U.S. patent application number 17/211135 was filed with the patent office on 2021-07-08 for smoking substitute device and system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Nerudia Limited. Invention is credited to Med BENYUEZZAR, Kate Ferrie, Peter LOMAS, Christopher LORD, Jonathan Stephen MARCHBANK, Edward Ross SHENTON, Tom Stephen SUDLOW.
Application Number | 20210204614 17/211135 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005526223 |
Filed Date | 2021-07-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210204614 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ferrie; Kate ; et
al. |
July 8, 2021 |
SMOKING SUBSTITUTE DEVICE AND SYSTEM
Abstract
The present disclosure relates to the field of smoking tobacco.
In particular, the present disclosure relates to smoking substitute
systems and particularly, although not exclusively, to a
heat-not-burn (HNB) smoking substitute system. Further in
particular, the present disclosure relates to a smoking substitute
system having at least two different modes of operation. The
present disclosure also relates to an improved housing design. The
present disclosure further relates to a smoking substitute device
with an improved housing design. The present disclosure yet further
relates to smoking substitute systems having at least two
independent display elements.
Inventors: |
Ferrie; Kate; (Liverpool,
GB) ; SHENTON; Edward Ross; (Liverpool, GB) ;
LORD; Christopher; (Liverpool, GB) ; BENYUEZZAR;
Med; (Liverpool, GB) ; MARCHBANK; Jonathan
Stephen; (Liverpool, GB) ; LOMAS; Peter;
(Liverpool, GB) ; SUDLOW; Tom Stephen; (Liverpool,
GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Nerudia Limited |
Liverpool |
|
GB |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005526223 |
Appl. No.: |
17/211135 |
Filed: |
March 24, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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PCT/EP2019/075503 |
Sep 23, 2019 |
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17211135 |
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PCT/EP2019/075497 |
Sep 23, 2019 |
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PCT/EP2019/075503 |
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PCT/EP2019/075480 |
Sep 23, 2019 |
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PCT/EP2019/075497 |
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PCT/EP2019/075533 |
Sep 23, 2019 |
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PCT/EP2019/075480 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H05B 3/06 20130101; A24F
40/60 20200101; A24F 40/20 20200101; A24F 40/46 20200101; A24F
40/57 20200101; A24F 40/90 20200101 |
International
Class: |
A24F 40/60 20060101
A24F040/60; A24F 40/20 20060101 A24F040/20; A24F 40/46 20060101
A24F040/46; A24F 40/57 20060101 A24F040/57; A24F 40/90 20060101
A24F040/90; H05B 3/06 20060101 H05B003/06 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 24, 2018 |
GB |
1815515.0 |
Sep 24, 2018 |
GB |
1815524.2 |
Sep 24, 2018 |
GB |
1815525.9 |
Sep 24, 2019 |
GB |
1815522.6 |
Claims
1. A smoking substitute device, comprising a heating element;
wherein the smoking substitute device is adapted for receiving a
smoking substitute consumable; wherein the heating element is
adapted for heating the smoking substitute consumable; wherein the
smoking substitute device comprises at least two modes of
operation; and wherein the smoking substitute device is a
heat-not-burn smoking substitute device.
2. The smoking substitute device of claim 1, further comprising: a
main body; and a cavity; wherein the cavity is arranged in the main
body; wherein the heating element is arranged in the cavity;
wherein the cavity is adapted for receiving the smoking substitute
consumable; and wherein the heating element is adapted for
penetrating the outer surface of the smoking substitute consumable
to get into contact with tobacco material located inside the
smoking substitute consumable upon insertion of the smoking
substitute consumable into the smoking substitute device for
heating of the tobacco material.
3. The smoking substitute device according to claim 1, further
comprising a control element operable by a user of the smoking
substitute device, and wherein the control element is adapted for
setting a desired mode of operation.
4. The smoking substitute device according to claim 3, wherein for
setting a desired mode of operation the control element is actuated
by the user of the smoking substitute device, and wherein different
modes of operation are settable depending on a duration of the
actuation of the control element by the user.
5. The smoking substitute device according to claim 1, wherein a
desired mode of operation is settable for the duration of consuming
a smoking substitute consumable.
6. The smoking substitute device according to claim 1, wherein a
mode of operation relates to a heating temperature of the tobacco
material during the consumption of the smoking substitute
consumable.
7. The smoking substitute device according to claim 6, wherein the
temperature is in a range between substantially 170.degree. C. and
400.degree. C.
8. The smoking substitute device according to claim 7, wherein the
smoking substitute device comprises at least three modes of
operation relating to the heating temperature of the tobacco
material during the consumption of the smoking substitute
consumable, and wherein in a first mode of operation, the
temperature is between substantially 170.degree. C. and 250.degree.
C., in a second mode of operation the temperature is between
substantially 200.degree. C. and 300.degree. C., and in a third
mode of operation the temperature is between substantially
250.degree. C. and 400.degree. C.
9. The smoking substitute device according to claim 1, wherein a
mode of operation relates to an amount of vapour generated during
the consumption of the smoking substitute consumable, in particular
wherein in a first mode of operation less vapour is generated than
in a second mode of operation.
10. The smoking substitute device according to claim 9, further
comprising a display element for indicating a mode of operation to
the user.
11. A smoking substitute system, comprising: a smoking substitute
device according to claim 1; and a smoking substitute
consumable.
12. A method of using the smoking substitute system according to
claim 11, the method comprising: inserting the smoking substitute
consumable into the smoking substitute device; and heating the
smoking substitute consumable using the heating element.
13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: inserting
the smoking substitute consumable into the cavity within the main
body of the smoking substitute device; and penetrating the smoking
substitute consumable with the heating element upon insertion of
the smoking substitute consumable.
14. A smoking substitute device, comprising: a main body having an
elongated shape comprising a first end and a second end, wherein
the first end comprises a first cavity and the second end comprises
a second cavity; and a bung element adapted to be insertable
alternatively into the first cavity and the second cavity.
15. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein
the bung element is adapted to remain in either one of the first
cavity and the second cavity substantially without external
force.
16. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein
the bung element and the first and second cavity are
complementarily shaped.
17. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein in
a first mode of operation, the bung element is inserted into the
first cavity and in a second mode of operation, the bung element is
inserted into the second cavity.
18. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein a
defined mode of operation is activatable only if the bung element
is or is not inserted in one of the first cavity and the second
cavity.
19. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein a
defined mode of operation is activated by inserting or not
inserting the bung element into one of the first cavity and the
second cavity.
20. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein
the smoking substitute device is activatable only if the bung
element is inserted into one of the first and second cavity.
21. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein
the smoking substitute device is not activatable if the bung
element is inserted into one of the first and second cavity.
22. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein
one of the first cavity and the second cavity is a cavity for
receiving a smoking substitute consumable, and the other one of the
first cavity and the second cavity is a cavity comprising an
electrical interface (30).
23. The smoking substitute device according to claim 22, wherein
the electrical interface (30) is a symmetrical interface, in
particular a USB-C interface or a lightning interface.
24. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein
the main body comprises an outer shape in the area of the first and
second cavity, and wherein the shape of the bung element
substantially conforms to the shape of the main body in the area of
the first and second cavity, so as to be substantially flush with
the main body.
25. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein
the first cavity has a circular shape with two notches extending at
opposing sides of the first cavity defining a first width, and
wherein the second cavity comprises substantially the same width in
a defined direction.
26. The smoking substitute device according to claim 25, wherein
the bung element comprises a protrusion having an elongated shape
with a first length, wherein the shape of the protrusion conforms
to the second cavity and wherein the length conforms to the width
of the first cavity.
27. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein
the insertion of the bung element in one of the first cavity and
the second cavity prevents contamination of said cavity.
28. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein
the smoking substitute device is an HNB smoking substitute
device.
29. The smoking substitute device according to claim 14, wherein
the electrical interface (30) is an interface comprising one of an
electrical connection, a data connection, or both.
30. A smoking substitute system, comprising: a smoking substitute
device according to claim 14; and a smoking substitute
consumable.
31. A method of using the smoking substitute system according to
claim 30, the method comprising: inserting the smoking substitute
consumable into the smoking substitute device; and heating the
smoking substitute consumable using the heating element.
32. The method according to claim 31, the method further
comprising: inserting the smoking substitute consumable into the
cavity within the main body of the smoking substitute device; and
penetrating the smoking substitute consumable with the heating
element upon insertion of the smoking substitute consumable.
33. A smoking substitute device, comprising: a main body having a
length (l) and a transverse cross-section (c), wherein the
cross-section (c) comprises two at least partially parallel,
substantially linear sides (S1, S2) of different width (w1, w2),
and wherein the cross-section (c) further comprises two sides
(S3,S4) having a curved shape, and wherein the curved sides (S3,S4)
connect with the linear sides (S1, S2) for forming the
cross-section.
34. The smoking substitute device according to claim 33, wherein
the curved sides (S3,S4) are non-circular.
35. The smoking substitute device according to claim 33, wherein
one of the substantially linear sides (S1, S2) is a front side (S2)
of the smoking substitute device, and wherein the other one of the
substantially linear sides (S1, S2) is a back side (S1) of the
smoking substitute device.
36. The smoking substitute device according to claim 35, the front
side (S2) comprising at least one of: a display element for
indicating a mode of operation, and a control element for
controlling operation of the smoking substitute device.
37. The smoking substitute device according to claim 36, further
comprising a front face element (F), wherein at least one of the
display element and the control element are arranged on the front
face element (F), and wherein the front face element (F) protrudes
from the front side (S1).
38. The smoking substitute device according to claim 33, wherein
the curved sides (S3,S4) each comprise a plurality of subsections
(S3a, S3b, S3c, S4a, S3b, S3c); and wherein each curved side
(S3,S4) comprises two curved subsections (S3a, S3c, S4a, S3c); or
each curved side (S3,S4) comprises two curved subsections (S3a,
S3c, S4a, S3c) and a substantially linear subsection (S3b,S4b)
arranged between the curved subsections (S3a, S3c, S4a, S3c).
39. The smoking substitute device according to claim 33, further
comprising a first end section and a second end section, wherein
the end sections are non-linear in shape, in particular comprise a
curvature.
40. The smoking substitute device according to claim 33, wherein
the length (l) is in the range of 5 cm to 20 cm.
41. The smoking substitute device according to claim 33, wherein
the first width (w1) is in the range of 1 cm to 3 cm.
42. The smoking substitute device according to claim 33, wherein
the second width (w2) is in the range of 0.5 cm to 1.5 cm.
43. The smoking substitute device according to claim 33, wherein a
width (w) of the smoking substitute device is in the range of 1 cm
to 5 cm.
44. The smoking substitute device according to claim 33, wherein a
depth (d) of smoking substitute device is in the range of 0.5 cm to
3 cm.
45. The smoking substitute device according to claim 33, wherein
the two substantially linear sides (S1, S2) have a radius of
curvature in the range of 10 cm and 1000 cm.
46. The smoking substitute device according to claim 45, wherein
one of the two substantially linear sides (S1, S2) is concavely
shaped and the other one of the two substantially linear sides (S1,
S2) is convexly shaped.
47. A smoking substitute system, comprising: a smoking substitute
device according to claim 33; and a smoking substitute
consumable.
48. A method of using the smoking substitute system according to
claim 47, the method comprising: inserting the smoking substitute
consumable into the smoking substitute device; and heating the
smoking substitute consumable using the heating element.
49. The method according to claim 48, further comprising: inserting
the smoking substitute consumable into the cavity within the main
body of the smoking substitute device; and penetrating the smoking
substitute consumable with the heating element upon insertion of
the smoking substitute consumable.
50. A smoking substitute device, comprising: a main body; wherein
the main body comprises a first display element for displaying
first information and a second display element for displaying
second information; wherein the first display element is arranged
separate from and independent of the second display element;
wherein the first information is different from the second
information; wherein one of the first and second information is for
displaying a power status of the smoking substitute device; and
wherein the smoking substitute device is a heat-not-burn
device.
51. The smoking substitute device according to claim 50, wherein
the power status is for displaying an ON/OFF status of the smoking
substitute device.
52. The smoking substitute device according to claim 51, comprising
a heating element, wherein said ON status is indicative of the
heating element being energized.
53. The smoking substitute device according to claim 50, comprising
a heating element, wherein said ON status is indicative of the
heating element being within a target temperature range.
54. The smoking substitute device according to claim 50, comprising
a heating element, wherein said ON status is indicative of the
heating element being outside a target temperature range.
55. The smoking substitute device according to claim 50, comprising
a heating element, wherein said ON status is indicative of said
heating element exceeding a threshold safety temperature.
56. The smoking substitute device according to claim 50, wherein
the other one of the first and second information is for displaying
information out of the group consisting of status information,
power source level information, time to use information, remaining
time of use information, heating status information.
57. The smoking substitute device according to claim 50, wherein
the first display element and the second display element are
differently sized.
58. The smoking substitute device according to claim 50, wherein
the display element not displaying the power status information is
substantially larger than the display element (28a,b) displaying
the power status information.
59. The smoking substitute device according to claim 50, wherein
the display element displaying the power status information is
active substantially as long as the smoking substitute device in an
on status, and wherein the display element not displaying the power
status information in only intermittently activated.
60. The smoking substitute device according to claim 50, further
comprising a control element, wherein the display element
displaying the power status information is arranged in the vicinity
of or is incorporated in the control element.
61. The smoking substitute device according to claim 50, wherein
the first display element and/or the second display element are a
display element out of the group consisting of an LED element, a
plurality of LED elements, an LCD display element, an OLED element
and a plurality of OLED elements.
62. The smoking substitute device according to claim 50, wherein
the first display element and/or the second display element are
adapted for displaying information in different colours.
63. The smoking substitute device according to claim 62, wherein a
change in colour of a display element corresponds to a change in a
status displayed.
64. The smoking substitute device according to claim 60, wherein
the type of displayed information is colour-dependent.
65. A smoking substitute system, comprising: a smoking substitute
device according to claim 50; and a smoking substitute
consumable.
66. A method of using the smoking substitute system according to
claim 65, the method comprising: inserting the smoking substitute
consumable into the smoking substitute device; and heating the
smoking substitute consumable using the heating element.
67. The method according to claim 66, the method further
comprising: inserting the smoking substitute consumable into the
cavity within the main body of the smoking substitute device; and
penetrating the smoking substitute consumable with the heating
element upon insertion of the smoking substitute consumable.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS/INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
STATEMENT
[0001] The present patent application is a continuation of
International Application No. PCT/EP2019/075503, filed Sep. 23,
2019; which claims priority to the patent application identified by
GB Serial No. 1815522.6, filed on Sep. 24, 2018. The present patent
application is also a continuation of International Application No.
PCT/EP2019/075497, filed Sep. 23, 2019; which claims priority to
the patent application identified by GB Serial No. 1815515.0, filed
on Sep. 24, 2018. The present patent application is also a
continuation of International Application No. PCT/EP2019/075480,
filed Sep. 23, 2019; which claims priority to the patent
application identified by GB Serial No. 1815525.9, filed on Sep.
24, 2018. The present patent application is also a continuation of
International Application No. PCT/EP2019/075533, filed Sep. 23,
2019; which claims priority to the patent application identified by
GB Serial No. 1815524.2, filed on Sep. 24, 2018. The entire
contents of each of the above-referenced patent(s)/patent
application(s) are hereby expressly incorporated by reference
herein.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to the field of smoking
tobacco. In particular, the present disclosure relates to smoking
substitute systems and particularly, although not exclusively, to a
heat-not-burn (HNB) smoking substitute system. Further in
particular, the present disclosure relates to a smoking substitute
system having at least two different modes of operation. The
present disclosure also relates to an improved housing design. The
present disclosure further relates to a smoking substitute device
with an improved housing design. The present disclosure yet further
relates to smoking substitute systems having at least two
independent display elements.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The smoking of tobacco is generally considered to expose a
smoker to potentially harmful substances. It is generally thought
that significant amounts 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.
[0004] 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.
[0005] 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.
[0006] 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.
[0007] 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.
[0008] 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 that are designed to resemble a traditional cigarette and
are cylindrical in form with a mouthpiece at one end.
[0009] 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.
[0010] There are a number of different categories of smoking
substitute systems, each utilising a different smoking substitute
approach.
[0011] One approach for a smoking substitute system is the
so-called "heat not burn" ("HNB") approach in which tobacco (rather
than an "e-liquid") is heated or warmed to release vapour. The
tobacco may be leaf tobacco or reconstituted tobacco. The vapour
may contain nicotine and/or flavourings. In the HNB approach the
intention is that the tobacco is heated but not burned, i.e. the
tobacco does not undergo combustion.
[0012] A typical HNB 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 moisture 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.
[0013] As the vapour passes through the consumable (entrained in
the airflow) from an inlet to a mouthpiece (outlet), the vapour
cools and condenses to form an aerosol for inhalation by the user.
The aerosol will normally contain the volatile compounds.
[0014] In HNB 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 HNB approach may reduce the odour
and/or health risks that can arise through the burning, combustion
and pyrolytic degradation of tobacco.
[0015] There may be a need for improved design of smoking
substitute systems, in particular HNB smoking substitute systems,
to enhance the user experience and improve the function of the HNB
smoking substitute system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] So that the present disclosure may be understood, and so
that further aspects and features thereof may be appreciated,
embodiments illustrating the principles of the disclosure will now
be discussed in further detail with reference to the accompanying
figures, in which:
[0017] FIGS. 1A and 1B show different views of an exemplary
embodiment of a smoking substitute device in accordance with the
present disclosure.
[0018] FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C show a cross-section of a smoking
substitute device in accordance with the present disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 3 shows a view of another exemplary embodiment of a
smoking substitute device in accordance with the present
disclosure.
[0020] FIGS. 4A and 4B show further exemplary embodiments of a
smoking substitute device in accordance with the present
disclosure.
[0021] FIGS. 5A and 5B shows different views of an exemplary
embodiment of a bung element in accordance with the present
disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 6 shows a schematic of an exemplary embodiment of a
smoking substitute device in accordance with the present
disclosure.
[0023] The present disclosure has been devised in the light of the
above considerations.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE VARIOUS NON-LIMITING EMBODIMENTS
[0024] At least one such need may be met with the subject-matter of
the independent claims. Particular (but non-limiting) embodiments
may be taken from the dependent claims and are explained in more
detail in the following description in relation to the provided
drawings.
[0025] At its most general, the present disclosure relates to an
aerosol-forming delivery system, e.g. a smoking substitute system
such as an HNB system. More specifically, the present disclosure
relates to a smoking substitute device having multiple, different
modes of operation, an improved housing design, a smoking
substitute device with an improved housing design, and smoking
substitute systems having at least two independent display
elements.
[0026] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there
is provided a smoking substitute device comprising a heating
element, wherein the smoking substitute device is adapted for
receiving a smoking substitute consumable, wherein the heating
element is adapted for heating the smoking substitute consumable,
wherein the smoking substitute device comprises at least two modes
of operation and wherein the smoking substitute device is a
heat-not-burn smoking substitute device.
[0027] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure,
there is provided a smoking substitute system comprising a smoking
substitute device and a smoking substitute consumable.
[0028] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, there
is provided a method for using a smoking substitute system, the
method comprising inserting a smoking substitute consumable into a
smoking substitute device and heating the smoking substitute
consumable using a heating element.
[0029] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure,
there is a provided a smoking substitute device comprising a main
body and a bung element, wherein the main body has an elongated
shape comprising a first end and a second end, wherein the first
end comprises a first cavity, wherein the second end comprises a
second cavity and wherein the bung element is adapted to be
insertable alternatively into the first cavity and the second
cavity.
[0030] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there
is provided a smoking substitute system comprising a smoking
substitute device and a smoking substitute consumable.
[0031] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, there
is provided a method for using a smoking substitute system, a
method comprising inserting a smoking substitute consumable into a
smoking substitute device and heating the smoking substitute
consumable using a heating element.
[0032] According to a seventh aspect of the first disclosure, there
is provided a smoking substitute device comprising a main body
having a length and a transverse cross-section, wherein the
cross-section comprises at least two partially parallel,
substantially linear sides of different width, wherein the
cross-section further comprises two sides having a curved shape and
wherein the curved sides connect with the linear sides for forming
the cross-section.
[0033] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure,
there is provided a smoking substitute system comprising a smoking
substitute device and a smoking substitute consumable.
[0034] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, there
is provided a method for using a smoking substitute system, the
method comprising inserting a smoking substitute consumable into a
smoking substitute device and heating the smoking substitute
consumable using a heating element.
[0035] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure there
is a provided a smoking substitute device comprising a main body,
wherein the main body comprises a first display element for
displaying first information and a second display element for
displaying second information, wherein the first display element is
arranged separate from and independent of the second display
element, wherein the first information is different from the second
information, wherein one of the first and second information is for
displaying a power status of the smoking substitute device and
wherein the smoking substitute device is a heat-not-burn
device.
[0036] According to an eleventh second aspect of the present
disclosure, there is provided a smoking substitute system
comprising a smoking substitute device and a smoking substitute
consumable.
[0037] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure,
there is provided a method for using a smoking substitute system,
wherein the method comprising inserting a smoking substitute
consumable in to a smoking substitute device and heating the
smoking substitute consumable using a heating element.
[0038] Ideas and concepts of this disclosure may be considered to
be based on the following observations and findings.
[0039] As mentioned before, the present disclosure is concerned
with smoking substitute systems. A smoking substitute system may
comprise a smoking substitute device or an aerosol-forming device,
which may be a heat-not-burn (HNB) smoking substitute device. An
HNB device is a device that is adapted for heating but not
combusting the aerosol-forming substrate. This substrate may be
made of tobacco material and may comprise additives assisting in
the forming of the aerosol by the smoking substitute device. The
smoking substitute device may comprise a main body for housing a
heating element. The heating element may comprise an elongated,
e.g. rod-shaped, tube-shaped or blade-shaped heating element. The
heating element may project into or surround a first cavity within
the main body of the smoking substitute device, which first cavity
is for receiving a smoking substitute consumable.
[0040] The smoking substitute device may comprise an electrical
power supply, e.g. a (rechargeable) battery for powering the
heating element. It may further comprise a control unit to control
the supply of power to the heating element.
[0041] In some embodiments, when a consumable is inserted into the
first cavity within the main body, a portion of the smoking
substitute consumable is to be penetrated by the heating element
upon insertion of the smoking substitute consumable. In particular,
the heating element may penetrate the smoking substitute consumable
in an area of the consumable where the aerosol-forming substrate,
e.g. tobacco material, is arranged.
[0042] The heating element is thus arranged inside of the smoking
substitute consumable and in particular inside of the tobacco
material. When energy is provided to the heating element, the
heating element is heated to a target temperature, such as (but not
limited to) in the range above the vaporization temperature of
nicotine contained in the tobacco material, but below the
temperature where the tobacco material would start to burn or
combust. E.g., the heating element may be heated to a temperature
of above 170.degree. C., the vaporization temperature of nicotine,
but below 400.degree. C. to avoid burning of the tobacco material
in the consumable. In certain particular (but non-limiting)
embodiments, the target temperature may not exceed approximately
350.degree. C.
[0043] In accordance with the present disclosure, the smoking
substitute device is provided with at least two modes of operation,
which may be, e.g., different temperatures of the heating element
resulting in a different extraction behaviour of vapour in general
or in particular nicotine from the tobacco material in the
consumable. E.g., a first setting, e.g. a. high setting, and a
second setting, e.g. a low setting, may be conceivable.
[0044] The use of different modes of operation and thus different
modes of extraction or different modes of vapour generation and
delivery may allow to tailor nicotine delivery to a specific
situation in which the smoking substitute device is to be used. In
other words, using a defined and/or variable temperature may allow
the control of the nicotine delivery from the consumable. Such may
be referred to as a stealth mode, a cruise mode or boost mode,
respectively. E.g. in a stealth mode, a temperature of the heating
element may be lower than the temperature of the heating element in
either a cruise mode or boost mode. In boost mode, the temperature
of the heating element may be higher than either in stealth mode or
cruise mode.
[0045] Two or more different modes of operation are conceivable. In
the context of this disclosure, it has been discovered that the
temperature of the heating element also affects the production of
visible vapour from the consumable and thus influences visible
vapour delivery. Further, the amount of vapour generated by the
smoking substitute device in turn affects the experience of a user
when using the smoking substitute device. E.g., an increased level
of vapour results in an increase in mixing of vapour with nicotine
released from the consumable and the tobacco material,
respectively, prior to mouth delivery and thus results in a
smoother substitute smoking experience. It has been found out, that
nicotine levels are generally not greatly affected by different
temperatures of the heating element as long as the heating
temperature is higher than 170.degree. C., the vaporization
temperature of nicotine.
[0046] Also, by varying the temperature of the heating element, the
intensity of flavour may be affected. E.g. with higher temperature,
more flavour components are released from the aerosol-forming
substrate.
[0047] A control element like an actuator or activation switch to
start the operation of the smoking substitute device may be
provided. The mode of operation may further directly influence a
possible battery life and may thus allow the user to tailor the
overall handling of the smoking substitute device to one's
preference. A single control element may be sufficient to choose a
certain mode of operation. As a result of different temperatures of
the heating element, a certain smoking substitute consumable may
last longer in normal mode or stealth mode and shorter in boost
mode or normal mode.
[0048] As mentioned before, the temperature of the heating element
may influence the amount of generated visible vapour. Accordingly,
the mode of operation may be set upon a certain use situation or
use scenario. E.g., using the smoking substitute device outside or
inside a closed space, like a car or a room, may require different
modes of operation to minimize the impact of the smoking substitute
system on non-users.
[0049] Optional features will now be set out. These are applicable
singly or in any combination with any aspect of the present
disclosure.
[0050] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the
smoking substitute device may further comprise a main body and a
cavity, wherein the cavity may be arranged in the main body,
wherein the heating element may be arranged in the cavity, wherein
the cavity may be adapted to receive the smoking substitute
consumable and wherein the heating element may be adapted for
penetrating the smoking substitute consumable to get into contact
with tobacco material located inside the smoking substitute
consumable upon insertion of the smoking substitute consumable into
the smoking substitute device for heating of the tobacco
material.
[0051] The heating element of the smoking substitute device may
thus be arranged within the smoking substitute device, in
particular within its main body, thus protecting a user from injury
by heat or a sharp or pointy edge of the heating element. At the
same time, the heating element may easily penetrate the smoking
substitute consumable, e.g. to open up the smoking substitute
consumable, to get access to the tobacco material located inside. A
smoking substitute consumable may thus be easily operable without
the risk of a user coming in direct contact with the tobacco
material.
[0052] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the smoking substitute device may further comprise a control
element operable by a user of the smoking substitute device,
wherein the control element is adapted for setting a desired mode
of operation.
[0053] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
there is provided a smoking substitute device wherein for setting a
desired mode of operation, the control element is actuated by the
user of the smoking substitute device and wherein different modes
of operation are settable depending on a duration of the actuation
of the control element by the user.
[0054] By using a control element like an actuator or an activation
switch, a user may easily set a desired mode of operation, e.g. by
pressing the control element for a certain duration to activate a
certain mode of operation.
[0055] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the desired mode of operation may be settable for the duration of
consuming a smoking substitute consumable.
[0056] In other words, a user determines or chooses a desired mode
of operation at the beginning of consuming a smoking substitute
consumable. E.g., the user may decide to operate the smoking
substitute device in normal mode and may thus press the control
element for a duration associated with the normal mode. This may
result in a defined, e.g. timed heating of the heating element to
the temperature linked with the mode of operation and for a certain
duration without requiring the user to activate the control element
again. Possibly, another press of the control element may terminate
the current mode of operation, e.g. when the user decides that a
consumable is depleted. Alternatively, the operation may seize
after a defined duration, which duration may depend on the set mode
of operation.
[0057] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
a mode of operation may relate to a heating temperature of the
tobacco material during the consumption of the smoking substitute
consumable.
[0058] In other words, the heating element may produce a certain
target heating temperature to the tobacco material. Setting a
desired temperature may affect generation and delivery of visible
vapour to a user.
[0059] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the temperature may be in a range between substantially 170.degree.
C. and 400.degree. C., in particular, wherein in a first mode of
operation, the temperature is between substantially 170.degree. C.
and 300.degree. C. and in a second mode of operation, the
temperature may be between substantially 250.degree. C. and
400.degree., further in particular, wherein in a first mode of
operation, the temperature may be between substantially 225.degree.
C. and 275.degree. C. and in a second mode of operation, the
temperature may be between substantially 275.degree. C. and
350.degree. C., further in particular, wherein in a first mode of
operation, the temperature is substantially 250.degree. C. and in a
second mode of operation, the temperature is substantially
350.degree. C.
[0060] In particular, the temperature range between approx.
170.degree. C. and 350.degree. C. may be a particular (but
non-limiting) temperature range for a heat-not-burn smoking
substitute device with 170.degree. C. being the vaporization
temperature of nicotine, while avoiding substantially exceeding
350.degree. C. avoids burning of the tobacco material in the
smoking substitute consumable. Choosing defined temperatures
between 170.degree. C. and 350.degree. C. may allow tailoring the
smoking experience to the desires of a particular user and may
generally allow the provision of different modes of operation.
[0061] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the smoking substitute device may comprise at least three modes of
operation relating to the heating temperature of the tobacco
material during the consumption of the smoking substitute
consumable, wherein in a first mode of operation, the temperature
may be between substantially 170.degree. C. and 250.degree. C., in
a second mode of operation, the temperature may be between
substantially 200.degree. C. and 300.degree. C. and in a third mode
of operation, the temperature may be between substantially
250.degree. C. and 400.degree. C., in particular wherein in a first
mode of operation, the temperature may be between substantially
170.degree. C. and 225.degree. C., in a second mode of operation,
the temperature may be between substantially 225.degree. C. and
275.degree. C. and in a third mode of operation, the temperature
may be between substantially 275.degree. C. and 375.degree. C.,
further in particular, wherein in a first mode of operation, the
temperature is substantially 170.degree. C., in a second mode of
operation, the temperature is substantially 250.degree. C. and in a
third mode of operation, the temperature is substantially
350.degree. C.
[0062] The provision of three distinct temperatures or three modes
of operation may allow the provision of e.g. a stealth mode, a
cruise or normal mode, and a boost mode.
[0063] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
a mode of operation may relate to an amount of vapour generated
during the consumption of the smoking substitute consumable, in
particular in a first mode of operation, less vapour may be
generated than in a second mode of operation.
[0064] Likewise, the different modes may exhibit different amounts
of visible vapour delivered to a user. In particular, less vapour
may be generated in a mode of operation having a lower temperature
than in a second mode of operation having a higher temperature of
the heating element.
[0065] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
a mode of operation may be dependent on a type of the smoking
substitute consumable.
[0066] Different types of consumables may require different modes
of operation or different temperature settings of the heating
element. This may in particular be dependent upon the
aerosol/releasing material in the smoking substitute consumable,
e.g. in case of flavoured, non-nicotine-containing material, a
different temperature may be required than with tobacco material
containing nicotine.
[0067] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the smoking substitute device may comprise a display element for
indicating a mode of operation to the user.
[0068] The display element may e.g. be a light source displaying a
certain mode of operation by varying colours. E.g. a first mode of
operation may be symbolized by an orange colour whereas a second,
higher mode of operation may be symbolized by a red colour. Other
colour combinations are conceivable.
[0069] In accordance with certain embodiments of the present
disclosure, the smoking substitute device may comprise two
cavities, a first cavity adapted to receive the smoking substitute
consumable and a second cavity. The second cavity may in particular
be the cavity that is formed by the inclusion of an electrical
interface into the main body or housing of the smoking substitute
device. In other words, the second cavity may in particular be
formed by the electrical interface itself. The electrical interface
may be a charging connector to supply electrical energy to the
smoking substitute device, in particular for charging a power
source or battery located within the main body of the smoking
substitute device.
[0070] The first cavity and the second cavity may have similar or
identical dimensions, at least in one defined dimension of the
first and second cavity. The bung element is embodied to be
insertable into both the first cavity and the second cavity. While
the bung element can be inserted into both cavities, the main
intention is to insert the bung element either into the first
cavity or into the second cavity. E.g. when not in use, the bung
element may be inserted into the first cavity and may remain there
without any external force by form fit or force fit of the bung
element and at least a part of the first cavity. E.g. the bung
element may comprise a protrusion, which conforms to the first
cavity to stay only due to frictional forces.
[0071] Likewise, when the smoking substitute device is in use, the
bung element may be removed and may be inserted into the second
cavity so not to get lost. Here, the protrusion of the bung element
may conform with the second cavity with a form fit or force fit as
well, again e.g. by friction within the cavity, so to have a
defined place while the smoking substitute device is being
used.
[0072] The protrusion may be sized in particular so that it
substantially conforms to an opening in an electrical interface. In
certain particular (but non-limiting) embodiments, such an
interface is a symmetrical electrical interface or symmetrical
charging connector like e.g. a USB-C or lightening connector, and
the protrusion may substantially conform to the opening of the
respective electrical interface. Likewise, it is conceivable to use
a non-symmetrical interface like mini USB or micro USB.
[0073] In other words, in a non-use mode, the bung element may be
inserted into the first cavity to prevent dirt and debris entering
the first cavity. Contrary hereto, the bung is inserted into the
second cavity during operation, so as to avoid losing the bung
element.
[0074] Optional features will be set out now. These are applicable
singularly or in any combination with any aspect of the present
disclosure.
[0075] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the
bung element may be adapted to remain in either one of the first
cavity and the second cavity substantially without external
force.
[0076] In other words, the bung element may conform to the shape of
the first cavity and the second cavity to establish a form fit or
force fit and may thus remain in the respective cavity, e.g. by
friction of the protrusion within the first cavity or the second
cavity, without the need to secure the bung element externally.
[0077] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the bung element and the first and second cavity are
complimentarily shaped.
[0078] Here, the bung element, or a protrusion on the bung element,
and the first and the second cavity may be complimentarily shaped.
Further, it is conceivable that only a part of the first and/or
second cavity conforms to the shape of the bung element and the
protrusion, respectively. E.g. a part of a cavity may correspond to
a width of the protrusion while the other cavity corresponds
substantially to the protrusion as a whole.
[0079] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
in a first mode of operation, the bung element may be inserted into
the first cavity and in a second mode of operation, the bung
element may be inserted into the second cavity. E.g. in a mode of
operation where the smoking substitute device is not in use, the
bung element may be inserted into the first cavity while it may be
inserted into the second cavity when the smoking substitute device
is in use.
[0080] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, a
defined mode of operation is activatable only if the bung element
is or is not inserted in one of the first cavity and the second
cavity. E.g. when the bung element is inserted into the first
cavity and thus covering the cavity that would receive a smoking
substitute consumable, it may not be possible to activate a mode of
operation like switching on the smoking substitute device or
activating heating of the heating element. Likewise, the smoking
substitute device may not be switched on if the bung element is not
inserted into the second cavity, so to make sure that during the
operation of the smoking substitute device, the bung element is not
lost. Also, it is conceivable that a defined mode of operation is
activated by the removal or insertion of the bung element from a
certain cavity. E.g. removal of the bung element from the first
cavity, the cavity for receiving the smoking substitute consumable,
may activate the smoking substitute device.
[0081] Further, in addition to removing the bung element from the
first cavity it may be conceivable that the bung element, only upon
insertion of the bung element into the second cavity, switches on
the smoking substitute device. Here, it may positively be avoided
to lose the bung element, because otherwise operation of the
smoking substitute device would not be possible. Thus, a user of
the smoking substitute device will pay extra attention to not lose
the bung element. When terminating operation of the smoking
substitute device, removal of the bung element from the second
cavity may switch off the smoking substitute device or inserting
the bung element into the first cavity may switch off the smoking
substitute device.
[0082] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the smoking substitute device may only be activatable if the bung
element is inserted into one of the first and second cavities. E.g.
the smoking substitute device can only be switched on if the bung
element is inserted into the second cavity and is thus removed from
the first cavity.
[0083] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the smoking substitute device may not be activatable if the bung
element is inserted one of the first and second cavities. E.g. when
the bung element is inserted into the first cavity and thus
covering the cavity adapted for receiving a smoking substitute
consumable, the smoking substitute device may not be switched on to
prevent possibly uncontrolled heating of the confined or closed
space in the first cavity covered by the bung element.
[0084] An uncontrolled or unsupervised heating of the enclosed
space in the first cavity closed by the bung element may otherwise
result in a dangerous operation of the device, e.g. the bung
element may be damaged due to an increase of heat within the first
cavity.
[0085] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
one of the first cavity and the second cavity is a cavity for
receiving a smoking substitute consumable and the other one of the
first cavity and the second cavity is a cavity comprising
electrical interface.
[0086] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the electrical interface may be a symmetrical interface, in
particular a USB-C interface or a lightening interface.
[0087] A symmetrical electrical interface provides the benefit of
not having to orient the bung element and its protrusion,
respectively, when inserting the bung element into the first or
second cavity.
[0088] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the main body may comprise an outer shape in the area of the first
and second cavity, wherein the shape of the bung element may
substantially conform to the shape of the main body in the area of
the first and second cavity, so as to be substantially flush with
the main body.
[0089] In particular, the main body may comprise a similar or
identical shape in the area of the first and second cavity.
Likewise, the bung element of a side surface of the bung element
may be complimentary shaped to the shape of the main body resulting
in a possibly pre-formed bung element that conforms with the
surface shape of the main body and thus avoids adding a substantial
dimension to the outside of the main body when inserted into either
the first or second cavity.
[0090] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the first cavity may comprise a circular shape with two notches
extending at opposite sides of the first cavity defining a first
width and wherein the second cavity may comprise substantially the
same width in a defined direction.
[0091] In other words, the first cavity for receiving a smoking
substitute consumable is circular in shape to conform to a smoking
substitute consumable. At the same time, two notches extend from
the circular area of the first cavity in an outwards direction, at
opposite side of the first cavity. The maximum distance between the
two notches defines a width, which width substantially corresponds
to the width of the second cavity, in particular the width of an
electrical interface or charging connector like USB-C or
lightening. The protrusion of the bung element may thus be shaped
to correspond to the width between the notches in the first cavity
as well as to the width of the second cavity and thus to the shape
of the electrical interface.
[0092] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the bung element may comprise a protrusion having an elongated
shape with a first length, wherein the shape of the protrusion
conforms to the second cavity and wherein the length conforms to
the width of the first cavity. In particular, the length conforms
to the width between the notches of the first cavity.
[0093] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the insertion of the bung element into one of the first cavity and
the second cavity prevents contamination of said cavity. In other
words, the bung element closes off the cavity, thereby avoiding
entry of dirt or debris into the cavity.
[0094] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure
the smoking substitute device may be a heat-not-burn smoking
substitute device.
[0095] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the electrical interface may be an interface comprising one of an
electrical connection, a data connection or both.
[0096] In particular, with an electrical interface or charging
connector like USB-C or lightening, not only can electrical energy
for charging an internal power source be provided to the smoking
substitute device, but also a data connection with a device
arranged outside of the smoking substitute device may be
conceivable. E.g. a control unit or microprocessor incorporated
into the smoking substitute device may be accessible by using the
data connection of the electrical interface, e.g. for sending and
receiving data.
[0097] In accordance with certain embodiments of the present
disclosure, the smoking substitute device comprises a main body
having a length and a transverse cross-section. The cross-section
comprises a plurality of sides of different shapes forming the
cross-section. In its most basic form, the cross-section comprises
two at least partially parallel, substantially linear sides of
different width, which are joined by two further sides having a
curved shape and connecting the ends of the two substantially
linear sides.
[0098] Substantially linear in the context of this disclosure may
be understood as linear or flat. However, also a slight curvature
having a comparably large radius of curvature falls within the
meaning of "substantially linear." In other words, substantially
linear may be understood as having a radius of curvature which
results is an almost linear or flat element, given the particular
dimensions of the width of the substantially linear sides. An
according radius of curvature may e.g. be in the range of 500 cm to
1000 cm and therefore may be almost unnoticeable to a user of a
smoking substitute device.
[0099] In the context of the further description, substantially
linear will be used in light of this definition, while the examples
assume the substantially linear sides to be linear or flat
sides.
[0100] Even in case of the substantially linear sides having a
radius of curvature, the two substantially linear sides may be
arranged to be parallel to one another, by comprising the
substantially identical radius of curvature. They may be partially
parallel in that they may be parallel in an area where the two
widths of the substantially linear sides overlap in the
cross-section. Since the two substantially linear sides are of a
different width, the remaining at least two sides connecting the
substantially linear sides are preferably (but not by way of
limitation) embodied as sides having a curved shape. In particular,
the shape of the two sides is such that they provide a continuous
transition from one substantially linear side to the other
substantially linear side without bends or edges. This provides a
user holding the smoking substitute device with an improved holding
experience by providing a smooth and rounded continuous
surface.
[0101] At the same time, the two substantially linear sides provide
a particular means to allow placement of the smoking substitute
device on a substantially flat surface like e.g. a table top. Thus,
the substantially linear sides provide a surface for placing the
smoking substitute device, which effectively prevents rolling or
sliding off. Likewise, in case the smoking substitute device is put
on one of the two curved sides, it turns substantially without
external force until a position is reached where it is again in
contact with the substantially linear sides and the object where it
is placed upon.
[0102] In case the substantially linear sides comprise a radius of
curvature, one side of the substantially linear sides may be
concave while the other side may be convex thereby providing a
particular (but non-limiting) surface for holding the smoking
substitute device by conforming to the surface of fingers of a
hand. E.g., a thumb may particularly be situated on the concave
surface while at least one of the remaining fingers of the same
hand is located on the convex surface. The aforementioned rolling
resistance is still provided in case the substantially linear sides
comprise a radius of curvature in accordance with the present
disclosure, in particular if it is a substantially large radius of
curvature.
[0103] Likewise, flat substantially linear sides or also sides with
a radius of curvature, may provide an improved experience to a user
in case the smoking substitute device is inserted into a pocket,
e.g. a jacket pocket, a shirt breast pocket or a trouser pocket, by
conforming of one of the substantially linear sides with the
surface of the body underneath the clothing.
[0104] Optional features will be set out now. These are applicable
singly or in any combination within the aspect of the present
disclosure.
[0105] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the
curved sides may be non-circular sides. Non-circular curved sides
may provide a particular (but non-limiting) means of providing a
transition from one of the substantially linear sides to the other
of the substantially linear sides due to the different width of the
substantially linear sides. Also, a non-circular shape of the
curved sides may provide an improved user experience when holding
or handling the device. E.g., in case the smoking substitute device
is held not between the thumbs but within the full hand, e.g. one
of the substantially linear sides resting against the palm of the
closed hand, providing non-linear curved sides provides an even
further improved holding experience.
[0106] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
one of the substantially linear sides may be a front side of the
smoking substitute device and the other one of the substantially
linear sides may be a back side of the smoking substitute device.
Providing the substantially linear sides as front and back sides
provides an improved positioning, e.g. of the hand of a user when
operating the device. In particular together with the different
width of the substantially linear sides, a user of the smoking
substitute device may operate the device without actually looking
at the device. In other words, the proposed shape allows a user to
feel the orientation of the device in one's hand thereby providing
an increased user experience and ease of use.
[0107] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the front side of the smoking substitute device may comprise at
least one of a display element for indicating a mode of operation
and a control element for controlling operation of the smoking
substitute device.
[0108] When a user is operating the smoking substitute device, the
shape of the cross-section allows easy determination of a correct
positioning or placement of the smoking substitute device, thereby
providing an automatic correct alignment of the front side of the
smoking substitute device with a regular holding position so that
the control element, the display element or both are arranged in
the direction pointing to the user for ease of operation.
[0109] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the smoking substitute device may further comprise a front face
element, wherein at least one of the display element and the
control element may be arranged on the front face element and
wherein the front face element may in particular protrude from the
front side.
[0110] In particular a protruding front face element provides
haptic feedback to a user for correctly positioning the device
during use. Using a dedicated front face element, which may be
separate from the main body of the smoking substitute device,
allows the use of the identical main body design with different
front face elements, thereby providing an improved way of
manufacturing a variety of smoking substitute devices.
[0111] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the curved sides each may comprise a plurality of curved
subsections, wherein each curved side may comprise two curved
subsections or wherein each curved side may comprise two curved
subsections and a substantially linear subsection arranged between
the curved subsections. Such an arrangement provides a main body of
the smoking substitute device built from a plurality of separate
side elements, allowing easy manufacturing of the smoking
substitute device and facilitates repair in case of damage or
defect.
[0112] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the smoking substitute device may comprise a first end section and
a second end section, where the end sections may be non-linear in
shape, in particular may comprise a curvature. In other words, the
end sections may be non-flat or non-linear to the extent that the
smoking substitute device may not be positioned upright on either
end section. This effectively prevents the positioning of the
smoking substitute device in a position with reduced stability,
thereby preventing tumbling of the smoking substitute device, which
could result in damage to the smoking substitute device.
[0113] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the length of the smoking substitute device may be in the range of
5 cm to 20 cm, in particular in the range of 7 cm to 15 cm, further
in particular in the range of 10 cm to 16 cm, further in particular
in a range of 12 cm to 13 cm, further in particular substantially
12.7 cm.
[0114] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the first width may be in the range of 1 to 3 cm, in particular in
the range of 1.2 cm to 2.5 cm, further in particular in the range
of 1.3 cm to 2 cm, further in particular in the range of 1.4 cm to
1.6 cm, further in particular substantially 1.5 cm.
[0115] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the second width may be in the range of 0.5 cm to 1.5 cm, in
particular in the range of 1.6 cm to 1.2 cm, further in particular
in the range of 0.65 cm to 1 cm, further in particular in the range
of 0.7 cm to 0.85 cm, further in particular substantially 0.73
cm.
[0116] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the width of the smoking substitute device may be in the range of 1
cm to 5 cm, in particular in the range of 1.5 cm to 4 cm, further
in particular in the range of 2 cm to 3 cm, further in particular
in the range of 2.2 cm to 2.6 cm, further in particular
substantially 2.4 cm.
[0117] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure
a depth of the smoking substitute device may be in the range of 0.5
cm to 3 cm, in particular in the range of 0.8 cm to 2.5 cm, further
in particular in the range of 1 cm to 2.2 cm, further in particular
in the range of 1.3 cm to 2 cm, further in particular substantially
1.6 cm.
[0118] According dimensions of the smoking substitute device
provide a device, which is easy to hold and operate and
additionally is of such a size that may conveniently be carried in
clothing, e.g. pocketed appropriately, without unduly burdening a
user or carrier and in particular without visual impact on the
appearance of a carrier when pocketed.
[0119] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the two substantially linear sides may comprise a radius of
curvature in the range of 10 cm to 1000 cm, in particular in the
range of 100 cm and 1000 cm, further in particular in the range of
500 cm and 1000 cm. An according radius of curvature provides only
a minor curvature in the substantially linear sides, in particular
without impacting the actual visual appearance of a curved side.
Further, a holding experience may be improved by providing a slight
curvature, thus a comparably large radius of curvature, in the two
substantially linear sides.
[0120] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
one of the two substantially linear sides may be concavely shaped
and the other one of the two substantially linear sides may be
convexly shaped, in particular wherein the two substantially linear
sides may comprise a curvature with a substantially identical
circle centre. Substantially linear sides which are accordingly
shaped may provide an improved holding experience to a user and may
further improve pocketing of the smoking substitute device due to
an improved resting against a body surface within the pocket.
[0121] In accordance with certain embodiments of the present
disclosure, In accordance with the present disclosure, the smoking
substitute device is provided with at least two display elements
for displaying information. The display elements are arranged
separate from and are independent of one another. In other words,
the location of a first display element and a second display
element is visually distinguishable in that the two display
elements are not conceived as part of one display element. Further,
they are independent from one another to the extent that they
display different information or different kinds or types of
information. In certain particular (but non-limiting) embodiments,
one display element is displaying a power status of the smoking
substitute device, while the other display element is displaying a
different type of information.
[0122] A power status of the smoking substitute device may in
particular be an on/off status of the smoking substitute device, in
other words an indication to a user whether the device is switched
on or off. Further, e.g. in case the power status is displaying an
ON status of the smoking substitute device, a further
differentiation of the displayed information may be provided by
distinguishing between a status, where the device is on but
currently not operable and a further information displaying that
the device is on and in a condition that would allow start of
operation of the device. In some embodiments the ON status may be
indicative of the heating element being energized such that the ON
status would indicate that the heating element is active. The ON
status may be indicative of the heating element being within the
target temperature range, or outside the target temperature range.
In such arrangements it is envisaged that the ON status would thus
indicate to a user that the heating element is active, or that a
"smoking" cycle of the device is in progress. It is also envisaged
that in some embodiments, the ON status may be indicative of the
heater exceeding a threshold safety temperature which may be, for
example, a temperature above 400.degree. C. or which could give
rise to a risk of damage to the device.
[0123] Accordingly, the second display element may depict second
information, which second information conveys different information
from the information of the first display element to a user of the
smoking substitute device. Such information may be the
aforementioned "ready for use" information or may be further
information, like a power source level information, a heating
status information.
[0124] Providing a smoking substitute device with independent
display elements, one of which for displaying a power status or ON
status of the smoking substitute device facilitates the recognition
of an ON status to the user as the display element is not shared so
as to display different information at different times. Further,
separate display elements allow the provision of operation
information to a user completely independent of the requirement to
also indicate a power status, thereby resulting in less confusion
of the user to determine whether a device is switched on or
off.
[0125] Optional features will be set out now. These are applicable
singularly or in any combination within the aspect of the present
disclosure.
[0126] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the
power status is for displaying an on/off status of the smoking
substitute device. E.g., the display may be illuminated when the
smoking substitute device is in an ON status, while it may not be
illuminated when the smoking substitute device is an OFF status.
Thereby, a user can instantly gather from the display element the
power status of the smoking substitute device.
[0127] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the other one of the first and second information may be for
displaying information out of the group consisting of status
information, power source level information, time to use
information, remaining time of use information, heating status
information.
[0128] Accordingly, the information may display how much energy is
left in the power source, how much time is required before the
smoking substitute device may be in an operable condition, e.g.
displaying time until the heating element has reached a target
temperature for consumption. Further, a remaining time of use
information may indicate a time until the power source is emptied
to a point where no operation of the smoking substitute device is
possible anymore. Even further, heating status information may
provide information whether the heating element is currently
switched on or off, thus whether it is heating the tobacco
material.
[0129] The first display element and the second display element may
be differently sized.
[0130] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure
the display element not displaying the power status information may
be substantially larger that the display element displaying the
power status information.
[0131] Providing a display which is substantially larger, e.g.
twice the size, three times the size, four times the size, five
times the size or even larger, provides the opportunity to display
more information than on the display displaying the power status
information. To that extent, the first display element and the
second display element are not required to be of the same
technology.
[0132] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the display element displaying the power status information may be
active substantially as long as the smoking substitute device is in
an ON status and the display element not displaying the power
status information and may be only intermittently activated. In
other words, the power status of the smoking substitute device may
be signaled to a user substantially for the duration of the smoking
substitute device being in an on powered status while additional
information may only be delivered to the user when required.
[0133] It is further conceivable that the display element not
displaying the power status information may not be continuously
activated with different types of information but also may be
de-activated or off during a time where no information needs to be
conveyed to a user. Contrary hereto, the power status information
may be provided to a user for as long as the smoking substitute
device is switched on.
[0134] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the smoking substitute device further comprises a control element,
wherein the display element displaying the power status information
is arranged in the vicinity of or is incorporated in the control
element.
[0135] By so linking the display element displaying the power
status information with the means to switch on and off the smoking
substitute device, a logical grouping for easier readability is
provided to the user.
[0136] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
the first display element and/or the second display element may be
a display element out of the group consisting of an LED element, a
plurality of LED elements, an LCD display element, an OLED element
and a plurality of OLED elements.
[0137] LED elements or organic LED elements may allow the provision
of information to a user in a manner to which the user is
accustomed while minimising energy consumption for the operation of
the display elements. An LCD display element, comprising e.g. a
matrix of LED elements or organic LED elements, may allow the
display of more complex information to a user.
[0138] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure
the first display element and/or the second display element are
adapted for displaying information in different colours. As such,
the colours of the first display element and the second display
element may be different from one another or the display element
may be adapted for changing the colour used for displaying
information. Likewise, a display element may be a multi-colour
display element being able to change its colour, e.g dependent on
the information to be displayed.
[0139] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
a change in colour of a display element may correspond to a change
in a status displayed. E.g. the power status may be displayed by an
illuminated display element, while further information may be
conveyed by employing different colour, e.g. a red colour for a
basic ON indication, while e.g. a green colour may display ON
status and further a "ready to use" status of the smoking
substitute device.
[0140] According to a further embodiment of the present disclosure,
a type of displayed information may be colour dependent. E.g. a
green coloured countdown displayed on a display element may relate
to time until the device is operable to start the substitute
smoking operation, while a red coloured countdown may signify a
different type of information.
[0141] 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.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0142] FIG. 1A shows a view of an exemplary embodiment of a smoking
substitute device 10, here exemplarily an HNB device 10.
[0143] The HNB device 10 comprises a rod-shaped heating element 12,
which projects into a cavity 14 within the main body 16 of the
device 10. A smoking substitute consumable 20 may be inserted into
the cavity 14 of the main body 12 of the device 10 such that the
heating rod 12 penetrates an aerosol-forming substrate, e.g.
tobacco material in one outer part, e.g. the lower part of the
smoking substitute consumable 20, distal from an outward facing
opening 42 of cavity 14. Heating of e.g. reconstituted tobacco in
the aerosol-forming substrate is effected by powering the heating
element 12, with a power source 18, e.g. a rechargeable battery 18
incorporated in the smoking substitute device 10. As the tobacco is
heated, moisture and volatile compounds (e.g. nicotine) within the
tobacco and possibly a humectant are released as a vapour and
entrained within an airflow generated by inhalation by the
user.
[0144] Heating of the tobacco by the heating element 12 may be
activated by the user pressing an actuator 26, here exemplarily
activation switch 26, on a side surface of the main body 16 of the
smoking substitute device 10. Display element 28, here exemplarily
a number of LEDs, is arranged in the vicinity of the activation
switch 26 on the side surface of main body 16.
[0145] At the bottom of smoking substitute device 10, e.g. at a
second end 54b, a charging connector 30 is arranged. The charging
connector 30 may be embodied as a standard USB connector, e.g.
mini-USB or micro-USC. In certain particular (but non-limiting)
embodiments, the charging connector 30 is embedded as a symmetrical
connector, like a USB-C connector. Alternatively, the charging
connector 30 may be embodied as a lightning connector. The charging
connector 30 may provide a connection for either energy or data or
both.
[0146] A certain mode of operation may result in different
temperatures of the heating element 12 and thus different amounts
of heat energy provided to the aerosol-forming substrate.
Following, the substrate is heated to different temperatures
depending on a certain mode of operation. E.g. in a first mode of
operation, the aerosol-forming substrate may be heated to
250.degree. C., while in a second mode of operation, the
aerosol-forming substrate may be heated to 350.degree. C. Different
heat energies provided to the aerosol-forming substrate may result
in a different release behaviour of both nicotine and vapour from
the aerosol-forming substrate and thus in a different substitute
smoking experience to a user.
[0147] In certain embodiments, the smoking substitute device 10 of
FIG. 1A comprises a length l, and further has first end 54a and a
second end 54b. The first cavity 14a is arranged at the first end
54a while a second cavity 14b is arranged at the second end 54b.
The first cavity 14a e.g. is a cavity for receiving a smoking
substitute consumable 20, which is indicated by the arrow in FIG.
1A. The second cavity 14b may correspond to an electrical interface
30 arranged at the second end 54b.
[0148] In certain embodiments, a bung element 56 is arranged at the
first end 54a and is in particular situated within the first cavity
14a. The surface of the first end 54a corresponds to the shape of
the bung element 54 so that the bung element 56 is substantially
flush with the main body 16 in the area of the first end 54a.
[0149] The smoking substitute device 10 in FIG. 1A may be in a
non-operable mode in that the bung element 56 in inserted into the
first cavity 14a and thus insertion of a smoking substitute
consumable 20 is blocked.
[0150] Now referring to FIG. 1B, which depicts a situation where
the smoking substitute device 10 may be operated. The main
difference between FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B is the bung element 56 being
arranged at the second end 54b and in particular being inserted
into the second cavity 14b or the electrical interface 30. In FIG.
1B, a smoking substitute consumable 20 can be received by the first
cavity 14a due to the absence of the bung element 56. Thus,
operation of the smoking substitute device is possible.
[0151] Now referring to FIGS. 2A and 2B, a bottom view of the
smoking substitute device is depicted. FIG. 2A shows the bottom
view towards the second end 54b comprising the second cavity 14b
which corresponds to the electrical interface 30. Electrical
interface 30 is exemplary embodied as USB-C connector. The second
cavity 14b/the electrical interface 30 has a width w, a depth d, as
well as a curvature c of the side flanges in the extension
direction of the width w.
[0152] FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the transverse
cross-section of the smoking substitute device 10. The main body 16
comprises two at least partially parallel, substantially linear
sides S1, S2 which are arranged on opposite sides of the
cross-section. Side S1 comprises width w1 of the cross-section
width w of the smoking substitute device 10/the main body 16. Side
S2 comprises width w2 of the cross-section width w. Exemplary,
width w1 may be twice the width w2 while the width w may be three
times the width w2. The smoking substitute device further comprises
a depth d and a length l, as depicted in FIG. 1. The view in FIG.
2B indeed is the view on the cross-section C from the second end
54b, since electrical interface 30 is visible, e.g. a symmetrical
connector like a USB-C or lightning connector.
[0153] The curved sides are depicted as non-circular. Indeed, the
curved sides S3, S4 in FIG. 2B each comprise exemplarily three
subsections S3A, S3B, S3C and S4A, S4B, S4C. As can be taken from
FIG. 2B, subsections S3A, S3C, S4A and S4C are curved subsections,
while subsections S3B and S4B are substantially linear subsections
in accordance with the definition of substantially linear as used
in this disclosure. It is likewise conceivable to extend
subsections S3A, S3C, and S4A, S4C, thereby not requiring
subsections S3B and S4B. Each of the subsections S3A, S3C, S4A, S4C
are not required to correspond to a defined or uniform radius of
curvature. However, as may be taken from FIG. 2B, the individual
subsections of sides S3 and S4 as well as the two substantially
linear sides S1 and S2 are shaped/curved in a way to provide a
substantially continuous transition of the overall surface of the
smoking substitute device 10, without any bends or edges, thereby
improving a holding experience of a user. One of the substantially
linear sides S1, S2 in embodied as a front side S2, while the other
side is embodied as a back side S1 of the smoking substitute device
10.
[0154] An additional front face element F is provided in FIG. 2B,
which may substantially be attached to the outer surface, or rather
may be incorporated into the outer surface of the smoking
substitute device, thereby providing means for variation of a front
face element without the necessity to vary the main body of the
smoking substitute device 10 itself. The front face element F may
comprise a display element, a control element or both. It may
further comprise additional elements like a second display element
or further control elements.
[0155] Now referring to FIG. 2C, an exemplary holding position of
the smoking substitute device 10 is depicted. As can be taken from
FIG. 2C, a user of the smoking substitute device may conveniently
hold the smoking substitute device 10 between the fingers with the
thumb resting on one of the substantially linear sides, in FIG. 2C
exemplary the substantially linear side S1, e.g. the front side,
while some or all of the remaining fingers rest against the other
one of the substantially linear sides, in FIG. 2C exemplary linear
side S2, e.g. the back side. For ease of understanding, the front
face element F is not depicted in FIG. 2C. The User may e.g. hold
the smoking substitute device 10 in a region below the front face
element F.
[0156] Not depicted in FIG. 2C but likewise conceivable is a
particular (but non-limiting) mode of holding the smoking
substitute device with the complete hand of a user with, e.g. one
substantially linear side resting against the palm of the user
while some or all of the other fingers, possibly except the thumb,
are used for holding the smoking substitute device 10 on the
opposite of the two substantially linear sides.
[0157] FIG. 3 depicts another exemplary embodiment of a smoking
substitute device 10 that is identical to the smoking substitute
device of FIGS. 1A and 1B, except as described herein below (all
reference numerals listed on FIG. 3 that are not referenced below
are identical to the elements labeled with the same reference
numerals described herein above).
[0158] The smoking substitute device 10 further includes a first
display element 28a, here exemplarily a single LED or organic LED,
that is arranged in the vicinity of the activation switch 26 on the
side surface of main body 16. Further, a second display element
28b, here exemplarily a number of LEDs or organic LEDs, is
additionally arranged on the main body 16, here exemplarily
adjacent to the first display element 28a. In other words, the
first display element 28a is arranged separate from and independent
of the second display element 8b. In particular by a visually
recognisable separation on a front side of the main body 16, this
separation is achieved. The first display element 28a is arranged
in the vicinity of control element 26 to allow easy recognition of
the on/off status of the smoking substitute device 10.
[0159] At the bottom of smoking substitute device 10, a charging
connector 30 is depicted. The charging connector 30 may be embodied
as a standard USB connector, e.g. mini-USB or micro-USC. In certain
particular (but non-limiting) embodiments, the charging connector
30 is embedded as a symmetrical connector, like a USB-C connector.
Alternatively, the charging connector 30 may be embodied as a
lightning connector. The charging connector 30 may provide a
connection for either energy or data or both.
[0160] Now referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, different versions of the
first display element 28a in accordance with the present disclosure
are depicted. In addition to the arrangement of FIG. 3, the first
display element 28a may be embodied sized differently, in
particular sized differently to the second display element 28b and
its individual elements, respectively, or the location may be
changed. E.g. in FIG. 4A, a larger LED element or organic LED
element is employed. Possibly, the first display element 28a
comprises a plurality of coloured, in particular differently
coloured, LED elements or organic LED elements, to be able to
depict different colours. In FIG. 4B, the first display element 28a
has been incorporated into control element 26. The first display
element 28a of FIG. 4B corresponds to the first display element 28a
of FIG. 4A. It is also conceivable to integrate a first display
element 28a in accordance with FIG. 3 into control element 26.
[0161] Now referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, a bung element 56 utilized
with the smoking substitute device 10 is depicted. In FIG. 5A, the
inner side surface 58 is depicted comprising a protrusion 60. The
protrusion 60 has a width w, a depth d as well as a curvature c,
all of which correspond to the width, depth and curvature of the
second cavity 14b, so that the protrusion 60 may be inserted into
the second cavity 14b. Both the second cavity 14b and the
protrusion 60 may be sized such that the bung element 60 is kept
inserted into the second cavity 14b by frictional forces of the
protrusion 60 and the second cavity 14b, in particular its side
walls.
[0162] The inner side surface 58 in FIG. 5A comprises a curvature
as well, which curvature corresponds to the curvature of the first
end 54a and the second end 54b, so that the bung element is flush
against the surface of the smoking substitute device when in
inserted into one of the respective first and second cavities
14a,b.
[0163] Not depicted in the Figures are notches of the first cavity
14a, which corresponds in width w and curvature c to the width and
curvature of the protrusion, therefore also allowing the insertion
of the bung element in a defined position into the first cavity
14a. Likewise it is conceivable that the width of the circular
shaped first cavity 14a corresponds to the width w, so that the no
notches are required. With or without notches in the first cavity
14a, the bung element 56 may stay in the first cavity 14a by
frictional forces in the area of the curvature c. FIG. 5B depicts
the outer side surface 62 of bung element 56.
[0164] Now referring to FIG. 6, a schematic of an exemplary
embodiment of a smoking substitute device in accordance with the
present disclosure is shown.
[0165] Smoking substitute device 10 comprises a main body 16 or
housing and a power source 18, e.g. a rechargeable battery. Further
provided is a control unit 32, which may include a microprocessor.
Memory 34 is provided for storing e.g. control instructions for
control unit 32 or the microprocessor. Memory 34 is provided in
certain particular (but non-limiting) embodiments as non-volatile
memory. Smoking substitute device 10 may further comprise a display
element 28, which may be embodied as a single or a plurality of
LEDs or organic LEDs. The LEDs are possibly adapted for displaying
different colours in accordance with instructions from the control
unit 32 and memory 34, depicting different modes of operation with
different colours of smoking substitute device 10 or generally
different information directed to the user operating the smoking
substitute device 10. A control element 26 is provided, e.g. an
actuator or activation switch, with which the smoking substitute
device may be switched on and off, an operation may be initiated
and/or a mode of operation may be set.
[0166] Further, an electrical interface 30 or charging connector 30
is provided, which may be incorporated in the main body 16 and
which may include one or more electrical contacts. The electrical
interface 30 may be located in, and in certain non-limiting
embodiments at the bottom of, an aperture in an end section of the
main body 16. Electrical interface 30 may be adapted to be coupled
with an external charging station to receive power for charging the
power source 18. Alternatively, electrical interface 30 may be
embodied as a charging connector 30, which may be a USB or
lightning connection. In certain particular (but non-limiting)
embodiments, the charging connector 30 is embodied as a USB-C
connector, which is an example of a symmetrical connector.
[0167] In short and using a different terminology, it is proposed
to provide a heat-not-burn device for smoking a consumable. A
heating element heats the tobacco material in the consumable to a
desired temperature, thereby releasing an aerosol containing
nicotine for inhalation by a user. The HNB device is arranged to
control the temperature of the heating element in a way to be able
to provide different temperatures to the tobacco material in the
consumable, thereby changing the release properties of the
components in the consumable, e.g. nicotine. Different temperatures
provide a changed release behaviour of the tobacco material thereby
providing a different smoking experience to a user.
[0168] Also, it is proposed to provide a heat not burn smoking
substitute device for smoking a smoking substitute consumable with
a plug to alternatively close one of two openings within the
housing of the smoking substitute device. The plug may be either
inserted into an opening for receiving a smoking substitute
consumable or in a charging connector. At least a part of the plug
is shaped such that the plug maintains its position by frictional
forces by force fit or form fit when inserted into the respective
opening. An opening may be substantially completely closed by the
plug thereby avoiding or preventing entry of debris.
[0169] 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 utilized for realizing the
inventive concepts in diverse forms thereof.
[0170] While the present disclosure 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 disclosure set forth above are
considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to
the described embodiments may be made without departing from the
scope of the present disclosure.
[0171] 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.
[0172] Any section headings used herein are for organizational
purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject
matter described.
[0173] 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.
[0174] 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%.
[0175] The words "preferred" and "preferably" are used herein refer
to non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure 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.
[0176] Elements that are described in conjunction with different
embodiments may be combined. Reference signs in the claims shall
not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
[0177] 10 smoking substitute device/HNB device [0178] 12 heating
element [0179] 14 cavity (14a--first cavity, 14b--second cavity)
[0180] 16 main body [0181] 18 power source/battery [0182] 20
smoking substitute consumable [0183] 26 control
element/actuator/activation switch [0184] 28 display element
(28a--first display element, 28b--second display element) [0185] 30
electrical interface/charging connector [0186] 32 control
unit/microprocessor [0187] 34 memory [0188] 42 outward facing
opening of cavity [0189] 52a,b first, second information [0190]
54a,b first, second end section [0191] 56 bung element [0192] 58
inner side surface [0193] 60 protrusion [0194] 62 outer side
surface [0195] c curvature [0196] d depth [0197] w width [0198] l
length [0199] C cross-section [0200] w1,w2 first, second width
[0201] S1,2,3,4 first, second, third, fourth side [0202] F Front
face element
* * * * *