The present disclosure relates to aerosol-generating systems and devices and, more particularly, to aerosol-generating systems including at least one wired connection.

Many handheld aerosol-generating devices are devices that are used as alternatives to conventional smoking articles, such as cigarettes. Often, handheld aerosol-generating devices include a battery to provide portable electric power for the device. Batteries have limited charge capacities that impose usage time limitations. Generally, increasing the size of the battery increases the charge capacity. However, increasing the size of a battery may reduce the portability of a handheld aerosol-generating device. In addition, many current aerosol-generating devices cannot be used while the battery is charging. The usage time and charging limitations of such portable aerosol-generating devices may be unsuitable for some users, particularly at certain times, such as before traveling.

It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating system that comprises a power supply that does not require recharging or is capable of supplying sufficient electric power for a plurality of uses between charges. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating system that is suitable for use in public spaces while providing a comfortable and social experience for each user. It would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating system that is convenient and discrete to use.

Various aspects of the disclosure relate to apparatus comprising an electrical hub and at least one aerosol-generating device electrically connected to the electrical hub by a wired connection. In particular, the one electrical hub of the apparatus may provide electric power to at least one aerosol-generating device. The aerosol-generating devices may be used while electrically coupled to the electrical hub. At least one of the wired connections permanently couples at least one aerosol-generating device to the electrical hub. In some embodiments, one or more wired connections may removably couple one or more other aerosol-generating devices to the electrical hub. Some wired connections may be extendable from the electrical hub and retractable into the electrical hub. Some electrical hubs may be coupled to a support, which may elevate the aerosol-generating devices to a comfortable height for a sitting or standing user. Some electrical hubs may comprise the support. Some electrical hubs may be permanently fixed in a location. Some electrical hubs may comprise a connection for connecting the electrical hub to an external power supply, such as a mains power supply. Some wired connections may extend through the surface of the hub or the support. Some electrical hubs may be portable. Some electrical hubs may include an internal power supply, such as a battery. The internal power supply may be larger than a battery in a typical handheld device, and as such, the internal power supply may have more charge capacity than a battery in a typical handheld device. The aerosol generating devices are typically configured to receive an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol generating devices typically have an aerosolizer for generating an aerosol from an aerosol forming substrate. Some aerosol-generating devices may comprise a heater to heat an aerosol forming substrate, typically without combustion or burning.

In one aspect of the disclosure, an apparatus includes an electrical hub having a housing and at least one of a power supply and a connector for connection of the electrical hub to an external power supply. The apparatus also includes a first aerosol-generating device electrically connected to the hub via a wired connection. The apparatus further includes a second aerosol generating device electrically connected to the hub via a wired connection. Each aerosol generating device includes an aerosolizer and a receptacle for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. The electrical hub is configured to supply power to each of the aerosol-generating devices. The aerosolizer is configured to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is received in the receptacle. At least one of the aerosol-generating devices is permanently connected to the hub via the respective wired connection. Typically, the aerosolizer comprises a heating element configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate.

In one or more aspects, at least one of the aerosol-generating devices includes a receptacle that defines a cavity for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. In particular, the receptacle may be configured to receive a portion of an aerosol-generating article including an aerosol-forming substrate. Where the aerosolizer of the at least one aerosol-generating device comprises a heating element, the heating element may include an elongate heating element extending into the cavity. The receptacle is configured such that, when the aerosol-forming substrate is inserted into the cavity, the elongate heating element is inserted into the aerosol forming substrate.

In one or more aspects, at least one of the aerosol-generating devices includes an aerosolizer in the form of a heater configured to receive power from the electrical hub, via the wired connection, for heating aerosol-forming substrate received in the receptacle. The heater may be any suitable heater. In particular, the heater may comprise a heating element, such as a resistive heating element.

In one or more aspects, at least one of the aerosol-generating devices includes a power supply configured to receive power from the electrical hub, via the wired connection. The power supply may be configured to supply power to the heater for heating aerosol-forming substrate received in the receptacle.

In some embodiments, the first and second, or all, of the aerosol-generating devices are connected to the hub via a respective permanent wired connection. In one or more aspects, the apparatus further comprises a support. The support may be coupled to the electrical hub. Typically, the support is configured to position the electrical hub from about 0.5 meters to about 1.5 meters above a standing surface.

In one or more aspects, the apparatus includes a top surface. The top surface may have a surface area of at least about 0.2 square meters. The top surface may be positioned by the support at between about 0.5 meters and about 1.5 meters above the standing surface.

In one or more aspects, the electrical hub is positioned on the top surface. In some embodiments, the top surface may support the electrical hub. In these embodiments, the electrical hub may be coupled to the top surface.

In one or more aspects, the housing of the electrical hub forms the top surface. The wired connections to the aerosol-generating devices may extend from the hub through the top surface to the aerosol-generating devices.

In one or more aspects, the electrical hub is positioned below the top surface. The wired connections to the aerosol-generating devices may extend from the hub through the top surface to the devices. In one or more aspects, the apparatus has an axis extending from the top surface through the hub. The wired connections of the first and second aerosol-generating devices may extend from the top surface at locations spaced from the axis in different directions.

In one or more aspects, the wired connection of the first aerosol-generating device extends from the housing of the hub at a first side of the housing and the wired connection of the second aerosol-generating device extends from the housing of the hub at a second side of the housing, different from the first side.

In one or more aspects, at least one of the wired connections between the hub and the aerosol-generating devices is retractable into the hub. In particular, at least one of the wired connections may be extendable from the housing of the electrical hub and retractable into the housing of the electrical hub.

In one or more aspects, the housing of the electrical hub defines a through hole for each retractable wired connection through which the retractable wired connection extends.

In one or more aspects, the apparatus further includes a retractor for each wired connection. The retractor is operably coupled to the retractable wired connection and configured to retract the wired connection through the corresponding through hole.

In one aspect of the disclosure, a portable aerosol-generating system includes an electrical hub having a housing and a power supply disposed within the housing. The system also includes an aerosol-generating device permanently electrically connected to the hub via a wired connection, the aerosol-generating device including an aerosolizer and a receptacle for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosolizer is configured to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is received in the receptacle. The wired connection between the aerosol-generating device and the electrical hub is retractable into the housing of the hub, and the electrical hub is configured to supply power from the power supply to the aerosol generating device via the wired connection. Typically, the aerosolizer comprises a heating element configured to heat the aerosol-forming substrate.

Advantageously, providing an electrical hub with a power supply, or connection to an external power supply, may remove or reduce the limitations on how long the aerosol-generating device may be used, such that users need not wait to use aerosol-generating devices when charging. Providing interchangeable connections to aerosol-generating devices and substrates may allow users to sample and experience a variety of aerosol-forming substrates in a convenient manner, particularly when traveling, such as before boarding planes at airports. Using multiple connections for aerosol-generating devices allows the electrical hub to serve not only as a charging hub but also as a social hub. Where the electrical hub provides removable connections for aerosol-generating devices at some of the wired connections, users can removably connect their own aerosol-generating devices to the hub for charging and use. Further, the aerosol generating devices may include a power supply, such as a battery or capacitor, even when the aerosol-generating devices are permanently connected to the hub, which may allow for the use of low power charging (for example,“trickle charging”), instead of using high power charging. All scientific and technical terms used herein have meanings commonly used in the art unless otherwise specified. Any definitions provided herein are to facilitate understanding of certain terms used frequently herein.

The electrical hub of the apparatus of the present disclosure will be described herein in more detail. In general, the electrical hub may provide electric power to one or more electrical devices for a longer period of time than a typical handheld device battery. In particular, electrical hubs comprising a connection to an external power supply, such as a mains power supply, may provide power to one or more aerosol-generating devices with an unlimited usage time, as recharging of the power supply is not required. Electrical hubs described herein may be particularly desirable in public locations, such as airports, train stations and other transit stations, as well as private locations, such as an office break rooms, bars, or lounges. Certain areas may be designated where those using aerosol-generating devices may congregate.

The electrical hub may be part of an apparatus or system that includes at least one aerosol-generating device electrically connected to the hub via wired connection. In some embodiments, a first and a second aerosol-generating device are electrically connected to the hub. The electrical hub includes a housing. The electrical hub includes at least one of a power supply and a connector for connection to an external power supply.

The hub power supply may provide sufficient capacity for multiple uses of various aerosol generating devices.

In embodiments where the electrical hub comprises a power supply and at least one of the aerosol-generating devices comprises a device power supply, the charge capacity of the electrical hub power supply is larger than the charge capacity of the device power supply. In general, the device power supply has a smaller charge capacity than the hub power supply. For example, the hub power supply may have a charge capacity that is at least about two times, about five times, or at least about ten times the charge capacity of the device power supply. The hub power supply may include a battery. In some embodiments, the hub power supply may include a 12V battery, similar to a car battery. The hub may include any suitable power supply. Typically, the hub power supply is a battery. The hub power supply may be a lithium ion battery. Typically, the hub power supply is located within the housing of the electrical hub. In some embodiments, the hub power supply is hidden from view of users, for example, by the housing of the electrical hub or by a support.

In embodiments where the electrical hub comprises a connector to connect the hub to an external power supply, the connector to the external power supply may be configured to connect the electrical hub to any suitable source of electrical energy. For example, the connector may connect the electrical hub to the electrical grid, a universal portable electrical converter, or to an external battery.

In some embodiments, the electrical hub may be static. As used herein, the term“static” refers to one object being connected to another object in a manner that is not intended to be removed from another object or location. For example, during day-to-day interactions with users, a static electrical hub may be fixed to a standing surface and so is not easily removable from its location. However, the static electrical hub may still be moved from its location for service, maintenance, or replacement.

In some embodiments, the electrical hub may be portable. As used herein, the term “portable” refers to an object that is configured to allow the object to be moved from one location to another location. Generally, a portable object is sized to be carried by a person. Generally, a portable object is untethered. A portable object may be a handheld object that is adapted or configured to be carried in a person’s hand.

The electrical hub may be coupled to a support. The support may position the electrical hub above the standing surface. In some embodiments, the apparatus or system including the electrical hub may include a top surface positioned by the support above the standing surface. The position of the electrical hub may be selected to facilitate comfortable use by users while standing, or even in some cases, sitting.

A standing surface may be any surface suitable to be stood on by a user. A standing surface may include a floor. The electrical hub may be fixed or coupled to, or may rest upon, the standing surface.

The surface area of the top surface may be at least about 0.2 m ² (square metres), or even at least about 0.5 m ² . The surface area may provide sufficient space for multiple users to stand around the electrical hub. In some embodiments, on the low end, the electrical hub or the top surface may be positioned at least about 0.5 metres, or even at least about 0.7 metres, above the standing surface. These heights may be suitable for users that are seated while using the apparatus. In some embodiments, on the high end, the electrical hub or the top surface may be positioned at most about 1.5 metres, or even at most about 1.2 metres, above the standing surface. These heights may be suitable for users that are standing while using the apparatus.

The top surface may be shaped like a table. In other words, the top surface may be substantially planar. The top surface may be arranged to be substantially horizontal when the apparatus is in a use orientation, such as supported on a standing surface. The top surface may be round or any other suitable shape that facilitates at least one user around the top surface.

The support may take any suitable form. The support may be configured like a column or a leg of a table. The support may include one leg, or more than one leg, underneath the top surface. The support may comprise a single central leg or column or the support may comprise two or more legs or columns.

The electrical hub may be positioned relative to the top surface. In some embodiments, the electrical hub is positioned at least partially, or entirely, on the top surface. The electrical hub may be supported on the top surface. The electrical hub may extend above the top surface. In some embodiments, the electrical hub at least partially, or entirely, forms the top surface. In these embodiments, a surface of the housing of the electrical hub typically forms the top surface. In some embodiments, the electrical hub is positioned at least partially, or entirely, below the top surface. The position of the electrical hub may be selected, for example, based on how much of the electrical hub is desirably seen by users or based on how much surface area is desirable on the top surface.

Wired connections to the aerosol-generating devices may be positioned relative to the top surface. In some embodiments, the wired connections extend from the hub, through the top surface, and to the devices, particularly when the housing of the electrical hub forms the top surface or when the electrical hub is positioned below the top surface. In some embodiments, each wired connection may include an electrical cable connected between the electrical hub and one aerosol-generating device.

The wired connection may include a flexible sheath, or tube. Any sheath suitable for providing a flexible cable, such as a metal braid, may be used. The flexible sheath may be coupled to the electrical hub and the aerosol-generating device. The sheath may extend along the electrical cable. In particular, the electrical cable may extend inside the sheath. The sheath may provide additional strength to secure the aerosol-generating device to the electrical hub.

The wired connection may include an interface. The interface may include an electrical interface configured to electrically connect the electrical cable to the circuitry of the aerosol generating device. In particular, the interface may be configured to mate with a complementary interface of the aerosol-generating device.

The electrical hub is configured to provide electric power to the aerosol-generating devices. The electrical hub may comprise electrical circuitry. The electrical circuitry may be configured to control the delivery of electric power to the at least one aerosol-generating device. Power may be supplied to the aerosolizer, such as a heater of the aerosol-generating device. In some embodiments where an aerosol-generating device comprises a power supply, power may be supplied from the hub to the power supply of the aerosol-generating device. The electrical circuitry may include a controller, such as a microcontroller. In some embodiments, the power supply of the electrical hub, or the external power supply, may provide a voltage that is higher than the voltage used by the aerosol-generating device. In these embodiments, the electrical circuitry may step down, or reduce, the voltage to a suitable level for the aerosol-generating device.

At least one of the aerosol-generating devices is permanently tethered or connected to the electrical hub via the wired connections. As used herein, a“permanent” connection between two objects refers to a connection that is not removable or separable without breaking or damaging at least one of the objects. In some embodiments, all of the aerosol-generating devices may be permanently connected to the electrical hub. A permanent connection may secure the aerosol-generating device to the electrical hub and help prevent unauthorized removal of the aerosol-generating device from the electrical hub.

In some embodiments, one or more of the other aerosol-generating devices may be removably tethered or connected to the electrical hub via the wired connections. A removable connection may allow different aerosol-generating devices, for example, from different users, to connect to the electrical hub. A user’s personal aerosol-generating device may be connected to an electrical hub with a removable connection. In some embodiments, the wired connection may be configured to removably connect to, or removably receive, the aerosol-generating device. The wired connection may be configured to connect to different aerosol-generating devices, or even different types of aerosol-generating devices.

Wired connections may extend generally outwardly toward a peripheral edge of the top surface, where users may be located, particularly during use. The wired connections may be spaced around a circumference of the housing of the hub, which may resemble a conventional shisha device, or extend from different portions of the top surface, or another surface of the apparatus.

In one manner of description, the apparatus may define an axis extending from the top surface through the hub. At least one wired connection may extend from the top surface at locations spaced from the axis in different directions. In some embodiments, each wired connection may be evenly spaced around the axis, or around the housing of the hub. In another manner of description, one wired connection may extend from the housing of the hub at a first side, and another wired connection may extend from the housing of the hub at a second side. In yet another manner of description, a plurality of wired connections may include one wired connection extending from the housing of the hub in an outward direction and any other wired connections may extend from the housing of the hub in other different outward directions, each of which may be at a different non-zero angle from the outward direction.

Each wired connection may have a length suitable for comfortable use of the aerosol generating device compared to the location of the electrical hub. The wired connection may extend up to about 50 cm, about 30 cm, or even up to about 20 cm, from the housing of the hub.

Wired connections may not always extend out of the housing of the electrical hub, particularly when aerosol-generating devices are not being used. At least one wired connection may be retractable into the hub. The housing of the electrical hub may define a through hole for at least one retractable wired connection. The retractable wired connection may extend through the through hole. In some embodiments, one through hole is defined for each retractable wired connection. Each aerosol-generating device may have a width that is larger than a width of the through hole, which may prevent the aerosol-generating device from passing through the through hole upon retraction.

The apparatus may include at least one retractor to be used with retractable wired connections. The apparatus may include a retractor for each wired connection. The retractor may be operably coupled to the retractable wired connection and configured to retract the wired connection through the corresponding through hole. The retractor may be any suitable retractor. For example, the retractor may be a spring reel around which a wired connection may be wound. The retractor may include, for example, a torsion spring.

The retractable wired connection may be biased to return to, or into, the electrical hub by the retractor. The retractable wired connection or retractor may include a locking mechanism to stop the wire from returning to the hub until the locking mechanism is released. The retractor may be biased to return a major portion of the retractable wired connection to the electrical hub.

A retractor may be particularly useful in a portable aerosol-generating system. In one example, a portable aerosol-generating system includes an electrical hub having a housing and a power supply disposed within the housing. An aerosol-generating device is electrically connected to the hub via a wired connection. The aerosol-generating device includes an aerosolizer and a receptacle for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosolizer is configured to aerosolize the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is received in the receptacle. The wired connection between the aerosol-generating device and the electrical hub is retractable into the housing of the hub. The electrical hub is configured to supply power from the power supply to the aerosol-generating device via the wired connection.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating device of the portable aerosol-generating system may be permanently electrically connected to the electrical hub via a retractable wired connection.

The housing of the hub may include a cavity or receptacle for receiving the at least one aerosol-generating device. In particular, the housing of the hub may include a receptacle for receiving the at least one aerosol-generating device where the wired connection is retractable. The aerosol-generating device may be at least partially, or entirely, recessed into the electrical hub, which may facilitate protecting the device. In some embodiments, the cavity or receptacle may provide a resting place for an aerosol-generating device to be placed between uses. The cavity or receptacle may be formed as a slot in the top surface. Each cavity or receptacle may receive one aerosol-generating device. However, in one or more embodiments, each cavity or receptacle may receive more than one aerosol-generating device.

The aerosol-generating devices of the present disclosure will be described herein in more detail. In general, the apparatus of the present disclosure comprises at least one aerosol generating device electrically coupled to the electrical hub. The apparatus may comprise any suitable number of aerosol-generating devices. For example, the apparatus may comprise one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, or even eight aerosol-generating devices. The aerosol-generating devices may be any suitable type of aerosol-generating devices.

As used herein, the term“aerosol-generating device” refers to a device configured to interact with an aerosol-forming substrate to generate aerosol. Preferably, the aerosol-generating device includes an aerosolizer, such as a heater. A heater may aerosolize an aerosol-forming substrate by heating the aerosol-forming substrate to cause the aerosol-forming substrate to release volatile compounds that condense to form an aerosol.

The term“aerosol-forming substrate” refers to a substrate that is capable of releasing volatile compounds that may form an aerosol. Generally, the aerosol is suitable to be inhaled by a user. Typically, aerosol-forming substrates release volatile compounds upon heating. Suitable aerosol-forming substrates may include plant-based material. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may include tobacco or a tobacco-containing material containing volatile tobacco flavor compounds, which are released from the aerosol-forming substrate upon heating. In addition, or alternatively, an aerosol-forming substrate may include a non-tobacco containing material. The aerosol-forming substrate may include homogenized plant-based material. The aerosol-forming substrate may include at least one aerosol former. The aerosol-forming substrate may include other additives and ingredients such as flavorants. In some embodiments, the aerosol-forming substrate may include a liquid composition that is liquid at room temperature. For example, the aerosol-forming substrate may be a liquid solution, suspension, dispersion, or the like. The aerosol-forming substrate may include nicotine.

The term“tobacco material” refers to a material or substance including tobacco, which includes tobacco blends or flavored tobacco, for example.

Each aerosol-generating device includes an aerosolizer. The aerosolizer may be any suitable type of aerosolizer. For example, the aerosolizer may be a heater. The heater may include a heating element. An aerosolizer comprising a heating element may heat the aerosol forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is received in the receptacle.

The aerosolizer of the aerosol-generating device may utilize any suitable technique for generating aerosol from various types of aerosol-forming substrate. In some cases, the aerosolizer may be thermally or fluidly coupled to the aerosol-forming substrate. The aerosol forming substrate may take any suitable form. For example, the substrate may be solid (such as tobacco) or liquid (such as an e-liquid). The aerosol-forming substrate may form part of an aerosol-generating article comprising the substrate and a filter wrapped in paper, in a similar manner to a conventional cigarette. The substrate may be contained in a substrate housing or cartridge, which may be coupled to a consumable portion of the housing.

The aerosolizer may include a heater. The aerosolizer may include any suitable type of heater.

The aerosolizer may include a heater coil, a chemical heat source (such as a carbon heat source), or any suitable heating element disposed adjacent to a liquid or solid aerosol-forming substrate when in use. The heating element may be coupled to the controller portion to receive power from the power supply or electrical hub to heat the substrate. In some embodiments, part of the aerosolizer may be coupled to the consumable portion of the housing. For example, a heater coil may include a susceptor coupled to the consumable portion and an inductive coil coupled to the controller portion.

The aerosolizer may include an elongate heating element, or heating blade, inserted into a solid aerosol-forming substrate when in use. The heating blade may be coupled to the controller portion to receive electrical power from the power supply or the electrical hub to heat the solid substrate. The solid substrate may be a smoking material, such as tobacco. The heat provided by the heating blade to the heat stick may be such that the heating blade does not burn or combust the aerosol-forming substrate.

The aerosolizer may include an atomizer. A liquid aerosol-forming substrate may be contained in the substrate housing in fluid communication with the atomizer. The atomizer may mechanically generate aerosol from the liquid substrate, which may or may not use heating, to facilitate aerosol production.

The aerosolizer may be compatible for use with an aerosol-forming substrate having a nicotine source and a lactic acid source. The nicotine source may include a sorption element, such as a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) wick with nicotine adsorbed thereon, which may be inserted into a chamber forming a first compartment. The lactic acid source may include a sorption element, such as a PTFE wick, with lactic acid adsorbed thereon, which may be inserted into a chamber forming a second compartment. The aerosolizer may include a heater to heat both the nicotine source and the lactic acid source. Then, the nicotine vapor may react with the lactic acid vapor in the gas phase to form an aerosol.

The aerosolizer may be compatible for use with an aerosol-forming substrate having a capsule that contains nicotine particles and disposed in a cavity. During a user’s inhalation, the air flow may rotate the capsule. The rotation may suspend and aerosolize the nicotine particles.

In particular, the aerosolizer of the at least one aerosol-generating device may include an elongate heating element extending into the consumable portion, or receptacle. The receptacle may be configured such that, when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the receptacle, the elongate heating element is inserted into the article.

The aerosol-generating device may include circuitry. In embodiments comprising a controller portion, the circuitry may be located in the in the controller portion. The circuitry may be included in the aerosol-generating device, even when a device power supply is not included in the aerosol-generating device. The circuitry may control the power supplied to the aerosolizer of the aerosol-generating device. The circuitry may be operably coupled to at least one of a switch and a puff sensor, which may be used to activate the aerosolizer. The circuitry may include a controller, such as a microcontroller, to carry out one or more functions.

In particular, in embodiments where an aerosol-generating device comprises a device power supply, the circuitry of the aerosol-generating device may control at least one of the supply of power from the electrical hub to the device power supply for charging the device power supply and the supply of power from the electrical hub to the aerosolizer. In some embodiments, the circuitry may be configured to enable power to be supplied from the hub to the device power supply and the aerosolizer simultaneously for charging the device power supply and activating the aerosolizer. In some embodiments, the circuitry may be configured to enable the supply of power from the electrical hub to the device power supply for charging the device power supply and the supply of power from the device power supply to the aerosolizer. In these embodiments, power may not be supplied directly from the hub to the aerosolizer.

One or more of the components, such as circuitry or controllers, described herein may include a processor, such as a central processing unit (CPU), computer, logic array, or other device capable of directing data coming into or out of the electrical hub or aerosol-generating device. The controller may include one or more computing devices having memory, processing, and communication hardware. The controller may include circuitry used to couple various components of the controller together or with other components operably coupled to the controller. The functions of the controller may be performed by hardware and/or as computer instructions on a non-transient computer readable storage medium.

The processor of the controller may include any one or more of a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), and/or equivalent discrete or integrated logic circuitry. In some examples, the processor may include multiple components, such as any combination of one or more microprocessors, one or more controllers, one or more DSPs, one or more ASICs, and/or one or more FPGAs, as well as other discrete or integrated logic circuitry. The functions attributed to the controller or processor herein may be embodied as software, firmware, hardware, or any combination thereof. While described herein as a processor-based system, an alternative controller could utilize other components such as relays and timers to achieve the desired results, either alone or in combination with a microprocessor-based system.

In one or more embodiments, the exemplary systems, methods, and interfaces may be implemented using one or more computer programs using a computing apparatus, which may include one or more processors and/or memory. Program code and/or logic described herein may be applied to input data/information to perform functionality described herein and generate desired output data/information. The output data/information may be applied as an input to one or more other devices and/or methods as described herein or as would be applied in a known fashion. In view of the above, it will be clear that the controller functionality as described herein may be implemented in any manner known to one skilled in the art. Each aerosol-generating device includes a receptacle for receiving an aerosol-forming substrate. The receptacle may have any suitable shape and size to receive an aerosol-forming substrate. Typically, the receptacle is substantially circularly cylindrical.

In some embodiments, at least one aerosol-generating device of the apparatus includes a power supply, such as a battery, suitable for handheld devices. The device power supply may be portable. Each aerosol-generating device may include a device power supply separate from the electrical hub and separate from other aerosol-generating devices connected to the electrical hub. The device power supply may be configured to receive power from the electrical hub via the wired connection for charging the device power supply. The device power supply may also supply power to the aerosolizer, which may comprise a heating element for heating the aerosol-forming substrate received in the receptacle.

In some embodiments, at least one aerosol-generating device may include a power supply, such as a battery or capacitor, and be permanently electrically connected to the electrical hub. The electrical hub may be configured to use low power charging (for example, “trickle charging”) to charge the power supply of the aerosol-generating device. In some cases, high power charging may not be needed to charge the power supply of the aerosol-generating device when low power charging is sufficient. In other cases, high power charging may still be used as an alternative, or in addition, to low power charging.

The electrical hub supplies power to each aerosol-generating device. In some embodiments, the electrical hub comprises electrical circuitry that is configured to control delivery of electrical energy to the aerosolizer of each aerosol-generating device directly. In other words, the power supplied to the aerosolizer from the electrical hub may bypass the device power supply.

In some embodiments, at least one of the aerosol-generating devices does not include a device power supply. In these embodiments, the power supplied from the electrical hub may be supplied to the aerosolizer directly. The circuitry of at least one of the aerosol-generating device and the electrical hub may directly control the supply of power to the aerosolizer.

In some embodiments, the apparatus forms a portable aerosol-generating system. Typically, portable aerosol-generating systems comprise a single aerosol-generating device. In these embodiments, the electrical hub of the portable aerosol-generating system may be configured to fit in a clothing pocket. The electrical hub may be kept in the clothing pocket and connected to the aerosol-generating device when the aerosol-generating device is used. The portable electrical hub may be a similar size to a conventional cigarettes packet or a similar size to a charging case for a conventional aerosol-generating device. In some embodiments, the housing of the portable electrical hub may have a length from about 7 cm and about 15 cm, a width from about 3 cm and about 10 cm, and a depth from about 0.5 cm and about 5 cm.

In general, the aerosol-generating device in the portable aerosol-generating system may be significantly smaller in size than the electrical hub. The volume of the aerosol-generating device may be no more than about 80%, about 70%, about 60%, about 50%, about 40%, about 30%, about 25%, about 20%, about 15%, or even no more than about 10%, the volume of the electrical hub. The portable electrical hub may provide a significantly longer usage time, or more uses, between charges than a separate aerosol-generating device of the same size alone.

Typically, the wired connection between the electrical hub and aerosol-generating device of such portable aerosol-generating systems is permanent and retractable. The portable electrical hub may include a retractor. The retractor may facilitate both portability and comfortable use of the portable aerosol-generating system. The retractor may take up slack of the wired connection when the aerosol-generating device is not being used and the portable aerosol-generating system is desirably stored in a compact manner. The retractor may allow for a wired connection coupled to the reactor to extend a comfortable distance between the electrical hub, which may reside in the clothing pocket, and the aerosol-generating device, which may be held and brought to the user’s mouth, during use.

The aerosol-generating device may include a housing. The device housing may contain the components of the aerosol-generating device. The housing may define the receptacle for receiving the aerosol-forming substrate.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating device may have both a controller portion and a consumable portion. The housing may be divided between the controller portion and the consumable portion. The consumable portion may be referred to as a receptacle for the aerosol forming substrate. In some embodiments, the controller portion may include components that are not intended to be replaced, and the consumable portion may include components that are intended to be replaced over the useful life of the aerosol-generating device. For example, the controller portion may include a switch, a puff sensor, at least part of an aerosolizer, a controller, and a power supply. The consumable portion, for example, may include the aerosol-forming substrate and optionally part of the aerosolizer. The consumable portion may include a mouthpiece for puffing.

The controller portion and the consumable portion may be removably coupled together. However, in some embodiments, the controller portion and the consumable portion may be permanently coupled together. When the controller and consumable portions are removable, the consumable portion may be replaced. This may help to maintain a high level of hygiene in embodiments where the consumable portion comprises a mouthpiece.

When the aerosol-generating device is removably coupled to the electrical hub via the wired connection, the user may choose to replace the entire aerosol-generating device (when the controller and consumable portions are permanently coupled) or replace the consumable portion (when the controller and consumable portions are removably coupled). Further, users may choose to use their own aerosol-generating device with the electrical hub.

On the other hand, when the aerosol-generating device is permanently connected to the electrical hub via the wired connection, the consumable portion of the aerosol-generating device may still be removable.

Additionally, potential users who do not own an aerosol-generating device (or a controller portion) may purchase just consumable portions (for example, from a nearby vending apparatus) and use the consumable portion with a controller portion connected to the electrical hub, which may allow trial use of the aerosol-generating device without purchasing the entire aerosol generating device.

Users of aerosol-generating devices may also be able to travel without their aerosol generating devices, or leave them at home. This may be particularly beneficial when traveling through an airport or a train station, as a user may not be permitted to use aerosol-generating devices on the plane or the train. As such, the apparatus of the present invention may be provided before the departure gate or platform to enable a user to use an aerosol-generating system before boarding.

In some particular embodiments, an apparatus includes an electrical hub. The electrical hub may include a power supply or a connector to electrically connect to an external power supply. A plurality of wired connections may extend outwardly from a housing of the electrical hub. Each wire may have a first end connected to the electrical hub and a free, second end connected to an aerosol-generating device. In particular, each wire may be tethered and electrically connected to the electrical hub and to an aerosol-generating device. Each aerosol-generating device may include a controller portion configured to couple to, or receive, a consumable portion. The consumable portion may include an aerosol-forming substrate. The controller portion may be permanently or removably coupled to the wired connection. The apparatus may have a top surface and a support for the top surface. The electrical hub may be visible above the top surface. The support may be coupled to a standing surface for the users to approach the electrical hub and to use the aerosol-generating devices. The electrical hub may be shaped like a traditional shisha device.

In another particular embodiment, an apparatus includes an electrical hub. The electrical hub may include a power supply or a connector to electrically connect to an external power supply. The apparatus may include a top surface and a support. The electrical hub may be hidden below the top surface. A plurality of wired connections may extend through the top surface. Each wire may have a first end connected to the electrical hub and a free, second end connected to an aerosol-generating device. In particular, each wire may be tethered and electrically connected to the electrical hub and to an aerosol-generating device. The top surface may include a cavity or receptacle for each wired connection and aerosol-generating device pair. Each cavity or receptacle may be a slot in the top surface configured to at least partially, or entirely, receive an aerosol-generating device. Each aerosol-generating device may include a controller portion configured to couple to, or receive, a consumable portion. The consumable portion may include an aerosol-forming substrate. The controller portion may be permanently or removably coupled to the wired connection. Each wired connection may be retractable.

The electrical hub may be configured to supply power to devices other than aerosol generating devices. The electrical hub may include wired connections capable of connecting to personal electronics, such as a smartphone or laptop. The wired connection may be Universal Serial Bus (USB)-compatible, which may be useful for smartphones or tablets, or may include an electrical socket to plug in a power adaptor, which may be useful for laptops.

The electrical hub may include other components to facilitate interactions with users and to facilitate interactions between users. In some embodiments, the electrical hub may include a user interface. The user interface may include at least one of a display and a speaker. In some embodiments, advertisements may be provided to users of the electrical hub. In some embodiments, images, sounds, or video may be played for users for entertainment.

The display may be positioned in any location suitable for view by the user. In some embodiments, the display is positioned on the top surface. The display may be located over the centre of the top surface. The display may have a flat surface and may be integrated into the top surface for use like a table.

The user interface may include a vending apparatus, which may allow users to make purchases. The vending apparatus may be configured to accept various forms of payment, such as a credit card, and may be configured to provide items in response to the payment. For example, users may be able to purchase more heatsticks, more e-liquid, or even an aerosol-generating device.

In some embodiments, the vending apparatus may not be directly coupled to the housing of the hub. The vending apparatus may be contained in a separate housing in the vicinity of the electrical hub. However, in some embodiments, the vending apparatus may be coupled to the housing of the hub, or even integrated into the housing of the electrical hub.

In some embodiments, the vending apparatus may include a fluid port and reservoir. The reservoir may contain fluid, such as an e-liquid, that may be used as an aerosol-forming substrate. The fluid port may be in fluid communication with the aerosol-generating device, for example, through a sheath extending along the wired connection. The aerosol-generating device may have access to a flow of e-liquid from the reservoir, through the fluid port and the sheath, and into the aerosol-generating device. Users may purchase the e-liquid per unit quantity, per unit of time, or per unit flow rate, using the vending apparatus.

With the increased usage time that results from connection of an aerosol-generating device to an electrical hub in accordance with the present invention, users may wish to try different aerosol-forming substrates over an extended period of time. Accordingly, having the vending apparatus may provide convenient access for the user to different aerosol-forming substrates. The vending apparatus may also improve the social aspect of the electrical hub by facilitating the ability for users to share purchases, such as splitting packs of heatsticks, with other users.

The electric hub for aerosol-generating devices, and related apparatus and systems, may be understood with reference to one or more drawings. The drawings are not necessarily to scale and are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation. The drawings depict one or more aspects described in this disclosure. However, it will be understood that other aspects not depicted in the drawing fall within the scope of this disclosure.

FIG. 1 is an illustration showing a first example of an apparatus having an electrical hub connected to portions of aerosol-generating devices configured to receive consumable portions.

FIG. 2 is an illustration showing a second example of an apparatus having an electrical hub removably connected to some of the aerosol-generating devices.

FIG. 3 is an illustration showing a third example of an apparatus having an electrical hub hidden below a top surface.

FIG. 4 is an illustration showing a fourth example of an apparatus having retractable wired connections. FIG. 5 is an illustration showing one example of a wired connection and aerosol generating device.

FIG. 6 is an illustration showing another example of a wired connection and aerosol generating device.

FIG. 7 is an illustration showing an electric hub with a retractor.

FIG. 1 shows an apparatus 1 according to an aspect of the invention. The apparatus 1 includes an electrical hub 12 connected to a plurality of aerosol-generating devices 11 via wired connections 16. In the illustrated embodiment, each aerosol-generating device 11 is configured to receive an aerosol-forming substrate. Various aerosol-forming substrates may be compatible with the aerosol-generating devices 11. In this embodiment, the aerosol-generating devices 11 are particularly configured to receive aerosol-forming substrate comprised in an aerosol generating article (not shown). Suitable aerosol-generating articles are generally in the form of a rod and comprise an aerosol-forming substrate at one end, in the form of a tobacco rod, and a filter at the opposite end. The tobacco rod and filter may be wrapped together in a cigarette paper in a similar manner to a conventional cigarette. Exemplary suitable aerosol-generating articles that are currently commercially available are Philip Morris International’s HEET® heatsticks.

Each of the plurality of aerosol-generating devices is configured to receive aerosol-forming substrate comprised in an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating devices 11 include a receptacle (not shown) for receiving a portion of the aerosol-generating article containing the aerosol-forming substrate and a heater extending into the receptacle such that the heater penetrates the aerosol-forming substrate of an article received in the receptacle. The aerosol generating devices 11 may be similar in design to Philip Morris International’s IQOS® devices. In the illustrated embodiment, the aerosol-generating devices 11 are permanently coupled to electrical hub 12 via wired connections 16. In other words, the aerosol-generating devices 11 are unable to be disconnected or removed from the wired connections 16 without breaking or damaging the aerosol-generating devices 11 or the wired connections 16.

The electrical hub 12 comprises a connector (not shown) for connecting the electrical hub to a main power supply (not shown). The connection to the mains power supply enables the electrical hub 12 to supply power to the plurality of aerosol-generating devices 11.

The electrical hub 12 also comprises electrical circuitry (not shown) that is configured to control the supply of power to the plurality of aerosol-generating devices 11. In the illustrated embodiment, the aerosol-generating devices 11 do not comprise separate electrical circuitry, and as such, the supply of power to the heaters is controlled entirely by the electrical circuitry of the hub 12. Accordingly, the hub 12 also comprises a user interface (not shown) in the form of switches for each aerosol-generating device 11 to enable a user to activate each aerosol generating device 11 separately.

The apparatus 1 has a top surface 20 on which the electrical hub 12 is supported. The top surface 20 also provides a table-like surface for users 2. The top surface 20 is coupled to a column-like support 13. The support 13 and the top surface 20 form a table-like structure. Support 13 may be supported on or coupled to standing surface 22, such as a floor, and extend above the standing surface 22. Support 13 elevates the top surface 20 a desirable distance above the standing surface 22, which is a comfortable height for standing users 2 to reach. Users 2 may approach apparatus 1 on standing surface 22 and use the apparatus 1 while standing on the standing surface 22.

FIG. 2 shows an apparatus 21 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus 21 of FIG. 2 is similar to apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 , in that apparatus 21 includes an identical electrical hub 12 connected to a mains power supply, an identical top surface 20 and support 13 on which the electrical hub 12 is supported, and identical wired connections 16. Apparatus 21 differs from apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 in that the plurality of aerosol-generating devices 14 connected to the wired connections 16 are configured to receive cartridges including aerosol-forming substrates and heaters. These types of cartridges may be referred to as “cartomizers.” Accordingly, the aerosol-generating devices 14 comprise receptacles configured to removably receive a cartomizer housing and electrical contacts configured to electrically connect to electrical contacts of the cartomizer. The electrical connection between the aerosol-generating devices 14 and the cartomizer enables power to be supplied from the electrical hub 12 to the heater of the cartomizer. At least one of the aerosol-generating devices 14 is permanently electrically connected to the electrical hub 12 using the wired connections 16. In some embodiments, some of the other wired connections 16 may not include an aerosol-generating device 14, but rather may include an interface to removably couple to a user’s personal aerosol-generating device. Such interfaces may be different than the permanently connected interface used to couple the hub 12 to the aerosol-generating devices 14. A user 2 may removably connect their own aerosol generating device to the hub 12, via a removably couplable interface of a wired connection 16 instead of using one of the aerosol-generating devices 14 that are provided with the aerosol generating system 21. The user’s personal aerosol-generating device may be configured to enable the power from the hub 12 to charge the power supply of the aerosol-generating device and enable the power from the hub 12 to activate the heater of the cartomizer. This may enable a user to charge the power supply within their personal aerosol-generating device while using the aerosol-generating device.

FIG. 3 shows apparatus 31 according to another embodiment of the invention. Apparatus 31 includes electrical hub 18 connected to six aerosol-generating devices 14 via wired connections 16. Aerosol-generating devices 14 are permanently coupled to the electrical hub 18. Electrical hub 18 is similar to electrical hub 12 of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, for example, in that both comprise a housing and a connection to a mains power supply. However, the electrical hub 18 of FIG. 3 is hidden below a top surface 30, instead of being supported on and visible above the top surface, as top surface 20 of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. Top surface 30 and electrical hub 18 are coupled to a support 15, similar to support 13 of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. Top surface 30 provides a table-like surface, similar to top surface 20 of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. However, top surface 30 includes six receptacles 32, which may be described as cavities or slots, for receiving the aerosol-generating devices 14. Each aerosol-generating device 14 is arranged above the top surface 30 and is associated with a receptacle 32. FIG. 3 shows several unused aerosol-generating devices 14A stored at least partially in their associated receptacles 32. Each receptacle 32 includes a through hole to allow the wired connection 16 between the hub 18 and the aerosol-generating device 14 associated with the receptacle to extend through top surface 30. More specifically, each wired connection 16 extends from the hub 18 below the top surface 30, through the top surface 30 via a through-hole in a receptacle 32, to aerosol-generating device 14 above the top surface 30. Apparatus 31 also includes a display 34 at a central region of the top surface 30. Display 34 may be used to show images or video, such as advertising or entertainment, to users 2 of aerosol generating devices 14. Although in this embodiment the hub 18 comprises a housing and is hidden below the top surface 30, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, a surface of the housing of the hub 18 may form the top surface 30.

FIG. 4 shows apparatus 41. Apparatus 41 is similar to apparatus 31 of FIG. 3, for example, in that apparatus 41 includes electrical hub 18, wired connections 16, top surface 30, receptacles 32, display 34, and support 15. Apparatus 41 differs from apparatus 31 in that each wired connection 16 is operably coupled to a retractor below the top surface 30 (not shown in FIG. 4). The retractors comprise spring reels around which a portion of the wired connection 16 is wound. The retractor enables the wired connection 16 to be extended from the housing of the hub 18 and retracted into the housing of the hub 18. This retractability of the wired connections 16 enables the portion of the wired connection 16 above the top surface 30 to be reduced in length when the aerosol-generating devices 11 are not in use. ln any of the illustrated embodiments, either aerosol-generating device 11 or 14 described above may be used when provided with a compatible wired connection 16. In some embodiments, although not shown, an apparatus 1 , 21 , 31 , 41 may include both types of aerosol-generating devices 11 , 14.

FIG. 5 shows aerosol-generating device 50 and wired connection 51. Aerosol-generating device 50 comprises a device power supply 55 in the form of a capacitor 55. Wired connection

51 includes electrical cable 52, flexible sheath 53, and interface 54. In this embodiment, the interface 54 is a permanent connection between the aerosol-generating device 50 and the wired connection 51. However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments one or more interfaces

54 may be removably couplable to enable some of the aerosol-generating devices 50 to be removable from the wired connection 51. Electrical cable 52 and flexible sheath 53 provide electrical and mechanical connection between aerosol-generating device 50 and an electrical hub (not shown). Electrical cable 52 extends inside flexible sheath 53 to interface 54. Electrical cable

52 may be electrically connected to interface 54.

The aerosol-generating device 50 includes a controller portion 59 and a consumable portion 61. The consumable portion 61 may be described as a receptacle or a heating portion. Controller portion 59 includes a power supply 55, electrical circuitry 56 including a controller 57 and an aerosolizer 58 in the form of a heater, and a switch 59. As mentioned above, power supply

55 is a capacitor. The power supply 55 may be any suitable type of power supply, however, in this embodiment the power supply 55 is a capacitor as a capacitor may enable faster charging and discharging times compared to a battery. In this embodiment, electrical cable 52 and interface 54 are arranged to supply power to the power supply 55, and the power supply 55 is arranged to supply power to the aerosolizer 58. However, it will be appreciated that in other embodiments, the controller 57 may be configured to enable power to be supplied from the electrical cable 52 to the power supply 55 in when charging is desired, and to enable power to be supplied from the electrical cable 52 directly to the heater 58 for powering the heater. Circuitry 56 including controller 57 manages the power supplied to the heater 58. In the illustrated embodiment, aerosolizer 58 includes a heating blade comprising a heating element. The consumable portion 61 of the device 50 comprises a substantially circularly cylindrical side wall forming a substantially circularly cylindrical cavity 62. The cavity 62 is shaped and sized to receive an end of an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-forming substrate (not shown). The heating blade of the heater 58 extends from the controller portion 60 into the cavity 62 of the consumable portion 61. When aerosol-forming substrate (not shown) is received in the cavity 62, the heating blade of heater 58 penetrates into the aerosol-forming substrate. When the user activates switch 59, controller 57 of circuitry 56 causes power to be supplied to aerosolizer 58 from the power supply 55 to cause the heating element to generate heat and the aerosol-forming substrate 62 to produce volatile substances that may form an aerosol.

FIG. 6 shows an aerosol-generating device 70 and a distal portion of a wired connection 71. The aerosol-generating device 70 and the wired connection 71 are permanently coupled together. Wired connection 71 is similar to wired connection 51 shown in FIG. 5, in that wired connection 71 includes electrical cable 52 and flexible sheath 53. Aerosol-generating device 70 is similar to aerosol-generating device 50 shown in FIG. 5, in that aerosol-generating device 70 includes a controller portion 80 and a consumable portion 61 having cavity 62. However, aerosol generating device 70 of FIG. 6 differs from aerosol-generating device 50 of FIG. 5 in that no power supply is included in controller portion 80. Controller portion 80 includes all of the other components that are included in controller portion 60 of FIG. 5, such as circuitry 56 including controller 57, aerosolizer 58, and switch 59. In this embodiment, electrical cable 52 of wired connection 71 is directly electrically coupled to circuitry 56 of aerosol-generating device 70 and directly supplies power to the aerosolizer 58.

Providing an aerosol-generating device without a power supply may be less complex and less expensive to manufacture than providing an aerosol-generating device with a power supply. In addition, an aerosol-generating device without a power supply may be smaller and lighter than an aerosol-generating device with a power supply. However, providing each aerosol-generating device with a power supply may reduce the electrical load on the electrical hub when multiple users are using the apparatus at the same time.

FIG. 7 shows a portable aerosol-generating system comprising a cigarette packet sized electric hub 82 coupled to aerosol-generating device 84, via a retractable wired connection 86. The aerosol-generating device 84 is substantially similar to the aerosol-generating device 70 shown in FIG. 6, and comprises a receptacle 94, electrical circuitry (not shown) and a heating blade (not shown) extending into the receptacle 94. Electric hub 82 includes a housing 96 having a similar shape and size to a standard cigarette packet. As such, electrical hub 82 may fit comfortably within a pocket of a user’s clothes. Electrical hub 82 further comprises a receptacle 88 in the housing 96 that is configured to receive the aerosol-generating device 84. A retractor 90, in the form of a spring reel, is provided within the housing 96 and is operably coupled to wired connection 86. Retractor 90 enables the wired connection 86 to be drawn out of the housing to move the aerosol-generating device 84 away from electrical hub 82 and enables the wired connection 86 to be retracted back into the electrical hub 82, particularly when the aerosol generating device 84 is not in use. A power supply 92, in the form of a lithium ion battery, and electrical circuitry 93 are contained in housing 86 and electrically connected to the aerosol generating device 84 via the wired connection 86. The electric hub 82 is portable, and as such, the housing 96 is a similar shape and size to a conventional cigarette packet. Since the aerosol generating device 84 is electrically connected to the electric hub 82 via the retractable wired connection 86, the electric hub 82 may be kept in a user’s pocket during use, while the aerosol generating device 84 is pulled from the hub 82 for insertion and of an aerosol-generating article. The aerosol-generating device 84 may be returned to the hub 82 in the user’s pocket after use by retracting the wired connection 86 into the hub 82. Since the user is not required to hold the electric hub 82 during use, the hub 82 and the battery within the hub 82, may be a larger than in other devices which the user is required to hold during use without reducing the usability or portability of the device.

The specific embodiments described above are intended to illustrate the invention. However, other embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims, and it is to be understood that the specific embodiments described above are not intended to be limiting.

As used herein, the terms“coupled” or“connected” may be used interchangeably to refer to elements being attached to each other either directly (in direct contact with each other) or indirectly (having one or more elements between and attaching the two elements). Either term may be modified by“operatively” and“operably,” which may be used interchangeably, to describe that the coupling or connection is configured to allow the components to interact to carry out at least some functionality (for example, electrical hub may be operatively coupled to aerosol generating device to supply electrical power).

As used herein, the singular forms“a,”“an,” and“the” encompass embodiments having plural referents, unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. The term“and/or” means one or all the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements.

As used herein,“have,”“having,”“include,”“including,� �“comprise,”“comprising” or the like are used in their open-ended sense, and generally mean“including, but not limited to.” It will be understood that “consisting essentially of,” “consisting of,” and the like are subsumed in “comprising,” and the like.

The words“preferred” and“preferably” refer to embodiments of the invention that may afford certain benefits, under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the disclosure, including the claims.