Abstract: [en] a cartomizer for an aerosol generating device includes a container for holding at least one reservoir configured to containing a vaporizable material; a vaporizing chamber fluidly connected to a mouth end by a vapor passage; a liquid transport element, in particular a porous capillary member, extending from inside the at least one reservoir to inside the vaporizing chamber to convey the vaporizable material from the at least one reservoir to the inside of the vaporizing chamber; and an air inlet arranged to supply the vaporizing chamber with air in use; wherein a leakage collecting chamber is arranged between the vaporizing chamber and the air inlet to collect vaporizable material from the vaporizing chamber and the leakage collecting chamber includes at least one liquid stopping or barrier wall arranged between the leakage collecting chamber and the air inlet, in particular at least one through-hole of the air inlet, forming an overflow.

[en] 1. a cartomizer (1) for an aerosol generating device, the cartomizer comprising: a container for holding at least one reservoir configured to contain a vaporizable material;a vaporizing chamber fluidly connected to a mouth end by a vapor passage;a liquid transport element extending from inside the at least one reservoir to inside the vaporizing chamber in order to convey the vaporizable material from the at least one reservoir to the inside of the vaporizing chamber;an air inlet arranged to supply the vaporizing chamber with air in use;wherein a leakage collecting chamber is arranged between the vaporizing chamber and the air inlet to collect vaporizable material from the vaporizing chamber, and the leakage collecting chamber comprises at least one liquid stopping or barrier wall, arranged between the leakage collecting chamber and the air inlet, in particular at least one through-hole of the air inlet, forming an overflow, andwherein the cartomizer further comprises a center leakage collecting chamber provided between the air inlet and the leakage collecting chamber.
2. the cartomizer according to claim 1, wherein the air inlet comprises an air conduit or chimney at the bottom of the container and upstream the at least one through-hole, forming a second liquid stopping or barrier wall arranged between the first liquid stopping or barrier wall and the at least one through-hole.
3. the cartomizer according to claim 2, wherein the air conduit or chimney protrudes inside the leakage collecting chamber.
4. the cartomizer according to claim 2, wherein the center leakage collecting chamber is defined or formed by the air conduit or chimney and the first liquid stopping or barrier wall.
5. the cartomizer according to claim 4, wherein the center leakage collecting chamber and the leakage collecting chamber are at least partially separated from each other by the first liquid stopping or barrier wall including at least one connecting hole or groove fluidly connecting the center leakage collecting chamber with the leakage collecting chamber, wherein the connecting hole or groove is preferably arranged with a predetermined axial distance to the bottom of the container.
6. the cartomizer according to claim 5, wherein the predetermined axial distance from the at least one connecting hole or groove to the bottom of the container is smaller than an axial distance of the at least one through-hole to the bottom of the container.
7. the cartomizer according to claim 1, wherein the leakage collecting chamber further comprises at least one air outlet arranged at an axial distance relative to the at least one through-hole of the air inlet, wherein the at least one air outlet of the leakage collecting chamber is arranged axially closer to the bottom of the container than the at least one through-hole of the air inlet.
8. the cartomizer according to claim 7, wherein the air outlet of the leakage collecting chamber is transversally distant from the air inlet.
9. the cartomizer according to claim 7, wherein the air outlet of the leakage collecting chamber protrudes by a conduit inside the leakage collecting chamber and/or inside the vaporizing chamber.
10. the cartomizer according to claim 1, wherein the leakage collecting chamber comprises two air outlets communicating with the vaporizing chamber and arranged on each side of the air inlet, wherein the air outlets are aligned in a plane of extension of the liquid transport element.
11. the cartomizer according to claim 1, wherein the leakage collecting chamber is arranged between a first seal arranged for holding the liquid transport element and a bottom holder of the container arranged for holding electrical connectors.
12. the cartomizer according to claim 11, wherein the liquid transport element is held by the first seal and a second seal, wherein the second seal preferably at least partially, in particular completely, separates the at least one reservoir from the vaporizing chamber.
13. the cartomizer according to claim 12, wherein the at least one air outlet is formed inside the first seal.
14. the cartomizer according to claim 1, wherein the leakage collecting chamber has a larger transversal cross section than a transversal cross-section of the vaporizing chamber.
15. the cartomizer according to claim 11, wherein the liquid transport element is held by the first seal and a second seal, wherein the second seal at least partially separates the at least one reservoir from the vaporizing chamber, andwherein the first seal includes air channels that fluidly connect the center leakage collecting chamber with the leakage collecting chamber or the leakage collecting chambers.
16. the cartomizer according to claim 1, wherein the liquid transport element comprises a porous capillary member.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generating system comprises a cartridge (2) that contains a supply of aerosol generating material (15) and an aerosol generating device (4) for receiving the cartridge (2). when the cartridge (2) is received in the aerosol generating device (4), a continuous conductive path is formed from discrete conductive elements (34,36) alternately located on the cartridge (2) and the device (4). the continuous conductive path may form part of a test circuit for verifying the correct insertion of an authentic cartridge (2) or part of a power circuit required to operate an aerosol generator (22). preferably the conductive elements (34) on the cartridge (2) are located on projections (38) or in recesses (28) in the shapes of letters, symbols or other patterns capable of conveying visual information, for example a trade mark of the supplier of authentic cartridges (2).

[en] claims 1. an aerosol generating system comprising: a cartridge (2) that contains a supply of aerosol generating material (15); and an aerosol generating device (4) for receiving the cartridge (2); wherein: the cartridge (2) comprises a first set of multiple discrete conductive elements (34); and the aerosol generating device (4) comprises a second set of multiple discrete conductive elements (36); the first and second sets of conductive elements (34,36) being configured such that, when the cartridge (2) is received in the aerosol generating device (4), the first set of conductive elements (34) comes into contact with the second set of conductive elements (36) to form a continuous conductive path comprising conductive elements (34,36) alternately from the first and second sets; and wherein either: (i) the aerosol generating device (4) comprises a plurality of projections (26), the conductive elements (36) of the second set being formed on the projections (26); and the cartridge (2) comprises a plurality of recesses (28) configured to receive the projections (26) when the cartridge (2) is received in the aerosol generating device (4), the conductive elements (34) of the first set being formed to extend between the recesses (28); or (ii) the cartridge (2) comprises a plurality of projections (38), the conductive elements (34) of the first set being formed on the projections (38); and the aerosol generating device (4) comprises a plurality of recesses (40) configured to receive the projections when the cartridge (2) is received in the aerosol generating device (4), the conductive elements (36) of the second set being formed to extend between the recesses (40).
2. an aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein: the aerosol generating device (4) comprises a source of electrical power (8); the cartridge (2) or the aerosol generating device (4) comprises an electrically powered aerosol generator (22); and the continuous conductive path forms part of a circuit for supplying power from the source (8) to the aerosol generator (22).
3. an aerosol generating system according to claim 2, wherein the aerosol generator (22) is an electrically powered heater in the cartridge (2).
4. an aerosol generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein: the continuous conductive path forms part of a test circuit, through which the aerosol generating device (4) can supply current to verily the correct insertion of the cartridge (2) and/or the authenticity of the cartridge (2).
5. an aerosol generating system according to claim 4, wherein the device (4) further comprises means (42) for determining whether current is flowing through at least one intermediate conductive element (36) of the second set.
6. an aerosol generating system according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein: a plurality of the conductive elements (34) of the first set and a plurality of the conductive elements (36) of the second set lie in a common plane.
7. an aerosol generating device according to any preceding claim, wherein the conductive elements of the first set (34) he in a first plane and the conductive elements of the second set (36) he in a second plane, such that when the projections (26, 38) are received in the recesses (28), (40) the edges of the conductive elements of the first and second sets are brought into contact with each other.
8. an aerosol generating system according to claim 1 part (i), wherein the cartridge (2) further comprises a layer of non-conductive material (37), which covers surfaces of the first set of conductive elements (34) that face towards the aerosol generating device (4).
9. an aerosol generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the recesses (28), (40) are in the shapes of letters, symbols or other patterns capable of conveying visual information.
10. an aerosol generating system according to claim 1 part (ii), wherein the aerosol generating device (4) further comprises a layer of non-conductive material (41), which covers surfaces of the second set of conductive elements (36) that face towards the cartridge (2).
11. an aerosol generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the projections (26), (38) are in the shapes of letters, symbols or other patterns capable of conveying visual information.
12. a method of activating an aerosol generating system that comprises: a cartridge (2) containing a supply of aerosol generating material and comprising a first set of discrete conductive elements (34); and an aerosol generating device (4) comprising a second set of discrete conductive elements (36); the method comprising receiving the cartridge (2) in the aerosol generating device (4) such that the first set of conductive elements (34) comes into contact with the second set of conductive elements (36) to form a continuous conductive path comprising conductive elements (34,36) alternately from the first and second sets.
13. a method according to claim 12, wherein forming the continuous conductive path completes an electric circuit that connects an electrically powered aerosol generator (22) to a source of electrical power (8) in the aerosol generating device (4).
14. a method according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein forming the continuous conductive path completes a test circuit, the method further comprising supplying current through the test circuit to verily the correct insertion of the cartridge (2) or the authenticity of the cartridge (2).


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generating device (10) comprising a heating assembly (12). the heating assembly (12) comprises a heating compartment (14) arranged to receive an aerosol generating article (16). the aerosol generating device (10) further comprises a lid (18) configured to be moveable by a user to open and close the heating compartment (14). the aerosol generating device (10) further comprises a removeable cover (20) locatable on a body (22) of the aerosol generating device (10). the aerosol generating device (10) further comprises a fastening arrangement (24). the fastening arrangement (24) is configured to mechanically fasten the removeable cover (20) to the body (22) when the lid (18) is moved by a user to open the heating compartment (14) and to mechanically unfasten the removeable cover (20) from the body (22) when the lid (18) is moved by a user to close the heating compartment (14).

[en] claims 1. an aerosol generating device (10) comprising: a heating assembly (12), wherein the heating assembly (12) comprises a heating compartment (14) arranged to receive an aerosol generating article (16); a lid (18) configured to be moveable by a user to open and close the heating compartment (14); a removeable cover (20) locatable on a body (22) of the aerosol generating device (10); and a fastening arrangement (24) configured to mechanically fasten the removeable cover (20) to the body (22) when the lid (18) is moved by a user to open the heating compartment (14) and to mechanically unfasten the removeable cover (20) from the body (22) when the lid (18) is moved by a user to close the heating compartment (14).
2. an aerosol generating device (10) according claim 1, wherein the lid (18) is linearly slidable by a user to open and close the heating compartment (14).
3. an aerosol generating device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fastening arrangement (24) comprises: a fastener (26); and a receiver (28), wherein, in use, moving the lid (18) to open the heating compartment (14) causes the fastener (26) to engage with the receiver (28) to mechanically fasten the removeable cover (20) to the body (22), wherein moving the lid (18) to close the heating compartment (14) causes the fastener (26) to disengage from the receiver (28) to mechanically unfasten the removeable cover (20) from the body (22).
4. an aerosol generating device (10) according to claim 3, wherein the removable cover (20) comprises the receiver (28).
5. an aerosol generating device (10) according to claim 4, wherein the receiver (28) is arranged on an inner surface (30) of the removable cover (20).
6. an aerosol generating device (10) according to any of claims 3 to 5, wherein the fastener (26) is configured to move with the lid (18).
7. an aerosol generating device (10) according to claim 6, wherein the fastener (26) is connected to the lid (18).
8. an aerosol generating device (10) according to claim 7, wherein the fastener (26) is connected to the lid (18) by a connecting arm (40).
9. an aerosol generating device (10) according to any of claims 3 to 8, wherein the fastener (26) comprises a bolt (34) and the receiver (28) comprises a socket (36), wherein the socket (36) is configured to receive the bolt (34) to engage with the fastener (26).
10. an aerosol generating device (10) according to claim 9, wherein the bolt (34) is substantially cylindrical.
11. an aerosol generating device (10) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the bolt (34) is moveable in a bolt housing (38).
12. an aerosol generating device (10) according to claim 11, wherein the bolt housing (38) is arranged on an outer surface (32) of the body (22).
13. an aerosol generating device (10) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening arrangement (24) provides an electrical switch configured to enable heating in the heating compartment (14) when the lid (18) is moved by a user to open the heating compartment (14) and to disable heating in the heating compartment (14) when the lid (18) is moved by a user to close the heating compartment (14).
14. an aerosol generating device (10) according to claim 13 when dependent on claim 3, wherein the electrical switch is configured such that heating is enabled when the fastener (26) is engaged with the receiver (28) and disabled when the fastener (26) is disengaged from the receiver (28).
15. an aerosol generating device (10) according to claim 13 or 14 when dependent on claim 3, wherein the electrical switch is configured such that a conducting path in an electrical circuit is one of connected or disconnected when the fastener (26) is engaged with the receiver (28) to enable heating, and the other of disconnected or connected when the fastener (26) is disengaged from the receiver (28) to disable heating.


Abstract: [en] a method of an aerosol generation device comprising: determining whether the aerosol generation device is connected to an aerosol generation device case for a first time; in a case where the aerosol generation device is connected to the aerosol generation device case for a first time, pairing with the aerosol generation device case by: transmitting, to the aerosol generation device case, an identifier of the aerosol generation device; receiving, from the aerosol generation device case, an identifier of the aerosol generation device case; storing the received identifier in a memory section of the aerosol generation device; and establishing a wireless communication link with the paired aerosol generation device case.

[en] claims 1. a method of an aerosol generation device comprising: determining whether the aerosol generation device is connected to an aerosol generation device case for a first time; in a case where the aerosol generation device is connected to the aerosol generation device case for a first time, pairing with the aerosol generation device case by: transmitting, to the aerosol generation device case, an identi fier of the aerosol generation device; receiving, from the aerosol generation device case, an identi fier of the aerosol generation device case; storing the received identi fier in a memory section of the aerosol generation device; and establishing a wireles s communication link with the paired aerosol generation device case.
2. the method of claim 1, wherein determining whether the aerosol generation device is connected to the aerosol generation device case for a first time comprises: determining whether the identi fier of the aerosol generation device case is previously stored in the memory section, and determining that the aerosol generation device is connected to the aerosol generation device case for a first time in a case where the identi fier of aerosol generation device case is not previously stored in the memory section.
3. the method of claim 1 or claim 2, further comprising: transmitting, via the wireles s communication link to the aerosol generation device case, an instruction to output an alert, wherein the instruction is transmitted in response to a user input received via an input section of the aerosol generation device.
4. the method of any preceding claim, further comprising: outputting an alert via an output section of the aerosol generation device.
5. the method of claim 4, wherein the alert is output in response to one of: an instruction received via the wireles s communication link from the aerosol generation device case; and a user input received via an input section of the aerosol generation device.
6. the method of claim 4, wherein the alert is output in response to a determination that the wireles s communication link with the aerosol generation device case is lost.
7. the method of claim 6, further comprising determining that the wireles s communication link with the aerosol generation device case is los t in a case where: a detected signal strength of a signal received from the aerosol generation device case is les s than a threshold value; a response signal is not received from the aerosol generation device case within a predetermined period of time after transmis sion of a signal by the aerosol generation device; and/or a signal is not received from the aerosol generation device cas e within a predetermined period of time after reception of a previous signal.
8. the method of claim 5, further comprising: detecting a signal strength of a signal received from the aerosol generation device case; and adj usting the alert based on the detected signal strength.
9. the method of any preceding claim further comprising: unpairing with the aerosol generation device case by: deleting the received identi fier from the memory section in response to a user input received via an input section of the aerosol generation device.
10. the method of any preceding claim, further comprising, in a cas e where the aerosol generation device is not connected to the aerosol generation device case for a first time: receiving, from the aerosol generation device case, an identi fier of the aerosol generation device case; determining whether the received identi fier matches a firs t identi fier stored in the memory section; and determining veri fication has failed in a case where the received identi fier does not match the first identi fier stored in the memory section.
11. the method of claim 10, further comprising, in a case where the aerosol generation device is not connected to the aerosol generation device case for a first time: transmitting the identifier of the aerosol generation device to the aerosol generation device case; and determining verification has failed in response to a signal received from the aerosol generation device case.
12. a method of an aerosol generation device case comprising: determining whether the aerosol generation device case is connected to an aerosol generation device for a first time; in a case where the aerosol generation device case is connected to the aerosol generation device for a first time, pairing with the aerosol generation device by: transmitting, to the aerosol generation device, an identifier of the aerosol generation device case; receiving, from the aerosol generation device, an identifier of the aerosol generation device; storing the received identifier in a memory section of the aerosol generation device case; and establishing a wireless communication link with the paired aerosol generation device.
13. an aerosol generation device comprising: a transmitting/receiving section; a memory section; and a control section configured to control the transmitting/receiving section and the memory section to perform the method of any of claims 1 to 11.
14. an aerosol generation device case comprising: a transmitting/receiving section; a memory section; and a control section configured to control the transmitting/receiving section and the memory section to perform the method of claim 12.
15. a system comprising an aerosol generation device according to claim 13 and an aerosol generation device case according to claim 14.
16. a method of an aerosol generation s ystem comprising an aerosol generation device and an aerosol generation device case, the method comprising: determining whether the aerosol generation device is connected to the aerosol generation device case for a first time; in a case where the aerosol generation device is connected to the aerosol generation device case for a first time, pairing the aerosol generation device with the aerosol generation device case by exchanging an identi fier of the aerosol generation device and an identi fier of the aerosol generation device case; and establishing a wireles s communication link between the paired aerosol generation device and aerosol generation device case, characteri zed by: outputting an alert via an output section of the aerosol generation device and/or an output section of the aerosol generation device case in response to a determination that the wi reles s communication link with the aerosol generation device case is lost or in response to user input.
17. the method of claim 16, further comprising: outputting an alert via the output section of the aerosol generation device case in response to user input received on the aerosol generation device.


Abstract: [en] a cleaning system (10) for an aerosol generating device (12). the cleaning system (10) comprises a cleaning tool (14) receivable in a heating compartment (16) of the aerosol generating device (12). the cleaning system (10) further comprises an actuation mechanism (18). the actuation mechanism (18) is configured to activate to cause movement of a cleaning tool (14) received in the heating compartment (16) for mechanically cleaning the heating compartment (16). the cleaning system (10) further comprises a closure member (20) for closing the heating compartment (16). the actuation mechanism (18) is configured to activate based on a cleaning tool (14) being received in the heating compartment (16) and the heating compartment (16) being closed by the closure member (20).

[en] claims 1. a cleaning system (10, 100) for an aerosol generating device (12), the cleaning system (10, 100) comprising: a cleaning tool (14) receivable in a heating compartment (16) of the aerosol generating device (12); an actuation mechanism (18), wherein the actuation mechanism (18) is configured to activate to cause movement of a cleaning tool (14) received in the heating compartment (16) for mechanically cleaning the heating compartment (16); and a closure member (20) for closing the heating compartment (16), wherein the actuation mechanism (18) is configured to activate based on a cleaning tool (14) being received in the heating compartment (16) and the heating compartment (16) being closed by the closure member (20).
2. a cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 1, wherein the actuation mechanism (18) is configured to mechanically clean the heating compartment (16) according to a predefined cleaning cycle.
3. a cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuation mechanism (18) is configured to automatically activate.
4. a cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuation mechanism (18) is configured to activate based on a user command.
5. a cleaning system (10, 100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, in use, activation of the actuation mechanism (18) causes back and forth linear movements of the cleaning tool (14) in the heating compartment (16) and/or rotational movement of the cleaning tool (14) in the heating compartment (16).
6. a cleaning system (10, 100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the actuation mechanism (18) comprises a coil (22) arranged around the heating compartment (16), wherein, in use, the actuation mechanism (18) is activated by energising the coil (22) to create a magnetic field which causes linear movement of the cleaning tool (14) in the heating compartment (16).
7. a cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 6, wherein the cleaning tool (14) comprises a permanent magnet.
8. a cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the coil (22) is provided by an induction coil of an induction heating assembly (48) of the aerosol generating device (12).
9. a cleaning system (10, 100) according to any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the actuation mechanism (18) comprises an electric motor (24), wherein, in use, the actuation mechanism (18) is activated by powering the electric motor (24) which causes rotational movement of the cleaning tool (14) in the heating compartment (16).
10. a cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 9, wherein the electric motor (24) carries a first permanent magnet (26) and the cleaning tool (14) comprises a second permanent magnet (28), wherein the first and second permanent magnets (26, 28) are spaced apart and arranged to magnetically attract one another when the cleaning tool (14) is received in the heating compartment (16), wherein, in use, activating the actuation mechanism (18) by powering the electric motor (24) rotates the first permanent magnet (26) which causes rotational movement of the cleaning tool (14) in the heating compartment (16) based on the magnetic attraction between the first and second permanent magnets (26, 28).
11. a cleaning system (10, 100) according to claim 10, wherein the first permanent magnet (26) is arranged outside the heating compartment (16).
12. a cleaning system (10, 100) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the cleaning tool (14) comprises a central shaft (30), wherein bristles (32) extend from the central shaft (30).
13. an aerosol generating device (12) useable with the cleaning system (10, 100) of any of the preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating device (12) comprises: a heating compartment (16); an actuation mechanism (18), wherein the actuation mechanism (18) is configured to activate to cause movement of a cleaning tool (14) received in the heating compartment (16) for mechanically cleaning the heating compartment (16); and a closure member (20) for closing the heating compartment (16), wherein the actuation mechanism (18) is configured to activate based on a cleaning tool (14) being received in the heating compartment (16) and the heating compartment (16) being closed by the closure member (20).


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generating apparatus, especially a personal vaporizer device such as an electronic smoking article, generates an aerosol from a source of aerosol-forming substance. the aerosol generating apparatus includes a receiving portion configured to receive a consumable unit, such as a charge or cartridge including a source of aerosol-forming substance, and at least one locating member for locating the consumable unit within the receiving portion. the at least one locating member is configured to locate or position the consumable unit within the receiving portion such that an airflow path extends along outer sides of the consumable unit and through the consumable unit entering at one end region thereof and exiting from an opposite end region thereof, with the outer sides of the consumable unit being arranged between the one end region and the opposite end region.

[en] 1. an aerosol generating apparatus, comprising: a receiving portion configured to receive a consumable unit, andat least one locating member for locating the consumable unit within the receiving portion,wherein the at least one locating member is configured to locate or position the consumable unit within the receiving portion such that an airflow path extends along outer sides of the consumable unit and through the consumable unit entering at one end region thereof and exiting from an opposite end region thereof, the outer sides of the consumable unit being arranged between the one end region and the opposite end region.
2. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one locating member is configured to extend into the one end region and/or the opposite end region of the consumable unit when the consumable unit is received within a space or cavity of the receiving portion.
3. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the at least one locating member is configured to transmit heat to the consumable unit.
4. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the airflow path substantially surrounds the consumable unit when the consumable unit is received within the receiving portion.
5. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the at least one locating member is configured to direct airflow along the airflow path to enter the consumable unit at the one end region of the consumable unit.
6. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a space or cavity in the receiving portion is defined by side walls of the receiving portion, the at least one locating member being arranged to locate or position the consumable unit within the space or cavity such that the airflow path travels or extends along the side walls.
7. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the side walls substantially surround the consumable unit when the consumable unit is received within the space or cavity.
8. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising: a housing enclosing the receiving portion, the housing including at least one housing inlet in fluid communication with the airflow path and being spaced from the side walls of the receiving portion.
9. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the at least one housing inlet is positioned at the same axial height of the housing as an air inlet into the receiving portion.
10. an aerosol generating system comprising the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1 and a consumable unit.
11. the aerosol generating system according to claim 10, wherein the consumable unit includes a body or charge of an aerosol-forming substance for receipt in the apparatus, the body or charge being permeable to a flow of air and having an airflow inlet at one end region thereof and an airflow outlet at an opposite end region thereof.
12. the aerosol generating system according to claim 11, wherein the airflow inlet includes a recess or indentation formed in the one end region of the body or charge.
13. the aerosol generating system according to claim 12, wherein the recess or indentation formed in the one end region of the body or charge is configured to receive the at least one locating member of the apparatus.
14. (canceled)
15. a method of generating an aerosol, especially in a vaporizer device such as an electronic smoking article, comprising the steps of: introducing a consumable unit into a receiving portion of an aerosol generating apparatus, the consumable unit having a body or charge of an aerosol-forming substance;heating the consumable unit in the receiving portion of the aerosol generating apparatus; anddirecting air along an airflow path over outer sides of the consumable unit and through the consumable unit, with the airflow path entering at one end region of the body or charge and exiting from an opposite end region thereof, wherein the outer sides are arranged between the one end region and the opposite end region.
16. the aerosol generating system according to claim 11, wherein the consumable unit further includes a cartridge containing the body or charge.
17. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the at least one housing inlet is positioned at a different axial height of the housing as an air inlet into the receiving portion.
18. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one locating member is a projection extending from a base of the receiving portion.
19. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the projection is hollow and defines a channel therethrough.
20. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the projection is pipe shaped.
21. the aerosol generating apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the projection is a spike having a sharp tip configured for penetrating the consumable unit.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generating article includes: a plurality of elongate first strips including an aerosol generating material; a plurality of susceptor patches including an inductively heatable susceptor material; and at least one elongate carrier strip to which the plurality of susceptor patches are adhered. each susceptor patch has a length dimension which is substantially equal to its width dimension. the elongate first strips, the plurality of susceptor patches and the at least one elongate carrier strip are arranged to form a rod-shaped aerosol generating article.

[en] 1. an aerosol generating article comprising: a plurality of elongate first strips comprising an aerosol generating material;a plurality of susceptor patches comprising an inductively heatable susceptor material; andat least one elongate carrier strip to which the plurality of susceptor patches are adhered;wherein:each susceptor patch has a length dimension which is substantially equal to a width dimension thereof, andthe plurality of elongate first strips, the plurality of susceptor patches and the at least one elongate carrier strip are arranged to form a rod-shaped aerosol generating article.
2. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the rod-shaped aerosol generating article has a longitudinal axis, and the at least one elongate carrier strip is located in a radially central position within the rod-shaped aerosol generating article and extends along the longitudinal axis.
3. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the rod-shaped aerosol generating article has a longitudinal axis and the plurality of susceptor patches are spaced along the longitudinal axis.
4. the aerosol generating article according to claim 3, wherein adjacent susceptor patches of the plurality of susceptor patches are spaced along the longitudinal axis by a constant and predetermined spacing.
5. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein each susceptor patch has first and second opposite faces, and one of the first and second opposite faces of each susceptor patch is covered in its entirety by the at least one elongate carrier strip.
6. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of elongate first strips has a distal end and one of the plurality of susceptor patches is positioned distally with respect to one or more other ones of the plurality of susceptor patches, the distal ends of the plurality of elongate first strips form a distal end of the aerosol generating article, and the distally positioned one of the plurality of susceptor patches is positioned inwardly from the distal ends of the plurality of elongate first strips so that the distally positioned one of the plurality of susceptor patches is not visible at the distal end of the aerosol generating article.
7. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of susceptor patches has substantially the same dimensions.
8. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein a length of the at least one elongate carrier strip is equal to a length of each of the elongate first strips.
9. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the at least one elongate carrier strip comprises an aerosol generating material.
10. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, further comprising a filter segment at a proximal end of the aerosol generating article and at least one tubular segment upstream of the filter segment.
11. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of elongate first strips have a plurality of different orientations within a cross-section of the rod-shaped aerosol generating article.
12. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein each susceptor patch has a thickness between 1 micro m and 500 micro m.
13. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the length dimension and the width dimension of each susceptor patch is between 1.0 mm and 6.0 mm.
14. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of elongate first strips has a length between 10 mm and 30 mm and a thickness between 150 micro m and 300 micro m.
15. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the aerosol generating material comprises a tobacco material and the inductively heatable susceptor material comprises a metal.
16. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein each susceptor patch has a thickness between 10 micro m and 100 micro m.
17. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the length dimension and the width dimension of each susceptor patch is 4.0 mm.
18. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of elongate first strips has a length of 20 mm and a thickness of 220 micro m.
19. the aerosol generating article according to claim 1, wherein the metal is at least one of stainless steel or carbon steel.


Abstract: [en] a tamper-resistant cartridge for a vapour generating system includes a housing and a closure secured to the housing. a wick or other liquid transport element is secured inside the housing. a heating element located inside the housing is attached to the closure and also engages the wick so that removal of the closure from the housing causes displacement of the heating element. this results in damage to the wick and/or the heating element so that the cartridge becomes unusable. the attachment of the heating element to the closure may be via terminal wires of the heating element, which pass through apertures in the closure and are joined to electrodes on an exterior surface of the closure.

[en] 1. a cartridge for a vapour generating system, the cartridge comprising: a housing;a closure secured to the housing;a liquid transport element secured inside the housing; anda heating element located inside the housing; wherein: the heating element is attached to the closure such that removal of the closure from the housing causes displacement of the heating element; andthe heating element engages the liquid transport element such that displacement of the heating element causes damage to the liquid transport element or to the heating element.
2. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the heating element passes through the liquid transport element.
3. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the heating element wraps around the liquid transport element.
4. a-the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the heating element comprises two electrical terminals, and wherein the closure comprises two electrodes, the terminals of the heating element being attached to the electrodes of the closure.
5. a-the cartridge according to claim 4, wherein the terminals of the heating element are welded to the electrodes of the closure.
6. a-the cartridge according to claim 4, wherein: the two electrodes are on a distal surface of the closure;at least one aperture extends through the closure from the distal surface to a proximal surface of the closure; andthe terminals of the heating element extend through the at least one aperture of the closure.
7. a-the cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the closure comprises two apertures formed respectively in the two electrodes; and wherein the two terminals of the heating element extend respectively through the two apertures.
8. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a reservoir welded to a reservoir cover.
9. the cartridge according to claim 8, wherein the closure of the cartridge is secured to the reservoir cover.
10. a vapour generating system comprising a vapour generating device and the cartridge according to claim 1, the cartridge being releasably coupled to the vapour generating device.
11. a method of manufacturing a cartridge for a vapour generating system, the method comprising the steps of: engaging a heating element with a liquid transport element;securing the liquid transport element inside a housing and locating the heating element inside the housing such that displacement of the heating element must cause damage to the liquid transport element or to the heating element;securing a closure to the housing; andattaching the heating element to the closure such that removal of the closure from the housing causes displacement of the heating element.
12. the method according to claim 11, wherein: the heating element comprises two electrical terminals;the closure comprises two electrodes on a distal surface of the closure and at least one aperture that extends through the closure from the distal surface to a proximal surface of the closure; andthe step of attaching the heating element to the closure comprises passing the terminals of the heating element through the at least one aperture in the closure and attaching the two terminals respectively to the two electrodes.
13. the method according to claim 12, wherein the step of attaching the terminals to the electrodes comprises laser welding.
14. the method according to claim 12, further comprising a preliminary step of forming the closure by insert moulding at least a part of the closure around the two electrodes.
15. the method according to claim 11, wherein: the housing comprises a reservoir and a reservoir cover; andthe step of locating the heating element inside the housing comprises locating the heating element inside the reservoir, followed by ultrasonically welding the reservoir cover to the reservoir.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generating system comprises a cartridge (2) that contains a supply of aerosol generating material (15) and an aerosol generating device (4) for receiving the cartridge (2). when the cartridge (2) is received in the aerosol generating device (4), projections (38) on the cartridge (2) enter a set of recesses (40) in the device (4) and exert pressure on a pressure-responsive surface (20) disposed in the base of the recesses (40), whereby the correct insertion of an authentic cartridge (2) can be determined. the pressure-responsive surface (20) may be part of a plate (50) that moves in response to the exerted pressure to complete an electrical power circuit or a test circuit. preferably, the pattern of recesses (40) requires the complementary projections (38) to be arranged in the shapes of letters, symbols or other patterns capable of conveying visual information, for example a trade mark of the supplier of authentic cartridges (2).

[en] claims 1. an aerosol generating system comprising: a cartridge (2) that contains a supply of aerosol generating material (15); and an aerosol generating device (4) for receiving the cartridge (2); wherein: the cartridge (2) comprises one or more projections (38); the aerosol generating device (4) comprises one or more recesses (40) configured to receive the one or more projections (38) when the cartridge (2) is received in the aerosol generating device (4); and the aerosol generating device (4) further comprises a pressure-responsive surface (20) disposed in the base of a first set of one or more of the recesses (40) for detecting pressure exerted by one or more of the projections (38) when received in the first set of recesses (40), wherein the pressure-responsive surface (20) is a surface of a plate that is configured to move in response to pressure applied to the pressure- responsive surface (20) and thereby to complete an electrical circuit.
2. an aerosol generating system according to claim 1, wherein the plate is mounted such that pressure applied unevenly to the pressure-responsive surface (20) may cause the plate to tilt and thereby fail to complete the electrical circuit.
3. an aerosol generating system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: the cartridge (2) comprises an electrically powered aerosol generator (22); the aerosol generating device (4) comprises a source of electrical power (8); and the electrical circuit is configured, when complete, to supply current from the power source (8) to the aerosol generator (22).
4. an aerosol generating system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein: the aerosol generating device (4) comprises a source of electrical power (8) and a controller (10); and the controller (10) is configured to supply current from the power source (8) to the electrical circuit to verify that the cartridge (2) is received correctly in the aerosol generating device (4).
5. an aerosol generating system according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first set of recesses (40) comprises all the recesses (40).
6. an aerosol generating system according to any of claims 1 to 4, comprising a second pressure-responsive surface (21) disposed at the base of a second set of one or more of the recesses (40) for detecting pressure exerted by one or more of the projections (38) when received in the second set of recesses (40), the second set of recesses (40) being distinct from the first set of recesses (40).
7. an aerosol generating system according to any preceding claim, wherein the projections (38) are in the shapes of letters, symbols or other patterns capable of conveying visual information.
8. a method of activating an aerosol generating system that comprises: a cartridge (2), which contains a supply of aerosol generating material (15) and comprises one or more projections (38); and an aerosol generating device (4) for receiving the cartridge (2), the aerosol generating device (4) comprising one or more recesses (40) and a pressure-responsive surface (20) disposed in the base of a first set of one or more of the recesses (40), wherein the pressure-responsive surface (20) is a surface of a plate that is configured to move in response to pressure applied to the pressure-responsive surface (20) and thereby to complete an electrical circuit; the method comprising: inserting the cartridge (2) into the aerosol generating device (4) such that one or more of the projections (38) are received in the first set of recesses (40); and activating the aerosol generating system when the pressure-responsive surface (20) detects pressure exerted by the projections (38) received in the first set of recesses (40).
9. a method according to claim 8, wherein the step of activating the aerosol generating system is carried out in response to completion of the electrical circuit.


Abstract: [en] this invention relates to an e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick comprising: an aerosol generating segment (3), a cooling segment (14), a filter segment (9), wherein it comprises: at least a one-piece hollow tube (11) disposed so that: the cooling segment (14) is surrounded by a first longitudinal portion (15) of the one-piece hollow tube (11), the filter segment (9) is surrounded by a second longitudinal portion (16) of the one-piece hollow tube (11), the aerosol generating segment (3) is not surrounded by the one-piece hollow tube (11).

[en] 1. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick comprising: ? an aerosol generating segment (3),? a cooling segment (14),? a filter segment (9), wherein it comprises: ? at least a one-piece hollow tube (11) disposed so that: ° the cooling segment (14) is surrounded by a first longitudinal portion (15) of the one-piece hollow tube (11),° the filter segment (9) is surrounded by a second longitudinal portion (16) of the one-piece hollow tube (11),° the aerosol generating segment (3) is not surrounded by the one-piece hollow tube (11).
2. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to claim 1, wherein the cooling segment (14) is made of a void cavity (10) filling completely inside of the first longitudinal portion (15) of the one-piece hollow tube (11).
3. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein the one-piece hollow tube (11) is made of a single material.
4. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein the cooling segment (14) is surrounded by the first longitudinal portion (15) of the one-piece hollow tube (11), along whole longitudinal extension of the cooling segment (14).
5. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein: ? the filter segment (9) is surrounded by the second longitudinal portion (16) of the one-piece hollow tube (11), along whole longitudinal extension of the filter segment (9),? the filter segment (9) is in contact with the second longitudinal portion (16) of the one-piece hollow tube (11), along whole longitudinal extension of the filter segment (9).
6. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating segment (3) is not surrounded by the one-piece hollow tube (11) along any longitudinal extension of the aerosol generating segment (3).
7. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein it also comprises: ? an external hollow tube (8) disposed so as to: ° surround the one-piece hollow tube (11), along whole longitudinal extension of the one-piece hollow tube (11),° surround at least part of longitudinal extension of the aerosol generating segment (3), but preferably not whole longitudinal extension of the aerosol generating segment (3).
8. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein it also comprises: ? a supplementary tube (12) disposed so to: ° surrounding the one-piece hollow tube (11), along whole extension of the one-piece hollow tube (11),° be as long as the one-piece hollow tube (11),° be in contact with the one-piece hollow tube (11), along whole extension of the one-piece hollow tube (11),° be in a single material different from single material of the one-piece hollow tube (11).
9. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein: ? the one-piece hollow tube (11) and/or the supplementary tube (12) is or are made of: ° a material which belongs to the list consisting of: ? a non-wrapped acetate,? an acetate tow wrapped with paper,? a crimped paper.
10. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein thickness of the one-piece hollow tube (11) is equal or less than 4mm, is preferably between 0.5mm and 4mm, is more preferably between 1mm and 3mm.
11. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein the first longitudinal portion (15) of the one-piece hollow tube (11) comprises one or more perforations, the perforations being preferably distributed along a radial perimeter of the first longitudinal portion (15) of the one-piece hollow tube (11).
12. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein an internal diameter of the one-piece hollow tube (11) is constant over a whole length of the one-piece hollow tube (11).
13. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein: ? there is no filter segment between the cooling segment (14) and the aerosol generating segment (3),? and preferably the cooling segment (14) abuts against the aerosol generating segment (3).
14. e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein the aerosol generating segment (3) is a solid substrate.
15. method of manufacturing an e-vaping device aerosol generating heat stick, according to any of preceding claims, wherein it comprises: ? one or more steps of filter segment making (21, 22),? a step of one-piece hollow tube making with insertion of filter segment within one-piece hollow tube (26),? a step of assembling a aerosol generating segment with the made one-piece hollow tube already including the filter segment (27).


Abstract: [en] an electronic cigarette device includes an elongate main body including a power supply unit, electrical circuitry and a seating for a liquid reservoir. front and back panels are slidably attached to the elongate main body and configured to move in the longitudinal direction between an extended position and a retracted position. the panels include connectors configured to slide on rail members in a longitudinal direction. the connectors include a movable portion that is movable relative to a fixed portion, and which allows movement of the panel in a direction that is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the rail members.

[en] 1. an electronic cigarette device comprising: an elongate main body configured to house a liquid reservoir,at least one slideable panel connected to the elongate main body and moveable in relation to the elongate main body in a longitudinal direction of the elongate main body between an extended position and a retracted position, whereby the liquid reservoir is exposed or more exposed when the at least one slideable panel is in the retracted position,wherein one of the elongate main body and the at least one slideable panel comprises at least one guide member and the other of the elongate main body and the at least one slideable panel comprises at least one connector configured to connect to the at least one guide member,and wherein the at least one connector is connected to the at least one guide member such that the at least one slideable panel is slideably moveable relative to the elongate main body in the longitudinal direction and is also movable in a transverse direction that is perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
2. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the elongate main body comprises the at least one guide member and the at least one slideable panel comprises the at least one connector.
3. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the liquid reservoir is configured as a removable capsule provided with a mouthpiece portion.
4. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the at least one connector is biased in the transverse direction.
5. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the at least one connector comprises a fixed portion fixedly attached to the at least one slideable panel and a moveable portion that is movable in relation to the fixed portion in the transverse direction.
6. the electronic cigarette according to claim 5, wherein the fixed portion comprises first and second protrusions, wherein the movable portion is slidably received between the first and second protrusions.
7. the electronic cigarette according to claim 6, wherein the at least one connector comprises a keyway configured to receive the at least one guide member.
8. the electronic cigarette according to claim 5, wherein the keyway comprises a first contact surface on one side of the at least one guide member and a second contact surface on another side of the at least one guide member, wherein at least one of the first contact surface and the second contact surface is biased towards the at least one guide member.
9. the electronic cigarette according to claim 5, wherein the at least one connector comprises a biasing member configured to bias the movable portion relative to the fixed portion.
10. the electronic cigarette according to claim 9, wherein the biasing member is a resilient material of spongy foam.
11. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the at least one slideable panel is arranged to move at a distance of between 0.05 and 1 mm in the transverse direction of the elongate main body.
12. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the at least one slideable panel comprises a first slideable panel, and the electronic cigarette further comprises a second slideable panel configured to move in unison with the first slideable panel.
13. the electronic cigarette according to claim 12, wherein the elongate main body comprises the at least one guide member and the first slideable panel comprises the at least one connector, and wherein the at least one connector of the first slideable panel is in abutment with at least one connector of the second slideable panel such that they move together.
14. the electronic cigarette according to claim 1, wherein the elongate main body comprises an electrical activation circuit and an actuator element, wherein the at least one slideable panel comprises an engagement element configured to move the actuator element, whereby the electrical activation circuit is only activated when the at least one slideable panel is in the retracted position.
15. the electronic cigarette according to claim 14, wherein the at least one slideable panel further comprises a heating element activation button and wherein the heating element activation button is only operable when the at least one slideable panel is in the retracted position.
16. the electronic cigarette according to claim 15, wherein the electrical activation circuit is located on a printed circuit board, and wherein the elongate main body has at least one abutment portion configured to protect the printed circuit board from the heating element activation button when the at least one slideable panel is in an extended position.
17. the electronic cigarette according to claim 10, wherein the spongy foam is polyurethane or polyethylene.


Abstract: [en] a heating apparatus for an aerosol generating device is disclosed. the heating apparatus (10) comprises: a first tube (12) comprising an electrically conductive material and having an opening (20) through which an aerosol forming substance can be received; a second tube (14) comprising an electrically conductive material and arranged radially outwardly with respect to the first tube; at least one electrical insulator component (18) arranged to space the first tube apart from the second tube; and a heater (22) provided on an outer surface of the first tube, wherein the heater is electrically connected to the first tube and the second tube, and wherein the heater is configured to provide heat to the received aerosol forming substance by thermal conduction.

[en] claims 1. a heating apparatus for an aerosol generating device, comprising: a first tube comprising an electrically conductive material and having an opening through which an aerosol forming substance can be received; a second tube comprising an electrically conductive material and arranged radially outwardly with respect to the first tube; at least one electrical insulator component arranged to space the first tube apart from the second tube; and a heater provided on an outer surface of the first tube, wherein the heater is electrically connected to the first tube and the second tube, and wherein the heater is configured to provide heat to the received aerosol forming substance by thermal conduction.
2. the heating apparatus of claim 1, wherein a vacuum is enclosed between the first tube and the second tube, or wherein an insulating material is provided between the first tube and the second tube.
3. the heating apparatus of claims 1 or 2, wherein the heater comprises an electrically resistive track that is printed or coated on the first tube.
4. the heating apparatus of claims 1, 2 or 3, wherein the first tube and the second tube are electrically connected, respectively, to a power source that can supply electrical power to the heater.
5. the heating apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein an inner surface of the first tube is coated with a first electrical insulator layer.
6. the heating apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein an outer surface of the second tube is coated with a second electrical insulator layer.
7. the heating apparatus of claims 5 or 6, wherein the at least one electrical insulator component comprises the first and/or second electrical insulator layers for the respective first and second tubes.
8. the heating apparatus of any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one electrical insulator component comprises a first ring and a second ring, the first and second rings positioned between the first and second tubes at a first end and a second end of the first and second tubes respectively.
9. the heating apparatus of any of the preceding claims, further comprising an abutment positioned within the first tube and configured to limit an insertion of a received aerosol forming substance.
10. the heating apparatus of claim 9, wherein the abutment comprises a plug.
11. the heating apparatus of claim 10, wherein the plug encloses a second vacuum or an insulating material within.
12. the heating apparatus of claims 9 or 10, wherein the plug comprises an electrical insulator material.
13. the heating apparatus of any of claims 9 to 12, wherein the abutment is shaped to allow air to flow through the first tube.
14. an aerosol generating device configured to generate an aerosol for inhalation by a user, the aerosol generating device comprising the heating apparatus according to claims 1 to 13.
15. a method of manufacturing the heating apparatus of any of claims 1 to 13, the method comprising the steps of: providing a first tube, the first tube comprising an electrically conductive material and having an opening through which an aerosol forming substance can be received; arranging a heater on an outer surface ofthe first tube, wherein the heater is configured to provide heat to the received aerosol forming substance by thermal conduction; arranging at least one electrical insulator component on the first tube; arranging a second tube comprising an electrically conductive material on the at least one electrical insulator component such that the second tube is radially outwardly spaced away from the first tube; and electrically connecting the heater to the first tube and the second tube.


Abstract: [en] there is provided an aerosol generation device user authentication unit. the authentication unit comprises a gas sensor (106) configured to sense gas information of a flow of breath, and a controller (102). the controller is configured to measure (301) gas information of a flow of breath using the gas sensor, and determine (302) a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information. the controller is also configured to determine (303) whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement, and perform (304) an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.

[en] claims 1. an aerosol generation device user authentication unit comprising a gas sensor configured to sense gas information of a flow of breath, and a controller, wherein the controller is configured to: measure gas information of a flow of breath using the gas sensor; determine a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information, wherein the physiological parameter is a basal metabolic rate; determine whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement; and perform an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.
2. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of claim 1, wherein the measured gas information comprises a carbon dioxide level in the flow of breath, and the controller is configured to convert the measured carbon dioxide level to the basal metabolic rate.
3. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to compare the basal metabolic rate to a predetermined threshold and determine that the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement when the basal metabolic rate is below the predetermined threshold.
4. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the action comprises setting an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit to an unlocked state.
5. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to compare the basal metabolic rate to a predetermined threshold and determine that the physiological parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement when the basal metabolic rate is not below the predetermined threshold.
6. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to perform a second action when the physiological parameter does not meet the predetermined requirement; and the second action comprises setting an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit to a locked state or maintaining the aerosol generation device in a locked state.
7. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the aerosol generation device user authentication unit further comprises a communications interface configured to communicate with an external device; and the controller is further configured to receive physiological information from the external device by the communication interface and determine the physiological parameter based upon the gas information and the received physiological information.
8. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the gas sensor is further configured to sense gas information of an inhaling flow of breath of an operator of an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit; and the controller is configured to measure inhaled gas information of the inhaling airflow using the gas sensor, and adjust the physiological parameter with the inhaled gas information.
9. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the gas information is measured over a period of time, and the controller is configured to calibrate the determined physiological parameter using a first portion of the measured gas information at a beginning of the period of time.
10. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, further comprising a flow meter, wherein the controller is configured to measure a flow rate of the flow of breath using the flow meter and determine the physiological parameter based upon the gas information and the measured flow rate.
11. the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the controller is configured to measure a sulphur level in the flow of breath using the gas sensor; and/or wherein the controller is configured to measure an alcohol level in the flow of breath using the gas sensor.
12. an aerosol generation device comprising the aerosol generation device user authentication unit of any preceding claim, wherein the gas sensor is configured to sense gas information of a flow of breath into the aerosol generation device.
13. an aerosol generation device user authentication method, the method comprising: measuring gas information of a flow of breath using a gas sensor in an aerosol generation device; determining a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information, wherein the physiological parameter is a basal metabolic rate; determining whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement; and performing an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.
14. a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that when executed by one or more processors of an aerosol generation device user authentication unit cause the one or more processors to perform steps comprising: measuring gas information of a flow of breath using a gas sensor in an aerosol generation device; determining a physiological parameter based upon the measured gas information, wherein the physiological parameter is a basal metabolic rate; determining whether the physiological parameter meets a predetermined requirement; and performing an action when the physiological parameter meets the predetermined requirement.


Abstract: [en] an aerosol generation device has a heating chamber into which an aerosol substrate is insertable for being heated to generate an aerosol. the heating chamber is housed in a casing and an aperture is provided, through which the aerosol substrate is insertable into the heating chamber, e.g. through an open end of the heating chamber. insulation is disposed between the heating chamber and the casing and a thermal bridge is arranged to dissipate heat from the heating chamber to the casing, for example in the vicinity of the aperture or from the open end of the heating chamber.

[en] 1. an aerosol generation device comprising: a heating chamber into which an aerosol substrate is insertable for being heated to generate an aerosol;a casing in which the heating chamber is housed;an aperture through which the aerosol substrate is insertable into the heating chamber;insulation disposed at least partially between the heating chamber and the casing; anda thermal bridge arranged to dissipate heat from the heating chamber to the casing.
2. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the heating chamber comprises a first end proximal to the aperture and a second end opposite the first end of the heating chamber, wherein the thermal bridge is arranged closer to the first end of the heating chamber than the thermal bridge is to the second end of the heating chamber.
3. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge at least partly defines the aperture.
4. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge is arranged at least partly between the heating chamber and the aperture.
5. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge comprises a heat dissipation surface facing outward from the aerosol generation device.
6. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge comprises a heat dissipation surface facing a heat dissipating wall of the casing.
7. the aerosol generation device of claim 6, wherein the heat dissipation surface is in direct contact with the heat dissipating wall of the casing.
8. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge is arranged at least partly to enclose the heating chamber.
9. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge is in contact with the heating chamber.
10. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge comprises a first material and the insulation comprises a second material, the first material having a higher thermal conductivity than the second material.
11. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge comprises a first material and the casing comprises a second material, the first material having a higher thermal conductivity than the second material.
12. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge comprises metal.
13. (canceled)
14. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge is externally ribbed.
15. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, further comprising a chassis; both the thermal bridge and the chassis complementarily surrounding the heating chamber; the chassis being made of a material having a lower thermal conductivity than the thermal bridge.
16-19. (canceled)
20. the aerosol generation device of claim 15, further comprising a mounting element which extends between the heating chamber and the insulation.
21. the aerosol generation device of claim 20, wherein the mounting element cooperates with the chassis and the insulation to secure the insulation and the heating chamber in position in the aerosol generation device.
22. the aerosol generation device of claim 15, wherein the heating chamber has a flange and the thermal bridge is located against a surface of the flange.
23. (canceled)
24. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge comprises a first material and the aerosol generation device has an outer trim at least partially defining the aperture, the outer trim comprising a third material, the third material having a lower thermal conductivity than the first material.
25-27. (canceled)
28. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, wherein the thermal bridge comprises an aperture part and a casing part; the aperture part being preferably located proximate to the aperture and the casing part being preferably located between a portion of a length of the insulation and the casing.
29. (canceled)
30. the aerosol generation device of claim 1, further comprising a spacing component between the heating chamber and the thermal bridge.
31. (canceled)


Abstract: [en] a capsule has a first end to engage with an electronic cigarette device and a second end as a mouthpiece portion having a vapour outlet; the ends defining a capsule axial direction, a vaporising chamber having an air inlet and a vapour outlet; a storage reservoir to store a liquid to be vaporised and extending between the mouthpiece and the chamber; a heating element to vaporise liquid received from the reservoir; a vapour flow path extending between the chamber and the mouthpiece to allow the vapour to flow from the chamber to the mouthpiece; an airflow path extending between a capsule air inlet and the air inlet of the chamber for allowing air to flow into the chamber; a vaporisation flow path located within the chamber and extending between the air inlet and the vapour outlet and extending in a capsule direction that is perpendicular to the capsule axial direction.

[en] 1. a capsule for an electronic cigarette, the capsule having a first end configured to engage with an electronic cigarette device and a second end arranged as a mouthpiece portion having a vapour outlet; the first and second ends defining an axial direction of the capsule, the capsule further comprising: a vaporising chamber having an air inlet and a vapour outlet; a storage reservoir configured to store a liquid to be vaporised, the storage reservoir extending between the mouthpiece and the vaporising chamber;a heating element housed within the vaporising chamber, the heating element configured to vaporise liquid received from the storage reservoir and generate a vapour;a vapour flow path extending between the vaporising chamber and the mouthpiece to allow the generated vapour to flow from the vaporising chamber to the mouthpiece;an airflow path extending between an air inlet of the capsule and the air inlet of the vaporising chamber for allowing air to flow into the vaporising chamber; anda vaporisation flow path located within the vaporising chamber and extending between the air inlet of the vaporising chamber and the vapour outlet of the vaporising chamber to allow vapour to flow out of the vaporising chamber;wherein the vaporisation flow path extends in a direction of the capsule that is substantially perpendicular to the axial direction of the capsule; andwherein the airflow path extends in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the capsule.
2. the capsule according to claim 1, wherein the vaporisation flow path extends in a direction substantially parallel to a length of the heating element.
3. the capsule according to claim 1, wherein the heating element comprises a capillary-type heating element.
4. the capsule according to claim 1, wherein the heating element comprises a heating surface delimiting a wall surface of the vaporising chamber.
5. the capsule according to claim 4, wherein the heating surface extends in substantially the same direction as the direction of the vaporization flow path, substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the capsule.
6. the capsule according to claim 4, wherein the heating element comprises a liquid capillary part sealed from the heating surface by a seal element.
7. the capsule according to claim 4, wherein the heating surface of the heating element comprises a heater track in communication with the capillary part.
8. the capsule according to claim 7, wherein the heater track is printed on the capillary part.
9. the capsule according to claim 7, wherein the capillary part comprises a rigid porous ceramic.
10. the capsule according to claim 4, wherein the heating element has an upper portion comprising the heating surface and a lower portion comprising the liquid capillary part.
11. the capsule according to claim 10, wherein the lower portion is more elongated in the horizontal direction than the upper portion.
12. the capsule according to claim 1, further comprising a seal configured to surround an external surface of the heating element.
13. the capsule according to claim 1, further comprising a holder configured to retain the heating element.
14. the capsule according to claim 13, further comprising a seal configured to surround an external surface of the heating element, wherein the holder is configured to engage with the seal to house the heating element between the seal and the holder.
15. (canceled)
16. (canceled)
17. the capsule according to claim 1, wherein the vapour flow path comprises a vapour flow conduit extending from the vapour outlet of the vaporizing chamber, the vapour flow conduit located next to the storage reservoir.
18. (canceled)
19. the capsule according to claim 1, wherein the vapour flow path comprises a main portion and an end portion and wherein: the main portion extends between the vapour outlet of the vaporising chamber and the end portion, in a direction substantially parallel to the axial direction of the capsule; andthe end portion extends between the main portion and the mouthpiece.
20. (canceled)
21. (canceled)
22. the capsule according to claim 1, wherein the air flow path comprises an air flow conduit extending between the air inlet of the capsule and the air inlet of the vaporising chamber, the air flow conduit located adjacent the heating element.
23. the capsule according to claim 1, wherein the vapour flow path and air flow path are located substantially on opposite sides of a median plane, the median plane passing substantially through the vapour outlet in the mouthpiece of the capsule.
24. the capsule according to claim 1, further comprising a buffer reservoir in fluid communication with the storage reservoir, and wherein the heating element is arranged to contact liquid stored in the buffer reservoir.
25. an electronic cigarette comprising a main body and a capsule wherein the main body comprises a power supply unit, electrical circuitry, and a capsule seating configured to connect with the capsule, the capsule comprising: a first end configured to engage with the electronic cigarette device and a second end arranged as a mouthpiece portion having a vapour outlet, the capsule further comprising:a vaporising chamber having an air inlet and a vapour outlet; a storage reservoir configured to store a liquid to be vaporised, the storage reservoir extending between the mouthpiece and the vaporising chamber;a heating element housed within the vaporising chamber, the heating element configured to vaporise liquid received from the storage reservoir and generate a vapour;a vapour flow path extending between the vaporising chamber and the mouthpiece to allow the generated vapour to flow from the vaporising chamber to the mouthpiece;an airflow path extending between an air inlet of the capsule and the air inlet of the vaporising chamber for allowing air to flow into the vaporising chamber; anda vaporisation flow path located within the vaporising chamber and extending between the air inlet of the vaporising chamber and the vapour outlet of the vaporising chamber to allow vapour to flow out of the vaporising chamber;wherein the vaporisation flow path extends in a direction of the capsule that is substantially perpendicular to an axial direction of the capsule; andwherein the airflow path extends in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the capsule.


Abstract: [en] the invention relates to a battery module for an aerosol generating system. it comprises a battery extending substantially in a longitudinal direction and a printed circuit board assembly connected to the battery. the battery comprises along the longitudinal direction a first portion of a first thickness, and a second portion comprising opposite faces defining a second thickness, the second thickness being less than the first thickness. the printed circuit board assembly is electrically connected to the second portion of the battery on one of said opposite faces. this allows spatial optimization of the battery module. the invention also relates to a corresponding aerosol generating system, and to a corresponding set comprising a battery charger.

[en] 1. a battery module for an aerosol generating system, the battery module comprising: a battery extending substantially in a longitudinal direction, the battery having a length measured in the longitudinal direction, and a width and a thickness measured orthogonally to the longitudinal direction,a printed circuit board assembly connected to the battery;wherein, the battery comprises along the longitudinal direction a first portion of a first thickness, and a second portion comprising opposite faces which define a second thickness of said second portion, the second thickness being less than the first thickness,and wherein the printed circuit board assembly is electrically connected to the second portion of the battery on one of said opposite faces.
2. the battery module according to claim 1, wherein the battery module comprises poles configured for connection to a board-to-board connector.
3. the battery module according to claim 2, further comprising a flexible printed circuit connected to the printed circuit board assembly and carrying the board-to-board connector that is connected to the poles of the battery.
4. the battery module according to claim 3, wherein the flexible printed circuit further comprises electrical contacts configured for connection to a charger for charging the battery.
5. the battery module according to any one of claim 1, wherein the printed circuit board assembly is at least in part situated against the opposite face of the second portion of the battery to the face where it is electrically connected.
6. the battery module according to claim 1, wherein the second thickness of the second portion is between 10 percent and 70 percent of the first thickness of the first portion.
7. the battery module according to claim 1, wherein the battery comprises a single cell.
8. the battery module according to claim 4, comprising two ends in the longitudinal direction, wherein it further comprises, at one of said two ends, a battery cover which holds charging contact points for connection to a charger for charging the battery.
9. the battery module according to claim 8, wherein the charging contact points held by the battery cover are the electrical contacts of the flexible printed circuit.
10. the battery module according to claim 8, wherein the battery cover comprises a ferromagnetic sheet.
11. the battery module according to claim 10, wherein the ferromagnetic sheet is cold rolled steel.
12. the battery module according to claim 1, comprising successively in the longitudinal direction: the printed circuit board assembly, the first portion of the battery, and a pressure transducer, when the printed circuit board assembly is connected to the pressure transducer by a second flexible printed circuit.
13. an aerosol generating system comprising the battery module according to claim 1 and an aerosolization module removably connected to the battery module.
14. a set comprising an aerosol generating system and a battery charger, the aerosol generating system comprising a battery module according to claim 10, wherein the battery charger comprises at least one magnet configured to attract and retain the ferromagnetic sheet when an end surface of the battery module comprising the battery cover is placed against a surface of the battery charger.
15. the battery module according to claim 6, wherein the second thickness of the second portion is between 20 percent and 40 percent of the first thickness of the first portion.


Abstract: [en] a cartridge for a vapour generating system, such as an e-cigarette, includes a vaporization chamber in which liquid is vaporized from a heater surface to mix with a flow of air through the vaporization chamber. before reaching an air outlet, the airflow must pass through a restriction means such as a narrow neck, which helps to prevent droplets of re-condensed liquid leaking out of the air outlet. the restriction means also provides a convenient way to determine the distribution of air pressure along the airflow path and the overall resistance to draw of the vapour generating system.

[en] 1. a cartridge for a vapour generating system, the cartridge comprising: a first end together defining a longitudinal direction from the first end to the second end;an air inlet;an inlet channel;a vaporization chamber;an outlet channel; andan air outlet;wherein an airflow path extends from the air inlet through the inlet channel to the vaporization chamber, then through the outlet channel to the air outlet;the cartridge further comprising restriction means for restricting airflow between the outlet channel and the air outlet.
2. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the restriction means is a neck in the airflow path, a cross-sectional area of the neck being smaller than a cross-sectional area of the outlet channel
3. the cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the cross-sectional area of the neck is smaller than a cross-sectional area anywhere else along the airflow path.
4. the cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the neck is oriented such that the airflow through the neck is in a transverse direction.
5. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the air outlet is located in the second end of the cartridge.
6. the cartridge according to claim 5, further comprising, between the restriction means and the air outlet, a lip that projects from the second end towards the first end.
7. the cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising a reservoir configured to store vapour generating liquid to be vaporized in the vaporization chamber.
8. the cartridge according to claim 7, wherein the outlet channel does not intersect the reservoir.
9. the cartridge according to claim 8, wherein the outlet channel is adjacent to a longitudinal side wall of the cartridge.
10. the cartridge according to claim 1, wherein: the airflow path through the inlet channel follows a first transverse direction then turns to enter the vaporization chamber in a second transverse direction.
11. the cartridge according to claim 10, wherein the inlet channel is convoluted such that the inlet channel provides no straight path from the air inlet to the vaporization chamber.
12. the cartridge according to claim 10, wherein the inlet channel comprises at least two right-angled bends between the air inlet and the vaporization chamber.
13. the cartridge according to claim 10, wherein the first transverse direction is opposite to the second transverse direction.
14. the cartridge according to claim 13, further comprising an airflow diverter element, of which a first surface defines the first transverse direction and a second, opposite surface defines the second transverse direction.
15. a vapour generating system comprising a vapour generating device and the cartridge according to claim 1, the cartridge being releasably connected to the vapour generating device.


Abstract: [en] the present invention concerns an aerosol generation device (10), comprising a bracket extending along a device axis (x),an outside casing delimiting an interior part of the device configured to receive the bracket and defining an atomizer compartment and a power block compartment, anda pressure capture assembly comprising a pressure sensor, a flexible housing configured to receive the pressure sensor and a holder configured to fix the flexible housing with the pressure sensor on the bracket. the pressure capture assembly is designed to be arranged on the bracket between the power block compartment and the atomizer compartment to prevent air passage between these compartments.

[en] 1. an aerosol generation device, comprising: a bracket extending along a device axis (x) and configured to receive and support a plurality of internal components of the device;an outside casing delimiting an interior part of the device configured to receive the bracket, and the outside casing defining an atomizer compartment and a power block compartment; anda pressure capture assembly comprising a pressure sensor, a flexible housing configured to receive and support the pressure sensor and a holder configured to fix the flexible housing with the pressure sensor on the bracket so as the flexible housing is in contact with the bracket,wherein the pressure capture assembly is designed to be arranged on the bracket between the power block compartment and the atomizer compartment to prevent air passage between these compartments.
2. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the atomizer compartment defines a flow channel extending between a flow inlet and a flow outlet, the flow inlet being arranged on the outside casing.
3. the aerosol generation device according to claim 2, wherein: the pressure sensor defines two opposite sensing surfaces and a lateral surface extending between the sensing surfaces, one of the sensing surfaces being exposed to the flow channel of the atomizer compartment and the other sensing surface being exposed to the power block compartment (15);the pressure sensor being configured to detect a difference of pressure exerted on the sensing surfaces; andthe outside casing defines a hole opening to the power block compartment.
4. the aerosol generation device according to claim 3, wherein the flexible housing defines a sensor cavity configured to receive the pressure sensor, the sensor cavity being delimited by a lateral wall designed to be in contact with the lateral surface of the pressure sensor.
5. the aerosol generation device according to claim 4, wherein the sensor cavity is further delimited by a back wall protruding from the lateral wall and designed to cover, at least partially, one of the sensing surfaces of the pressure sensor.
6. the aerosol generation device according to claim 5, wherein the back wall delimits a flow passage designed to link the flow channel of the atomizer compartment and the corresponding sensing surface of the pressure sensor.
7. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the bracket defines a support wall extending along the device axis (x) and having a u-shape cross section, the support wall defining an internal surface, wherein the flexible housing defines a bottom portion designed to be in contact with the internal surface of the support wall.
8. the aerosol generation device according to claim 7, wherein the flexible housing is designed to extend between the internal surface of the support wall and an internal surface of the outside casing.
9. the aerosol generation device according to claim 8, wherein the holder is configured to fill the space formed between the internal surface of the support wall, the internal surface of the outside casing, and the flexible housing.
10. the aerosol generation device according to claim 7, wherein the holder further configured to abut the flexible housing against the internal surface of the support wall.
11. the aerosol generation device according to claim 1, wherein the bracket further defines a delimiting wall in the atomizer compartment, the delimiting wall extending substantially perpendicularly to the device axis (x) and delimiting, at least partially, a contact cavity, the contact cavity being arranged between the pressure sensor assembly and the delimiting wall.
12. the aerosol generation device according to claim 11, further comprising a contact assembly arranged in the contact cavity and comprising a pair of contacts crossing the delimiting wall.
13. the aerosol generation device according to claim 12, wherein the pressure capture assembly is designed to abut the contact assembly against the delimiting wall.
14. the aerosol generation device according to claim 6, wherein the bracket further defines a delimiting wall in the atomizer compartment, the delimiting wall extending substantially perpendicularly to the device axis (x) and delimiting, at least partially, a contact cavity, the contact cavity being arranged between the pressure sensor assembly and the delimiting wall, and wherein the delimiting wall is crossed by a flow bypass designed to link the flow channel of the atomizer compartment to the flow passage.
15. an assembly method of an aerosol generation device according to claim 1, the method comprising: inserting the pressure sensor into the flexible housing;inserting the flexible housing with the pressure sensor in the bracket;locking the flexible housing with the pressure sensor in the bracket by the holder; andsliding the bracket into the outside casing.