EP3711580A1 - Smoking substitute system - Google Patents

Abstract

A smoking substitute device (201) comprising: a device visual output (229); a rechargeable battery (205) configured to be charged using a rechargeable power source (227); and a device controller (208) configured to communicate with the rechargeable power source and thereby controlling the device visual output to indicate a battery charge state and/or a charging status of the rechargeable battery.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD
• The present invention relates to a smoking substitute system and particularly, although not exclusively, to a smoking substitute system comprising a smoking substitute device and a rechargeable power source.
BACKGROUND
• The smoking of tobacco is generally considered to expose a smoker to potentially harmful substances. It is generally thought that a significant amount of the potentially harmful substances are generated through the heat caused by the burning and/or combustion of the tobacco and the constituents of the burnt tobacco in the tobacco smoke itself.
• Conventional combustible smoking articles, such as cigarettes, typically comprise a cylindrical rod of tobacco comprising shreds of tobacco which is surrounded by a wrapper, and usually also a cylindrical filter axially aligned in an abutting relationship with the wrapped tobacco rod. The filter typically comprises a filtration material which is circumscribed by a plug wrap. The wrapped tobacco rod and the filter are joined together by a wrapped band of tipping paper that circumscribes the entire length of the filter and an adjacent portion of the wrapped tobacco rod. A conventional cigarette of this type is used by lighting the end opposite to the filter, and burning the tobacco rod. The smoker receives mainstream smoke into their mouth by drawing on the mouth end or filter end of the cigarette.
• Combustion of organic material such as tobacco is known to produce tar and other potentially harmful by-products. There have been proposed various smoking substitute systems (or "substitute smoking systems") in order to avoid the smoking of tobacco.
• Such smoking substitute systems can form part of nicotine replacement therapies aimed at people who wish to stop smoking and overcome a dependence on nicotine.
• Smoking substitute systems include electronic systems that permit a user to simulate the act of smoking by producing an aerosol (also referred to as a "vapour") that is drawn into the lungs through the mouth (inhaled) and then exhaled. The inhaled aerosol typically bears nicotine and/or flavourings without, or with fewer of, the odour and health risks associated with traditional smoking.
• In general, smoking substitute systems are intended to provide a substitute for the rituals of smoking, whilst providing the user with a similar experience and satisfaction to those experienced with traditional smoking and with combustible tobacco products. Some smoking substitute systems use smoking substitute articles (also referred to as a "consumables") that are designed to resemble a traditional cigarette and are cylindrical in form with a mouthpiece at one end.
• The popularity and use of smoking substitute systems has grown rapidly in the past few years. Although originally marketed as an aid to assist habitual smokers wishing to quit tobacco smoking, consumers are increasingly viewing smoking substitute systems as desirable lifestyle accessories.
• There are a number of different categories of smoking substitute systems, each utilising a different smoking substitute approach.
• One approach for a smoking substitute system is the so-called Heated Tobacco ("HT") approach in which tobacco (rather than an "e-liquid") is heated or warmed to release vapour. HT is also known as "heat not burn" ("HNB"). The tobacco may be leaf tobacco or reconstituted tobacco. The vapour may contain nicotine and/or flavourings. In the HT approach the intention is that the tobacco is heated but not burned, i.e. the tobacco does not undergo combustion.
• A typical HT smoking substitute system may include a device and a consumable. The consumable may include the tobacco material. The device and consumable may be configured to be physically coupled together. In use, heat may be imparted to the tobacco material by a heating element of the device, wherein airflow through the tobacco material causes components in the tobacco material to be released as vapour. A vapour may also be formed from a carrier in the tobacco material (this carrier may for example include propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine) and additionally volatile compounds released from the tobacco. The released vapour may be entrained in the airflow drawn through the tobacco.
• As the vapour passes through the consumable (entrained in the airflow) from the location of vaporisation to an outlet of the consumable (e.g. a mouthpiece), the vapour cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by the user. The aerosol will normally contain the volatile compounds.
• In HT smoking substitute systems, heating as opposed to burning the tobacco material is believed to cause fewer, or smaller quantities, of the more harmful compounds ordinarily produced during smoking. Consequently, the HT approach may reduce the odour and/or health risks that can arise through the burning, combustion and pyrolytic degradation of tobacco.
• Currently available smoking substitute systems often comprise a rechargeable device and a rechargeable power source for charging the rechargeable device, wherein a display on the rechargeable power source indicates information of the battery of both the device and the rechargeable power source. Such indication is inefficient and may confuse the user, as such the user may not interact with the system properly.
• There may be a need for improved design of smoking substitute systems, in particular HT smoking substitute systems, to enhance the user experience and improve the function of the HT smoking substitute system.
• The present disclosure has been devised in the light of the above considerations.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• At its most general, the present invention relates to a smoking substitute system comprising a smoking substitute device and a rechargeable power source configured to charge the smoking substitute device and to be charged by a power source. More specifically, the device and the power source may advantageously be configured to communicate with each other to improve the reporting of their respective status to a user, and thereby it may improve the user's interaction with the device.
• According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a smoking substitute device comprising: a device visual output; a rechargeable battery configured to be charged using a rechargeable power source; and a device controller configured to communicate with the rechargeable power source and thereby controlling the device visual output to indicate a battery charge state and/or a charging status of the rechargeable battery.
• More specifically, the rechargeable battery may have a smaller capacity than a rechargeable power source battery of the rechargeable power source. The rechargeable battery may be configured to cooperate with the rechargeable power source during the charging process. For example, the rechargeable battery may be configured received in a cavity of the rechargeable power source during the charging process. The rechargeable power source may be a case or a dock configured to receive a part of the device.
• Battery charge state generally refers to the amount of energy stored or remaining in a battery, whereas charging status refers to whether the battery is being charged.
• The rechargeable power source may be an external power source for the device, and it may not form a part of the device. The rechargeable power source, in turn, is chargeable by a power supply.
• By providing a smoking substitute device of claim 1, the device may comprise means to display battery charge status and/or charging status of the device, with respect to power received from a rechargeable power source. For example, the device controller may communicate information, such as a status of the device visual output with the rechargeable power source. Advantageously, the device visual output may be able to cooperate with a power source visual output so as to provide a coordinated indication of a battery charge state and/or a charging status of the rechargeable battery, as well as a rechargeable power source battery of the power source. This may advantageously allow the user to better understand the charging process, and thereby it may significantly improve the interaction between the user and the system.
• Optional features will now be set out. These are applicable singly or in any combination with any aspect.
• Optionally, the device visual output may be located on an outer surface of body of the smoking substitute device. Optionally, the smoking substitute device is configured to be received in a cavity of the rechargeable power source, and wherein the device visual output is configured to be visible when the rechargeable battery is being charged by the rechargeable power source. Advantageously, such arrangement may allow both the device visual display and a power source visual display to remain visible for a user when the device is received in the cavity, when the device is being charged.
• Optionally, the device visual output comprises a plurality of device lighting elements, wherein said plurality of device lighting elements are configured to display a light sequence for indicating the battery charge state and/or the charging status of the rechargeable battery. The plurality of device lighting elements may be arranged adjacent each other on the device. The plurality of device light elements may be arranged in a straight line or they may be arranged to form a pattern, e.g. circular pattern or any other suitable pattern. The plurality of device light elements may be arranged circumferentially around the surface of the device and spaced from each other. Together, the plurality of lighting elements may display a light sequence. Said light sequence may comprises one or more of sequential activation or deactivation of one or more of the lighting elements, or simultaneous activation or deactivation of one or more of the lighting elements. The plurality of lighting elements may each be dimmable such that when they are activated, their luminous flex or output intensity may be controlled individually to provide said light sequence.
• Optionally, the plurality of device lighting elements comprises one of more of light emitting diode (LED), incandescent lamp, halogen lamp and fluoresce lamp. Preferably, the plurality of device lighting elements comprises LEDs.
• Optionally, the device visual output comprises a device display screen; wherein the device display screen is configured to provide visual display for indicating the battery charge state and/or the charging status of the rechargeable battery. The device display screen may comprise an LED display or a liquid crystal display. For example, the device display screen may display the battery charge state and/or the charging status of the rechargeable battery with one or more of digits, characters and graphics display.
• The device may comprise an elongate body. An end of the elongate body may be configured for engagement with an aerosol-forming article. For example, the body may be configured for engagement with a heated tobacco (HT) consumable (or heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable) or an e-cigarette consumable. The terms "heated tobacco" and "heat-not-burn" are used interchangeably herein to describe a consumable that is of the type that is heated rather than combusted (or are used interchangeably to describe a device for use with such a consumable). The device may comprise a cavity that is configured for receipt of at least a portion of the consumable (i.e. for engagement with the consumable). The aerosol-forming article may be of the type that comprises an aerosol former (e.g. carried by an aerosol-forming substrate).
• The device may comprise a heater for heating the aerosol-forming article. The heater may comprise a heating element, which may be in the form of a rod that extends from the body of the device. The heating element may extend from the end of the body that is configured for engagement with the aerosol-forming article.
• The heater (and thus the heating element) may be rigidly mounted to the body. The heating element may be elongate so as to define a longitudinal axis and may, for example, have a transverse profile (i.e. transverse to a longitudinal axis of the heating element) that is substantially circular (i.e. the heating element may be generally cylindrical). Alternatively, the heating element may have a transverse profile that is rectangular (i.e. the heater may be a "blade heater"). The heating element may alternatively be in the shape of a tube (i.e. the heater may be a "tube heater"). The heating element may take other forms (e.g. the heating element may have an elliptical transverse profile). The shape and/or size (e.g. diameter) of the transverse profile of the heating element may be generally consistent for the entire length (or substantially the entire length) of the heating element.
• The heating element may be between 15 mm and 25 mm long, e.g. between 18 mm and 20 mm long, e.g. around 19 mm long. The heating element may have a diameter of between 1.5 mm and 2.5 mm, e.g. a diameter between 2 mm and 2.3 mm, e.g. a diameter of around 2.15 mm.
• The heating element may be formed of ceramic. The heating element may comprise a core (e.g. a ceramic core) comprising Al2O3. The core of the heating element may have a diameter of 1.8 mm to 2.1 mm, e.g. between 1.9 mm and 2 mm. The heating element may comprise an outer layer (e.g. an outer ceramic layer) comprising Al2O3. The thickness of the outer layer may be between 160 µm and 220 µm, e.g. between 170 µm and 190 µm, e.g. around 180 µm. The heating element may comprise a heating track, which may extend longitudinally along the heating element. The heating track may be sandwiched between the outer layer and the core of the heating element. The heating track may comprise tungsten and/or rhenium. The heating track may have a thickness of around 20 µm.
• The heating element may be located in the cavity (of the device), and may extend (e.g. along a longitudinal axis) from an internal base of the cavity towards an opening of the cavity. The length of the heating element (i.e. along the longitudinal axis of the heater) may be less than the depth of the cavity. Hence, the heating element may extend for only a portion of the length of the cavity. That is, the heating element may not extend through (or beyond) the opening of the cavity.
• The heating element may be configured for insertion into an aerosol-forming article (e.g. a HT consumable) when an aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. In that respect, a distal end (i.e. distal from a base of the heating element where it is mounted to the device) of the heating element may comprise a tapered portion, which may facilitate insertion of the heating element into the aerosol-forming article. The heating element may fully penetrate an aerosol-forming article when the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. That is, the entire length, or substantially the entire length, of the heating element may be received in the aerosol-forming article.
• The heating element may have a length that is less than, or substantially the same as, an axial length of an aerosol-forming substrate forming part of an aerosol-forming article (e.g. a HT consumable). Thus, when such an aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device, the heating element may only penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate, rather than other components of the aerosol-forming article. The heating element may penetrate the aerosol-forming substrate for substantially the entire axial length of the aerosol forming-substrate of the aerosol-forming article. Thus, heat may be transferred from (e.g. an outer circumferential surface of) the heating element to the surrounding aerosol-forming substrate, when penetrated by the heating element. That is, heat may be transferred radially outwardly (in the case of a cylindrical heating element) or e.g. radially inwardly (in the case of a tube heater).
• Where the heater is a tube heater, the heating element of the tube heater may surround at least a portion of the cavity. When the portion of the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity, the heating element may surround a portion of the aerosol-forming article (i.e. so as to heat that portion of the aerosol-forming article). In particular, the heating element may surround an aerosol forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article. That is, when an aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device, the aerosol forming substrate of the aerosol-forming article may be located adjacent an inner surface of the (tubular) heating element. When the heating element is activated, heat may be transferred radially inwardly from the inner surface of the heating element to heat the aerosol forming substrate.
• The cavity may comprise a (e.g. circumferential) wall (or walls) and the (tubular) heating element may extend around at least a portion of the wall(s). In this way, the wall may be located between the inner surface of the heating element and an outer surface of the aerosol-forming article. The wall (or walls) of the cavity may be formed from a thermally conductive material (e.g. a metal) to allow heat conduction from the heating element to the aerosol-forming article. Thus, heat may be conducted from the heating element, through the cavity wall (or walls), to the aerosol-forming substrate of an aerosol-forming article received in the cavity.
• In some embodiments the heater may form part of an aerosol-forming article for use with the device. In such cases the device may not comprise a heater. Rather, the aerosol-forming article may comprise a heater. Such arrangements may, for example, be suited to e-cigarette systems in which the aerosol-forming article comprises a tank containing an aerosol former (e.g. in liquid form). In such embodiments, the device may comprise means for connecting the device the heater of an aerosol-forming article engaged with the device. For example, the device may comprise one or more device connectors for (e.g. electrically) connecting the device to a corresponding heater connector of the aerosol-forming article. The connectors (i.e. of both the device and the aerosol-forming article) may be in the form of electrically conductive elements (e.g. plates) that contact when the aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device.
• In some embodiments the device may comprise a cap disposed at the end of the body that is configured for engagement with an aerosol-forming article. Where the device comprises a heater having a heating element, the cap may at least partially enclose the heating element. The cap may be moveable between an open position in which access is provided to the heating element, and a closed position in which the cap at least partially encloses the heating element. The cap may be slideably engaged with the body of the device, and may be slideable between the open and closed positions.
• The cap may define at least a portion of the cavity of the device. That is, the cavity may be fully defined by the cap, or each of the cap and body may define a portion of the cavity. Where the cap fully defines the cavity, the cap may comprise an aperture for receipt of the heating element into the cavity (when the cap is in the closed position). The cap may comprise an opening to the cavity. The opening may be configured for receipt of at least a portion of an aerosol-forming article. That is, an aerosol-forming article may be inserted through the opening and into the cavity (so as to be engaged with the device).
• The cap may be configured such that when an aerosol-forming article is engaged with the device (e.g. received in the cavity), only a portion of the aerosol-forming article is received in the cavity. That is, a portion of the aerosol-forming article (not received in the cavity) may protrude from (i.e. extend beyond) the opening. This (protruding) portion of the aerosol-forming article may be a terminal (e.g. mouth) end of the aerosol-forming article, which may be received in a user's mouth for the purpose of inhaling aerosol formed by the device.
• The device may comprise a power source or may be connectable to a power source (e.g. a power source separate to the device). The power source may be electrically connectable to the heater. In that respect, altering (e.g. toggling) the electrical connection of the power source to the heater may affect a state of the heater. For example, toggling the electrical connection of the power source to the heater may toggle the heater between an on state and an off state. The power source may be a power store. For example, the power source may be a battery or rechargeable battery (e.g. a lithium ion battery).
• The device may comprise an input connection (e.g. a USB port, Micro USB port, USB-C port, etc.). The input connection may be configured for connection to an external source of electrical power, such as a mains electrical supply outlet. The input connection may, in some cases, be used as a substitute for an internal power source (e.g. battery or rechargeable battery). That is, the input connection may be electrically connectable to the heater (for providing power to the heater). Hence, in some forms, the input connection may form at least part of the power source of the device.
• Where the power source comprises a rechargeable battery, the input connection may be used to charge and recharge the power source.
• The device may comprise a user interface (Ul). In some embodiments the UI may include input means to receive operative commands from the user. The input means of the UI may allow the user to control at least one aspect of the operation of the device. In some embodiments the input means may comprise a power button to switch the device between an on state and an off state.
• In some embodiments the UI may additionally or alternatively comprise output means to convey information to the user. In some embodiments the output means may comprise a light to indicate a condition of the device (and/or the aerosol-forming article) to the user. The condition of the device (and/or aerosol-forming article) indicated to the user may comprise a condition indicative of the operation of the heater. For example, the condition may comprise whether the heater is in an off state or an on state. In some embodiments, the UI unit may comprise at least one of a button, a display, a touchscreen, a switch, a light, and the like. For example, the output means may comprise one or more (e.g. two, three, four, etc.) light-emitting diodes ("LEDs") that may be located on the body of the device.
• The device may further comprise a puff sensor (e.g. airflow sensor), which form part of the input means of the Ul. The puff sensor may be configured to detect a user drawing on an end (i.e. a terminal (mouth) end) of the aerosol-forming article. The puff sensor may, for example, be a pressure sensor or a microphone. The puff sensor may be configured to produce a signal indicative of a puff state. The signal may be indicative of the user drawing (an aerosol from the aerosol-forming article) such that it is e.g. in the form of a binary signal. Alternatively or additionally, the signal may be indicative of a characteristic of the draw (e.g. a flow rate of the draw, length of time of the draw, etc.).
• The device may comprise a device controller, or may be connectable to a controller that may be configured to control at least one function of the device. The device controller may comprise a microcontroller that may e.g. be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The device controller may also comprise a memory, e.g. non-volatile memory. The memory may include instructions, which, when implemented, may cause the device controller to perform certain tasks or steps of a method. Where the device comprises an input connection, the device controller may be connected to the input connection.
• The device controller may be configured to control the operation of the heater (and e.g. the heating element). Thus, the device controller may be configured to control vaporisation of an aerosol forming part of an aerosol-forming article engaged with the device. The device controller may be configured to control the voltage applied by power source to the heater. For example, the device controller may be configured to toggle between applying a full output voltage (of the power source) to the heater and applying no voltage to the heater. Alternatively or additionally, the control unit may implement a more complex heater control protocol.
• The device may further comprise a voltage regulator to regulate the output voltage supplied by the power source to form a regulated voltage. The regulated voltage may subsequently be applied to the heater.
• In some embodiments, where the device comprises a Ul, the device controller may be operatively connected to one or more components of the Ul. The device controller may be configured to receive command signals from an input means of the Ul. The device controller may be configured to control the heater in response to the command signals. For example, the device controller may be configured to receive "on" and "off" command signals from the UI and, in response, may control the heater so as to be in a corresponding on or off state.
• The device controller may be configured to send output signals to a component of the UI. The UI may be configured to convey information to a user, via an output means, in response to such output signals (received from the controller). For example, where the device comprises one or more LEDs, the LEDs may be operatively connected to the device controller. Hence, the controller may configured to control the illumination of the LEDs (e.g. in response to an output signal). For example, the device controller may be configured to control the illumination of the LEDs according to (e.g. an on or off) state of the heater.
• Where the device comprises a sensor (e.g. a puff/airflow sensor), the device controller may be operatively connected to the sensor. The device controller may be configured to receive a signal from the sensor (e.g. indicative of a condition of the device and/or engaged aerosol-forming article). The device controller may be configured to control the heater, or an aspect of the output means, based on the signal from the sensor.
• In some embodiments, the device controller may be configured to communicate with the rechargeable power source. Based on the communication, the device controller may be configured to control the device visual output to indicate a battery charge state and/or a charging status of the rechargeable battery of the device. The device may therefore be able to indicate the battery charge state and/or the charging status of the device based on power received from the rechargeable power source.
• The device may comprise a wireless interface configured to communicate wirelessly (e.g. via Bluetooth (e.g. a Bluetooth low-energy connection) or WiFi) with an external device. Similarly, the input connection may be configured for wired connection to an external device so as to provide communication between the device and the external device.
• The external device may be a mobile device. For example, the external device may be a smart phone, tablet, smart watch, or smart car. An application (e.g. app) may be installed on the external device (e.g. mobile device). The application may facilitate communication between the device and the external device via the wired or wireless connection.
• The wireless or wired interface may be configured to transfer signals between the external device and the device controller of the device. In this respect, the device controller may control an aspect of the device in response to a signal received from an external device. Alternatively or additionally, an external device may respond to a signal received from the device (e.g. from the controller of the device).
• Further, a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a rechargeable power source comprising a power source visual output, a rechargeable power source battery and a power source controller. The rechargeable power source battery may be configured to charge a smoking substitute device and to be charged by a power supply. The power source controller may be configured to communicate with the smoking substitute device. Based on the communication, the power source controller may be configured to control the power source visual output to indicate a battery charge state and/or a discharging status of the rechargeable power source battery.
• For example, the power source controller may communicate information, such as a status of the power source visual output with the smoking substitute device. Advantageously, the power source visual output may be able to cooperate with a device visual output so as to provide a coordinated indication of a battery charge state and/or a charging status of the rechargeable battery of the device, as well as a rechargeable power source battery of the power source. This may allow the user to better understand the charging process, and thereby it may significantly improve the interaction between the user and the system.
• Optionally, the power source visual output comprises a plurality of power source lighting elements, wherein said plurality of power source lighting elements are configured to display a light sequence for indicating the battery charge state and/or the charging / discharging status of the rechargeable power source battery. Similar to the plurality of the device lighting elements, the plurality of power source lighting elements may be arranged adjacent each other on the power source. The plurality of power source light elements may be arranged in a straight line or they may be arranged to form a pattern, e.g. circular pattern or any other suitable pattern. The plurality of power source light elements may be arranged circumferentially around a surface of power source and spaced from each other. Together, the plurality of power source lighting elements may display a light sequence. Said light sequence may comprises one or more of sequential activation or deactivation of one or more of the power source lighting elements, or simultaneous activation or deactivation of one or more of the power source lighting elements. The plurality of power source lighting elements may each be dimmable such that when they are activated, their luminous flex may be controlled individually to provide said light sequence.
• Optionally, the plurality of power source lighting elements comprises one of more of light emitting diode (LED), incandescent lamp, halogen lamp and fluoresce lamp. Preferably, the plurality of power source lighting elements comprises LEDs.
• Optionally, the power source visual output comprises a power source display screen; wherein the power source display screen is configured to provide visual display for indicating the battery charge state and/or the charging status of the rechargeable power source battery. The power source display screen may comprise an LED display or a liquid crystal display. For example, the power source display screen may display the battery charge state and/or the charging /discharging status of the rechargeable power source battery with one or more of digits, characters and graphics display.
• In a third aspect, there is provided a system (e.g. a smoking substitute system) comprising a smoking device according to the first aspect and a rechargeable power source according to the second aspect.
• Optionally, the device visual output and the power source visual output are configured to cooperatively activate and/or deactivate when indicating battery charge state and/or charging or charging / discharging status of respective rechargeable battery and rechargeable power source battery. For example, based on the communication between the device controller and the power source controller, the device visual output and the power source visual output may provide coordinated display during said indication.
• Optionally, said cooperative activation of the device visual output and the power source visual output comprises alternating the activation of the device visual output and the power source visual output when indicating battery charge state and/or charging or charging / discharging status of respective rechargeable battery and rechargeable power source battery. For example, the device visual output and the power source visual output may take turn to provide indication, e.g. in the form of a light sequence displayed on the visual output of each of the respective devices.
• Optionally, said cooperative activation comprises coordinated activation of the device visual output and the power source visual output when indicating battery charge state and/or charging or charging / discharging status of respective rechargeable battery and rechargeable power source battery. For example, the device visual output and the power source visual output may provide indication simultaneously to display a coordinated light sequence on both of the device visual output and the power source visual output.
• Optionally, wherein when the rechargeable power source is in electrical communication with both the power supply and the device, the rechargeable power source is configured to pass an electric current from the power supply to the device, so as to prioritise charging of the rechargeable battery over the rechargeable power source battery. For example, the rechargeable power source battery may only be charged by the power supply once the rechargeable battery has been charged. Advantageously, such arrangement may allow the device to be sufficiently charged at the earliest opportunity.
• Optionally, the system may comprise an aerosol-forming article. The aerosol-forming article may comprise an aerosol-forming substrate at an upstream end of the aerosol-forming article. The article may be in the form of a smoking substitute article, e.g. heated tobacco (HT) consumable (also known as a heat-not-burn (HNB) consumable).
• As used herein, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are intended to refer to the flow direction of the vapour/aerosol i.e. with the downstream end of the article/consumable being the mouth end or outlet where the aerosol exits the consumable for inhalation by the user. The upstream end of the article/consumable is the opposing end to the downstream end.
• The aerosol-forming substrate is capable of being heated to release at least one volatile compound that can form an aerosol. The aerosol-forming substrate may be located at the upstream end of the article/consumable.
• In order to generate an aerosol, the aerosol-forming substrate comprises at least one volatile compound that is intended to be vaporised/aerosolised and that may provide the user with a recreational and/or medicinal effect when inhaled. Suitable chemical and/or physiologically active volatile compounds include the group consisting of: nicotine, cocaine, caffeine, opiates and opoids, cathine and cathinone, kavalactones, mysticin, beta-carboline alkaloids, salvinorin A together with any combinations, functional equivalents to, and/or synthetic alternatives of the foregoing.
• The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise plant material. The plant material may comprise least one plant material selected from the list includingAmaranthus dubius,Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (Bearberry),Argemone mexicana,Amica,Artemisia vulgaris, Yellow Tees,Galea zacatechichi,Canavalia maritima (Baybean),Cecropia mexicana (Guamura),Cestrum noctumum,Cynoglossum virginianum (wild comfrey),Cytisus scoparius,Damiana,Entada rheedii,Eschscholzia califomica (California Poppy),Fittonia albivenis,Hippobroma longiflora,Humulus japonica (Japanese Hops),Humulus lupulus (Hops),Lactuca virosa (Lettuce Opium),Laggera alata,Leonotis leonurus,Leonurus cardiaca (Motherwort),Leonurus sibiricus (Honeyweed),Lobelia cardinalis,Lobelia inflata (Indian-tobacco),Lobelia siphilitica,Nepeta cataria (Catnip),Nicotiana species (Tobacco),Nymphaea alba (White Lily),Nymphaea caerulea (Blue Lily), Opium poppy,Passiflora incamata (Passionflower),Pedicularis densiflora (Indian Warrior),Pedicularis groenlandica (Elephant's Head),Salvia divinorum,Salvia dorrii (Tobacco Sage), Salvia species (Sage),Scutellaria galericulata,Scutellaria lateriflora,Scutellaria nana,Scutellaria species (Skullcap),Sida acuta (Wireweed),Sida rhombifolia,Silene capensis,Syzygium aromaticum (Clove),Tagetes lucida (Mexican Tarragon),Tarchonanthus camphoratus,Tumera diffusa (Damiana),Verbascum (Mullein),Zamia latifolia (Maconha Brava) together with any combinations, functional equivalents to, and/or synthetic alternatives of the foregoing.
• The plant material may be tobacco. Any type of tobacco may be used. This includes, but is not limited to, flue-cured tobacco, burley tobacco, Maryland Tobacco, dark-air cured tobacco, oriental tobacco, dark-fired tobacco, perique tobacco and rustica tobacco. This also includes blends of the above mentioned tobaccos.
• The tobacco may comprise one or more of leaf tobacco, stem tobacco, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenised tobacco, shredded tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobacco and/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g. slurry recon or paper recon).
• The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise a gathered sheet of homogenised (e.g. paper/slurry recon) tobacco or gathered shreds/strips formed from such a sheet.
• The aerosol-forming substrate may comprise one or more additives selected from humectants, flavourants, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solvents and binders.
• The flavourant may be provided in solid or liquid form. It may include menthol, liquorice, chocolate, fruit flavour (including e.g. citrus, cherry etc.), vanilla, spice (e.g. ginger, cinnamon) and tobacco flavour. The flavourant may be evenly dispersed throughout the aerosol-forming substrate or may be provided in isolated locations and/or varying concentrations throughout the aerosol-forming substrate.
• The aerosol-forming substrate may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape such that the article/consumable resembles a conventional cigarette. It may have a diameter of between 5 and 10mm e.g. between 6 and 9mm or 6 and 8mm e.g. around 7 mm. It may have an axial length of between 10 and 15mm e.g. between 11 and 14mm such as around 12 or 13mm.
• The article/consumable may comprise at least one filter element. There may be a terminal filter element at the downstream/mouth end of the article/consumable.
• The or at least one of the filter element(s) (e.g. the terminal filter element) may be comprised of cellulose acetate or polypropylene tow. The at least one filter element (e.g. the terminal filter element) may be comprised of activated charcoal. The at least one filter element (e.g. the terminal element) may be comprised of paper. The or each filter element may be at least partly (e.g. entirely) circumscribed with a plug wrap e.g. a paper plug wrap.
• The terminal filter element (at the downstream end of the article/consumable) may be joined to the upstream elements forming the article/consumable by a circumscribing tipping layer e.g. a tipping paper layer. The tipping paper may have an axial length longer than the axial length of the terminal filter element such that the tipping paper completely circumscribes the terminal filter element plus the wrapping layer surrounding any adjacent upstream element.
• In some embodiments, the article/consumable may comprise an aerosol-cooling element which is adapted to cool the aerosol generated from the aerosol-forming substrate (by heat exchange) before being inhaled by the user.
• The article/consumable may comprise a spacer element that defines a space or cavity between the aerosol-forming substrate and the downstream end of the consumable. The spacer element may comprise a cardboard tube. The spacer element may be circumscribed by the (paper) wrapping layer.
• In some embodiments the system may be in the form of an e-cigarette system (i.e. rather than a heated tobacco system as described above). In such a system, the consumable may be in the form of an e-cigarette consumable. The e-cigarette system may be configured such that the consumable can be received and retained in the cavity of the device (i.e. so as to be engaged with the device). The consumable may be retained by way of e.g. an interference fit, screwing one onto (or onto) the other, a bayonet fitting, or by way of a snap engagement mechanism.
• The consumable may comprise a tank, which may define a reservoir for the storage of an aerosol former. The aerosol former may be in the form of an e-liquid (stored in the reservoir).
• The consumable may be a "single-use" consumable. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid in the tank, the intention may be that the user disposes of the entire consumable. Alternatively, the e-liquid may be the only part of the system that is truly "single-use". For example, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or another component of the system (internal to the device or external to the device e.g. a refillable cartomizer) may define a reservoir for the e-liquid.
• As set forth above, the consumable may comprise a heater (i.e. instead of the heater forming part of the device) configured to heat and vaporise the e-liquid. The consumable may comprise a porous wick that conveys e-liquid from the tank to a heating element of the heater. The heating element may be a heating filament that is wound (e.g. helically) around at least a portion of the porous wick, such that when the heating element is heated (e.g. by the action of electrical current passing through the heating element), heat may be transferred from the heating element to the e-liquid conveyed by the wick. This transfer of heat may vaporise the e-liquid and the resultant vapour may be entrained in an airflow passing through the consumable.
• The consumable may further comprise one or more heater connectors for connecting the heater (of the consumable) to the device. The heater connectors may be in the form of electrically conductive element or contacts (e.g. metal plates) and may be disposed on an in-use device-facing surface of the consumable. The heater connectors may be electrically connected to the heater of the consumable, such that electricity supplied via the heater connectors may pass to the heater. In other words, a voltage applied across the heater connectors may generally correspond to a voltage applied across the heating element of the heater.
• The heater connectors may be arranged such that they contact corresponding device connectors of the device when the consumable is engaged with the device. The device connectors may be connected (e.g. electrically) to a power source (e.g. battery) of the device. Thus, electricity may be supplied from the power source to the heating element, via in-contact heater and device connectors. In this way, the heater forming part of the consumable may operate (and interact with e.g. a controller) as otherwise described above with respect to a heater forming part of the device.
• According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of using the system according to the third aspect, the method comprising inserting the aerosol-forming article into the device; and heating the article using the heater of the device.
• In some embodiments the method may comprise inserting the article into a cavity within a body of the device and penetrating the article with the heating element of the device upon insertion of the article.
• The invention includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided.
• The skilled person will appreciate that except where mutually exclusive, a feature or parameter described in relation to any one of the above aspects may be applied to any other aspect. Furthermore, except where mutually exclusive, any feature or parameter described herein may be applied to any aspect and/or combined with any other feature or parameter described herein.
SUMMARY OF THE FIGURES
• So that the invention may be understood, and so that further aspects and features thereof may be appreciated, embodiments illustrating the principles of the invention will now be discussed in further detail with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:
• Figure 1A is a schematic of a smoking substitute system;
• Figure 1B is a schematic of a variation of the smoking substitute system ofFigure 1A;
• Figure 2A is a front view of a first embodiment of a smoking substitute system with the consumable engaged with the device;
• Figure 2B is a front view of the first embodiment of the smoking substitute system with the consumable disengaged from the device;
• Figure 2C is a section view of the consumable of the first embodiment of the smoking substitute system;
• Figure 2D is a detailed view of an end of the device of the first embodiment of the smoking substitute system;
• Figure 2E is a section view of the first embodiment of the smoking substitute system;
• Figure 2F is front view of second embodiment of the substitute smoking system including a device and a rechargeable power source;
• Figure 2G illustrates alternate illumination of device lighting elements and power source lighting elements;
• Figure 2H illustrates sequential illumination of device lighting elements and power source lighting elements;
• Figure 2I illustrates operation of device display screen and power source display screen;
• Figure 2J illustrates operation of device display screen and power source display screen;
• Figure 3A is a front view of a second embodiment of a smoking substitute system with the consumable engaged with the device; and
• Figure 3B is a front view of a second embodiment of the smoking substitute system with the consumable disengaged from the device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
• Aspects and embodiments of the present invention will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.
• Figure 1A is a schematic providing a general overview of asmoking substitute system 100. Thesystem 100 includes asubstitute smoking device 101 and an aerosol-forming article in the form of a consumable 102, which comprises an aerosol former 103. The system is configured to vaporise the aerosol former by heating the aerosol former 103 (so as to form a vapour/aerosol for inhalation by a user).
• In the illustrated system, theheater 104 forms part of the consumable 102 and is configured to heat the aerosol former 103. In this variation, theheater 104 is electrically connectable to thepower source 105, for example, when the consumable 102 is engaged with thedevice 101. Heat from theheater 104 vaporises the aerosol former 103 to produce a vapour. The vapour subsequently condenses to form an aerosol, which is ultimately inhaled by the user.
• Thesystem 100 further comprises apower source 105 that forms part of thedevice 101. In other embodiments thepower source 105 may be external to (but connectable to) thedevice 101. Thepower source 105 is electrically connectable to theheater 104 such that it is able to supply power to the heater 104 (i.e. for the purpose of heating the aerosol former 103). Thus, control of the electrical connection of thepower source 105 to theheater 104 provides control of the state of theheater 104. Thepower source 105 may be a power store, for example a battery or rechargeable battery (e.g. a lithium ion battery).
• Thesystem 100 further comprises an I/O module comprising a connector 106 (e.g. in the form of a USB port, Micro USB port, USB-C port, etc.). Theconnector 106 is configured for connection to an external source of electrical power, e.g. a mains electrical supply outlet. Theconnector 106 may be used in substitution for thepower source 105. That is theconnector 106 may be electrically connectable to theheater 104 so as to supply electricity to theheater 104. In such embodiments, the device may not include a power source, and the power source of the system may instead comprise theconnector 106 and an external source of electrical power (to which theconnector 106 provides electrical connection).
• In some embodiments, theconnector 106 may be used to charge and recharge thepower source 105 where thepower source 105 includes a rechargeable battery.
• Thesystem 100 also comprises a user interface (UI) 107. Although not shown, theUI 107 may include input means to receive commands from a user. The input means of theUI 107 allows the user to control at least one aspect of the operation of thesystem 100. The input means may, for example, be in the form of a button, touchscreen, switch, microphone, etc.
• TheUI 107 also comprises output means to convey information to the user. The output means may, for example, comprise lights (e.g. LEDs), a display screen, speaker, vibration generator, etc.
• Thesystem 100 further comprises acontroller 108 that is configured to control at least one function of thedevice 101. In the illustrated embodiment, thecontroller 108 is a component of thedevice 101, but in other embodiments may be separate from (but connectable to) thedevice 101. Thecontroller 108 is configured to control the operation of theheater 104 and, for example, may be configured to control the voltage applied from thepower source 105 to theheater 104. Thecontroller 108 may be configured to toggle the supply of power to theheater 104 between an on state, in which the full output voltage of thepower source 105 is applied to theheater 104, and an off state, in which the no voltage is applied to theheater 104.
• Although not shown, thesystem 100 may also comprise a voltage regulator to regulate the output voltage from thepower source 105 to form a regulated voltage. The regulated voltage may then be applied to theheater 104.
• In addition to being connected to theheater 104, thecontroller 108 is operatively connected to theUI 107. Thus, thecontroller 108 may receive an input signal from the input means of theUI 107. Similarly, thecontroller 108 may transmit output signals to theUI 107. In response, the output means of theUI 107 may convey information, based on the output signals, to a user. The controller also comprises a memory 109, which is a non-volatile memory. The memory 109 includes instructions, which, when implemented, cause the controller to perform certain tasks or steps of a method.
• Figure 1B is a schematic showing a variation of thesystem 100 ofFigure 1A. In the system 100' ofFigure 1B, theheater 104 forms part of thedevice 101, rather than the consumable 102. In this variation, theheater 104 is electrically connected to thepower source 105.
• Thesystems 100, 100' ofFigures 1A and 1B may be implemented as one of two broad categories of system, each in accordance with the present invention: a heated tobacco (HT) system or an e-cigarette system. A description of each category of system follows.
• Figures 2A and2B illustrate a heated-tobacco (HT)smoking substitute system 200. Thesystem 200 is an example of thesystems 100, 100' described in relation toFigures 1A or 1B.System 200 includes anHT device 201 and anHT consumable 202. The description ofFigures 1A and 1B above is applicable to thesystem 200 ofFigures 2A and2B, and will thus not be repeated.
• Thedevice 201 and the consumable 202 are configured such that the consumable 202 can be engaged with thedevice 201.Figure 2A shows thedevice 201 and the consumable 202 in an engaged state, whilstFigure 2B shows thedevice 201 and the consumable 202 in a disengaged state.
• Thedevice 201 comprises abody 209 andcap 210. In use thecap 210 is engaged at an end of thebody 209. Although not apparent from the figures, thecap 210 is moveable relative to thebody 209. In particular, thecap 210 is slideable and can slide along a longitudinal axis of thebody 209.
• Thedevice 201 comprises an output means (forming part of the UI of the device 201) in the form of a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) 211 arranged linearly along the longitudinal axis of thedevice 201 and on an outer surface of thebody 209 of thedevice 201. Abutton 212 is also arranged on an outer surface of thebody 209 of thedevice 201 and is axially spaced (i.e. along the longitudinal axis) from the plurality ofLEDs 211.
• Figure 2C show a detailed section view of the consumable of 202 of thesystem 200. The consumable 202 generally resembles a cigarette. In that respect, the consumable 202 has a generally cylindrical form with a diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of 70 mm. The consumable 202 comprises anaerosol forming substrate 213, aterminal filter element 214, anupstream filter element 215 and aspacer element 216. In other embodiments, the consumable may further comprise a cooling element. A cooling element may exchange heat with vapour that is formed by the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213 in order to cool the vapour so as to facilitate condensation of the vapour.
• The aerosol-formingsubstrate 213 is substantially cylindrical and is located at anupstream end 217 of the consumable 202, and comprises the aerosol former of thesystem 200. In that respect, theaerosol forming substrate 213 is configured to be heated by thedevice 201 to release a vapour. The released vapour is subsequently entrained in an airflow flowing through the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213. The airflow is produced by the action of the user drawing on a downstream 218 (i.e. terminal or mouth) end of the consumable 202.
• In the present embodiment, theaerosol forming substrate 213 comprises tobacco material that may, for example, include any suitable parts of the tobacco plant (e.g. leaves, stems, roots, bark, seeds and flowers). The tobacco may comprise one or more of leaf tobacco, stem tobacco, tobacco powder, tobacco dust, tobacco derivatives, expanded tobacco, homogenised tobacco, shredded tobacco, extruded tobacco, cut rag tobacco and/or reconstituted tobacco (e.g. slurry recon or paper recon). For example, the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213 may comprise a gathered sheet of homogenised (e.g. paper/slurry recon) tobacco or gathered shreds/strips formed from such a sheet.
• In order to generate an aerosol, theaerosol forming substrate 213 comprises at least one volatile compound that is intended to be vaporised/aerosolised and that may provide the user with a recreational and/or medicinal effect when inhaled. The aerosol-formingsubstrate 213 may further comprise one or more additives. For example, such additives may be in the form of humectants (e.g. propylene glycol and/or vegetable glycerine), flavourants, fillers, aqueous/non-aqueous solvents and/or binders.
• Theterminal filter element 214 is also substantially cylindrical, and is located downstream of theaerosol forming substrate 213 at thedownstream end 218 of the consumable 202. Theterminal filter element 214 is in the form of a hollow bore filter element having a bore 219 (e.g. for airflow) formed therethrough. The diameter of thebore 219 is 2 mm. Theterminal filter element 214 is formed of a porous (e.g. monoacetate) filter material. As set forth above, thedownstream end 218 of the consumable 202 (i.e. where theterminal filter 214 is located) forms a mouthpiece portion of the consumable 202 upon which the user draws. Airflow is drawn from theupstream end 217, thorough the components of the consumable 202, and out of thedownstream end 218. The airflow is driven by the user drawing on the downstream end 218 (i.e. the mouthpiece portion) of the consumable 202.
• Theupstream filter element 215 is located axially adjacent to the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213, between the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213 and theterminal filter element 214. Like theterminal filter 214, theupstream filter element 215 is in the form of a hollow bore filter element, such that it has abore 220 extending axially therethrough. In this way, theupstream filter 215 may act as an airflow restrictor. Theupstream filter element 215 is formed of a porous (e.g. monoacetate) filter material. Thebore 220 of theupstream filter element 215 has a larger diameter (3 mm) than theterminal filter element 214.
• Thespacer 216 is in the form of a cardboard tube, which defines a cavity or chamber between theupstream filter element 215 and theterminal filter element 214. Thespacer 216 acts to allow both cooling and mixing of the vapour/aerosol from the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213. The spacer has an external diameter of 7 mm and an axial length of 14mm.
• Although not apparent from the figure, the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213,upstream filter 215 andspacer 216 are circumscribed by a paper wrapping layer. Theterminal filter 214 is circumscribed by a tipping layer that also circumscribes a portion of the paper wrapping layer (so as to connect theterminal filter 214 to the remaining components of the consumable 202). Theupstream filter 215 andterminal filter 214 are circumscribed by further wrapping layers in the form of plug wraps.
• Returning now to thedevice 201,Figure 2D illustrates a detailed view of the end of thedevice 201 that is configured to engage with the consumable 202. Thecap 210 of thedevice 201 includes anopening 221 to an internal cavity 222 (more apparent fromFigure 2D) defined by thecap 210. Theopening 221 and thecavity 222 are formed so as to receive at least a portion of the consumable 202. During engagement of the consumable 202 with thedevice 201, a portion of the consumable 202 is received through theopening 221 and into thecavity 222. After engagement (seeFigure 2B), thedownstream end 218 of the consumable 202 protrudes from theopening 221 and thus also protrudes from thedevice 201. Theopening 221 includes laterally disposednotches 226. When a consumable 202 is received in theopening 221, thesenotches 226 remain open and could, for example, be used for retaining a cover in order to cover the end of thedevice 201.
• Figure 2E shows a cross section through a central longitudinal plane through thedevice 201. Thedevice 201 is shown with the consumable 202 engaged therewith.
• Thedevice 201 comprises aheater 204 comprisingheating element 223. Theheater 204 forms part of thebody 209 of thedevice 201 and is rigidly mounted to thebody 209. In the illustrated embodiment, theheater 204 is a rod heater with aheating element 223 having a circular transverse profile. In other embodiments the heater may be in the form of a blade heater (e.g. heating element with a rectangular transverse profile) or a tube heater (e.g. heating element with a tubular form).
• Theheating element 223 of theheater 204 projects from an internal base of thecavity 222 along a longitudinal axis towards theopening 221. As is apparent from the figure, the length (i.e. along the longitudinal axis) of the heating element is less than a depth of thecavity 222. In this way, theheating element 223 does not protrude from or extend beyond theopening 221.
• When the consumable 202 is received in the cavity 222 (as is shown inFigure 2E), theheating element 223 penetrates the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213 of the consumable 202. In particular, theheating element 223 extends for nearly the entire axial length of the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213 when inserted therein. Thus, when theheater 204 is activated, heat is transferred radially from an outer circumferential surface theheating element 223 to the aerosol-formingsubstrate 213.
• Thedevice 201 further comprises anelectronics cavity 224. A power source, in the form of a rechargeable battery 205 (a lithium ion battery), is located inelectronics cavity 224. In some embodiments, the rechargeable battery may be configured to be charged using a rechargeable power source.
• Thedevice 201 includes a connector (i.e. forming part of an IO module of the device 201) in the form of a USB port 206. The connector may alternatively be, for example, a micro-USB port or a USB-C port for examples. The USB port 206 may be used to recharge therechargeable battery 205.
• Thedevice 201 includes a device controller (not shown) located in theelectronics cavity 224. The device controller comprises a microcontroller mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The USB port 206 is also connected to the controller 208 (i.e. connected to the PCB and microcontroller).
• The device controller 208 is configured to control at least one function of thedevice 202. For example, the device controller 208 is configured to control the operation of theheater 204. Such control of the operation of theheater 204 may be accomplished by the device controller toggling the electrical connection of therechargeable battery 205 to theheater 204. For example, the device controller 208 is configured to control theheater 204 in response to a user depressing thebutton 212. Depressing thebutton 212 may cause the device controller to allow a voltage (from the rechargeable battery 205) to be applied to the heater 204 (so as to cause theheating element 223 to be heated).
• The device controller is also configured to control theLEDs 211 in response to (e.g. a detected) a condition of thedevice 201 or the consumable 202. For example, the device controller may control the LEDs to indicate whether thedevice 201 is in an on state or an off state (e.g. one or more of the LEDs may be illuminated by the device controller when the device is in an on state).
• Thedevice 201 comprises a further input means (i.e. in addition to the button 212) in the form of apuff sensor 225. Thepuff sensor 225 is configured to detect a user drawing (i.e. inhaling) at thedownstream end 218 of the consumable 202. Thepuff sensor 225 may, for example, be in the form of a pressure sensor, flowmeter or a microphone. Thepuff sensor 225 is operatively connected to the device controller 208 in theelectronics cavity 224, such that a signal from thepuff sensor 225, indicative of a puff state (i.e. drawing or not drawing), forms an input to the device controller 208 (and can thus be responded to by the device controller 208).
• Anembodiment 200a of the smoking substitute system comprising asmoking substitute device 201 and arechargeable power source 227 is illustrated inFigure 2F.
• Thesmoking substitute device 201 comprises a devicevisual output 229 along with therechargeable battery 205 and the device controller 208. The devicevisual output 229 is located on the outer surface of thedevice 201. As shown inFigure 2F, the devicevisual output 229 is located on front face of thedevice 201. In some embodiments, the devicevisual output 229 may be located on rear face or one of side faces of thedevice 201. The devicevisual output 229 comprises a plurality of device lighting elements arranged in series, along the longitudinal axis of the device. In some embodiments, the device lighting elements comprises LEDs. Any lighting element, known to a person skilled in the art, may be implemented as the devicevisual output 229.
  Therechargeable battery 205 of thesmoking substitute device 201 may be configured to receive power from therechargeable power source 227. The device controller 208 is configured to communicate with therechargeable power source 227. Based on the communication, the device controller is configured to control the devicevisual output 229 to indicate a battery charge state and/or a charging status of the rechargeable battery of thedevice 201.
• Therechargeable power source 227 comprises a power sourcevisual output 230, a rechargeable power source battery (not shown) and a power source controller (not shown). The power sourcevisual output 230 is located on an outer surface of therechargeable power source 227. As shown inFigure 2F, the power sourcevisual output 230 is located on front face of therechargeable power source 227. In some embodiments, the power sourcevisual output 230 may be located on rear face or one of side faces of therechargeable power source 227. The power sourcevisual output 230 comprises a plurality of power source lighting elements arranged in series. In some embodiments, the power source lighting elements comprises LEDs. Any lighting element, known to a person skilled in the art, may be implemented as the power sourcevisual output 230.
• In the illustrated embodiment, the devicevisual output 229 and the power sourcevisual output 230 includes a predefined number of lighting elements. Number of illuminated lighting elements indicates percentage of charge in respective battery in 25% intervals. For example, the devicevisual output 229 comprises four lighting elements. When one lighting element is illuminated, it may be understood that the rechargeable battery of thedevice 201 is charged for 25%. Similarly, if two lighting elements are illuminated, thedevice 201 is 50% charged and so on. Similar way of understanding the charge percentage may be used for therechargeable power source 227, as well.
• In the illustrated embodiments, the devicevisual output 229 and the power sourcevisual output 230 may be located on thedevice 201 and therechargeable power source 227, respectively, such that the devicevisual output 229 and the power sourcevisual output 230 are located on same side of the system. This allows the devicevisual output 229 and the power sourcevisual output 230 to be viewed simultaneously.
• In the illustrated embodiments, the rechargeable power source battery is configured to charge thedevice 201. The rechargeable power source battery is configured to be charged using apower supply 228. The power supply may be any external power source such as an electrical wall outlet. The power source controller in therechargeable power source 227 is configured to communicate with thedevice 201. Based on the communication, the power source controller is configured to control the power sourcevisual output 230 to indicate a battery charge state and/or a discharging status of the rechargeable power source battery.
• In the illustrated embodiments, the device controller and the power source controller may communication with each other to control the devicevisual output 229 and the power sourcevisual output 230, respectively.
• In the illustrated embodiment, the controlling of the devicevisual output 229 and the power sourcevisual output 230 includes providing indication of respective battery charge state and/or respective discharging status in an alternating manner. Alternate illumination of the device lighting elements and the power source lighting elements may be provisioned in the system, to indicate respective battery charge state and/or respective charging/discharging status.Figure 2G illustrates alternate illumination of the device lighting elements and the power source lighting elements. The device lighting elements of the devicevisual output 229 and the power source lighting elements of the power sourcevisual output 230 do not illuminate simultaneously but alternatively. At a first instant, the power sourcevisual output 230 indicates the battery charge status of the rechargeable power source battery. At this time, the devicevisual output 229 does not illuminate. At next instant, the devicevisual output 229 indicates the battery status of the rechargeable battery. At this instant, the power sourcevisual output 230 does not illuminate. That is, by alternating illumination of the devicevisual output 229 and the power sourcevisual output 230, the battery status of thedevice 201 and therechargeable power source 227 may be indicated.
• In some embodiment, the control of the devicevisual output 229 and the power sourcevisual output 230 may include to provide indication of respective battery charge state and/or respective charging / discharging status in a sequential manner. Sequential illumination, or coordinated activation of the device lighting elements and the power source lighting elements may be provided, so as to indicate respective battery charge state and/or respective charging/discharging status.Figure 2H illustrates the coordinated illumination of the device lighting elements and the power source lighting elements. In the sequential or coordinated manner of illumination, one or more device lighting elements and one or more power source lighting elements are illuminated at same instant of time, based on battery status and/or charging/discharging state. In some embodiments, the illumination may include continuous illumination, where the lighting element illuminates continuously. The illumination may include flash illumination, where the lighting element switches between activated and deactivated illumination. The lighting element of the devicevisual output 229 flashes when thedevice 201 is charged by therechargeable power source 227. Similarly, the lighting element of the power sourcevisual output 230 flashes when therechargeable power source 227 is charged by thepower supply 228. In the sequential illumination, the battery status and the charging/discharging state are indicated, in accordance with flow of power from therechargeable power source 227 to thedevice 201, and frompower supply 228 to therechargeable power source 227.
• In addition, when therechargeable power source 227 is in electrical communication with both thepower supply 228 and thedevice 201, therechargeable power source 227 passes an electric current from thepower supply 228 to thedevice 201, so as to prioritise charging of the rechargeable battery over the rechargeable power source battery.
• Anotherembodiment 200b of the smoking substitute system comprising asmoking substitute device 201 and arechargeable power source 227 is illustrated inFigure 2I.
• Thesmoking substitute device 201 comprises adevice display screen 231 as the device visual output along with the rechargeable battery and the device controller. Thedevice display screen 231 is located on the outer surface of thedevice 201. As shown inFigure 2I, thedevice display screen 231 is located on front face of thedevice 201. In other embodiments, thedevice display screen 231 may be located on rear face or one of side faces of thedevice 201. Thedevice display screen 231 is configured to indicate the battery charge state and/or the charging status of the rechargeable battery of thedevice 201. As shown in the figure, the battery charge state and/or the charging status may be indicated in form of percentage. The device controller is configured to communicate with therechargeable power source 227. Based on the communication, the device controller may be configured to control display of thedevice display screen 231.
• Therechargeable power source 227 comprises a powersource display screen 232 along with a rechargeable power source battery and a power source controller. The powersource display screen 232 is located on an outer surface of therechargeable power source 227. As shown inFigure 2I, the powersource display screen 232 is located on front face of therechargeable power source 227. In other embodiments, the powersource display screen 231 may be located on rear face or one of side faces of therechargeable power source 227. The powersource display screen 232 is configured to indicate the battery charge state and/or the discharging status of the power source rechargeable battery of therechargeable power source 227. As shown in the figure, the battery charge state and/or the discharging status are indicated in form of percentage. The power source controller is configured to communicate with thedevice 201. Based on the communication, the power source controller is configured to control display of the powersource display screen 232. The charging state and the discharging state of thedevice 201 and the rechargeable power source are displayed in respective display screen.
• In some embodiments, thedevice display screen 231 and the powersource display screen 232 may be configured to display the battery charge status and/or charging/discharging state using an indicator bar as shown in anotherembodiment 200c inFigure 2J. The battery charge status is graphically displayed by percentage of region illuminated in the indicator bar. The charging state and discharging state may be understood when illumination is flashed.
• In some embodiments, thedevice display screen 231 and the powersource display screen 232 may be configured to display the battery charge status and/or charging/discharging state in one of the sequential manner or the alternating manner.
• Figures 3A and 3B illustrate an e-cigarettesmoking substitute system 300. Thesystem 300 is an example of thesystems 100, 100' ofFigures 1A and 1B and comprises ane-cigarette device 301 and ane-cigarette consumable 302. The description ofFigures 1A and 1B above is applicable to the system ofFigures 3A and 3B, and will not be repeated.
• Thedevice 301 and the consumable 302 are configured such that the consumable 302 can be engaged with thedevice 301.Figure 3A shows thedevice 301 and the consumable 302 in an engaged state, whilstFigure 3B shows thedevice 301 and the consumable 302 in a disengaged state. During engagement a portion of the consumable 302 is received in a cavity 322 of thedevice 301. The consumable 302 is retained in thedevice 301 via an interference fit (although in other embodiments, the device and consumable could be engaged by screwing one onto (or onto) the other, through a bayonet fitting, or by way of a snap engagement mechanism).
• The consumable 302 includes atank 327. Thetank 327 defines a reservoir for the storage of an aerosol-former, which in this embodiment, is in the form of e-liquid.
• In this present embodiment, the consumable 302 is a "single-use" consumable. That is, upon exhausting the e-liquid in thetank 327, the intention is that the user disposes of thewhole consumable 302. In other embodiments, the e-liquid (i.e. aerosol former) may be the only part of the system that is truly "single-use". In such embodiments, the tank may be refillable with e-liquid or the e-liquid may be stored in a non-consumable component of the system. For example, the e-liquid may be stored in a tank located in the device or stored in another component that is itself not single-use (e.g. a refillable cartomizer).
• In the illustratedsystem 300, a heater 304 is located in the consumable 302 and is configured to heat and vaporise the e-liquid (stored in the tank 327). Although not shown, the heater 304 comprises a porous wick and a resistive heating element. The porous wick conveys e-liquid from thetank 327 to the heating element. The heating element is a heating filament that is helically wound around a portion of the porous wick, such that when the heating element is heated (e.g. by the action of electrical current passing through the heating element), heat is transferred from the heating element to the e-liquid conveyed by the wick. This transfer of heat vaporises the e-liquid and the resultant vapour is entrained in an airflow passing through the consumable 302 (i.e. driven by a user drawing on a downstream end 318 of the consumable 302). Between the vaporisation point at the coil and the downstream end 318 (i.e. the mouth end), the vapour condenses into an aerosol, and is subsequently inhaled by the user.
• Like the previously described embodiment, thedevice 301 comprises a power source in the form of a rechargeable battery (not shown) and a connector in the form of a USB port (not shown). Thedevice 301 further comprises controller (also not shown). The rechargeable battery, connector and controller are similar (and operate in a similar manner) to the corresponding components of the embodiment described above with respect toFigure 1A to 1E.
• The consumable 302 includes a pair of heaterelectrical contacts 328 disposed on a device-facing end surface of the consumable 302. The heaterelectrical contacts 328 are electrically connected to the heater 304 in the consumable 302, such that a voltage applied across the heaterelectrical contacts 328 generally corresponds to a voltage applied across the resistive heating element of the heater 304.
• When the consumable 302 is engaged with thedevice 301, the heaterelectrical contacts 328 are brought into electrical contact with corresponding device electrical contacts (not shown) on thedevice 301. The device electrical contacts are electrically connected (directly or indirectly) to the rechargeable battery. The controller may thus be configured to control the voltage applied across the device electrical contacts from the rechargeable battery. By controlling the voltage applied across the device electrical contacts, the voltage applied to the heater 304 is correspondingly controlled.
• Thedevice 301 includes an output means (forming part of the UI of the system 300) in the form of a single light-emitting diode ("LED") 311. The LED 311 is operatively connected to the controller, such that controller can control the illumination of the LED 311. The controller is configured to illuminate the LED when then the heater 304 is active.
• Thedevice 301 also includes an input means in the form of a puff sensor (not shown). The puff sensor is the same as that described above with respect to the embodiment shown inFigure 1A to 1E.
• The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the following claims, or in the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for obtaining the disclosed results, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.
• While the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
• For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purposes of improving the understanding of a reader. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.
• Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.
• Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the words "have", "comprise", and "include", and variations such as "having", "comprises", "comprising", and "including" will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.
• It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" one particular value, and/or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by the use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term "about" in relation to a numerical value is optional and means, for example, +/- 10%.
• The words "preferred" and "preferably" are used herein refer to embodiments of the invention that may provide certain benefits under some circumstances. It is to be appreciated, however, that other embodiments may also be preferred under the same or different circumstances. The recitation of one or more preferred embodiments therefore does not mean or imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the disclosure, or from the scope of the claims.

Claims (15)

1. A smoking substitute device comprising:

   a device visual output;

   a rechargeable battery configured to be charged using a rechargeable power source; and

   a device controller configured to communicate with the rechargeable power source and thereby controlling the device visual output to indicate a battery charge state and/or a charging status of the rechargeable battery.
2. A device according to claim 1, wherein the smoking substitute device is configured to be received in a cavity of the rechargeable power source, and wherein the device visual output is configured to be visible when the rechargeable battery is being charged by the rechargeable power source.
3. A device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the device visual output comprises a plurality of device lighting elements, wherein said plurality of device lighting elements are configured to display a light sequence for indicating the battery charge state and/or the charging status of the rechargeable battery.
4. A device according to claim 3, wherein the plurality of device lighting elements comprises one of more of light emitting diode (LED), incandescent lamp, halogen lamp and fluoresce lamp.
5. A device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the device visual output comprises a device display screen; wherein the device display screen is configured to provide visual display for indicating the battery charge state and/or the charging status of the rechargeable battery.
6. A rechargeable power source, comprising:

   a power source visual output;

   a rechargeable power source battery configured to charge a smoking substitute device and to be charged by a power supply; and

   a power source controller configured to communicate with the smoking substitute device and thereby controlling the power source visual output to indicate a battery charge state and/or a charging / discharging status of the rechargeable power source battery.
7. A rechargeable power source according to claim 6, wherein the power source visual output comprises a plurality of power source lighting elements, wherein said plurality of power source lighting elements are configured to display a light sequence for indicating the battery charge state and/or the charging / discharging status of the rechargeable power source battery.
8. A rechargeable power source according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of power source lighting elements comprises one of more of light emitting diode (LED), incandescent lamp, halogen lamp and fluoresce lamp.
9. A rechargeable power source according to claim 6, wherein the power source visual output comprises a power source display screen; wherein the power source display screen is configured to provide visual display for indicating the battery charge state and/or the charging status of the rechargeable power source battery.
10. A smoking substitute system, comprising:

    the smoking substitute device according to any one of the claims 1 to 5; and

    the rechargeable power source according to any one of the of claims 6 to 9.
11. A smoking substitute system according to claim 10, wherein the device visual output and the power source visual output are configured to cooperatively activate when indicating battery charge state and/or charging or charging / discharging status of respective rechargeable battery and rechargeable power source battery.
12. A smoking substitute system according to claim 11, wherein said cooperative activation of the device visual output and the power source visual output comprises alternating the activation of the device visual output and the power source visual output when indicating battery charge state and/or charging or charging / discharging status of respective rechargeable battery and rechargeable power source battery.
13. A smoking substitute system according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein said cooperative activation comprises coordinated activation of the device visual output and the power source visual output when indicating battery charge state and/or charging or charging / discharging status of respective rechargeable battery and rechargeable power source battery.
14. A smoking substitute system according to any one of the claims 10 to 13, wherein when the rechargeable power source is in electrical communication with both the power supply and the device, the rechargeable power source is configured to pass an electric current from the power supply to the device, so as to prioritise charging of the rechargeable battery over the rechargeable power source battery.
15. A smoking substitute system according to any one of the claims 10 to 14, further comprises an aerosol-forming article.

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