;a mouthpiece assembly which is actuatable relative to the housing in order to eject the atomizer from the housing; anda power supply unit configured for connection with the housing.
2. the electrically operated aerosol system of claim 1, wherein the atomizer is slidably received in the housing, and is held in place by frictional engagement.
3. the electrically operated aerosol system of claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece assembly is arranged to actuate the atomizer between an operative position in which vaporisable liquid can be supplied to the atomizer from the reservoir, and an inoperative position in which vaporisable liquid cannot be supplied to the atomizer from the reservoir.
4. the electrically operated aerosol system of claim 3, wherein the mouthpiece assembly is in an extended position when the atomizer is received in the housing and the mouthpiece assembly is in a retracted position when the atomizer is ejected from the housing.
5. the electrically operated aerosol system of claim 3, wherein the mouthpiece assembly is configured to close or to block a flow path between the atomizer and the reservoir in the inoperative position.
6. the electrically operated aerosol system of claim 5, wherein the mouthpiece comprises a sealing portion which closes or blocks the flow path.
7. the electrically operated aerosol system of claim 1, wherein a connection between the power supply unit and the housing inhibits actuation of the mouthpiece assembly.
8. the electrically operated aerosol system of claim 1, further comprising a viewing window in the housing for a user to inspect the volume of vaporisable liquid in the reservoir.
9. the electrically operated aerosol system of claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece assembly comprises an elongate member having an airflow channel extending longitudinally thereof.
10. the electrically operated aerosol system of claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece assembly is configured for translational or sliding movement relative to the housing, when actuated.
11. the electrically operated aerosol system of claim 1, wherein the mouthpiece assembly is configured for rotational movement, when actuated.
12. a method of removing an atomizer from an electrically operated aerosol generation system that includes a housing, an atomizer that can be received by the housing, a reservoir configured to supply vaporisable liquid to the atomizer, a mouthpiece assembly which is actuatable relative to the housing, and a power supply unit configured for connection with the housing, the method comprising the step of: actuating the mouthpiece assembly relative to the housing in order to eject the atomizer from the housing.
13. the method of claim 12, further comprising the step of disconnecting the power supply unit before actuating the mouthpiece assembly.


Abstract: [en] a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device includes a flexible heating element; a temperature sensor; and a flexible dielectric backing film with an adhesive on a surface of the flexible dielectric backing film, wherein the temperature sensor and the flexible heating element are supported adjacent to each other on the adhesive on the surface of the flexible backing film. the heater assembly allows for a more precise measurement of the heater temperature to be obtained while simplifying the assembly process.

[en] 1. a heater assembly for an aerosol generating device comprising: a flexible heating element;a temperature sensor; anda flexible dielectric backing film with an adhesive on a surface of the flexible dielectric backing film, wherein the temperature sensor and the flexible heating element are supported adjacent to each other on the adhesive on the surface of the flexible dielectric backing film.
2. the heater assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a second flexible dielectric film which opposes the flexible dielectric backing film to at least partially enclose the heating element; wherein at least a portion of the temperature sensor is positioned between the flexible dielectric backing film and the second flexible dielectric film.
3. the heater assembly of claim 2, wherein the second flexible dielectric film comprises a layer of heat shrink material which opposes the flexible dielectric backing film.
4. the heater assembly of claim 2, wherein the flexible dielectric backing film comprises an edge region which is folded over on itself or over the second flexible dielectric film to at least partially enclose the temperature sensor within the fold.
5. the heater assembly of claim 2, wherein the temperature sensor comprises a temperature sensor head and electrical connections arranged to transport signals from the temperature sensor head; wherein the temperature sensor head is enclosed between the flexible dielectric backing film and the second flexible dielectric film.
6. the heater assembly of claim 2, wherein the temperature sensor comprises a temperature sensor head and electrical connections arranged to transport signals from the temperature sensor head; wherein the flexible dielectric backing film comprises an opening or a through-hole in the flexible dielectric backing film and the temperature sensor is positioned such that the temperature sensor head lies on the opening or the through-hole and is exposed through the flexible dielectric backing film.
7. the heater assembly of claim 2, wherein the flexible heating element is a planar heating element comprising a heater track which follows a circuitous path over a heating area within a plane of the planar heating element and two contact legs for connection to a power source, the two contact legs extending away from the heater track in the plane of the planar heating element; wherein at least the heating area of the planar heating element is enclosed between the flexible dielectric backing film and the second flexible dielectric film.
8. the heater assembly of claim 7, wherein the circuitous path is shaped so as to leave a vacant region on the flexible dielectric backing film, unoccupied by the planar heating element; wherein the temperature sensor is held by the adhesive in the vacant region of the flexible dielectric backing film.
9. the heater assembly of claim 7, wherein the temperature sensor comprises a temperature sensor head and elongated electrical connections, the elongated electrical connections oriented substantially in a same direction as the two contact legs of the planar heating element.
10. the heater assembly of claim 1, wherein the flexible dielectric backing film comprises a first piece of film which supports the flexible heating element and a second piece of film which supports the temperature sensor, the first piece of film attached to the second piece of film.
11. the heater assembly of claim 1, wherein the flexible dielectric backing film comprises polyimide.
12. the heater assembly of claim 1, wherein the flexible dielectric backing film comprises ptfe.
13. the heater assembly of claim 1, wherein a thin film heater subassembly includes the flexible heating element, the temperature sensor and the flexible dielectric backing film, wherein the heater assembly further comprises: a heating chamber; wherein the thin film heater subassembly is wrapped around a surface of the heating chamber with the temperature sensor held adjacent to the heating chamber.
14. the heater assembly of claim 13, wherein the heating chamber comprises one or more indentations on an outer surface of the heating chamber and the thin film heater subassembly is wrapped around the heating chamber such that at least part of the temperature sensor is positioned within an indentation of the one or more indentations.
15. an aerosol generating device comprising the heater assembly according to claim 1.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generating device includes a heating chamber; and a thermoelectric cell. the aerosol generating device is configured to supply electrical power to the thermoelectrical cell and the thermoelectric cell is arranged such that, when electrical power is supplied to the thermoelectric cell, heat is transferred through the thermoelectrical cell to the heating chamber by the thermoelectrical cell. a control unit is configured to control the heat transferred by the thermoelectrical cell so as to regulate an internal temperature of the heating chamber. a method of controlling the aerosol generating device includes controlling the heat transferred through the thermoelectric cell so as to regulate the internal temperature of the heating chamber.

[en] 1. an aerosol generating device comprising: a heating chamber; anda thermoelectric cell;wherein the aerosol generating device is configured to supply electrical power to the thermoelectrical cell and the thermoelectric cell is arranged such that, when electrical power is supplied to the thermoelectric cell, heat is transferred through the thermoelectrical cell to the heating chamber by the thermoelectrical cell.
2. an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the thermoelectric cell comprises a heat receiving surface and a heat emitting surface, and wherein when electrical power is supplied to the thermoelectric cell heat is transferred from the heat receiving surface to the heat emitting surface.
3. an aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein the heat emitting surface is arranged in contact with, or forms at least part of, a wall of the heating chamber.
4. an aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein the heat emitting surface conforms to a surface relief of the wall of the heating chamber.
5. an aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein the heating chamber is cylindrical and the heat emitting surface extends circumferentially around the heating chamber.
6. an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the heating chamber is configured to receive a consumable aerosol generating substrate.
7. an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit configured to regulate the heat transferred by the thermoelectrical cell so as to control an internal temperature of the heating chamber.
8. an aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein the control unit is configured to maintain the internal temperature of the heating chamber within a range of 150 to 350 degrees celsius.
9. an aerosol generating device according to claim 7, further comprising a heater configured to supply heat to the heating chamber.
10. an aerosol generating device according to claim 9, wherein the control unit is configured to regulate the heat supplied to the heating chamber by the heater so as to control the internal temperature of the heating chamber.
11. an aerosol generating device according to claim 9, further comprising one or more temperature sensors, each temperature sensor being configured to measure one or more of: an internal temperature of the heating chamber, a temperature of a surface of the thermoelectrical cell, and a temperature of the heater.
12. an aerosol generating device according to claim 11, wherein the control unit is configured to receive a temperature measurement from at least one of the one or more temperature sensors, and wherein the control unit is further configured to regulate the internal temperature of the heating chamber based on said temperature measurement.
13. an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a power source configured to supply the electrical power to the thermoelectric cell.
14. a control unit for an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to control the heat transferred by the thermoelectrical cell so as to regulate an internal temperature of the heating chamber.
15. a method of controlling an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, the method comprising the step of: controlling the heat transferred through the thermoelectrical cell so as to regulate an internal temperature of the heating chamber.
16. an aerosol generating device according to claim 1, further comprising a heater configured to supply heat to the heating chamber.
17. an aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein the control unit is configured to maintain the internal temperature of the heating chamber within a range of 190 to 310 degrees celsius.
18. an aerosol generating device according to claim 7, wherein the control unit is configured to maintain the internal temperature of the heating chamber within a range of 230 to 260 degrees celsius.


Abstract: [en] a method of manufacturing a heating chamber (100) for an aerosol generating device (200) includes the steps: providing a metal tubular member (10) comprising a tubular side wall (11) with an open end (12); the tubular side wall having a thickness of no more than 0.15 mm; inserting the tubular member into a tubular mould (20), the inner surface of the tubular mould having a shaping profile with at least one protrusion (17, 19) or recess; sealing the open end of the tubular member; and injecting a fluid under pressure into the tubular member to outwardly deform the tubular member such that it conforms to the shaping profile of the surrounding tubular mould. by using a fluid pressure to shape the tubular member, a required profile shape can be transferred to the tubular member with high precision, while maintaining the thickness of the chamber walls below 0.15 mm to provide efficient heat transfer to a consumable during use.

[en]     claims   1. a method of manufacturing a heating chamber for an aerosol generating device, the method comprising: providing a metal tubular member comprising a tubular side wall with an open end and an opposing closed end; the tubular side wall having a thickness of no more than 0.15 mm; inserting the tubular member into a tubular mould, the inner surface of the tubular mould having a shaping profile with at least one protrusion or recess; sealing the open end of the tubular member; and injecting a fluid under pressure into the tubular member to outwardly deform the tubular member such that it conforms to the shaping profile of the surrounding tubular mould.
2. the method of claim 1 wherein the shaping profile of the tubular mould comprises an annular groove in the inner surface of the mould, the annular groove extending around the circumference of the tubular mould such that, after injecting the fluid, the tubular member comprises an annular flange.
3. the method of claim 2 wherein the tubular mould comprises: a cylindrical body with the annular groove formed by a section of the length of the cylindrical body which has a greater internal diameter than the remainder of the cylindrical body; such that the annular flange comprises a corresponding section of the length of the tubular member which has greater diameter than the remainder of the length of the tubular member.
4. the method of claim 2 or claim 3 further comprising: cutting the tubular member through the annular flange to provide a tubular member of reduced length with an annular collar at the open end.
5. the method of claim 3 or claim 4 further comprising cutting the annular flange to provide a planar circumferential lip around the open end of the tubular member.
6. the method of any preceding claim further comprising: applying an inward pressure on the outer surface of the tubular member as fluid is injected under pressure into the tubular member to provide one or more inwardly extending protrusions on an inner surface of the tubular member.
7. the method of claim 6 wherein applying an inward pressure comprises: pressing a plurality of elongate ridges into the outer surface of the tubular member as fluid is injected under pressure into the tubular member to provide a plurality of corresponding elongate protrusions running lengthwise on the inner surface of the tubular member, the protrusions positioned around the circumference of the tubular member.
8. the method of claim 6 or 7 wherein the inwardly applied pressure is provided by one or more movable portions of the tubular mould; and the one or more inwardly extending protrusions are provided by applying an inward pressure with the one or more movable portions of the tubular mould when the tubular member is inserted into the tubular mould and a fluid is injected under pressure.
9. the method of claim 8 wherein the tubular mould comprises a first moveable portion and a second moveable portion disposed at different positions along the length of the tubular mould, the method further comprising: applying an inward pressure with the first moveable mould portion to provide plurality of elongate protrusions running lengthwise on the inner surface of the tubular member; and applying an inward pressure with a second moveable mould portion to provide a plurality of point protrusions arranged periodically around the circumference of the internal surface of the tubular member.
10. the method of any preceding claim wherein the step of providing a tubular member comprises: punching a metal sheet to provide a metal disk blank; and deep drawing the metal disk blank to form the tubular member with an open end and a closed end.
11. the method of claim 10 wherein deep drawing the metal disk blank comprises: forming the metal disk blank into an initial metal cup; annealing under vacuum or inert gas; and deep drawing the initial metal cup into an elongated tubular cup with a reduced tubular wall thickness.
12. the method of claim 10 or claim 11 wherein deep drawing is performed from the metal disk blank so as to provide a tubular member having a tubular wall with a side thickness of 0.05 to 0.1 mm, more preferably of 0.07 to 0.09 mm.
13. the method of any of claims 10 to 12 wherein deep drawing is performed so as to provide a tubular member having an internal diameter of less than 8 mm and a length of greater than 30 mm.
14. the method of any of claims 10 to 13 wherein the metal sheet has a thickness of 0.2 to 0.6 mm and the deep drawing is performed so as to provide a tubular cup with a base wall at the closed end having a thickness of 0.2 to 0.6 mm.
15. a heating chamber for an aerosol generating device manufactured by the method of any preceding claim.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol-generating article for use in an inhalation device, the aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating material section comprising a charge of an aerosol-generating material; a filter section comprising at least one filter element and a hollow spacer tube arranged between the aerosol-generating material section and the at least one filter element, wherein an rfid tag is arranged on the aerosol-generating article along a length of the hollow spacer tube and, wherein the rfid tag is a capacitive-coupled rfid tag not having an antenna.

[en]       claims   1. an aerosol-generating article for use in an inhalation device, the aerosol-generating article comprising: an aerosol-generating material section comprising a charge of an aerosol-generating material; a filter section comprising at least one filter element and a hollow spacer tube arranged between the aerosol-generating material section and the at least one filter element, wherein an rfid tag is arranged on the aerosol-generating article along a length of the hollow spacer tube and, wherein the rfid tag is a capacitive-coupled rfid tag not having an antenna.
2. the aerosol-generating article according to claim 1, wherein the   rfid tag is provided on the hollow spacer tube, preferably on an outer surface of the hollow spacer tube or inside a thickness of the hollow spacer tube.
3. the aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, further comprising: at least one paper wrapper wrapped around a length of the hollow spacer tube; wherein the rfid tag is provided on the at least one paper wrapper, preferably inside a thickness of at least one paper wrapper or between the at least one paper wrapper and the hollow spacer tube.
4. the aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the hollow spacer tube is formed of rolled paper.
5. an inhalation device for use with an aerosol-generating article according to any one of the preceding claims, the inhalation device comprising: a heating cavity configured to receive therein at least a part of the aerosol-generating article and comprising an opening for inserting said part of the aerosol-generating article; a heating element configured to heat the aerosol-generating material section of the aerosol-generating article received in the heating cavity; and an rfid reader comprising at least a pair of reading electrodes configured to provide a radio frequency signal able to read a capacitive- coupled rfid tag, wherein the reading electrodes are arranged at or next to the opening of the heating cavity and away from the heating element.
6. the inhalation device according to claim 5, wherein the reading electrodes are arranged on or within a wall of the heating cavity adjacent to the opening of the heating cavity.
7. the inhalation device according to claim 5, wherein the reading electrodes are arranged in a portion of the inhalation device extending from the opening of the heating cavity.
8. the inhalation device according to any of claims 5 to 7, wherein the reading electrodes are electrode rings spaced from each other along a direction parallel to a longitudinal direction of the cavity.
9. the inhalation device according to claim 8, wherein the reading electrodes are spaced from each other by a distance comprised between about 0.2 to about 5 mm, preferably between about 0.5 to 2 mm.
10. the inhalation device according to any of claims 5 to 9, wherein the reading electrodes are formed within a band of insulating material.
11. the inhalation device according to claim 10, wherein: the heating element is arranged to surround a longitudinal section of the wall of the heating cavity; and the reading electrodes are formed of a first electrically conductive metal; the wall of the heating cavity is formed of a second thermally conductive metal different from the first electrically conductive metal.
12. an inhalation system comprising: an inhalation device according to any of claims 6 to 11; and an aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to   5, wherein a longitudinal position of the rfid tag of the aerosol generating article corresponds to a longitudinal position of the rfid reader of the inhalation device when the aerosol-generating material section of aerosol-generating article is received in the heating cavity of the inhalation device; and wherein the inhalation device further comprises a control unit connected to the rfid reader and configured to authenticate the aerosol generating article and/or control operation of the heating element based on information received, via the rfid reader, from the rfid tag of the aerosol-generating article.
13. a method of manufacturing an aerosol-generating article according to any of claims 1 to 4, the method comprising: providing, on a paper web, a capacitive-coupled rfid tag not having an antenna; and winding the paper web into a form of a hollow tube.
14. the method according to claim 13, wherein providing the capacitive- coupled rfid tag on the paper web comprises any one of depositing, adhering or printing the capacitive-coupled rfid tag on the paper web.
15. the method according to claim 13 or claim 14, further comprising: providing, on the paper web, a plurality of capacitive-coupled rfid tags additional to the capacitive-coupled rfid tag; and cutting the paper web into segments such that each segment has a capacitive-coupled rfid tag provided thereon.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generating device includes: a heating chamber arranged to hold an aerosol generating medium; a heater arranged, in use, to heat the heating chamber; a temperature measuring means arranged to measure the temperature of the heater or heating chamber; at least one indicator configured to indicate when the measured temperature has reached a use temperature and/or when an initialisation heating time has elapsed; a memory storing one or more rules, each rule defining an operating process of the heater and the indicator; control circuitry configured to select a rule stored in the memory and operate the heater and indicator according to the selected rule, such that the indicator is operated to indicate when the measured temperature has reached a use temperature and/or when an initialisation heating time has elapsed, thereby signalling when the aerosol generating device is ready for use.

[en] 1. an aerosol generating device comprising: a heating chamber arranged to hold an aerosol generating medium;a heater arranged, in use, to heat the heating chamber;a temperature sensor arranged to measure a temperature of the heater or the heating chamber;at least one indicator configured to indicate when the measured temperature has reached a use temperature and/or when an initialisation heating time has elapsed;a memory storing one or more rules each defining an operating process of the heater and the at least one indicator;control circuitry configured to select a rule of the one or more rules stored in the memory and operate the heater and the at least one indicator according to the selected rule, such thatthe at least one indicator is operated, in use, to indicate when the measured temperature has reached a use temperature and/or when an initialisation heating time has elapsed, thereby signalling when the aerosol generating device is ready for use.
2. the aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the memory stores a first rule of the one or more rules and the control circuitry is configured to operate the heater and the at least one indicator according to the first rule, the first rule comprising: operating the heater to heat the heating chamber to a first use temperature during a first heat-up period and then maintaining the heating chamber at the first use temperature; andoperating the at least one indicator to signal that the device is ready for use when an initialisation heating time has elapsed, where the initialisation heating time is longer than the first heat-up period.
3. the aerosol generating device of claim 2, wherein the first rule further comprises: operating the at least one indicator when the first use temperature has been maintained for a heating period of 10 to 60 seconds to signal the device is ready for use.
4. the aerosol generating device according to claim 2, wherein the memory additionally stores a second rule of the one or more rules and the control circuitry is further configured to operate the heater and the at least one indicator according to the second rule, the second rule comprising: operating the heater to heat the heating chamber to a second use temperature during a second heat-up period and then maintaining the heating chamber at the second use temperature; andoperating the at least one indicator when the second use temperature is first reached to signal the device is ready for use.
5. the aerosol generating device of claim 4, further comprising a user input operable to instruct the control circuitry to select the first rule or the second rule.
6. the aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more rules defines an operating process of the at least one indicator in which the at least one indicator is operated: when the measured temperature reaches one or more intermediate temperatures, where the one or more intermediate temperatures are between an initial temperature and the use temperature; and/orwhen one or more intermediate heating times have elapsed, where the one or more intermediate heating times are between a heater start time and the initialisation heating time.
7. the aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein the control circuitry is configured to select a rule from the one or more rules according to one or more of: a user input;an initial temperature measured by the temperature sensor;a property of the heater;a measured ambient temperature; anda remaining energy level of a battery of the aerosol generating device.
8. the aerosol generating device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more rules comprises a heating curve defining a change in heating temperature over time; wherein the control circuitry is configured to select a heating curve and operate the heater to heat the heating chamber according to the selected heating curve.
9. the aerosol generating device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the one or more rules comprises a table containing a plurality of intermediate temperatures and the use temperature, and the control circuitry is configured to operate the heater to heat the heating chamber to each of the plurality of intermediate temperatures and the use temperature.
10. the aerosol generating device of claim 9, wherein the plurality of intermediate temperatures are determined by the control circuitry according to an initial temperature measured by the temperature sensor.
11. the aerosol generating device of claims 1, further comprising: a battery, wherein the control circuitry is configured to measure power supplied by the battery; whereinat least one of the one or more rules comprises a plurality of heat-up rates each corresponding to a power level supplied by the battery, and the control circuitry is configured to select one of the plurality of heat-up rates based on a measurement of the power supplied by the battery.
12. the aerosol generating device of claims 8, wherein the control circuitry is configured to select a rule of the one or more rules according to an initial temperature measured by the temperature sensor.
13. the aerosol generating device of claims 1, wherein the at least one indicator comprises one or more of: a visual indicator;a haptic indicator; andan acoustic indicator.
14. the aerosol generating device of claim 13, wherein the at least one indicator comprises the visual indicator, wherein said visual indicator comprises a light emitting indicator that changes colour and/or is progressively lit during heating-up.
15. the aerosol generating device of claim 14, wherein the light emitting indicator changes colour and/or is progressively lit: when the heating temperature reaches one or more intermediate temperatures, where the one or more intermediate temperatures are between an initial temperature and the use temperature.
16. the aerosol generating device of claim 14, wherein the light emitting indicator changes colour and/or is progressively lit: when one or more intermediate heating times have elapsed, where the one or more intermediate heating times are between a heater start time and the initialisation heating time.
17. the aerosol generating device of claim 16, wherein the light emitting indicator comprises a plurality of leds and the plurality of leds are illuminated in sequence as a plurality of intermediate heating times have elapsed.
18. the aerosol generating device of claim 17, wherein the plurality of intermediate heating times span a time period of more than 15 seconds.