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WO2025237875A1 - Dispositif de génération d'aérosol avec segment de dispositif de commande principal et segment de dispositif de commande auxiliaire - Google Patents

Dispositif de génération d'aérosol avec segment de dispositif de commande principal et segment de dispositif de commande auxiliaire

Info

Publication number
WO2025237875A1
WO2025237875A1 PCT/EP2025/062856 EP2025062856W WO2025237875A1 WO 2025237875 A1 WO2025237875 A1 WO 2025237875A1 EP 2025062856 W EP2025062856 W EP 2025062856W WO 2025237875 A1 WO2025237875 A1 WO 2025237875A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
aerosol
segment
segments
generating device
generating
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
PCT/EP2025/062856
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Rui Nuno Rodrigues Alves BATISTA
Stefanos PAPAKYRILLOU
Riccardo Amadeo RIVA REGGIORI
Mathias Torsten Rickard TINGSTRÖM
Valerio OLIANA
Jean-Daniel Zanone
Christopher Sean Jamie HARMAN
Jens Claude RUPP
Maria Auxiliadora HERNANDEZ RIVAS
Christopher Ferraris EXALTACION
Gihad Adham Elashmawy Anwar ASHMAWY
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Philip Morris Products SA
Original Assignee
Philip Morris Products SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Philip Morris Products SA filed Critical Philip Morris Products SA
Publication of WO2025237875A1 publication Critical patent/WO2025237875A1/fr
Pending legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/40—Constructional details, e.g. connection of cartridges and battery parts
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A24—TOBACCO; CIGARS; CIGARETTES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES; SMOKERS' REQUISITES
    • A24F—SMOKERS' REQUISITES; MATCH BOXES; SIMULATED SMOKING DEVICES
    • A24F40/00—Electrically operated smoking devices; Component parts thereof; Manufacture thereof; Maintenance or testing thereof; Charging means specially adapted therefor
    • A24F40/20—Devices using solid inhalable precursors

Definitions

  • Aerosol-generating device with main controller segment and supporting controller segment
  • the present disclosure relates to the technical field of aerosol-generating devices, in particular handheld aerosol-generating devices for generating aerosol for consumption by a user.
  • WO2023139206A1 discloses a modular aerosol-generating device comprising a main body and first and second user interface modules.
  • the first user interface module is removably attachable to the main body.
  • the second user interface module is removably attachable to one or both of the first user interface module and the main body.
  • the main body comprises a controller and a power supply.
  • the first user interface module may be a functional module, and the second user interface module may be a mouthpiece comprising a heating chamber.
  • the functional module is connected to the main body and the mouthpiece is connected to the functional module. When the mouthpiece and the main body are assembled without the functional module, a lateral air inlet of the main body may provide a fluid connection to the mouthpiece.
  • an aerosol-generating device comprising a housing sleeve and an arrangement of device segments.
  • the housing sleeve extends along a longitudinal direction.
  • the arrangement of device segments is received in an inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • the arrangement of device segments comprises device segments separably arranged one behind the other along the longitudinal direction.
  • the housing sleeve may form at least a part of an external surface of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the housing sleeve may, for example, form at least 50 percent, or at least 70 percent, or at least 80 percent, or at least 90 percent, or at least 95 percent of an external surface of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the housing sleeve may partly or fully cover the arrangement of device segments.
  • the housing sleeve may hide the arrangement of device segments from view.
  • the housing sleeve may protect the arrangement of device segments.
  • the housing sleeve may protect the arrangement of device segments from contamination with foreign material, such as dust or liquid.
  • the housing sleeve may protect the arrangement of device segments from shock or physical damage.
  • the housing sleeve may hold individual device segments of the arrangement of device segments in place with respect to each other or at least contribute to holding individual device segments of the arrangement of device segments in place with respect to each other.
  • the housing sleeve may hold the arrangement of device segments or at least one device segment in place with respect to one or more other components of the aerosol-generating device or at least contribute to holding the arrangement of device segments or at least one device segment in place with respect to one or more other components of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the housing sleeve may, for example, comprise polycarbonate for transparency and impact resistance, allowing for personalized colors, textures, or even user-engraved designs.
  • the housing sleeve may, for example, comprise lightweight and durable materials like anodized aluminum or high-grade polymer blends to ensure both aesthetic appeal and robust protection.
  • the aerosol-generating device may be a handheld aerosol-generating device.
  • the aerosolgenerating device may be an electronic aerosol-generating device.
  • the aerosol-generating device may have an elongate shape. Arranging the device segments one behind the other along the longitudinal direction may facilitate providing the elongate shape of the aerosol-generating device. An elongate shape of the aerosol-generating device may be convenient to handle by a user.
  • the aerosol-generating device may have its longest extension in the longitudinal direction.
  • the aerosol-generating device may be rod-shaped or cylindrically shaped.
  • the aerosol-generating device may extend along the longitudinal direction from a proximal end of the aerosol-generating device to a distal end of the aerosol-generating device. At its proximal end, the aerosol-generating device may comprise an article opening for at least partially inserting an aerosol-generating article into the aerosol-generating device through the article opening. The article opening may face along a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction.
  • the housing sleeve may have an elongate shape.
  • the housing sleeve may have its longest extension in the longitudinal direction.
  • the housing sleeve may be rod-shaped or cylindrically shaped or tube-shaped.
  • the housing sleeve may extend along the longitudinal direction from a proximal end of the housing sleeve to a distal end of the housing sleeve.
  • the housing sleeve may comprise an insertion opening for at least partially inserting the device segments into the inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • the insertion opening may face along a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction.
  • the device segments may be configured to be inserted into the inner space of the housing sleeve by moving along the longitudinal direction, in particular by moving along the longitudinal direction through the insertion opening.
  • the housing sleeve may be closed.
  • the arrangement of device segments may have an elongate shape.
  • the arrangement of device segments may have its longest extension in the longitudinal direction.
  • the arrangement of device segments may be rod-shaped or cylindrically shaped.
  • the arrangement of device segments may extend along the longitudinal direction from a proximal end of the arrangement of device segments to a distal end of the arrangement of device segments.
  • the device segments may be separated from each other, for example for repair or maintenance purposes.
  • a device segment may be removed from the arrangement of device segments without having to replace the entirety of the arrangement of device segments or even the entire aerosol-generating device.
  • the arrangement of device segments may be configured such that the individual device segments may be separated from each other and afterwards be put together again without damaging the device segments or impairing their usability or function.
  • the device segments may be part of a modular system.
  • the aerosol-generating device may be configured to be modified.
  • one or more of the device segments may be replaced with one or more other device segments, wherein the one or more other device segments may provide different functionality than the device segments replaced by them.
  • the aerosol-generating device may be modified or enhanced without having to replace the entire aerosol-generating device.
  • Different models of aerosol-generating devices may be manufactured, wherein some device segments may be part of all models and other device segments may be different for the different models.
  • Neighboring device segments of the arrangement of device segments may be engaged with each other or contact each other.
  • a device segment of the arrangement of device segments may limit the capability of a neighboring device segment of the arrangement of device segments to move within the housing sleeve, in particular to move along the longitudinal direction.
  • Each of the device segments may be fixed to at least one neighboring device segment in a releasable manner, such that the arrangement of device segments forms a combined structure.
  • the device segments may be fixed to each other to form the combined structure and the combined structure may then be inserted into the housing sleeve as a whole.
  • the combined structure may be configured to be removed from the housing sleeve as a whole.
  • the combined structure may be removed from the housing sleeve and then device segments of the arrangement of device segments may be separated from each other.
  • One of the device segments may comprise a first holding structure.
  • a neighboring one of the device segments may comprise a second holding structure.
  • the first holding structure and the second holding structure may interact to releasably fix the respective device segments to each other.
  • the first holding structure and the second holding structure may be configured to be released from each other by an operation comprising rotating the device segment having the first holding structure relative to the device segment having the second holding structure.
  • the first holding structure and the second holding structure may be configured to be combined with each other by an operation comprising rotating the device segment having the first holding structure relative to the device segment having the second holding structure.
  • the first holding structure and the second holding structure may mechanically engage into each other.
  • the first holding structure and the second holding structure may together form a bayonet coupling or a screw coupling or a snap fit coupling, for example.
  • the first holding structure and the second holding structure may together form a magnetic coupling.
  • the first holding structure may comprise a magnet.
  • the second holding structure may comprise an element configured to be attracted by the magnet.
  • the element configured to be attracted by the magnet may be another magnet or a metallic material, for example.
  • Each of the device segments may be fixed relative to at least one neighboring device segment by means of magnetic force.
  • the arrangement of device segments may be configured to be removed from the housing sleeve with the device segments still fixed to each other.
  • the arrangement of device segments may be configured to be removed from the housing sleeve along the longitudinal direction, in particular through the insertion opening of the housing sleeve.
  • Neighboring device segments may be unfixed with respect to each other, such that the neighboring device segments do not hold together if the arrangement of device segments is removed from the housing sleeve.
  • the aerosol-generating device may further comprise an end cap.
  • the end cap may be removably fixed to the housing sleeve.
  • the end cap may confine movement of the device segments along the longitudinal direction.
  • the end cap may confine movement of the device segments along the longitudinal direction to keep neighboring device segments in engagement.
  • the end cap may be configured to keep the device segments in their positions within the inner space of the housing sleeve, even if the device segments are not fixed to each other. However, the end cap may still be provided in embodiments in which neighboring device segments are fixed to each other.
  • the end cap may form at least part of an outer surface of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the end cap and the housing sleeve may together form an outer surface of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the end cap and the housing sleeve may together form an entirety of an outer surface of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the end cap may at least partially close an opening of the housing sleeve.
  • the opening of the housing sleeve may be an opening providing access to the inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • the opening of the housing sleeve may be the opening through which the device segments are introduced into the inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • the opening of the housing sleeve may be the insertion opening.
  • the end cap may be configured to prevent removal of the device segments through the opening of the housing sleeve, when the end cap is fixed to the housing sleeve.
  • the end cap may be configured to be removed to enable removal of the arrangement of device segments through the opening of the housing sleeve.
  • the end cap may form an end of the aerosol-generating device with respect to the axial direction.
  • the end cap may form the proximal end of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the end cap may have an annular shape.
  • the end cap may comprise an article opening.
  • the article opening may be configured to allow an aerosol-generating article to be at least partially inserted into the aerosol-generating device through the article opening.
  • a shape of the inner space of the housing sleeve may be complementary to a shape of the arrangement of device segments.
  • the housing sleeve may comprise a sidewall circumferentially extending around the inner space of the housing sleeve and defining the inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • the sidewall may circumferentially extend around a center axis of the housing sleeve parallel to the longitudinal direction.
  • the housing sleeve, in particular the sidewall of the housing sleeve, may limit movement of the device segments in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
  • a distance between a device segment and the sidewall of the housing sleeve, in particular an inner surface of the sidewall of the housing sleeve, in a radial direction may be the same for all device segments.
  • the radial direction may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.
  • a maximum distance between a device segment and the sidewall of the housing sleeve in a radial direction may be 5 millimeters or less, or 3 millimeters or less, or 2 millimeters or less, or 1 millimeters or less.
  • the arrangement of device segments may be cylindrically shaped.
  • the device segments may be cylindrically shaped.
  • the inner space of the housing sleeve may be cylindrically shaped.
  • a maximum diameter of the device segments in a radial direction may be the same for all device segments.
  • a shape of the device segments aside from a length in the longitudinal direction may be the same for all device segments.
  • the arrangement of device segments may comprise at least three device segments, or at least four device segments, for example.
  • At least one of the device segments may comprise a first alignment structure.
  • An inner wall surface of the housing sleeve may comprise a second alignment structure.
  • the inner wall surface may be an inner surface of the sidewall.
  • the first alignment structure and the second alignment structure may interact to define a rotational orientation of the at least one device segment with respect to the housing sleeve.
  • the first alignment structure and the second alignment structure may interact to allow insertion of the at least one device segment into the housing sleeve in only one rotational orientation.
  • the rotational orientation may be a rotational orientation with respect to an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction as rotation axis.
  • first alignment structure and the second alignment structure may be a protruding structure and the other one of the first alignment structure and the second alignment structure may be a recessed structure.
  • the protruding structure may comprise a ridge extending in parallel to the longitudinal direction.
  • the protruding structure may comprise multiple ridges extending in parallel to the longitudinal direction.
  • the recessed structure may comprise a groove extending in parallel to the longitudinal direction.
  • the recessed structure may comprise multiple grooves extending in parallel to the longitudinal direction.
  • the one or more ridges may be configured to be received in the one or more grooves.
  • the first alignment structure may be the protruding structure and the second alignment structure may be the recessed structure.
  • the first alignment structure may be the recessed structure and the second alignment structure may be the protruding structure.
  • Two or more of the device segments may comprise a first alignment structure.
  • Each of the first alignment structures may interact with the second alignment structure of the inner wall surface of the housing sleeve to define a rotational orientation of the respective device segment with respect to the housing sleeve.
  • the first alignment structures and the second alignment structure may be configured to allow insertion of the device segments into the housing sleeve only in a predetermined order.
  • the second alignment structure of the inner wall surface of the housing sleeve may comprise plural ridges extending in parallel to the longitudinal direction. The plural ridges may be spaced from each other along the circumferential direction. The ridges may extend up to different heights along the longitudinal direction.
  • a first device segment intended to be inserted into the housing sleeve as a first device segment may comprise multiple grooves on its outer circumferential surface as first alignment structure, wherein each groove corresponds to one ridge of the inner wall surface of the housing sleeve.
  • the ridges extend into the grooves and do not prevent insertion of the first device segment.
  • the first device segment may reach up to a first height within the housing sleeve. At least one of the ridges of the inner wall surface of the housing sleeve may not extend above the first height.
  • a second device segment to be inserted into the inner space of the housing sleeve after the first device segment has been inserted may comprise a lower number of grooves than the first device segment as first alignment structure.
  • the lower number of grooves may correspond to any ridges of the inner wall surface of the housing sleeve that are still present above the first height.
  • the ridges provided above the first height may extend into the grooves of the second device segment, thus allowing insertion of the second device segment into the housing sleeve.
  • the second device segment could, however, not be inserted further down into the inner space of the housing sleeve than the first height, because the second device segment does not have a groove corresponding to the at least one ridge that ends at the first height, and the second device segment would collide with that at least one ridge, preventing the second device segment to move further down into the inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • One of the device segments may comprise a first electrical connector.
  • a neighboring one of the device segments may comprise a second electrical connector.
  • the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector may be electrically connected.
  • the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector may be configured to transfer power between neighboring device segments.
  • the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector may be configured to transfer control signals between neighboring device segments. All of the device segments may be electrically connected.
  • One of the device segments may comprise a first orientation feature.
  • a neighboring one of the device segments may comprise a second orientation feature.
  • the first orientation feature and the second orientation feature may interact to ensure the specific orientation of their device segments relative to each other.
  • the specific orientation may be a rotational orientation with respect to an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction.
  • the first orientation feature and the second orientation feature may physically engage each other.
  • One of the first orientation feature and the second orientation feature may be a protrusion.
  • the other one of the first orientation feature and the second orientation feature may be a recess.
  • the protrusion may be configured to be received in the recess, when the neighboring device segments are in the specific orientation relative to each other.
  • the protrusion may be configured to not be received in the recess, when the neighboring device segments are in an orientation relative to each other that is not the specific orientation.
  • the first orientation feature and the second orientation feature may facilitate assembling the aerosol-generating device.
  • the device segments may comprise a battery segment.
  • the battery segment may comprise a battery of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the battery may be rechargeable battery.
  • the battery may be configured to power operation of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the battery segment may have a shell made, for instance, of compressed pulp, that is fully recyclable, or of a blend of recyclable and inexpensive thermoplastic polymers, such as polyethylene and polypropylene, with added reinforcing agents for durability.
  • the device segments may comprise an aerosolization segment.
  • the aerosolization segment may be configured to aerosolize an aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the aerosolgenerating substrate may be part of an aerosol-generating article used with the aerosolgenerating device.
  • the aerosolization segment may be configured to generate aerosol from an aerosol-generating article, in particular when the aerosol-generating article is at least partially inserted in the aerosolization segment.
  • the aerosol-generating device may be a heat-not-burn device.
  • the aerosolization segment may be a heating segment.
  • the aerosolization segment may comprise a heater.
  • the heater may be configured to heat an aerosol-generating article.
  • the heater may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate to release aerosol from the aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the heater may be an electrical heater.
  • the aerosolization segment may be powered by the battery.
  • the heater may be powered by the battery.
  • the heater may be configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate by resistance heating or by induction heating, for example.
  • the heater may comprise a heater blade configured to extend into the aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the heater may comprise an induction coil configured to heat a susceptor of the aerosol-generating article by way of induction heating.
  • the susceptor may be provided within the aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the heater may be a dual heater configured to, in a first heating mode, heat an aerosol-generating substrate of an aerosolgenerating article by resistance heating and, in a second heating mode heat an aerosolgenerating substrate of an aerosol-generating article by induction heating.
  • the heater may selectively operate in the first heating mode or in the second heating mode depending on the article that is used with the aerosol-generating device at the time.
  • the aerosolization segment may comprise an article chamber.
  • the article chamber may be configured to receive at least part of an aerosol-generating article.
  • the part of the aerosolgenerating article may comprise the aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the aerosolization segment may comprise an aerosolization segment opening.
  • the aerosolization segment opening may allow insertion of the aerosol-generating article into the article cavity.
  • the aerosolization segment opening may be aligned with the article opening.
  • the device segments may comprise a main controller segment.
  • the main controller segment may comprise first control electronics configured to control at least one first function of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the at least one first function may include aerosolization control or temperature settings control or timing control, for example.
  • the at least one first function may include monitoring a temperature of the heater or of the article chamber.
  • the at least one first function may include overheating protection or short circuit protection or automatic shutoff.
  • the at least one first function may include any function vital to operation of the aerosol-generating device for aerosol-generation.
  • the main controller segment may be powered by the battery.
  • the first control electronics may be powered by the battery.
  • the first control electronics may comprise a firmware of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the first control electronics may comprise a processor.
  • the first control electronics may comprise a data storage storing programming.
  • the device segments may comprise a supporting controller segment.
  • the supporting controller segment may comprise second control electronics.
  • the second control electronics may be configured to enable or control at least one second function of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the at least one second function may be different from the at least one first function.
  • the at least one second function may include one or more user interaction function.
  • the one or more user interaction function may comprise a vibration function, or a haptic feedback function, or a touch control function, or a gesture control function, or an indicator lighting function, or an electronic communication function, such as a WIFI function, or a visual customization function, or a NFC (Near Field Communication) function.
  • the at least one second function may comprise only functions that are non-vital to operation of the aerosol-generating device in the sense that the aerosol-generating device may be operated to generate aerosol even without the at least one second function.
  • the second control electronics may comprise a processor.
  • the second control electronics may comprise a data storage storing programming.
  • the supporting controller segment may be powered by the battery.
  • the second control electronics may be powered by the battery.
  • An upstream device segment provided directly upstream of the supporting controller segment with respect to the longitudinal direction and a downstream device segment provided directly downstream of the supporting controller segment may be configured to be connected via the supporting controller segment between them in a first operational mode, and to be connected without the supporting controller segment between them in a second operational mode.
  • the aerosol-generating device may be configured to be operable both in the first and the second operational mode.
  • the aerosol-generating device may be configured to be operable to generate aerosol both in the first and the second operational mode.
  • the aerosol-generating device may be configured to be operable to the generate aerosol with and without the supporting controller segment.
  • the upstream device segment and the downstream device segment may be configured to be directly connected to each other without an intermediate device segment between them in the second operational mode.
  • the upstream device segment and the downstream device segment may be configured to be directly mechanically connected to each other, or directly electronically connected to each other, or both, without an intermediate device segment between them in the second operational mode.
  • the upstream device segment and the downstream device segment may be configured to be connected to each other via a spacer segment in the second operational mode.
  • the spacer segment may be a placeholder segment that does not provide a function to the aerosol-generating device.
  • the spacer segment may be configured to comprise one or more electrical transit lines.
  • the one or more electrical transit lines may be configured to patch at least one electrical connection from the upstream device segment to the downstream device segment.
  • the one or more electrical transit lines may comprise a power connection and/or a data connection.
  • the user may either operate the aerosol-generating device without the supporting controller segment, or with the supporting controller segment.
  • functions provided by the supporting controller segment such as the at least one second function
  • an aerosolgenerating device comprising an arrangement of device segments.
  • the arrangement of device segments comprises device segments separably arranged one behind the other along a longitudinal direction.
  • the device segments comprise a main controller segment and a supporting controller segment.
  • the main controller segment comprises first control electronics configured to control at least one first function of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the supporting controller segment comprise second control electronics configured to control at least one second function of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the at least one first function may include an aerosolization control or a heating control.
  • the at least one first function may include any function vital to operation of the aerosol-generating device for aerosol-generation.
  • the at least one second function may comprise only functions that are non-vital to operation of the aerosol-generating device in the sense that the aerosol-generating device may be operated to generate aerosol even without the at least one second function.
  • the at least one second function may include at least one user interaction function.
  • the at least one second function may include a vibration function, or a haptic feedback function, or a touch control function, or a gesture control function, or an indicator lighting function, or an electronic communication function.
  • the device segments may further comprise a battery segment comprising a battery of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the battery may power the main controller segment.
  • the battery may power the supporting controller segment.
  • the device segments may further comprise a heating segment comprising a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article.
  • the heating segment may be an aerosolization segment.
  • the battery may power the heating segment, or a heater of the heating segment.
  • the main controller segment may comprise a first indication element.
  • the first indication element may be configured to communicate first information to a user.
  • the supporting controller segment may comprise a second indication element.
  • the second indication element may be configured to communicate second information to a user.
  • One or both of the first indication element and the second indication element may comprise a display, or a signal lighting, or a sound output device, or a haptic feedback output device.
  • the main controller segment may comprise a first user input element.
  • the supporting controller segment may comprise a second user input element.
  • One or both of the first user input element and the second user input element may comprise an input button, or a touchscreen device, or a voice input device.
  • An upstream device segment may be provided directly upstream of the supporting controller segment with respect to the longitudinal direction.
  • a downstream device segment may be provided direction downstream of the supporting controller segment with respect to the longitudinal direction.
  • the upstream device segment and the downstream device segment may be configured to be connected via the supporting controller segment between them in the first operational mode, and to be connected without the supporting controller segment between them in a second operational mode.
  • the aerosol-generating device may be configured to be operable both in the first and the second operational mode.
  • the upstream device segment may be the heating segment or the aerosolization segment or the main controller segment, for example.
  • the downstream device segment may be the battery segment or the main controller segment, for example.
  • the upstream device segment and the downstream device segment may be configured to be directly connected to each other without an intermediate device segment in the second operational mode.
  • the upstream device segment and the downstream device segment may be configured to be connected to each other via a spacer element in the second operational mode.
  • an aerosol-generating system comprising the aerosol-generating device according to the first aspect or according to the second aspect, and an aerosol-generating article with an aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the aerosol-generating article may have an elongate shape.
  • the aerosol-generating article may be rod-shaped or cylindrically shaped.
  • the aerosol-generating article may be at least partially inserted into the aerosol-generating device, in particular into the article chamber of the aerosolgenerating device.
  • the aerosol-generating device may be at least partially inserted into the article chamber through the article opening.
  • the aerosol-generating article may comprise plural plug parts arranged one behind the other along the longitudinal direction, referring to the orientation when the aerosol-generating article is at least partially received in the aerosol-generating device.
  • the plug parts may comprise an aerosol-generating plug.
  • the aerosol-generating plug may comprise the aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the plug parts may comprise a mouthpiece plug. The mouthpiece plug may be provided outside the aerosol-generating device, when the aerosol-generating article is received in the aerosol-generating device.
  • the aerosol-generating substrate may be configured to generate aerosol upon being heated, in particular according to the heat-not-burn principle.
  • the aerosol-generating substrate may comprise a material containing alkaloids.
  • the aerosol-generating substrate may comprise a tobacco material.
  • the aerosol-generating substrate may comprise reconstituted tobacco material.
  • a susceptor may be provided in the aerosol-generating substrate to be heated via induction heating.
  • the susceptor may comprise a metallic material.
  • a device segment of the aerosol-generating device according to the first aspect or according to the second aspect or a device segment for the aerosol-generating device according to the first aspect or according to the second aspect.
  • a set of parts comprising the aerosol-generating device according to the first aspect or according to the second aspect, and a replacement device segment.
  • the replacement device segment is configured to interchangeably replace a replaceable device segment of the device segments.
  • the replacement device segment is configured to enable the aerosol-generating device to perform at least one additional function.
  • the at least one additional function may not be available without the replacement device segment.
  • the replaceable device segment may be the supporting controller segment.
  • a method for assembling an aerosol-generating device comprising Device segments are releasably fixed to each other to form an arrangement of segments as a combined structure having the device segments arranged one behind the other along a longitudinal direction.
  • the combined arrangement of device segments is inserted through an insertion opening of a housing sleeve into an inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • At least one of the device segments may comprise a first alignment structure.
  • An inner wall surface of the housing sleeve may comprise a second alignment structure.
  • the first alignment structure and the second alignment structure may interact to define a rotational orientation of the at least one device segment with respect to the housing sleeve upon inserting the arrangement of segments into the inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • the insertion opening of the housing sleeve may be at least partially closed by removably fixing and end cap to the housing sleeve.
  • Releasably fixing the device segments to each other may comprise bringing holding structures of neighboring device segments to interact.
  • Releasably fixing the device segments to each other may comprise interaction between orientation structures of neighboring device segments to indicate or ensure a specific orientation of the neighboring device segments relative to each other.
  • Electrical connectors of neighboring device segments may be connected upon releasably fixing the device segments to each other.
  • the electrical connectors may be automatically connected upon releasably fixing the device segments to each other, without requiring separate steps for connecting the electrical connectors aside from the steps already required to releasably fix the device segments to each other.
  • the aerosol-generating device assembled in the method according to the sixth aspect may be the aerosol-generating device according to the first aspect or according to the second aspect.
  • a housing sleeve of an aerosol-generating device to protect an arrangement of device segments in an inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • the arrangement of device segments comprises device segments separably arranged one behind the other along a longitudinal direction.
  • the aerosol-generating device in the use according to the seventh aspect may be the aerosol-generating device according to the first aspect or according to the second aspect.
  • a method for assembling an aerosol-generating device comprising Device segments are connected one behind the other along a longitudinal direction to form an arrangement of segments.
  • the device segments comprise a main controller segment and a supporting controller segment.
  • the main controller segment comprises first control electronics configured to control at least one first function of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the supporting controller segment comprises second control electronics configured to control at least one second function of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the arrangement of device segments may be inserted through an insertion opening of a housing sleeve into an inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • the device segments may be releasably fixed to each other to form the arrangement of segments as a combined structure.
  • Connecting the device segments may comprise interaction between orientation structures of neighboring device segments to indicate or ensure a specific orientation of the neighboring device segments relative to each other.
  • Connecting the device segments may comprise connecting electrical connectors of neighboring device segments.
  • the aerosol-generating device assembled in the method according to the eighth aspect may be the aerosol-generating device according to the first aspect or according to the second aspect.
  • the present disclosure comprises various aspects, embodiments, and examples. Features, advantages, and explanations disclosed with reference to any one of these aspects, embodiments, and examples may be combined with, or transferred to, any other one of the aspects, embodiments, and examples described herein. Any one of the methods or uses described herein may be carried out using any one of the devices or systems described herein. Any one of the devices or systems described herein may be adapted, designed or configured to carry out any one of the methods or uses described herein.
  • the device segments may be separated without damaging either one of the device segments. After separating the device segments, they may be recombined to restore the state before separation. Separating the device segments may require tools or may be carried out without tools. Separating the device segments may be free of non-reversible steps, such as cutting, or breaking, or ripping apart.
  • Neighboring device segments are device segments that follow each other along the longitudinal direction without another device segment interposed between the neighboring device segments.
  • Aerosol-generating device comprising: a housing sleeve extending along a longitudinal direction; and an arrangement of device segments received in an inner space of the housing sleeve; wherein the arrangement of device segments comprises device segments separably arranged one behind the other along the longitudinal direction.
  • Example Ex2 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex1 , wherein neighboring device segments of the arrangement of device segments are engaged with each other or contact each other.
  • Example Ex3 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex1 or Ex2, wherein each of the device segments is fixed to at least one neighboring device segment in a releasable manner, such that the arrangement of device segments forms a combined structure.
  • Example Ex4 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex3, wherein one of the device segments comprises a first holding structure and a neighboring one of the device segments comprises a second holding structure, wherein the first holding structure and the second holding structure interact to releasably fix the respective device segments to each other.
  • Example Ex5 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex4, wherein the first holding structure and the second holding structure are configured to be released from each other by an operation comprising rotating the device segment having the first holding structure relative to the device segment having the second holding structure.
  • Example Ex6 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex4 or Ex5, wherein the first holding structure and the second holding structure mechanically engage into each other.
  • Example Ex7 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex4 to Ex6, wherein the first holding structure and the second holding structure together form a bayonet coupling, or a screw coupling, or a snap-fit coupling.
  • Example Ex8 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex7, wherein each of the device segments is fixed relative to at least one neighboring device segment by means of magnetic force.
  • Example Ex9 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex8, wherein the arrangement of device segments is configured to be removed from the housing sleeve with the device segments still fixed to each other.
  • Example Ex10 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex9, wherein the arrangement of device segments is configured to be removed from the housing sleeve along the longitudinal direction.
  • Example Ex11 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex10, wherein neighboring device segments are unfixed with respect to each other, such that the neighboring device segments do not hold together if the arrangement of device segments is removed from the housing sleeve.
  • Example Ex12 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex11 , further comprising an end cap removably fixed to the housing sleeve, wherein the end cap confines movement of the device segments along the longitudinal direction, in particular to keep neighboring device segments in engagement.
  • Example Ex13 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex12, wherein the end cap at least partially closes an opening of the housing sleeve.
  • Example Ex14 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex12 or Ex13, wherein the end cap is configured to be removed to enable removal of the arrangement of device segments through the opening of the housing sleeve.
  • Example Ex15 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex14, wherein a shape of the inner space of the housing sleeve is complementary to a shape of the arrangement of device segments.
  • Example Ex16 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex15, wherein a distance between a device segment and a sidewall of the housing sleeve in a radial direction is the same for all device segments.
  • Example Ex17 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex16, wherein a maximum distance between a device segment and a sidewall of the housing sleeve in a radial direction is 5 millimeters or less, or 3 millimeters or less, or 2 millimeters or less, or 1 millimeter or less.
  • Example Ex18 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex17, wherein the arrangement of device segments is cylindrically shaped.
  • Example Ex19 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex18, wherein the device segments are cylindrically shaped.
  • Example Ex20 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex19, wherein the inner space of the housing sleeve is cylindrically shaped.
  • Example Ex21 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex20, wherein a maximum diameter of the device segments in a radial direction is the same for all device segments.
  • Example Ex22 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex21 , wherein a shape of the device segments aside from a length in the longitudinal direction is the same for all device segments.
  • Example Ex23 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex22, wherein the arrangement of device segments comprises at least three device segments, or at least four device segments.
  • Example Ex24 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex23, wherein at least one of the device segments comprises a first alignment structure and an inner wall surface of the housing sleeve comprises a second alignment structure, wherein the first alignment structure and the second alignment structure interact to define a rotational orientation of the at least one device segment with respect to the housing sleeve.
  • Example Ex25 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex24, wherein one of the first alignment structure and the second alignment structure is a protruding structure and the other one of the first alignment structure and the second alignment structure is a recessed structure, such as a groove.
  • Example Ex26 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex25, wherein one of the device segments comprises a first electrical connector and a neighboring one of the device segments comprises a second electrical connector electrically connected to the first electrical connector.
  • Example Ex27 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex26, wherein one of the device segments comprises a first orientation feature and a neighboring one of the device segments comprises a second orientation feature, wherein the first orientation feature and the second orientation feature interact to ensure a specific orientation of their device segments relative to each other.
  • Example Ex28 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex27, wherein the device segments comprise a battery segment comprising a battery of the aerosolgenerating device, an aerosolization segment configured to aerosolize an aerosol-generating substrate, and a main controller segment comprising first control electronics configured to control at least one first function of the aerosol-generating device.
  • the device segments comprise a battery segment comprising a battery of the aerosolgenerating device, an aerosolization segment configured to aerosolize an aerosol-generating substrate, and a main controller segment comprising first control electronics configured to control at least one first function of the aerosol-generating device.
  • Example Ex29 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex28, wherein the at least one first function includes aerosolization control.
  • Example Ex30 Aerosol-generating device according to Examples Ex28 or Ex29, wherein the aerosolization segment is configured to generate aerosol from an aerosol-generating article, in particular when the aerosol-generating article is at least partially inserted in the aerosolization segment.
  • Example Ex31 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex28 to Ex30, wherein the aerosolization segment is a heating segment comprising a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article.
  • Example Ex32 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex31 , wherein the device segments comprise a supporting controller segment comprising second control electronics configured to enable or control at least one second function of the aerosolgenerating device.
  • Example Ex33 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex32, wherein the at least one second function includes one or more user interaction function, in particular a vibration function or a haptic feedback function or a touch control function or a gesture control function or an indicator lighting function or an electronic communication function.
  • the at least one second function includes one or more user interaction function, in particular a vibration function or a haptic feedback function or a touch control function or a gesture control function or an indicator lighting function or an electronic communication function.
  • Example Ex34 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex32 to Ex33, wherein an upstream device segment provided directly upstream of the supporting controller segment with respect to the longitudinal direction and a downstream device segment provided directly downstream of the supporting controller segment are configured to be connected via the supporting controller segment between them in a first operational mode, and to be connected without the supporting controller segment between them in a second operational mode.
  • Example Ex35 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex34, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to be operable both in the first and the second operational mode.
  • Example Ex36 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex34 or Ex35, wherein the upstream device segment and the downstream device segment are configured to be directly connected to each other without an intermediate device segment between them in the second operational mode.
  • Example Ex37 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex34 to Ex36, wherein the upstream device segment and the downstream device segment are configured to be connected to each other via a spacer segment in the second operational mode.
  • Aerosol-generating device comprising: an arrangement of device segments comprising device segments separably arranged one behind the other along a longitudinal direction; wherein the device segments comprise a main controller segment comprising first control electronics configured to control at least one first function of the aerosol-generating device; and wherein the device segments further comprise a supporting controller segment comprising second control electronics configured to control at least one second function of the aerosolgenerating device.
  • Example Ex39 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex38, wherein the at least one first function includes an aerosolization control or a heating control.
  • Example Ex40 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex38 or Ex39, wherein the at least one second function includes at least one user interaction function.
  • Example Ex41 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex38 to Ex40, wherein the at least one second function includes a vibration function, or a haptic feedback function, or a touch control function, or a gesture control function, or an indicator lighting function, or an electronic communication function.
  • the at least one second function includes a vibration function, or a haptic feedback function, or a touch control function, or a gesture control function, or an indicator lighting function, or an electronic communication function.
  • Example Ex42 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex38 to Ex41 , wherein the device segments further comprise a battery segment comprising a battery of the aerosol-generating device.
  • Example Ex43 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex38 to Ex42, wherein the device segments further comprise a heating segment comprising a heater configured to heat an aerosol-generating article.
  • Example Ex44 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex38 to Ex43, wherein the main controller segment comprises a first indication element.
  • Example Ex45 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex38 to Ex46, wherein the supporting controller segment comprises a second indication element.
  • Example Ex46 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex38 to
  • Example Ex47 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex38 to Ex46, wherein the supporting controller segment comprises a second user input element.
  • Example Ex48 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex38 to Ex47, wherein an upstream device segment provided directly upstream of the supporting controller segment with respect to the longitudinal direction and a downstream device segment provided directly downstream of the supporting controller segment are configured to be connected via the supporting controller segment between them in a first operational mode, and to be connected without the supporting controller segment between them in a second operational mode.
  • Example Ex49 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex48, wherein the aerosol-generating device is configured to be operable both in the first and the second operational mode.
  • Example Ex50 Aerosol-generating device according to Example Ex48 or Ex49, wherein the upstream device segment and the downstream device segment are configured to be directly connected to each other without an intermediate device segment in the second operational mode.
  • Example Ex51 Aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex48 to Ex50, wherein the upstream device segment and the downstream device segment are configured to be connected to each other via a spacer segment in the second operational mode.
  • Example Ex52 Aerosol-generating system comprising an aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex51 , and an aerosol-generating article with an aerosolgenerating substrate.
  • Example Ex53 Device segment for an aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex52.
  • Example Ex54 Set of parts, comprising: the aerosol-generating device according to any one of Examples Ex1 to Ex 53; and a replacement device segment; wherein the replacement device segment is configured to interchangeably replace a replaceable device segment of the device segments; and wherein the replacement device segment is configured to enable the aerosol-generating device to perform at least one additional function.
  • Example Ex55 Set of parts according to Example Ex54, wherein the at least one additional function is not available without the replacement device segment.
  • Example Ex56 Set of parts according to Example Ex54 or Ex55, wherein the replaceable device segment is the supporting controller segment.
  • Example Ex57 Method for assembling an aerosol-generating device, comprising: releasably fixing device segments to each other to form an arrangement of segments as a combined structure having the device segments arranged one behind the other along a longitudinal direction; and inserting the combined arrangement of device segments through an insertion opening of a housing sleeve into an inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • Example Ex58 Method according to Example Ex57, wherein at least one of the device segments comprises a first alignment structure and an inner wall surface of the housing sleeve comprises a second alignment structure, wherein the first alignment structure and the second alignment structure interact to define a rotational orientation of the at least one device segment with respect to the housing sleeve upon inserting the arrangement of segments into to inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • Example Ex59 Method according to Example Ex57 or Ex58, further comprising at least partially closing the insertion opening of the housing sleeve by removably fixing an end cap to the housing sleeve.
  • Example Ex60 Method according to any one of Examples Ex57 to Ex59, wherein releasably fixing the device segments to each other comprises bringing holding structures of neighboring device segments to interact.
  • Example Ex61 Method according to any one of Examples Ex57 to Ex60, wherein releasably fixing the device segments to each other comprises interaction between orientation structures of neighboring device segments to indicate or ensure a specific orientation of the neighboring device segments relative to each other.
  • Example Ex62 Method according to any one of Examples Ex57 to Ex61 , wherein electrical connectors of neighboring device segments are connected upon releasably fixing the device segments to each other.
  • Example Ex63 Use of a housing sleeve of an aerosol-generating device to protect an arrangement of device segments in an inner space of the housing sleeve; wherein the arrangement of device segments comprises device segments separably arranged one behind the other along a longitudinal direction.
  • Example Ex64 Method for assembling an aerosol-generating device, comprising: connecting device segments one behind the other along a longitudinal direction to form an arrangement of device segments; wherein the device segments comprise a main controller segment comprising first control electronics configured to control at least one first function of the aerosol-generating device; and wherein the device segments further comprise a supporting controller segment comprising second control electronics configured to control at least one second function of the aerosolgenerating device.
  • Example Ex65 Method according to Example Ex64, further comprising inserting the arrangement of device segments through an insertion opening of a housing sleeve into an inner space of the housing sleeve.
  • Example Ex66 Method according to Example Ex64 or Ex65, further comprising releasably fixing the device segments to each other to form the arrangement of device segments as a combined structure.
  • Example Ex67 Method according to any one of Examples Ex64 to Ex66, wherein connecting the device segments comprises interaction between orientation structures of neighboring device segments to indicate or ensure a specific orientation of the neighboring device segments relative to each other.
  • Example Ex68 Method according to any one of Examples Ex64 to Ex67, wherein connecting the device segments comprises connecting electrical connectors of neighboring device segments.
  • Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an aerosol-generating system according to a first embodiment.
  • Figure 2 shows a schematic exploded view of the aerosol-generating device according to the first embodiment.
  • Figure 3 shows a schematic sectional view of the housing sleeve according to the first embodiment.
  • Figure 4 shows a schematic sectional view of two neighboring device segments according to the first embodiment.
  • Figure 5 shows a schematic view of the device segments of an aerosol-generating device according to a second embodiment.
  • Figure 6 a schematic exploded view of the aerosol-generating device according to the second embodiment.
  • Figure 7 shows a schematic view of the aerosol-generating system according to the second embodiment.
  • Figure 8 shows a schematic exploded view of an aerosol-generating device according to a third embodiment.
  • Figure 9 shows a schematic view of the aerosol-generating system according to the third embodiment.
  • Figures 1 to 4 show an aerosol-generating system 1 according to a first embodiment.
  • the aerosol-generating system 1 comprises an aerosol-generating device 3 and an aerosolgenerating article 5 usable with the aerosol-generating device 3 to generate aerosol for consumption by a user.
  • Figure 1 shows the aerosol-generating device 3 in an assembled state, and the aerosol-generating article 5.
  • Figure 2 illustrates assembly of the aerosol-generating device 3.
  • the aerosol-generating device 3 has an elongate rod-shape extending a longitudinal direction 7 from a proximal end 9 of the aerosol-generating device 3 to a distal end 11 of the aerosol-generating device 3. At the proximal end 9, the aerosol-generating device 3 comprises an article opening 13 for at least partially inserting the aerosol-generating article 5 into the aerosolgenerating device 3.
  • the aerosol-generating device 3 comprises a housing sleeve 15 and an end cap 17.
  • the housing sleeve 15 and the end cap 17 together form an exterior of the aerosol-generating device 3.
  • the housing sleeve 15 is an elongate sleeve extending along the longitudinal direction 7.
  • the housing sleeve 15 surrounds an inner space 19 of the housing sleeve 15.
  • the inner space 19 is accessible via an insertion opening 21 of the housing sleeve 15.
  • the insertion opening 21 faces against the longitudinal direction 7.
  • the aerosol-generating device 3 comprises an arrangement of device segments 23.
  • the arrangement of device segments 23 comprises four device segments including a battery segment 25, a main controller segment 27, a supporting controller segment 29, and an aerosolization segment 31.
  • the device segments 23 are arranged in the inner space 19 of the housing sleeve 15 one behind the other along the longitudinal direction 7.
  • the order of the device segments 23 along the longitudinal direction 7 in the illustrated embodiment is: aerosolization segment 31 , supporting controller segment 29, main controller segment 27, battery segment 25.
  • the insertion opening 21 of the housing sleeve 15 is at least partially closed by removably fixing the end cap 17 to the housing sleeve 15.
  • the end cap 17 may comprise an outer thread portion configured to be combined with an inner thread portion of the housing sleeve 15.
  • the aerosol-generating article 5 comprises plural plug parts arranged one behind the other along the longitudinal direction 7 when the aerosol-generating article 5 is at least partially received in the aerosol-generating device 3.
  • the plug parts comprise an aerosol-generating plug 34.
  • the aerosol-generating plug 34 comprises an aerosol-generating substrate.
  • the plug parts further comprise a mouthpiece plug 36.
  • the mouthpiece plug 36 is provided outside the aerosolgenerating device 3, when the aerosol-generating article 5 is received in the aerosol-generating device 3.
  • the aerosolization segment 31 lies directly below the end cap 17.
  • the aerosolization segment 31 defines an article chamber 33 accessible through the article opening 13.
  • the aerosolization segment 31 is a heating segment comprising a heater 38 configured to heat the aerosol-generating substrate in the aerosol-generating plug 34 of the aerosol-generating article 5 within the article chamber 33, to release aerosol for consumption by a user.
  • the main controller segment 27 includes first control electronics 40 that control first functions of the aerosol-generating device 3.
  • the first functions include, for example, heating functions.
  • the first functions include any functions that are required for the aerosol-generating device 3 to heat the aerosol-generating article 5 to generate aerosol.
  • the supporting controller segment 29 comprises second control electronics 42 enabling or controlling at least one second function of the aerosol-generating device 3.
  • the second functions are additional functions that are not vital to operation of the aerosol-generating device 3, such as one or more enhanced user interaction functions, such as a vibration function, or a haptic feedback function, or a touch control function, or a gesture control function, or an indicator lighting function, or an electronic communication function.
  • the battery segment 23 comprises a rechargeable battery 44.
  • the battery 44 powers the aerosol-generating device 3.
  • the battery 44 powers each of the aerosolization segment 31 , the main controller segment 27, and the supporting controller segment 29.
  • Each of the device segments 23 comprises a first alignment structure 35.
  • an inner surface 37 of the sidewall 50 of the housing sleeve 15 comprises a second alignment structure 39.
  • the first alignment structures 35 comprise recesses extending in parallel to the longitudinal direction 7 in outer surfaces of the device segments 23.
  • the second alignment structure 39 comprises corresponding ridges extending from the inner surface 37 of the sidewall 50 of the housing sleeve 15 in parallel to the longitudinal direction 7.
  • the first alignment structures 35 and the second alignment structure 39 ensure that the device segments 23 may be inserted into the housing sleeve 15 only in one rotational orientation, with respect to a rotation axis parallel to the longitudinal direction 7 and centrally extending through the housing sleeve 15.
  • the second alignment structure 39 comprises one ridge, and each of the first alignment structures 35 comprises a corresponding groove.
  • the first and second alignment structures 35, 39 are more specialized and the first alignment structures 35 of different device segments 23 comprise different numbers of grooves and the second alignment structure 39 has plural ridges extending to different heights. The more specialized arrangement shown in the Figures ensures that the device segments 23 are inserted into the housing sleeve 15 in the correct order.
  • the device segments 23 also comprise orientation features 41.
  • the orientation features 41 of neighboring device segments 23 interact to ensure the correct orientation of the device segments 23 relative to each other.
  • Figure 4 shows a schematic sectional view of the battery segment 25 and the main controller segment 27 to illustrate the orientation features 41.
  • the orientation feature 41 of the battery segment 25 is a circular recess provided in a surface of the battery segment 25 that faces the main controller segment 27.
  • the corresponding orientation feature 41 of the main controller segment 27 is a circular protrusion fitting into the circular recess of the battery segment 25. Since both orientation features 41 are provided at a non-central position, engagement between the orientation features 41 defines a specific orientation of the device segments 23 with respect to each other.
  • Neighboring device segments 23 are connected via electrical connectors 43.
  • the electrical connectors 43 may allow transmission of electrical power and transmission of control signals.
  • each device segment 23 may comprise an electrical connector 43 that automatically connects to an electrical connector 43 of a neighboring device segment 23, when the device segments 23 reach their final positions in the aerosol-generating device 3.
  • the aerosol-generating device 3 In a first operational mode of the aerosol-generating device 3, the aerosol-generating device 3 is operated with the supporting controller segment 27 provided between the battery segment 25 and the main controller segment 29. However, as indicated above, the supporting controller segment 27 is not strictly necessary for operating the aerosol-generating device 3 to generate aerosol by heating the aerosol-generating article 5. Thus, in a second operational mode, the aerosol-generating device 3 may be operated without the supporting controller segment 27 between the battery segment 25 and the main controller segment 29. For the second operational mode, the supporting controller segment 27 may be removed from the aerosol-generating device 3, and the battery segment 25 and the main controller segment 29 may be directly connected. Alternatively, the supporting controller segment 27 may be removed and replaced with a replacement segment 49.
  • the replacement segment 49 may be a spacer segment that provides no function, but only patches through any electrical connections between the battery segment 25 and the main controller segment 29.
  • the replacement segment 49 may be a supporting controller segment 27 having a different configuration than the original supporting controller segment 27.
  • the replacement segment 49 may, for example, provide different functions than the original supporting controller segment 27.
  • the device segments 23 are separately inserted into the housing sleeve 15. When assembly is completed, the device segments 23 are held together due to being confined within the inner space 19 of the housing sleeve 15 by the end cap 17 attached to the housing sleeve 15. The individual device segments 23, however, are unfixed with respect to each other, such that the neighboring device segments 23 do not hold together if the arrangement of device segments 23 is removed from the housing sleeve 15.
  • Figures 5 to 7 show an aerosol-generating system 1 according to a second embodiment.
  • the principal design and functions of the second embodiment are similar to that of the first embodiment. Therefore, only differences with respect to the first embodiment are explained.
  • the device segments 23 are fixed to each other in a releasable manner before being inserted into the housing sleeve 15 through the insertion opening 19.
  • an arrangement of device segments 23 is formed as a combined structure. This is shown in Figure 5.
  • Each device segment 23 comprises a holding structure 51 on any surface of the device segment 23 facing a neighboring device segment 23.
  • Opposing holding structures 51 interact to releasably fix the respective device segments 23 to each other.
  • Opposing holding structures 51 may together form a bayonet coupling, or a screw coupling, or a snap-fit coupling, or a magnetic coupling, for example.
  • the combined structure of device segments 23 After the combined structure of device segments 23 has been assembled, the combined structure is inserted into the housing sleeve 15 along the longitudinal direction 7 as one piece, as shown Figure 6. After the combined structure of device segments 23 has been inserted into the inner space 19 of the housing sleeve 15, the end cap 17 is removably fixed to the housing sleeve 15 in the same manner as in the first embodiment, leading to the assembled device as shown in Figure 7.
  • FIGS 8 and 9 show an aerosol-generating system 1 according to a third embodiment.
  • the principal design and functions of the third embodiment are similar to the first and second embodiments. Therefore, only differences with respect to the second embodiment will be described.
  • the device segments 23 of the third embodiment are releasably fixed to each other to form a combined structure.
  • the combined structure is not inserted into a holding sleeve 15. Rather, the combined structure forms an aerosol-generating device 3 without an additional outer hull.
  • the outer surface of the aerosol-generating device 3 according to the third embodiment is formed by outer surfaces of the device segments 23.
  • Figure 8 shows the device segments 23 before assembly. Further, a replacement device segment 49 configured to replace the supporting controller segment 29 is also shown.
  • Figure 9 shows the aerosol-generating device 3 in the assembled state.

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Abstract

Un dispositif de génération d'aérosol (3) comprend un agencement de segments de dispositif (23) comprenant des segments de dispositif (23) disposés de façon séparable les uns derrière les autres le long d'une direction longitudinale (7). Les segments de dispositif (23) comprennent un segment de dispositif de commande principal (27) comprenant une première électronique de commande (40) conçue pour commander au moins une première fonction du dispositif de génération d'aérosol (3). Les segments de dispositif (23) comprennent en outre un segment de dispositif de commande auxiliaire (29) comprenant une seconde électronique de commande (42) conçue pour commander au moins une seconde fonction du dispositif de génération d'aérosol (3).
PCT/EP2025/062856 2024-05-16 2025-05-12 Dispositif de génération d'aérosol avec segment de dispositif de commande principal et segment de dispositif de commande auxiliaire Pending WO2025237875A1 (fr)

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EP24176157 2024-05-16
EP24176157.6 2024-05-16

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US20230080936A1 (en) * 2020-02-28 2023-03-16 Jt International Sa Aerosol Generation Device
EP4122335A1 (fr) * 2020-03-20 2023-01-25 Shenzhen Merit Technology Co., Ltd. Dispositif électrique d'atomisation par chauffage sans combustion
CN111567898A (zh) * 2020-06-19 2020-08-25 浙江育康清生物医药有限公司 一种气溶胶发生装置
WO2023139206A1 (fr) 2022-01-24 2023-07-27 Philip Morris Products S.A. Dispositif modulaire à interface utilisateur indexée en rotation libre

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