Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA CAPSULE INCLUDING THERMOCHROMIC MATERIAL AND AEROSOL- GENERATING DEVICES INCLUDING THE SAME CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/659,080, filed on June 12, 2024, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. BACKGROUND [0002] The present disclosure relates to heated tobacco aerosol-generating devices and capsules configured to generate an aerosol without involving a substantial pyrolysis of an aerosol-forming substrate. [0003] Some electronics configured to heat a plant material to a temperature that is sufficient to release constituents of the plant material while keeping the temperature below an ignition point of the plant material so as to avoid any substantial pyrolysis of the plant material. Such devices may be referred to as aerosol-generating devices (e.g., heated tobacco aerosol-generating devices or heated tobacco products (HTP)), and the plant material heated may be tobacco and/or cannabis. In some instances, the plant material may be introduced directly into a heating chamber of an aerosol-generating device. In other instances, the plant material may be pre- packaged in individual containers or consumables to facilitate insertion and removal from an aerosol-generating device.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA SUMMARY [0004] At least one example embodiment relates to a capsule for an aerosol-generating device. In some example embodiments the capsule includes a housing configured to contain an aerosol- forming substrate. The capsule may additionally include a first thermochromic material on an outer surface of the housing of the capsule. The first thermochromic material may be configured to undergo a visual change in response to a temperature of the first thermochromic material exceeding a first upper threshold temperature. [0005] The capsule may include a heater within the housing. [0006] The first upper threshold temperature may be in a range of about 60 °C to about 80 °C. [0007] The first thermochromic material may be configured to undergo a reversible visual change in response to the temperature of the first thermochromic material exceeding the first upper threshold temperature such that the visual change is reversed in response to a reduction of the temperature of the first thermochromic material to below the first upper threshold temperature. [0008] The first thermochromic material may be configured to undergo an irreversible visual change in response to the temperature of the first thermochromic material exceeding the first upper threshold temperature. [0009] The capsule may further include a second thermochromic material on the outer surface of the housing of the capsule, the second thermochromic material configured to undergo a visual change in response to a temperature of the second thermochromic material exceeding a second upper threshold temperature. [0010] The second upper threshold temperature may be greater than about 80 °C.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA [0011] The second upper threshold temperature may be different from the first upper threshold temperature. [0012] The first thermochromic material may be configured to undergo an irreversible visual change in response to the temperature of the first thermochromic material exceeding the first upper threshold temperature. The second thermochromic material may be configured to undergo a reversible visual change in response to the temperature of the second thermochromic material exceeding the second upper threshold temperature such that the visual change is reversed in response to a reduction of the temperature of the second thermochromic material to below the second upper threshold temperature. [0013] The first thermochromic material may be included in a sticker on the outer surface of the housing. [0014] The first thermochromic material may be printed on the outer surface of the housing. [0015] The housing may include a polymer. Additionally, the first thermochromic material may be intermixed with the polymer. [0016] The polymer may exhibit thermal stability between about 120 °C and about 220 °C. [0017] The polymer may be a thermoplastic elastomer or polypropylene. [0018] The capsule may include a moisture sticker on an outer surface of the housing. The moisture sticker may be configured to undergo a visual change in response to exposure to moisture. [0019] At least one example embodiment relates to a capsule for an aerosol-generating device. The capsule may include a first end cap defining air outlets. The capsule may additionally include a body connected to the first end cap. The capsule may also include a first
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA thermochromic material configured to undergo a visual change in response to a temperature of the first thermochromic material exceeding a first upper threshold temperature. [0020] The first end cap and the first thermochromic material may include nanocrystalline cellulose. [0021] The first thermochromic material may contact an entire outer surface of the first end cap. [0022] The capsule may further include a second end cap defining air inlets. [0023] The first thermochromic material may contact an entire surface of the second end cap. [0024] The first end cap may further include a first portion including a polymer and the first thermochromic material intermixed with the polymer. Additionally, the first end cap may include a second portion that does not include the first thermochromic material. [0025] The second portion may include the polymer and a second thermochromic material configured to undergo a visual change in response to the second thermochromic material exceeding a second upper threshold temperature. [0026] The first end cap may include a third portion that does not include the first thermochromic material or the second thermochromic material. [0027] The second portion may define air outlets. [0028] The first portion may define air outlets. [0029] The second portion may include a liquid crystal polymer. [0030] The polymer may include polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, styrene acrylonitrile resin, ethylene vinyl acetate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or a thermoplastic elastomer. [0031] The thermoplastic elastomer may include thermoplastic polyurethane. [0032] The polymer may include polypropylene or a thermoplastic elastomer.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA [0033] At least one example embodiment relates to an aerosol-generating device. The aerosol generating device may include a body portion including a power supply element. The aerosol- generating device may additionally include a capsule configured to be received by the body portion. The capsule may include a housing configured to contain an aerosol-forming substrate and a first thermochromic material configured to undergo a visual change in response to a temperature of the first thermochromic material exceeding a first upper threshold temperature. [0034] The capsule may further include electrical contacts configured to electrically contact the power supply elements. [0035] The capsule may include a heater. [0036] The body portion may include a heater. [0037] The body portion may include or define a window. [0038] At least one example embodiment relates to a method of manufacturing a capsule for use in an aerosol-generating device. The method may include molding a first end cap from a first molding material. The first molding material may include a first base material and a first thermochromic material configured to undergo a visual change in response to a temperature of the first thermochromic material exceeding a first upper threshold temperature. The method may also include combining the first end cap with a body to form a capsule. [0039] The molding may further include co-molding a first portion and a second portion of the first end cap, the first portion including the first molding material, the second portion being molded from a second molding material. [0040] The second molding material may include the first base material and a second thermochromic material configured to undergo a visual change in response to a temperature of the second thermochromic material exceeding a second upper threshold temperature.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA [0041] The second molding material may include a liquid crystal polymer. [0042] The co-molding may include co-molding a third portion of the first end cap with a third molding material. Additionally, the third molding material may include a second base material. [0043] The combining may include combining a second end cap with the first end cap and the body to form the capsule. [0044] The second end cap may include electrical contacts. [0045] The molding may be performed at a temperature that is less than about 220 °C. [0046] The method may further include cooling the first end cap to reverse the visual change in response to the first thermochromic material exceeding the first upper threshold temperature. [0047] The first end cap may be cooled for at least an hour. [0048] The temperature of the first end cap may be reduced to a first lower threshold temperature or less and the first lower threshold temperature is at least 80 °C less than the first upper threshold temperature. [0049] The first lower threshold temperature may be about -15 °C or less. BRIEF DISCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0050] The various features and advantages of the non-limiting example embodiments herein may become more apparent upon review of the detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The accompanying drawings are merely provided for illustrative purposes and should not be interpreted to limit the scope of the claims. The accompanying drawings are not to be considered as drawn to scale unless explicitly noted. For purposes of clarity, various dimensions of the drawings may have been exaggerated.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA [0051] FIGS. 1A-1B are upper perspective views of a capsule in accordance with at least one example embodiment depicting a visual change in response to the capsule being heated. [0052] FIGS. 2A-2C are upper perspective views of a capsule in accordance with at least one example embodiment depicting a reversible visual change in response to the capsule being heated and then cooled. [0053] FIGS. 3A-3C are upper perspective views of a capsule in accordance with at least one example embodiment depicting an irreversible visual change in response to the capsule being heated and then cooled. [0054] FIG.4 is a top view of a capsule in accordance with at least one example embodiment. [0055] FIGS.5A-5B are top views of capsules in accordance with some example embodiments. [0056] FIGS. 6A-6C are upper perspective views of a capsule in accordance with at least one example embodiment depicting both a reversible and an irreversible visual change in response to the capsule being heated and then cooled. [0057] FIGS. 7A-7B are upper perspective views of a capsule in accordance with at least one example embodiment depicting a visual change in response to the capsule being heated. [0058] FIGS. 8A-8C are upper perspective views of a capsule in accordance with at least one example embodiment depicting both a reversible and an irreversible visual change in response to the capsule being heated and then cooled. [0059] FIG.9 is a schematic view of an aerosol-generating device in accordance with at least on example embodiment. [0060] FIG.10 is a flow chart depicting a method of manufacturing a capsule in accordance with at least one example embodiment. [0061] FIG.11 is a top view of a capsule in accordance with at least one example embodiment.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0062] Some detailed example embodiments are disclosed herein. However, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are merely representative for purposes of describing example embodiments. Example embodiments may, however, be embodied in many alternate forms and should not be construed as limited to only the example embodiments set forth herein. [0063] Accordingly, while example embodiments are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, example embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intent to limit example embodiments to the particular forms disclosed, but to the contrary, example embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of example embodiments. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description of the figures. [0064] It should be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," "coupled to," or "covering" another element or layer, it may be directly on, connected to, coupled to, or covering the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the specification. As used herein, the term "and/or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. [0065] It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, regions,
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA layers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments. [0066] Spatially relative terms (e.g., "beneath," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," and the like) may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as "below" or "beneath" other elements or features would then be oriented "above" the other elements or features. Thus, the term "below" may encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. [0067] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing various example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of example embodiments. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "includes," "including," "comprises," and/or "comprising," specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, and/or elements, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or groups thereof. [0068] When the terms "about" or “substantially” are used in this specification in connection with a numerical value, it is intended that the associated numerical value includes a
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA manufacturing or operational tolerance (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical value. Moreover, when the terms "generally" or "substantially" are used in connection with geometric shapes, it is intended that precision of the geometric shape is not required but that latitude for the shape is within the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, regardless of whether numerical values or shapes are modified as "about," “generally,” or "substantially," it will be understood that these values and shapes should be construed as including a manufacturing or operational tolerance (e.g., ±10%) around the stated numerical values or shapes. [0069] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which example embodiments belong. It will be further understood that terms, including those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. [0070] It should be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers, and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another region, layer, or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the teachings of example embodiments. [0071] FIG. 1A illustrates a capsule 100 for use with an aerosol-generating device (e.g., heated tobacco aerosol-generating device) according to some example embodiments.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA [0072] FIG. 1B illustrates the capsule 100 after being used with an aerosol-generating device according to some example embodiments. [0073] As illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1B, in at least some example embodiments, the capsule 100 may include a top cap 102, a bottom cap 104, and a capsule body 106. The top cap 102 and/or the bottom cap 104 may include a thermochromic material 108 that undergoes a visual change in response to the temperature of the thermochromic material exceeding a first threshold temperature. For example, as depicted in FIG.1A the thermochromic material 108 may be a first color 110A prior to being heated. As depicted in FIG.1B, the thermochromic material 108 may undergo a visual change from a first color 110A prior to being heated to a second color 110B in response to the temperature of the thermochromic material 108 exceeding a first threshold temperature. As depicted in FIGS. 1A-1B, the structure of the top cap 102 and the bottom cap 104 may include the thermochromic material. For example, the thermochromic material 108 may be intermixed with the base material of the structure of the top cap 102 and the bottom cap 104, such that the entire structure of top cap 102 and the entire structure of the bottom cap 104 undergo a visual change in response to the temperature of the top cap and the bottom cap exceeding the first threshold temperature. However, the example embodiments are not so limited, and any exterior portion of the capsule 100 may include the thermochromic material 108 in or on the exterior portion such that it indicates that the capsule 100 has been heated. For example only the top cap 102 may include a thermochromic material 108, only a portion of the top cap 102 may include a thermochromic material 108, only the bottom cap 104 may include a thermochromic material 108, only a portion of the bottom cap 104 may include a thermochromic material 108, the thermochromic material 108 may be included in a sticker on an exterior surface
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA of the capsule 100, or the thermochromic material 108 may be printed onto the surface of the capsule 100 as described below with reference to FIGS.4 – 8C. [0074] For example, the thermochromic material 108 may be a first color 110A (for example, a darker color such as blue) prior to being heated and undergo a visual change such that the thermochromic material 108 is a second color (for example, a lighter color such as white) after being heated during use with an aerosol-generating device. However, the example embodiments are not so limited as the first color 110A and the second color 110B may be any such colors so long as the first color 110A is distinct from the second color 110B such that the colors provide a visual indication when the capsule 100 has been heated. [0075] The thermochromic material 108 may be a thermochromic ink such as Thermolock® or Chromazone®. Alternatively, the thermochromic material 108 may be a cellulosic material that discolors in response to temperature changes such as cellulose nanocrystal. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. For example, the thermochromic material 108 may be any material that is capable of undergoing a visual change in response to exceeding a desired threshold temperature. [0076] Additional details as to the structure of the capsule and aerosol-generating devices configured to be used with the disclosed capsules discussed herein may also be found in U.S. Application No. 17/981,973, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. [0077] For example, top cap 102 may form an air-tight seal with the body portion 106. The bottom cap 104 may also form an air-tight seal with the body portion 106. Space between the top cap 102 and the bottom cap 104 defined by the interior of the body portion 106 may be configured to retain an aerosol-forming substrate. The top cap 102 may be press fit into the body
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA portion 106. The bottom cap 104 may also be press fit into the body portion 106. However, example embodiments are not limited thereto. [0078] For example, the capsule 100 may include a heater (not depicted) within the interior of the body portion 106. For example, the heater may be an induction/inductive heater (e.g., susceptor) or a resistance/resistive heater. For example, the capsule 100 may include electrical contact pads (not depicted) connected to the heater so as to render the capsule 100 a power- receiving unit. For example, the electrical contact pads may be on or exposed by the bottom cap 104. For example, the electrical contact pads may be positioned on or exposed by a bottom surface of the bottom cap 104 on opposite sides of air inlets (not depicted) in the bottom cap 104. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the capsule 100 may not include a heater and/or electrical contact pads. In such as instance, a heater (e.g., inductive or resistive) may be present in the aerosol-generating device. Additionally, although the capsule 100 is discussed as having a body portion 106 and a bottom cap 104 as separate components, it should be understood that, in some instances, the body portion 106 and the bottom cap 104 may be integrated so as to be a single component. [0079] Elements shown in FIGS. 2A-2C that have common reference labels with regard to elements shown in FIGS. 1A-1B may be similar or identical to the elements described with reference to FIGS.1A-1B unless stated otherwise and thus, a description of such elements is not repeated with regard to FIGS.2A-2C. [0080] FIGS. 2A-2C depict a capsule 200 including a reversible thermochromic material 108A undergoing a reversible visual change in response to a temperature of the thermochromic material 108A exceeding a first threshold temperature. As used herein, a thermochromic material 108 may refer to a reversible thermochromic material 108A or an irreversible
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA thermochromic material 108B described below with reference to FIGS. 3A-3C. As depicted in FIG. 2A the capsule 200 may be at a first temperature that is less than a first threshold temperature and the thermochromic material 108A may be a first color 110A (e.g., purple) corresponding to the first temperature. As depicted in FIG. 2B, the capsule 200 may be heated such that there is a second temperature exceeding a first threshold temperature such that the thermochromic material 108A may undergo a visual change from the first color 110A to a second color 110B (e.g., pink) corresponding to the second temperature. Subsequent to the heating in FIG. 2B, the capsule 200 may cool from the second temperature which exceeds the first threshold temperature to a temperature that is less than the first threshold temperature as depicted in FIG.2C, for example the first temperature. As the thermochromic material 108A is cooled to a temperature (e.g., ambient temperature) below the first threshold temperature, the thermochromic material 108A may undergo a second visual change, or for example reverse the first visual change, in which the thermochromic material 108A reverses from the second color 110B to the first color 110A (e.g., purple). However, the example embodiments are not so limited. For example, as described below with reference to FIGS.3A-3C, the visual change may be considered irreversible, and an irreversible thermochromic material 108B may remain a second color 110B after the temperature of the irreversible thermochromic material 108B is subsequently cooled to below the first threshold temperature. [0081] Elements shown in FIGS. 3A-3C that have common reference labels with regard to elements shown in FIGS. 1A-2C may be similar or identical to the elements described with reference to FIGS.1A-2C unless stated otherwise and thus, a description of such elements is not repeated with regard to FIGS.3A-3C.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA [0082] FIGS. 3A-3C depicts a capsule 300 including an irreversible thermochromic material 108B undergoing an irreversible visual change in response to a temperature of the irreversible thermochromic material 108B exceeding a first threshold temperature. As depicted in FIG. 3A the capsule 300 may be at a first temperature that is less than a first threshold temperature and display a first color 110A corresponding to the first temperature. As depicted in FIG. 3B, the capsule 300 may be heated such that there is a second temperature exceeding a first threshold temperature such that the thermochromic material 108B may undergo a visual change from the first color 110A (e.g., darker color) to a second color 110B (e.g., lighter color) corresponding to the second temperature. Subsequent to the heating depicted in FIG. 3B, the capsule 300 may cool from the second temperature exceeding the first threshold temperature to a temperature below the first threshold temperature, for example, the first temperature. As the thermochromic material 108B is cooled to a temperature (e.g., ambient temperature) below the first threshold temperature, the thermochromic material 108B may not undergo a second visual change, that is to say, the thermochromic material 108B may remain the second color 110B after the temperature of the thermochromic material 108B has exceeded the first threshold temperature regardless of if the thermochromic material 108B is subsequently cooled to a temperature below the first threshold temperature. However, the example embodiments are not so limited or absolute. For example, an irreversible thermochromic material 108B such as that described above and throughout the specification herein may have a lower threshold temperature (e.g., manufacturing reset temperature) such that, if the thermochromic material 108B is cooled below the lower threshold temperature, the thermochromic material 108B undergoes a visual change from the second color 110B to the first color 110A as will be described below with regard to a method of manufacturing as depicted in FIG.10.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA [0083] As used throughout this disclosure and as described in more detail below with regard to methods of manufacturing, a capsule 300 including a thermochromic material 108B may be regarded as an irreversible thermochromic material, because the lower threshold temperature is intended to be reached only during industrial cooling conditions (e.g., for manufacturing reset) and, thus, is not likely to be reached during ordinary operation under normal conditions. [0084] Elements shown in FIG. 4 that have common reference labels with regard to elements shown in FIGS. 1A-3C may be similar or identical to the elements described with reference to FIGS. 1A-3C unless stated otherwise and thus, a description of such elements is not repeated with regard to FIG.4. [0085] FIG. 4 depicts some example embodiments where the thermochromic material 108 is applied to an exterior surface of the capsules 400. According to some example embodiments, the thermochromic material 108 may be applied by a pad coated with the thermochromic material 108 to the exterior surface (for example a Tampoprint® process), by rollers, by an ink jet process, or by an ink dot deposition process. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto, as the thermochromic material 108 may be placed on the exterior surface through any means through any method capable of applying the thermochromic material 108 to an exterior surface. [0086] The thermochromic material 108 may be applied to the exterior surface, for example an exterior surface of the top cap 102 (e.g., end face) that is adjacent to the air outlets 414 (which may also be referred to as aerosol outlets). For example, the air/aerosol exiting the capsule 400 may be hot when the capsule 400 is in use (e.g., undergoing heating) and therefore a region of the top cap 102 adjacent to the air outlets 414 may by a hot region of the top cap 102. By placing the thermochromic material 108 in a hot region of the top cap 102 (e.g., covering the end face of
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA the top cap 102 partially or entirely), there is an increased likelihood that the thermochromic material 108 will respond to the elevated temperature of the top cap 102. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto, and the thermochromic material 108 may be applied to any exterior surface of the capsule 400 that is suitable to allow for a temperature response by the thermochromic material 108. The capsule 400 may be the same or similar to the capsule 100 depicted in FIG.1. [0087] Elements shown in FIGS. 5A-5B that have common reference labels with regard to elements shown in FIG.4 may be similar or identical to the elements described with reference to FIG. 4 unless stated otherwise and thus, a description of such elements is not repeated with regard to FIGS.5A-5B. [0088] FIGS. 5A and 5B depict some example embodiments where the thermochromic material 108 is included in a sticker 516A or 516B on the exterior surface of the capsules 500A and 500B. For example, only a portion of the sticker 516B, such as a central portion of the sticker 516B, may include the thermochromic material 108. Alternatively, an entire exterior surface of the sticker 516A may include the thermochromic material 108. In some example embodiments the sticker 516A may be on a top surface 518 (e.g., end face) of the top cap 102 and not cover a side surface 520 of the top cap 102. In some example embodiments, the sticker 516B may wrap around a side surface 520 of the capsule 500B. The sticker 516A or 516B may not cover the air outlets 414 in the top cap 102. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the sticker 516A or 516B may be applied to any exterior surface of the capsule 500A or 500B that is suitable to allow for a temperature response by the thermochromic material 108. The capsules 500A and/or 500B may be the same and/or similar to the capsule 100 depicted in FIG.1.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA [0089] Elements shown in FIGS. 6A-6C that have common reference labels with regard to elements shown in FIGS.1A-5B are similar or identical to the elements described with reference to FIGS.1A-5B unless stated otherwise and thus, a description of such elements is not repeated with regard to FIGS.6A-6C. [0090] FIGS. 6A-6C depict a capsule 600 including a reversible thermochromic material 108A and an irreversible thermochromic material 108B. For example, the end cap 102 may include a first region 622 and a second region 624. The first region 622 may include a reversible thermochromic material 108A and the second region 624 may include an irreversible thermochromic material 108B. As depicted in FIG. 6A, at a first temperature, for example an ambient temperature, the first region 622 may be a first color 610A (e.g., purple) and the second region 624 may be a second color 630A (e.g., blue). As depicted in FIG.6B, the capsule 600 may be heated such that there is a second temperature that exceeds a first threshold temperature such that the reversible thermochromic material 108A may undergo a visual change from the first color 610A to a third color 610B (e.g., pink), and the irreversible thermochromic material 108B may undergo a visual change from the second color 630A to a fourth color 630B (e.g., white). As the reversible thermochromic material 108A and the irreversible thermochromic material 108B cool to a temperature below the first threshold temperature the reversible thermochromic material 108A may undergo a second visual change from the third color 610B to the first color 610A, and the irreversible thermochromic material 108B may not undergo a visual change and remains the fourth color 630B. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the threshold temperature of reversible thermochromic material 108A may be different from the threshold temperature of the irreversible thermochromic material 108B. Furthermore, the first color 610A, the second color 630A, the third color 610B, and the fourth color 630B may
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA be any such colors so long as the first color 610A, the second color 630A, the third color 610B, and the fourth color 630B provide a visual indication when the capsule 600 has been heated and when the capsule 600 is considered too hot to the touch (e.g., from a safety and/or comfort perspective). [0091] In some example embodiments the reversible thermochromic material 108A may have a first threshold temperature and the irreversible thermochromic material 108B may have a second threshold temperature. In some example embodiments the first threshold temperature and the second threshold temperature may be different. For example, the second threshold temperature may be greater than the first threshold temperature. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the first threshold temperature may be greater than the second threshold temperature or the first threshold temperature may be the same as the second threshold temperature. [0092] The first threshold temperature may be a temperature at which the capsule 600 is hot to the touch from a safety and/or comfort perspective. For example, the first threshold temperature may be between about 60 °C to about 80 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be between about 60 °C to about 70 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be between about 70 °C to about 80 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be greater than about 50 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be greater than about 55 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be greater than about 60 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be greater than about 65 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be greater than about 70 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be greater than about 75 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be greater than about 80 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be about 70 °C. For example, the
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA first threshold temperature may be about 75 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be less than about 80 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be less than about 75 °C. For example, the first threshold temperature may be less than about 70 °C. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto. [0093] The second threshold temperature may be a temperature indicating that the capsule 600 has been used. For example, the second threshold temperature may be greater than about 70 °C. For example, the second threshold temperature may be greater than about 75 °C. For example, the second threshold temperature may be greater than about 80 °C. For example, the second threshold temperature may be greater than about 85 °C. For example, the second threshold temperature may be greater than about 90 °C. For example, the second threshold temperature may be less than about 90 °C. For example, the second threshold temperature may be less than about 85 °C. For example, the second threshold temperature may be less than about 80 °C. For example, the second threshold temperature may be between about 70 °C and about 90 °C. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto. [0094] With continued reference to FIGS. 6A-6C, the second region 624 may be a rectangular region with rounded ends (e.g., obround shape) that surrounds the first region 622. Additionally, the first region 622 (that is surrounded by the second region 624) may include the remaining inner surface of the top cap 102 (and the bottom cap 104 may be structured in the same or analogous manner). However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the second region 624 may be included on the bottom cap 104, the first region 622 may not be included on the bottom cap 104, the first region 622 may any shape, the second region 624 may have any shape, the top cap 102 may include a region that does not include the reversible
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA thermochromic material 108A or the irreversible thermochromic material 108B. For further example, see FIGS.7A-8C. [0095] Elements shown in FIGS. 7A-7B that have common reference labels with regard to elements shown in FIGS. 1A-6C may be similar or identical to the elements described with reference to FIGS.1A-6C unless stated otherwise and thus, a description of such elements is not repeated with regard to FIGS.7A-7B. [0096] FIGS. 7A and 7B depict a capsule 700 including a first region 722 that occupies only a portion of the top cap 102. In some example embodiments, the first region 722 may include a thermochromic material 108. The thermochromic material 108 may be configured to undergo a reversible or irreversible visual change. As shown, the first region 722 does not occupy the entirety of the top cap 102. For example, the first region 722 may be a separate structure combined with, for example co-molded with, a second region 724 of the top cap 102, for example a remainder of the top cap 102. The second region 724 may not include any thermochromic material 108. The first region 722 may be any shape at any location in the top cap 102. The second region 724 may include the bottom cap 104. [0097] Elements shown in FIGS. 8A-8C that have common reference labels with regard to elements shown in FIGS. 1A-7B may be similar or identical to the elements described with reference to FIGS.1A-7B unless stated otherwise and thus, a description of such elements is not repeated with regard to FIGS.8A-8C. [0098] FIGS.8A-8C depict a capsule 800 including a first region 822, a second region 824, and a third region 826. In some example embodiments the first region 822 may include the reversible thermochromic material 108A, the third region 826 may include the irreversible thermochromic material 108B, and the second region 824 may not include the reversible
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA thermochromic material 108A or the irreversible thermochromic material 108B. The first region 822 and the third region 826 may be separate structures from each other as well as the second region 824. For example, the first region 822 and the third region 826 may be co-molded with the second region 824 of the top cap 102. The first region 822 may be any shape at any location in the top cap 102. The third region 826 may be any shape at any location in the top cap 102. The second region 824 may be any shape at any location in the top cap 102. The first region 822 and the second region 824 may make up only a portion of the top cap 102. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. [0099] For example, a thermochromic material 108 may be included in the structure of the top cap 102, and the capsule 800 may further include a thermochromic material 108 on an exterior surface of the capsule 800 in the form of a sticker or by otherwise applying the thermochromic material 108 to an exterior surface of the capsule 800. The thermochromic material 108 in the structure of the top cap 102 may be different from the thermochromic material 108 in the sticker. For example, the thermochromic material 108 in the top cap 102 may be a reversible thermochromic material 108A and the thermochromic material 108 on the exterior surface of the capsule 800 may be an irreversible thermochromic material. [00100] FIG. 9 depicts an aerosol-generating device 900 including a window 940 for viewing a capsule including thermochromic ink on an exterior surface, for example a capsule as depicted in any of FIGS. 1A-8C. According to some example embodiments, the aerosol-generating device 900 may be any of the aerosol-generating devices described in U.S. Application No.17/981,973, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, additionally with a window 940 (which may be transparent or translucent) in a housing of the aerosol-generating device 900 such that an exterior surface of a cartridge, for example a cartridge as depicted in any of FIGS. 1A-8C, is
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA visible to an adult consumer when the cartridge is in the aerosol-generating device 900. For example, the window 940 may provide a side view of a capsule, for example a capsule as depicted in any of FIGS.1A-3C, such that the top cap 102 and the bottom cap 104 are visible to an adult consumer when the cartridge is in the aerosol-generating device 900. For example, the window may also provide a top and/or bottom view of a capsule, for example a capsule as depicted in FIGS. 4-8C, such that the top cap 102 and/or the bottom cap 104 of the capsule is visible to an adult consumer when the cartridge is in the aerosol-generating device 900. [00101] FIG. 10 depicts some example embodiments of methods of manufacturing a capsule for use with an aerosol-generating device according to some example embodiments. According to some example embodiments, in step 1001, a first molding material may be formed. For example, the first molding material may be formed by mixing a first base material with a first thermochromic material. According to some example embodiments the first base material may retain structural integrity up to temperatures of 120 °C so that the capsule does not degrade during the operation of an aerosol generating device. In some example embodiments the base material may have a molding temperature of less than 220 °C so that the thermochromic material may not degrade in the molding process. For example, the base material may exhibit thermal stability between about 120 °C and about 220 °C. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. [00102] For example, the base material may be a thermoplastic elastomer such as thermoplastic polyurethane or a polymer such as polypropylene, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, styrene acrylonitrile resin, ethylene vinyl acetate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or a combination thereof.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA [00103] Some example embodiments of a method of manufacturing a capsule may optionally include step 1003, forming a second molding material and/or a third molding material. The second molding material may include a second thermochromic material. For example, the second molding material may include an irreversible thermochromic material 108B, and the first molding material may include a reversible thermochromic material 108A. The second molding material may be prepared in substantially the same manner as the first molding material, and a base material of the second molding material may be the same or different from the base material of the first molding material. [00104] In some example embodiments, step 1003 may also include preparing a third molding material. The third molding material may not include a thermochromic material. For example, the third molding material may be a liquid crystal polymer. When the top cap and the bottom cap are composed of a single molding material, step 1003 may not be performed. [00105] According to some example embodiments, in step 1005, a top cap, a bottom cap, and/or a body portion may be formed. For example, the first molding material may be injection molded to form a portion of the top cap, the bottom cap, and/or the body portion. For example, the first molding material may be injection molded forming the entirety of the top cap and a bottom cap. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, only the top cap may be formed from the first molding material. [00106] Alternative, in some example embodiments, a first portion, a second portion, and a third portion of the top cap may be formed from the first molding material, the second molding material, and the third molding material, respectively. In some example embodiments the top cap may be formed from only the first molding material. In some example embodiments the top cap may be formed from the first molding material and the second molding material. In some
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA example embodiments the top cap may be formed from the first molding material and the third molding material. In some example embodiments the bottom cap may be formed from the first molding material. In some example embodiments the bottom cap may be formed from the second molding material. In some example embodiments the bottom cap may be formed from the third molding material. In some example embodiments the bottom cap may not be formed from the first molding material or the second molding material. In some example embodiments the bottom cap may not be formed from the second molding material or the third molding material. In some example embodiments the bottom cap may be formed from the first molding material and the second molding material. In some example embodiments the bottom cap may be formed from the first molding material and the third molding material. [00107] For example, where more than one molding material is used to form a portion or portions of the top cap and/or the bottom cap, the top cap and/or the bottom cap may be formed by co- molding the multiple portions of the top cap or the bottom cap using the desired combination of first molding material, second molding material, and third molding material. [00108] In some example embodiments, the third molding material may be a liquid crystal polymer or any of the polymers or may be the same material as the first base material. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. In some example embodiments the third molding material may have a higher molding temperature than the first molding material or the second molding material. For example, the third portion may be molded at a higher temperature than the first portion or the second portion. [00109] As depicted in optional step 1007, a method of manufacturing a capsule for use with an aerosol-generating device may optionally include a cooling step. For example, when an irreversible thermochromic material 108B is included in a molding material, for example the
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA second molding material, a cooling step may be included after the top cap and/or the bottom cap are formed. For example, when a portion of the capsule is injection molded with a molding material that includes an irreversible thermochromic material 108B, after the portion including the irreversible thermochromic material 108B is injection molded, the portion including the irreversible thermochromic material 108B may be cooled to a temperature below a lower threshold temperature. As the temperature of the injection molding process may exceed the threshold temperature of the irreversible thermochromic material 108B, the irreversible thermochromic material 108B may undergo the visual change from a first color to a second color during the molding process. The irreversible thermochromic material 108B may be cooled to a temperature lower than a lower threshold temperature, thereby reverting or resetting the visual color change from the second color back to the first color. When an irreversible thermochromic material 108b is not included in the molding material, a cooling step may not be performed. [00110] The lower threshold temperature may be at least 80 °C less than the first threshold temperature. The lower threshold temperature may be at least 70 °C less than the first threshold temperature. The lower threshold temperature may be at least 90 °C less than the first threshold temperature. The lower threshold temperature may be less than -15 °C. The lower threshold temperature may be about -10 °C or less. For example, the lower threshold temperature may be about -24 °C. The lower threshold temperature may be a desired temperature such that the capsule either in ordinary ambient conditions or during normal operation the temperature of the irreversible thermochromic material 108B is not or is unlikely to be reduced below the temperature of the lower threshold temperature. [00111] For example, the irreversible thermochromic material 108B may require cooling to a temperature less than the lower threshold temperature for at least an hour.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA [00112] According to some example embodiments in step 1009 once the top cap is formed, the top cap and a body portion may be combined to form a capsule. [00113] The method depicted in FIG. 10 may further optionally include step 1011, applying a thermochromic material to an exterior surface of the capsule. For example, the thermochromic material may be applied to the capsule by including a thermochromic material in a sticker applied to an exterior surface of the capsule. In some example embodiments, the thermochromic material may be a thermochromic ink printed on an exterior surface of capsule through a Tampoprint® process, by rollers, by an ink jet process, or by an ink dot deposition process. However, the example embodiments are not so limited thereto. For example, when a thermochromic material is applied to an exterior surface of the capsule, for example by the application of a thermochromic sticker, the first molding material may not include a thermochromic material. [00114] Elements shown in FIG. 11 that have common reference labels with regard to elements shown in FIGS. 4-5B may be similar or identical to the elements described with reference to FIGS. 4-5B unless stated otherwise and thus, a description of such elements is not repeated with regard to FIG.11. [00115] FIG. 11 depicts a moisture detecting sticker 1150 that may be included on the capsule. For example, a moisture detecting sticker 1150 may be included on a capsule 100 such as the example embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1A-1B. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto and the moisture detecting sticker 1150 may be further included in any of the example embodiments described herein. In some example embodiments the moisture detecting sticker 1150 may be placed on the top cap 102 adjacent to air/aerosol outlets 414. The moisture detecting sticker 1150 may optionally be wrapped around a side surface 520 of the capsule 100.
Atty. Dkt. No.24000NV-000983-WO-POA The moisture detecting sticker 1150 may not over the air outlets 414 in the top cap 102. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto. [00116] The moisture detecting sticker 1150 may be a first color, for example white. Upon exposure to moisture (e.g., aerosol condensation), the moisture detecting sticker 1150 may undergo a visual color change from the first color to a second color, for example red. However, the example embodiments are not limited thereto. For example, the moisture detecting sticker 1150 may be any first color and any second color such that the colors produce a visual change indicating the presence of moisture (i.e., from aerosol generation and condensation, thus indicating that the capsule is not new). [00117] Although described with reference to specific examples and drawings, modifications, additions and substitutions of example embodiments may be variously made according to the description by those of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the described techniques may be performed in an order different with that of the methods described, and/or elements such as the described system, architecture, devices, circuit, and the like, may be connected or combined to be different from the above-described methods, or results may be appropriately achieved by other elements or equivalents.